Even in wolf form, Roderick knows how to roll his eyes, which he does now as I stand to trot after her. I, on the other hand, have my jaws open in a wolfish grin.

Zoey keeps up her funny chant until she’s a decent distance from her little campsite. Coming to a stop, she turns in a circle, her movements hinting at a lack of balance.

“Now, which one of you naughty boys is looking for a golden shower?”

If I were in human form, there’s no way I’d be able to stifle my laughter. But I keep my jaws clenched shut and turn my back to give her privacy.

And I start making plans for how to convince this odd woman to be mine.

15

ZOEY

When my pants are around my ankles, I get the sense I’m being watched.

Super convenient.

I’ve got my back pressed against a tree, my thigh muscles put to use as I brace myself in a sitting position. Up until the feeling I have an audience, I was proud of myself for figuring out this whole pee-in-the-woods thing.

Whenever someone hears I’m from Denver, they automatically assume I spend my weekends climbing mountains and hiking mile-long trails in the wilderness.

Yeah, no. I love looking at the gorgeous mountain landscape, maybe taking a drive on the twisty mountain roads. But get out and explore them? I’ve never really been brave enough.

But here I am, camping with my new friend, using nature as my toilet, and I’m pretty sure there’s something lurking in the nearby shadows.

This is why people pee surrounded by four walls. Such a vulnerable time requires shelter.

“Juliet? Did you follow me?” I call out.

That’s one way to get close to someone fast. Kind of like going to the restroom together at a club. Would’ve preferred we discussed it first, but, hey, I’ll take a surprise Juliet over a surprise bear.

There’s no answer.

Warner’s comment about wild animals has me paranoid.

Then, a twig snaps, and I’m scrambling to pull up my jeans.

“Shit! Shit, shit, shit.” I don’t bother zipping before lunging toward my flashlight. When I have it in my hand, I shine the beam in a broad circle, needing to know what kind of creature I’m about to face.

It lumbers out of the trees, huge head focused on me.

“Fucking hell.” I collapse back against a non-pee tree, clutching my chest. “Goddamn it, Bruce! I almost peed all over myself!”

My dog seems thoroughly unconcerned, sniffing the air as he wanders around.

“You’re lucky I was done,” I mutter, taking a moment to zip my fly and calm my clamoring heart. “Come on, you big oaf. I need another beer. You scared me sober.”