Don stepped onto the property, boots crunching against the path. Once he did, a bark tore through the air almost instantly.
Rex.
The dog came charging from the side of the house, nails scraping on the porch tiles as he bounded forward.
Don stopped at the foot of the steps, waiting. Rex pulled up short just below the first riser, hackles up, a low growl rising under the bark.
Then his eyes met Don's.
The bark strangled out half-formed, the dog's tail stiffening before he faltered. His head tilted, gaze darting around as though confused. The growl died altogether. In the next breath he turned tail, scampering back toward the side of the house.
Don let the faintest smile crease his mouth. He shook his head once, then reached for the doorbell.
He didn't get the chance.
The door swung open, Donald stepping out mid-complaint. "Come on, Rex, would you stop barking at every kid who pass—"
His voice cut off. He froze, glasses glinting as his eyes widened.
