Chapter Twenty-One
Steve’s dad sat at the kitchen table petting Drake when Steve and Eric walked through the side door. Drake looked up at his master, seemingly torn, then finally pulled away in order to rush over to Eric.
“You’re spoiled,” Eric said with the shake of his head. “I bet he was bribing you with treats.”
“Beautiful dog,” Steve’s dad responded. “We had one looked just like him back when I was growin’ up. Rex lived about sixteen years, pretty old for that breed.”
“Yes sir, that is.” Eric reached down to pet Drake. “Drake’s just three, still practically a pup.”
“He’ll settle into a real nice companion. They’re a docile breed but damn good hunters and trackers.”
Steve’s mom stood behind her husband at the sink. She hadn’t turned to greet them, and a pang of sadness and disap
