To Love Someone (Baytown Boys #14) - Maryann Jordan Page 0,85

knew that Joseph Hernandez is the new manager.”

“Yes,” Tonya quipped, her gaze narrowed, “But you never told us that he is the Joseph that you’ve been seeing. Your Joseph.”

Chuckles erupted from the others as she blushed. “Y’all are worse than a bunch of little gossipy women! But yes, my Joseph is taking over the shelter.”

“I couldn’t believe Betty was giving it up,” Susan said, leaning back in her seat, shaking her head slightly.

“I don’t think she would if it wasn’t for needing to be with family somewhere else,” Annette added.

“I also have it on good authority that you’ve changed residence,” Tonya pressed, drawing the attention from the others.

“Okay, yes, I have moved out of my camper for now. Joseph and I are renting Betty and Sid’s house near the shelter.”

Brently laughed. “Got a truck that works… got a place to stay that’s close to here and won’t blow over in a storm… sounds like you’re moving up in the world. Gee, boss… I think you’ll be able to pay me after all.”

The other three women swung their gazes between Brentley and Samantha. She smiled and said, “Looks like this is as good a time as any to announce that I have offered Brentley full-time employment as a veterinarian, effective as soon as he graduates in a few weeks and passes his boards.”

The room was filled with congratulations and laughter. Samantha felt the weariness from earlier ease with the happy atmosphere. She walked to the refrigerator and pulled out a bottle of sparkling water. “Okay, I know this isn’t champagne, but since Brentley and I shared his news, we can celebrate.”

As they toasted the success of the clinic, she relaxed. Susan turned to Samantha and asked, “Was there something wrong with the Tolsons’ puppy? I saw him bring him in.”

“No, but I wanted to do some bloodwork, and Mr. Tolson agreed.” Seeing the curious expressions, she shrugged. “Believe it or not, there’s the possibility of someone in the area breeding wolf-hybrids. There’s also been some sightings of what a couple of farmers have called a wild dog. I have no idea if any of the rumors are true or not, but I decided to send off testing to make sure.”

The others’ eyes widened as they stopped their celebration and stared at her. She looked at her staff and added, “There’s even the possibility that it could be tied into illegal dogfighting in the Norfolk area.”

“Who would be doing that?” Annette asked, plopping down onto a stool.

“I have no idea. But Joseph is keeping an eye out at the shelter, talking to a few people, and I’m doing the same. If you hear anything, be sure to let me know.”

Susan shook her head slowly. “I overheard Mr. Tolson muttering as he left that he was going to warn others that there might be a dangerous dog in the area. I had no idea what he was talking about.”

Samantha remained quiet, but it struck her that she wished she had told Mr. Tolson to not tell anyone about the blood test on Bosco. I’d hate for him to inadvertently tip off someone.

As they finished their cleaning and prep for the next day, she waved goodbye as they all moved through the lobby toward the door. She spent a little time in her office, finishing her reports and emailing a few veterinarians that she knew worked with exotic animals for information. Closing her computer, she readied to leave then remembered she wanted to double-check the vaccination supply. Joseph had said that three puppies had come in, and if the clinic had enough, she’d take them to give to the dogs. If not, she’d have Annette order more.

Opening the door, she was pleased to see that it appeared the latest order of rabies pharmaceuticals were there. She moved three to the side but hesitated. Deciding to count again, she huffed as she discovered they were two short. Only two… but still! How hard can it be for the staff to document correctly! Grabbing what she needed, she locked the vault securely and headed to her truck, anxious to see Joseph in his new environment.

22

Joseph had finished in the cat room and was almost finished with hosing down the kennels. He’d spent time researching animal shelters and was forming an idea of ways to make this shelter better for the animals. Hearing someone walk into the room, he looked over his shoulder expecting Samantha. Instead, he was surprised to see Callan. “Hey, man, what brings you