Chapter 19

Chase found himself living a peaceful yet fulfilling life once things had settled down. At the suggestion of the Woodward family, he got a dog. It was a plump little corgi he named Muffin. It was a simple, everyday name. Muffin was fearless and loved greeting everyone they passed on the street. If he had a tail, he probably would've wagged it right off. Chase took him out for long walks every morning and evening. Children adored the dog, and thanks to Muffin, Chase became far more approachable. There was a quiet aloofness about him when he was alone, enough to keep most people at bay. Few ever dared ask for his number. However, with Muffin around, children would run up to Chase, asking in soft, curious voices, "Can I play with your dog?" or "Can I pet him?" Even women who might've hesitated before would now work up the courage to approach him, striking up a conversation under the pretense of asking about Muffin. Fiona was full of regret when she found out. One evening, while w