Same but... different (Lestappen and Carlando)

Chapter 65

POV: Charles

Today is the day. I feel the nerves crippling under my skin, foot bouncing uncontrollably on the ground as I wait for the door to open. I can't believe I'm really going to become a dad. Well, a dog dad, but what difference does it make?

I've told Max and he encouraged me, although cheekily mentioning the superiority of his cats, of course. But overall he's been supportive of the idea, helping me to find the best name for the best puppy. Leo.

Maybe the fact that it means "lion" influenced my choice, but I couldn't think of anything suiting him better. I've only seen pictures for now, the people from the lovely shelter I'm adopting from being nice enough to give me all the details about him.

He's so tiny, and I fear I'm not gonna be able to care for him properly. I've asked Carlos about it, while doing research on everything Leo could need in the next few days. The summer break was really my best opportunity, allowing me to truly bond with the dog before we travel. And train him, too.

Finally, I hear a creak and my heart starts racing, the distant clamour of barking grounding me immediately. What if he doesn't like me?

— Who's that hm? The baby voice of the woman who just entered the room makes me look up, to find a small dog in her arms.

As she crouches down to let the puppy free, I imitate her and watch, amazed, as Leo runs towards me. I don't even have time to think before he jumps against my leg, his playful little barks making my heart melt. It's too cute to be healthy, for sure.

— Hi Charles, are you ready to take Leo home? I saw you've already done most of the paperwork, we just have one more thing to give you to sign and then it's all good! Leo has been very calm all morning, he's a really sleepy boy! She adds in an amused voice.

I agree and follow her, gently cradling the puppy in my arms as we walk towards an office. I barely register what I'm signing as all my attention is on Leo, who already fell asleep again after the big emotions of earlier. It's a bit hard to sign anything while trying to keep him comfortably snuggled in my arms, but his adorableness is worth the struggle.

— If you need anything else, we're always open to answer questions or give info! Here's his medical record, all the vaccines are up to date. He's too young for being neutered yet, but if that's something you want to consider then I think you can talk about it with your vet. We always recommend it for the dog's general health though.

— Yeah, alright. As I indicated in the form I'm not often in the same place though, is it a problem?

— It should be fine honestly, as long as you care for him correctly and don't hesitate to check with a professional if you suspect a health issue. I wish you the best of luck! Gently patting Leo, she adds quietly. I'll miss you buddy, have fun.

With a smile, I leave the building and carefully place the puppy in the travel crate I brought for him. Bringing him back to Monaco won't be the best part of this, but he is so sleepy that I'm sure it'll be quite easy.

A few days later.

— Leo non!

Just like every other time, Leo is pissing on the floor, looking at me with angelical eyes. I can't even be mad when I see his adorable pout, as he walks away proudly to go on the pad where he should pee.

Sighing, I clean up the mess and almost jump as I hear my phone going off. Putting the wet cloth away, I look at the number and my heart misses a beat as I smile fondly.

*— Hi Charlie! I'm back in Monaco, got any time? How's it going with Leo?

Max's joyful voice and unmistakable voice makes me smile even wider, as I sit down and answer.