3
I glanced at him and declared, "Ever heard of 'first come, first served'?"
Julian grinned slyly. "But I was the one who grabbed it first."
At that moment, Nora approached, her face stern. "Ian, control your jealousy. What gives you the right to involve Julian? Apologize to him now."
I gazed at her, my anger brewing. "Nora, this dog was our daughter's favorite. You didn't even say goodbye to her. She was by herself every day, and now you won't even grant her this small request?"
Nora's expression finally changed when I mentioned our daughter.
"Don't use my daughter to manipulate me!" she yelled, her voice rising. "Is she really lonely with teachers and friends at school and family at home? And if we get a dog, who'll take care of it? It'll end up being my responsibility, won't it?"