Part 31 (1/2)

”Great. Just great.” Blanche's blue eyes snapped with excitement. ”I think we'll hit our goal before the night is over.”

”Everything looks wonderful. The signs were a brilliant idea. And I can't believe the ice sculpture of the Greyhound.” I pointed toward the banquet table. ”And the rabbit looks so lifelike.”

”Rabbit?” She frowned and turned toward the table. ”There's no-”

Just then the rabbit moved.

”Well, for cryin' in a bucket.” The rabbit looked like a real bunny rabbit because it was a real bunny.

The furry floppy-eared critter scampered the length of the loaded feast, honey-glazed carrot clamped in its teeth, leaving a trail of shrimp c.o.c.ktail bunny tracks across the buffet. Then the rabbit went airborne onto the closest guest table.

Which was all it took. It was like the starting gun had been fired.

The Greyhound stationed near the table sighted the hare and began the chase. Instantly, chaos reigned.

Hound chased rabbit, hound chased hound, humans chased hounds. Leashes trailed, tables tipped, trays of gla.s.ses tumbled.

I could still see Sam, but he was carried backward by the wave of people and Greyhounds. Complete and utter pandemonium.

I surveyed the bedlam to see what I could do to help.

I decided one Greyhound at a time was the best tactic. I started toward the closest dog, a beautiful jet-black hound.

All at once, a man popped up in front of me. It was the big ruddy-faced man Eugene had fought with earlier. His face was now pale as he tried to speak, but he gasped for air instead.

Thinking perhaps he had claustrophobia or was having a panic attack of some sort, I laid my hand on his arm and asked, ”Are you okay? What's wrong?”

He opened his mouth, but still nothing.

The man reached out to me and grabbed my shoulder. I winced as his hand leaned on Grandma Tillie's brooch and pushed it into my flesh. He lunged forward against me knocking me off balance.

”Sir? Sir, what's the problem?”

As he fell at my feet, my question was answered.

The problem was there was a very large carving knife sticking out of his back.

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Acknowledgements.

We are indebted to the countless dachshund lovers who shared stories and photos of their beloved dogs. Your pa.s.sion for your low-rider pooches is contagious. Thank you for entrusting us with your memories and tales of adventure. Or in some cases, misadventure.

To the compa.s.sionate staff at MacRae Park Animal Hospital, thank you for answering our numerous questions about the risks of dogs ingesting caffeine. Your knowledge and insight ensured that we weren't endangering any animals with our storyline idea. You certainly didn't need to call us with new information while you were on vacation, but we appreciated it! The education on canine depression and pet grief was eye-opening. If we all cared as deeply for each other as you care about our pets, the world would be a better place. Thank you!

To our fabulous editor, Deborah Smith, who pushed us to dig a little deeper. Thank you for believing in our ability to create an entertaining story when we present you with nothing more than a ”punny” t.i.tle. Your faith in our storytelling abilities is inspiring.

Christine Wittholm, our agent, at Book Cents Literary Agency, thank you for believing in us. Your enthusiasm is a great motivator for us to be our best.

Christine, Cindy, and Tami, thank you for telling us when we've gotten off track and when we've made you laugh. But most of all, thank you for the words of encouragement at the perfect moment. You are the best.