As the car pulled into the driveway of the villa, barely coming to a stop, Buddy ran to the back door, wagging its tail as it waited. It whined softly.
Frederic got out of the car and bent down to pinch Buddy's neck. "Stay away from your mother. You've got germs, and they're not good for the baby."
Buddy barked at him twice in protest but obediently took a few steps back. When it saw Frederic helping Joey out of the car, it couldn't help itself any longer. It tried to snuggle up to Joey but kept its paws firmly planted on the ground, not daring to move closer.
Joey beckoned to it. "Buddy, come here. Don't listen to your dad. Let Mommy hug you."
Hearing her call, Buddy quickly ran to Joey's side. It first circled around her a few times and then lay down at her feet, whimpering. Joey ge
