Pearl charged from across the neighbor's lawn, all white fluff and big clumsy paws.

My ass collided with the side of my care, and I squat down to accept my daily barrage

of puppy kisses. Mrs. Douglas came running after her, dropping her hands to her knees as

she reached us.

Sorry, she hoved, that damn dog is too fast for her own good.

I laughed and scratched Pearl's ears.

Have you been a good girl?

I asked her. Mrs. Douglas snorted.

You're lucky you still have a dog at all. She tried for Pete I Drangers today.

Oh no, I said, shifting up and wiping the paw print from my grey slacks. Not too much

damage I hope.

Nah, I stopped her in time, thankfully.

Thanks Mrs. D. I flashed her grin. We owe you our lives.

She waved the thought away and turned back to her own house on the corner.

Naked out, over the small little box I called home, shining a light on my own inadequacies

in more ways than one.

Oh, she spun back around. That reminds me. He's been asking about your lawn again.

Oh, has he?

If you just let him moat, he'll get off your back and mine.

I clicked my tongue and worked my finger at her.

Now now Mrs. D, you know I don't give it away that easily.

The older woman rolled her eyes, but gave up the fights for now just the same.

...