Chapter 12

Roy got the leash, clipped it to Sam’s collar, and opened the crate. Sam didn’t push, but he made it clear he wanted to get out of the crate, out of the room and, as they walked together to the back door, out of the house. Roy kept a firm hold on the leash. He expected Sam to go to his corner as he’d seen him do earlier. Maybe he needed to hike his leg, even if he hadn’t had any beer at the party. Instead, Sam headed for the gate.

“Damn it, Sam, I’m not taking you out of the yard. I bet I’m not even supposed to have you out here. What do you think you’re doing? Come on…you can do your business in here. I know that’s what you do. I saw you this afternoon.”

Sam all but shook his head. In spite of Roy’s efforts to change his mind, the dog seemed determined to stay right there by the gate until he willed it to open.

“Damn, Sam, I don’t dare take you out there. Craig would have my ass big time if anything happened to you. I’m prob’ly taking a major chance just to have you out here.”