[///ON HOLD///] Animal House (Rendezvous #2)

Chapter 20

Today was Saturday, and Nora usually spent it with her brothers and Denora, but Ace and Dane had left the house early, saying they had a hangout with some friends. However, she knew they were avoiding her. They were still angry with her for even suggesting the idea of talking with Gloria or any member of the O'Good family. She knew they'd get over it—as they weren't the type to hold a grudge—but she also knew they'd need time and space.

Her brothers weren't wrong to feel the way they did. But neither was Gloria. Nora had to decide what was best for her family, even as she knew feelings would be hurt.

While Denora was at home with Mrs. Mills and Bandit, Nora took Archer and Raccoon out on their daily walk at the park. Again, the park was busy on a Saturday afternoon and Nora saw the usual flag football group. As she made her third and last round around the path surrounding the main field, someone called for her.

"Dr. Banks!"

Nora turned at the sound of her title and saw a familiar bulldog waddle up to Archer and Raccoon in greeting. Behind him were his owners, a man wearing a flag football uniform, and his son.

"Eugene." Nora greeted the dog with a smile and a head rub before turning to greet the man and young boy. "Marc. It's good to see you."

"Likewise," Marc grinned. "Say hello Phillip."

The boy was too busy petting Raccoon to speak, giggling when her fox and dog mauled him with rubs and kisses.

"Sorry, he's just excited to see your fox again," he chuckled.

"It's okay. I understand."

Marc glanced around before noting, "I don't see your brothers with you today."

"They're hanging out with their friends today. I was just taking them..." She motioned to her pets. "...for a quick walk."

"Oh, well, if you have time, you can stick around and watch the game for a bit," he suggested.

"Do you guys play every weekend?" Nora asked, glancing at the semi-large crowd. The group consisted of people from varying ages and backgrounds. They looked more like friends and family playing a game rather than professional teams.

"Just Saturdays. You're always welcome to watch. It wouldn't hurt to have more people cheer for our team."

Nora smiled. "Thank you for the offer, but I have to get back home. My daughter is waiting for me."

A look of recollection washed over his face. "Right. I remember you had a baby with you last time we saw each other here. Is your husband with her?"

She blinked. "No. I have a nanny watching her."

Marc took a quick glance at her hands, but Nora caught the look. He was searching for a ring. It was a mannerism she was familiar with when she used to frequent bars as a younger woman.

Unfortunately, she wasn't wearing her ring.

Nora didn't know what overcame her, but she suddenly blushed. While she was flattered at his interest, her mind also immediately wandered to Declan. Nora wrung her hands in nervousness. "I'm sorry. I might be wrong and I don't mean to offend, but I hope I'm wrong, and if I'm not then I should probably clear it up anyway, but, um, I'm in—"

A pair of arms slid around her waist and Nora jumped as someone whispered in her ear, "Hey, babe." She gasped when she saw Declan's profile. Though he wore a friendly face, she saw the way his eyes narrowed as he stared at Marc. "Who's this?"

Marc's smile faltered a bit, but he still held himself politely. "I'm Marc. I visit her pet clinic sometimes with my dog, Eugene." He motioned to the bulldog.