Jane arrived just after lunch the next day, carrying two iced coffees and a bag of pastries like a peace offering. The moment Evelyn opened the door, her best friend pushed past her with a dramatic sigh.
"Okay, where is the legendary beast? I need to see this dog."
Evelyn closed the door behind her, amused. "He's probably at the window again. He likes to stare at the street like he's personally offended by the mailman."
They walked into the living room and there he was — the massive black dog, standing at the front window like a sentinel. He turned his head at their entrance, blue eyes sharp and assessing.
Jane stopped dead. "Holy shit."
She took a slow step forward, head tilted. The dog watched her without moving, imposing and calm. Jane studied him for a long moment, then let out a low whistle.
"He's terrifying… but he has gravitas. I respect that."
Evelyn laughed. "That's one way to put it. He's been here less than two days and he's already acting like he pays rent."
