“Nope. No way.” Cleo’s sassy voice floated from under the armchair in the living room.
Suitcases crowded the space, stuffed with all the things a vacationer would need for a week’s trip and then some. The scent of fresh coffee still lingered in the air, and excitement buzzed for the upcoming departure despite Cleo’s determined refusal to go.
Ellie winced as she shifted on her knees and peered under the chair again. “Get out from under there.”
Backing away, Cleo hissed as Ellie reached for her.
“Stop that,” Ellie said with a huff. “I’m trying to help you.”
“I don’t want your help.”
Lola padded her way to the chair, her stubby tail wagging as she stuck her nose under it.
“Quit breathing on me, you lug.”
“Stop calling her a lug.”
“Come on, Cleo. We’re going in the car.”
“I don’t want to go in the car. Duh. I did not agree to this.”
Ellie sat back on her heels with a sigh. “Come on. I already packed all your stuff.”
“What stuff?”
“Your bowl. Your food.”
“A leash like I’m a dog. A stupid sailor outfit like I’m a baby doll,” Cleo added.
“I did not pack a sailor outfit for you. That was for Lola.”
Lola’s tail wagged faster, shaking her entire backside. “I like it, Ellie. It’s cute.”
“I saw you put a second one in. Smaller. It’s mine. I know it. You’re going to put me in a sailor suit and parade me around like a clown.”
Ellie shook her head. “No, I am not. And I put in a leash just in case, but I wasn’t planning on using it.”
“You’re not. Because I am not going.”
“Cleo, you’re going. I thought you wanted to see the sea?”
“I changed my mind. I can see it on the TV. Just leave that running for me.”
“I’m not leaving the television on.” Ellie clicked her tongue.
“Why? You’re leaving lights on. Same thing.”
“It’s not. Get out here,” Ellie said with a snap of her fingers.
“No.”
