Flash Freeze Chapter 7
The appetizer
OK, so, fact: Edale Lane is not known for spicy romance writing. If I’m known at all, it’s for twisted mysteries, realistic, immersive world-building, and strong leading women ready to take on the world.
However, I’ve tried to weave more romance into this series, with maybe a shake more spice. This two-chapter romantic interlude between emergency responses and murder investigations is all about Athena and Flash’s relationship. Honestly, that’s at the core of all three books in the series.
So, think of chapter 7 as the appetizer and chapter 8 as the main course and dessert rolled into one. Again, first draft, unedited.
Chapter 7
“I’m sorry, Snuffles,” Flash said in an empathetic tone, “but you have to stay here.” She sat on the couch with her fluffy little Havanese, barely able to see the dog’s mournful eyes beneath the abundance of hair. Groomers tomorrow. She took the pup’s adorable face between her palms. Snuffles’ pink tongue darted out to lick her hand.
“You’ve had your dinner and been for your walk. Here,” she said and picked up the remote control. She pushed a few buttons. “I’ll put on your dog program. You like watching those.” Soothing tones accompanied images of dogs running in slow motion, their tails wagging and faces happy. Snuffles whined.
“Next time, Athena will come over here, and then you won’t have to stay alone. You’re a big girl now. You can stay here until I come back in the morning.” After a last pat, Flash stood, opened a cabinet, and pulled out a big treat. “Here you go, sweetie. Wait for it.” She held the treat up as the eager dog focused on it, front paws gripping the sofa, her tail wagging like a fountain. Flash moved the treat in front of Snuffles’ mouth, and she took it.
“That’s a good girl. Mommy will be back in the morning.” She kissed Snuffles on the head, but by then she was chowing down on a fresh chewy, no longer forlorn over her human’s imminent departure.
Flash wiggled into her black leather motorcycle jacket and grabbed her helmet from its hook near the door. She glanced back and smiled as Snuffles lay content on the couch, chewing away on her treat, while the dogs romped to peaceful music.
