Animal Whisperer: Take Back My Life and Love Chapter 407: Professional Services

The second Barry finished speaking, Star shot forward like a silver streak, nearly knocking Nancy over in his excitement. "Nancy! I’ve missed you so much! I’m here to see the animals on set!"

He didn't miss the chance to pitch himself and his owner. "My human and I can do cameos for free! We’ll be on our best behavior and do whatever you say!"

The Pallas’s cat in Nancy’s arms had been in the middle of a nap, and Star’s booming bark jolted it awake. It blinked bleary eyes, and seeing Barry’s face so close, it instinctively reached out a furry paw toward a shimmering mother-of-pearl button on his shirt.

"This... shiny thing..." the cat grumbled, its tiny claws fumbling with the button. "I’ll pry it off... use it to bribe Master Crow... hehe..."

"You little troublemaker, are you clever or just plain stupid?" Nancy laughed, trying to catch its paw.

But the cat’s claws were like needles. With a sudden, playful hook and a sharp pop, the button snapped off. The force of the snag tore a jagged opening right down the front of Barry’s shirt, exposing his chest.

Barry froze, caught completely off guard.

To prevent any further embarrassment, Nancy reacted instantly. She took the round, fluffy cat and shoved the entire creature against Barry’s chest, using its thick fur to hide the damage.

Suddenly finding itself in a warm, solid embrace, the cat tilted its head back to look at Barry’s jawline. It gave him a quick sniff and let out a purr of genuine admiration.

"Whoa! This human male... he’s handsome, and he’s solid as a rock!" The cat twisted its head toward Nancy, sounding like it had just won a prize. "Nancy! This one is good! The government gave you a certificate and a gold mine... is this the partner they assigned you too? We’re keeping this one!"

"Be quiet, you little idiot!" Nancy’s cheeks burned crimson, the heat spreading all the way to her ears.

She hurriedly began pushing Barry toward the motorhome, her voice frantic. "Inside! Get in the car! I’ll sew the button back on for you!"

A flash of amusement appeared in Barry’s eyes. He went along with it without a word, cradling the heavy cat and letting her guide him. His easy compliance made it look like he’d let her lead him anywhere.

As they disappeared into the trailer, Star paced by the door, pawing at the handle. He turned and nipped at Jorgan’s pant leg. "Jorgan! Quick! Close the door! Lock it from the outside!"

Jorgan didn't speak dog, but he was far too sharp to miss the point. He stepped forward with his usual professional smile and helped Star seal the door shut.

A bodyguard hurried over with a new shirt. "Jorgan, should I take this in to Mr. Goodman so Ms. Nancy isn't put out?"

Jorgan stopped him with a raised hand. He adjusted his glasses, his tone neutral but heavy with meaning. "That won't be necessary. Mr. Goodman... is quite fond of the shirt he’s wearing."

The bodyguard left, looking confused. Star raised a front paw, and Jorgan knelt to give him a high-five. One man and one dog shared a knowing look, silent partners in crime.

Inside the trailer, the air was cool and quiet.

Nancy pulled out a travel sewing kit. Worried that Barry might catch a chill with his shirt open, she leaned in close to start the repair. Barry cooperated perfectly, leaning back into the soft leather sofa to give her room to work.

The position brought them incredibly close. Nancy could feel the warmth of his chest and the steady rhythm of his breathing just above her head. Her heart was racing and her fingers were trembling so much she couldn't get the thread through the eye of the needle.

Barry looked down at her crimson ears and fluttering lashes. His gaze darkened, and he swallowed hard.

When he spoke, his voice was calm and controlled, though it held a hidden rasp. "What’s the rush?"

His hand moved over hers, covering her shaking fingers. He guided her hand with effortless precision, threading the needle in a single smooth motion. His palm was warm and dry, a stark contrast to her frantic state.

The contact felt like an electric shock. Nancy went rigid, her mind going blank as she followed his lead. Only once the needle was threaded did he slowly, deliberately let go.