Searching for Disaster by Jennifer Probst Page B

wanted and the Yanks, I could live without baseball.” His eyes dazzled pale-blue sparks, stealing her breath. “Not her.”
    She froze in place. The world dropped away as they stared at one another.
    â€œThat’s romantic, Devine,” Arilyn said in her musical voice.
    Izzy managed to blow out an annoyed breath. “It’s still screwed-up. Some things should never be asked for. Even in love.”
    â€œLet me ask you this, Isabella. If you fell in love with a Yanks fan, would you force him to choose between you and his team?”
    Damn him. She wriggled with discomfort, hating the question. “Are we going to see the dogs?”
    Arilyn glanced between them with fascination. “Sure, but I want to hear your answer, too.”
    Liam lifted a brow and waited.
    â€œNo, I wouldn’t. It would just be . . . wrong.”
    â€œExactly. Thank you for proving my point.”
    His words held that faint warning again, though it was wrapped up in pure sex appeal and masculine demand. Got her hot every time. Why did he have to be so droolworthy? It was completely unfair.
    Arilyn broke the stare standoff and sat behind the desk. “Let’s just do a quick intake now that you’re both here, and go see the dogs.” Devine took a seat next to her, his long length barely fitting in the small wooden chair. His hard thigh brushed hers. Goose bumps peppered her skin. “First off, is there any particular breed or mix you’re interested in? Any breed you’re concerned about?”
    Izzy shook her head. “I love all breeds and am open to any of them.”
    â€œI agree,” Liam said.
    â€œGreat. How about any restrictions to your home or property? Other animals? Limited time?”
    â€œSince I have a great boss, I’m sure I’ll be able to run home and let my dog out,” Izzy said with a grin. Arilyn grinned back. “And as we both know, the bungalow is perfect.”
    Liam scratched his head. “My house is set up already with a fenced-in yard and plenty of room. My work schedule could sometimes be a problem if I hold down double shifts, but I may be able to get my neighbor to check in. Or I can trade off some shifts if I need some extra time home in the beginning.”
    Arilyn nodded. “Great, I think that’s reasonable.” She went through a quick checklist, making sure they knew all the responsibilities of pet ownership. “Now, is there a certain age bracket you prefer?”
    â€œNo puppies,” they both blurted out in unison.
    Izzy looked at him. “You, too?” she asked.
    â€œI just spent endless months renovating. I’m not up for a puppy.”
    They smiled at each other in understanding.
    â€œGot it,” Arilyn said. “Too bad—we have the most adorable litter ready to be adopted. They’ll probably be all gone by tomorrow. Let’s head out and start meeting the animals.”
    Izzy trailed behind her, noting Liam matched her pace to hang back. “How’s work?” he asked.
    His casual question set the tone. Distance. She needed to cultivate friendly distance. “Good. I’m learning to program the matchups and spreadsheets, and it’s fascinating work. I never thought science could merge into the art of matching up two people for a relationship, but Kinnections proved me wrong.”
    â€œI didn’t know you liked computers.”
    â€œYeah; I have a tiny piece of nerdism within me. Something about all that useless data turning into something that can run an empire inspires me. I’m good at data matching and finding the holes in code.”
    â€œI’m not surprised. It holds just enough challenge to keep you interested.”
    â€œExactly.” He tugged at her hair in a playful gesture that made her smile. The damning words tumbled from her lips too fast to stop. “I’m assuming you’re working with Kate now to find your match?”
    He