Never Again Yours (Isadora and Magnus)

Chapter 45

"Pudding, you little rascal, how did you get out here?"

The security guards had no time to worry about Isadora now. All their attention was on blocking Pudding, who was bounding toward the gate. They circled around, hands outstretched, but no one dared grab him too roughly.

Everyone knew Pudding was Mr. Fitzgerald's pride and joy.

There was a time a new housekeeper, not knowing any better, treated Pudding like any ordinary pet. She was out in the garden one afternoon, sweeping up the autumn leaves. Pudding, ever playful, dashed through and scattered the neat piles everywhere. Frustrated, the housekeeper gave him a gentle tap with her broom.

That was all it took.

Victor found out-and fired her on the spot.

After that, everyone at Stratus Manor understood: this dog was as much the master of the house as Victor himself.

Now Pudding barked excitedly, dodging left and right, making a beeline for Isadora.

"Don't hold me back! I smell someone who feels just like mom," his every movement seemed to say.

strong and nearly up to her waist, clearly getting on in years but still agile and full

bond with

once found a stray puppy with a limp by the roadside, brought it home in secret, and hid it in her room. The next day, Carla found out and, in a fit of cold rage, crushed the pup in

until she was breathless,

already have to feed you,

opened the car

in front of

barked-loud, wild, almost

guards looked

known that Pudding, like Victor, was proud and aloof-he barely acknowledged strangers. Even the dog's caretaker had taken over a year to earn

tail wagging, barking at Isadora with unmistakable recognition- not aggression, but joy. As if

the staff. It was obvious

then it clicked-sometimes, to win favor, you needed the right

use this dog

carefully on one knee, stretched out a hand, and

eyes lit up. He bounded straight into her arms, licking her hands and sleeves, tail wagging with

scent-it was