Chapter 17

“Major…that’s an unusual name,” Dr. Koz said with a smile. “Were your parents military?”

He told her the story, using his considerable charms as well. “My middle name is Chord.”

“Major Chord. No way!”

“Major Chord Gannon…I kid you not.” When Major laughed, the puppy’s tail went wild, beating against Dr. Koz’s chest. “Cadence,” Major said. “That’s what I’d name him.”

“I love it.” Abby’s smile was a radiant as ever. It had been far too long since I’d seen it.

“Cadence. I love it, too,” Dr. Koz said. “Then that’s that, I guess.” She handed over the puppy. It licked Major’s face as he snuggled him up to his cheek. I leaned in to get some as well. Me on one side, Abby on the other, Cadence took turns licking the three of us.

“Hi, little fellow.”

“He’s so precious,” Abby cooed. “And so curly. I think he’s part poodle.”

“Most likely,” Dr. Koz confirmed.

“Or part Sally.” Major scruffed my head.