From The Flames

For years, Eyal had been the kind of man to hate when the dogs got too excited in the park and caused a commotion with those who didn’t care for it. Yet, here he was, being one of those very people. Lead and all, still attached, Zelda - the rambunctious little madam of a golden retreiver he’d only had for a month, two at tops - was running amock and as far away as she could from her owner. Why do they always think being chased is part of a game? Before he could catch up, she’d weaved herself between person after person, running straight into a person he wasn’t entirely sure if he knew or not. Finally catching up with the little lady; breathless and a little sweaty, Eyal managed to breathe out few words. 

Lia watched, relaxed, as Arrow ran after the ball she had thrown. It had finally cooled down enough to warrant an afternoon in the park. She hated summer and it’s sticky air. Fall seemed to finally be around the corner and Lia relished in the thought. She didn’t get to daydream about it long, however, as a solid mass slammed into her legs, causing them to buckle. Her knees hit the ground. She looked around for the culprit, only to come face to face with a happy looking golden retriever. It took her a split second to turn her head towards her own dog, commanding the pup to sit. He looked as though he was about to rip the smaller dog apart. 

I hear there was big party in Brenton, and none of our invitations arrived on time. Disappointing! It’s like you think we wouldn’t behave or something…

I wonder where anyone would get that idea...

“You doing alright in there?”

“Well, look who’s out and about finally.” Lia stopped a few feet away from Veronika, not wanting to give her bodyguards any reason to react badly. She looked at the tiny child in the stroller. Not having been around babies in god knows how long, Lia was astounded at how small the little guy actually was. Lia looked back up and smiled. “He’s very handsome, Veronika. What’s his name?”

“Its an attendant.”

“So then she should know the rules better than anyone.”

Lia had forgotten how relaxed she could feel whenever she was around Nate. He was so steady and sure. He was stability in such an unstable city. Her arms loosened when he stepped back. “I’d love that. How is your new job by the way?” She was hesitant to ask the question, still unsure how she felt about him working for the LCPD. He’d always be Nate but this job required certain things, actions, of him. Lia was no friend of the police department and didn’t want Nate’s new employer to put a damper on their relationship. 

I’m a woman too! See, I have nipples too, except boobs. I have a six pack instead. Don’t worry, I’m not going to touch you or anything, just gonna sit here and annoy the hell out of you by talking.

What sign?

“He is a good size, especially for his breed. Does he have more to grow?” Lisette asked curiously. She smiled kindly, “I like to believe so. He has been quite the learning experience. I am grateful that he was naturally obedient. It made training him much easier. His breed is naturally stubborn but very loyal, and I needed loyal,” Lisette remarks and takes the girls hand, “Lovely to meet you, Lia,” she shakes her hand and then looks to the sky with a small sigh, “We can never seem to escape it in New England, no?”

“Yes, he is. Not to my knowledge. He’s two already, so if anything he’ll just fill out instead of getting taller, which is probably a good thing because he’s starting to make my apartment look smaller than it really is.” She could understanding needing loyalty, even if it was from just a dog. Loyal dogs provided protection and stability. “It’s a good thing you got lucky then. I know training Arrow taught me things about myself as well. It’s beneficial for both parties.” Lia reacted with a sigh of her own. “I sometimes wonder if the rest of the world gets any rain at all, or if Massachusettes steals it all.”

“That’s a lovely thought, but unfortunately nothing I bought was for me. Lots of family at my house right now and lots of family means lots of hungry people.”

“I’m sure they’re more than capable of getting their own food. If you have to go out again though, make sure you at least get yourself a pint of ice cream.”

Lisette smiled down to the dog and nodded, “I understand. Lui rarely crosses the line as well, I would say the same thing in your shoes,” she admits and slowly stands from the bench. “Hello Arrow,” she greets the dog and then looks to the girl, “I got Lui as a gift to myself for Christmas on a trip to upstate New York four years ago. He will be 4 this November.” Lisette runs her hand through her hair and shakes her head, “My apologies, I don’t believe I even introduced myself. I am Lisette,”

Lia allowed a smile. “Yes, I suppose Arrow is quite big himself.” She focused on the woman’s words, nodding as she spoke. “The best kind of presents are the ones to ourselves. You know exactly what you want and don’t have to worry about not liking it. Oh, Lia.” The brunette reached out to shake Lisette’s hand. “It’s nice to meet you Lisette.” Lia looked at the sky as it gave a rumble. “It sounds like it’s going to storm again. So much for the reprieve of rain.”