Page 22 of Face Off

“I’m not a kid.” Erik glared back at her.

“Could have fooled me,” she retorted.

“He’s impossible.” Erik was struggling to keep the tiny Chihuahua from running in continuous circles around his feet, tightening the leash around Erik’s ankles.

“He’s two pounds,” Holly deadpanned.

“Just pick him up,” Chloe ordered.

“No! He tried to bite me,” her brother protested.

“I’ll give you two pieces.” Holly pulled another bright-colored wrapper from her pocket.

“Three,” Erik countered.

“Fine.” Holly took out another piece.

Erik huffed and bent over to pick up the tiny dog, only to jump and flinch when it growled at him. “No. I need a new one,” he argued while glaring at it.

Holly spun around. “Jason and Jake picked theirs out. It’s either Tinkerbell or Hunter.” She pointed to the enormous mutt a volunteer was struggling to make sit.

“Tinkerbell?” Erik roared. “This thing is evil! Who would give it such an innocent name?”

“It doesn’t matter. You either get her or the friendly monster over there.”

He cringed. “No, Reese can deal with that slobbery mess.”

Reese was the last to show up and was left without any other options, but he crossed the room to the dog and stroked his head. “Seems like a good boy,” he called to his brother-in-law.

“Four pieces. Now pick him up and smile,” Holly said in a serious tone.

Erik’s mouth moved, but I couldn’t hear his words. I doubted I wanted to. He lifted the growling Tinkerbell and held her out with straight arms.

“Bring her to your chest,” George directed.

“I’d prefer to keep my face the way it is.” Erik flinched when the dog yipped.

“Just do it.” Chloe shook her head.

Finally, Erik forced a smile and cradled the dog who shifted instantly and rested her head on his forearm. “What the heck?” he said, nearly dropping the dog. “Why is it doing that?”

“She likes you,” Holly cooed.

“No, absolutely not, little terrorist.” He looked at George. “We good?”

“Yeah.” George waved him away.

Erik lowered the dog to the ground and backed away. “Be free, Fido!”

“A hero among us,” I said as he passed me.

I received a glare in response, but it was well worth it. Erik Schultz, the greatest left-wing in the league, was scared of a tiny dog.

“See you guys tomorrow.” I waved and left the room before I could see if Holly responded. It didn’t matter. Not right now.

9

Holly