By the Book (A Gracie Andersen Mystery 2) Read Free Page A

ago. After a shaky start the previous spring, Milky Way Kennels was now humming along with steady customers. Gracie and Jim were planning to build an indoor obedience ring once spring showed up in Wyoming County. It would be another couple of months before they could even think about it.
    “It’s terrible out there this morning.” Jim pulled off thick leather gloves and knocked the snow off his insulated farm boots. “I’m sure glad we’re not milking cows.”
    “No kidding. Not supposed to get much warmer than what it is right now.” Tom grimaced. “I’ll give you a hand with the driveway, if you want.”
    “Sure. I’ll plow, and you can get the detail with the snow blower.”
    “No problem.”
    The men returned to the frozen world outside. A small swirl of snowflakes spiraled through the kitchen door. Gracie was anxious to get to the kennel and print off the schedules for the day, but she didn’t want to leave the haggard woman, who looked so vulnerable, sitting by herself. Then again, maybe she wanted some time to herself. The news she’d hear today wouldn’t be pleasant.
    “If you don’t mind, I’m heading out to the kennel to get things rolling. I’ll be back in awhile. Just make yourself at home. I’ll take Haley with me too, so your dogs can eat without distraction.”
    “Thanks, Gracie. I really appreciate that. Max and Sable are pretty messed up right now, so it would be good to have a little more down time for them.”
    “Good. Take your time.” Gracie grabbed her parka and slid the patio door open for the dogs that were panting and pressing their noses against the glass.
    “Food is in the bin by the door. There are some extra bowls in the bottom cupboard next to it.” Gracie pulled her gloves on and steeled herself for the blast of cold air. Haley was at her heels.
     
    After booting up her computer in the office, Gracie began turning on lights and getting the reception area ready. It was now a familiar work rhythm, which set the day comfortably in motion for her. The printer slid the schedule off into a neat stack in the paper tray. Grooming appointments were light, but there were several pick ups and drop offs today. It looked like Marian would have lots of time to bathe and spoil Terry’s dogs. The steady advancing and backing of Jim’s SUV told her that there was progress on the driveway. The winter wind perpetually clogged the large circular driveway with lots of snow. The parking area was also a challenge to keep clear. No doubt Jim would have to plow at least a couple more times today, if it kept snowing. The dogs were barking their greetings to her and Haley as she began checking runs to make sure that Milky Way’s guests were comfy and warm. There was quite an assortment this week. A massive, gentle Irish wolfhound named Patrick was enjoying the extreme comfort of one of their deluxe suites. It was the size of a small living room, complete with a large sofa for lounging, TV, and end tables for that homey look. A faux fireplace completed the picture. His owners were lying on Puerto Rico’s beaches at the moment and wouldn’t be back for two weeks. They’d made sure Patrick was very comfortable while they were gone. He had a huge supply of toys in a wicker basket and a bucket of Milky Way Kennel’s gourmet treats. Patrick greeted her with a happy bark, eagerly taking a treat from Gracie’s hand, and running back to sprawl on the sofa. The other deluxe suite housed Simon, a Pomeranian with attitude. He was a namesake for the American Idol judge. He couldn’t quite make the leap to the sofa, so Gracie had added a set of small steps that allowed the little dog some dignity. His owners had gone to Florida to visit family for three weeks. Someone in the family was allergic to dogs, so Simon was enjoying his own vacation. He sniffed at the treat and didn’t take it until Gracie tossed it onto the floor. She laughed at his aloofness. The rest of the pack was housed in standard