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“You mustn’t put yourself in danger like that, Annie,” Lauren scolded. It was the next day, and she and Zoe were still recovering from their encounter with a killer as they readied the café for their first customers.
“Although it was a genius distraction,” Zoe said in approval. “It gave me time to slam Nina with the carrier containing the fake Mrs. Snuggle so we could make our getaway.”
“Brrp,” Annie said softly.
According to Mitch, Nina was still complaining about the “assault”.
“But don’t worry,” he’d told them last night. “She’ll be going to jail for a long time.”
After they’d arrived home, they’d been contacted by Detective Castern, as Mitch was still in Sacramento. After giving the detective their statements, they’d been told that Nina had been apprehended driving out of the park. Apparently, Zoe had hit her quite hard with the cage and it had taken her a few minutes to get into her car.
Mitch had arrived at the cottage as soon as he got back to Gold Leaf Valley. Lauren flew into his arms, instantly feeling better in his steady, reassuring, embrace.
Later that evening, Chris had arrived at the cottage after Zoe called him, telling him about their sleuthing efforts. Mitch was still there, and he, Lauren, and Annie moved into the kitchen to give Zoe and Chris some privacy.
“Oh, guess what?” Zoe grinned now. “Chris talked to me last night about applying for a transfer down here and I told him to go for it. He texted me this morning that he’s first on the list!”
“That’s great!” Lauren hugged her cousin.
“Thanks.” Zoe’s eyes sparkled. “Chris told me you encouraged him to talk to me about it. You’re the best.” She high-fived her.
“Mitch told me this morning when he called that he contacted Dana, the judge, asking her if she knew anyone who could adopt Brunhilda if Nina doesn’t have anyone in mind. She said she’d be happy to look after her if Nina didn’t have any objections. She said she’s always admired Brunhilda.”
“Well, that’s one good thing, anyway,” Zoe replied. “Dana said she has Himalayans, which are a variety of Persians, aren’t they? Brunhilda should have a good home with her.”
“She did seem a sweet cat.”
“Brrt,” Annie agreed.
“I’ve made a decision regarding Annie’s future show career,” Lauren continued.
“What’s that?” Zoe looked at her curiously.
“Brrp?” Yes, what’s that?
“She’s not having one. I’m sure most of the people who show their cats are nice, like Jerry, but ...”
“I get you.” Zoe nodded. “We wouldn’t want the other cats to be jealous of you, Annie.”
“Or their owners,” Lauren added. “You can still have fun running the café with me and Zoe.”
“Just wait until my new pottery mugs are ready, with your winning pose on them,” Zoe told her. “The customers are going to love them.”
“And we already have our new Showgirl cupcakes, to celebrate your win,” Lauren told her fur baby. “Are you okay with that, Annie?”
“Brrt!” Yes!
THE END
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