A Very Grumpy Veterinarian

Pearl

I’ve worked at Wolf Valley Veterinary Clinic for years.

I love my job, I love the animals, and I loved working with Dr. Harris before he retired.

Then his replacement gets here, and I realize that there might be something else I love about my job. 

Him. 

Dr. Wells Bennett. 

He’s quiet, brooding, annoyingly handsome, and the kind of man who looks at you once and sees too much.

He showed up a few months ago to help out his mentor, but then he stayed.

Took over the clinic.

Took over my routine.

Took over my peace of mind.

Now I’m dealing with a boss who barely talks, glowers at anyone who smiles with me, and finds excuses to stay late when I’m the only other one here.

I should be focusing on my work, but all I can think about is what it would feel like if my grumpy vet finally made a move.

Wells

I came to Wolf Valley to help my mentor through his last months at the clinic.

I thought it would be temporary.

Then I met Pearl.

She’s sunshine and fire all wrapped into one gorgeous, curvy woman who cares more about animals than most people care about each other.

The first day I saw her hold a trembling puppy to her chest and whisper softly to comfort him, I was done for.

Completely gone.

So, when my mentor retired, I didn’t hesitate.

I stayed.

But things are complicated. 

Pearl works for me, and I’m terrified of risking the one bright thing I have here.

Only now, every day she’s near me is torture.

Every smile she gives someone else is a punch to the gut.

And every time she brushes past me in the hallway, I have to remind myself she’s not mine.

Not yet.