Binding 13 (Boys of Tommen, #1)

by Chloe Walsh

I’d long since grown tired of begging for love from a man who, in his own words, never wanted me.

I’d noticed it earlier of course. She had a striking look about her. But now, seeing her up close like this and being able to count the freckles on her face—eleven by the way—it was hitting home just how striking she was.

I didn’t understand how people could hurt any animals, but especially dogs. They were too good for us. Humans didn’t deserve the love and loyalty dogs gave them.

“You are so concerned with fighting the bullies at school, Mam,” I sobbed, tears streaming down my cheeks, “when the biggest bully of them all lives under this roof.”

“Put your head up, Shannon like the river.” Moments later, he draped his arm over my shoulder and pulled me in to his side. “No one’s going to hurt you.”

You could love this girl your whole life, the crazy thought persisted inside my brain over and over, if you just let yourself.

“He lost it, lad,” he said. “Went batshit crazy. Broke off his lead and made for the bathroom. Took a dump in the tub.” “Like his owner,” I quipped. “My mother has never taken a shit in anyone’s bathtub,” Gibsie snarled. “Not your ma,” I retorted. “You.”