Baby, Hold On — Stephanie Bond

Soldier Mike Nichols has come to Sweetness, Georgia, for one reason: to get help for his troubled black Lab, a decorated rescue dog, at the town's new military dog training facility. He doesn't expect to be referred to dog groomer Lacey Lovejoy instead!

Straitlaced Mike and free-spirited Lacey couldn't be more different. Yet the longer he works with Lacey, the more his attraction to her grows. They clash often, but their heated encounters also lead to a steamy night together that leaves them both reeling.

But when Lacey's job is done and it's time for Mike to move on, can their animal attraction turn into a permanent partnership?

Note: This story is novella-length.