Wild Child

[Following this]

Shannon finished patrolling around her den and stopped in front of the gate. It was late and her master was sleeping, but there was nothing dangerous near and she was sure he'd be safe alone for a while. ( She wouldn't be gone long, but her puppy had had long enough to visit with Harry and it was time to fetch her home. )

Marton came through the open doors into the living area, setting a brisk pace. Councilors Stilton and Dawson were hard on his heels, but pushed to keep up. Waving away Joel’s silent offer of coffee with a brief smile, he went directly to his seat at the head of the table. ( Let’s get this over with. )