The parking lot of Precious Pup Pet Grooming was uncharacteristically deserted.
Inez dragged herself through the door, still half asleep but silently congratulating herself for making an appointment when Greta and her staff wouldn’t be running behind.
Greta came around the counter and lifted Gwyneth, a Maltese, out of Inez’s arms.
Inez blew Greta a cocktail kiss.
“The usual for our little Gwynny or something special? There’s a really cute look they’re doing in the Hamptons…”
“Just the usual. I’m still in a honeymoon phase with my new guy and haven’t picked up any extra shifts.”
Greta bit her lip so hard Inez saw the indents.
“I saw your Instagram. Devin, right?”
Inez yawned.
“I didn’t know I put his name in there. He seems to like a bit of anonymity. Can’t even have his own account because of his job.”
“I don’t think you put his name in there. I...I know him from around.”
Inez began to wake up a bit.
“You don’t sound enthusiastic.”
Greta took Gwyneth back to the grooming suite and motioned with her head for Inez to follow.
“So are you in love?”
Inez laughed. “You see the abs on him in the picture I posted yesterday?”
She paused. “Not in love, love, but it’s headed that way, I think.”
“Did he tell you what he does for a living?” Greta asked
“Certainly, first date. He works for Heedgeil Zephyr. And yes, I know they’re part of the military-industrial complex, before your little hippie ass gives me a hard time about it.”
Greta began to brush out Gwyneth.
“He dated my sister for a minute.”
Greta lowered her head and concentrated on the brushing, not making eye contact with Inez.
“I’m sorry if your sister had a bad experience,” Inez said. “If it was awful, tell me. I can handle it.”
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