Barry Dunning is a pet stylist and a gentle soul. Animals love him and he adores them. And while he would love to have a dog or cat of his own, the lease on his tiny studio apartment doesn’t allow pets. So, he paints miniature cats and dogs on rocks, instead. Hurt by an ex-boyfriend, Barry doesn’t date. But his sister Trixie is always pestering him to get back out there, though he doesn’t think anyone would want him or his baggage. Not so. Sheldon Svenson, the owner of the animal shelter where Barry volunteers on weekends is attracted to Barry and asks him out on a date. Barry -- for once taking his sister’s advice -- accepts. Dinner ends in disaster, but Sheldon, undaunted, pursues Barry and asks for another chance. Will Barry decide to risk losing his heart?

Of Paws and Pet Rocks

“Are you seeing anyone?” Trixie inquired, brimming with innocence. Not.


“Honey, stop.” Sid gave her a stare that would have intimidated me, but she just ignored him.


“I know times are hard and things are tight, but you shouldn’t give up on finding the one.He’s out there. I mean, look at me. You know my track record with backstabbing, cheating, dickless morons. I never thought there would be someone out there like Sid, but here we are, and we’re unbelievably content. I just want the same thing for you.”


“I know, sister mine. I appreciate your concern, but I have enough on my plate right now without adding a relationship into the mix. Plus, what man in his right mind would want to deal with a penniless pet stylist who lives in a studio apartment with pet rocks? The idea is beyond ludicrous.” Though I wouldn’t say no if such a man landed in my lap. I just didn’t think it would ever happen.


Chapter 3