Finish your breakfast, there’s a good boy, and then we’re going for a lovely walk into town to see your friend Ray.” Rupert gave her his best corgi grin and then returned to his bowl. Half an hour later, they were on their way. The trees were silhouetted black against a grey sky heavy with the threat of rain, and a light mist skimmed the tops of the mountains that cradled the town. As they reached the bend in the road and crossed the bridge, Charlotte paused for a moment to look at the river, now so choked with leaves that it could barely flow. As the first drops of rain spattered down, they moved on and soon reached the Upper Crust Bakery. She left Rupert waiting under the protection of the green and white striped awning while she popped in for a pastry. Once they were on their way again, the white police station adjacent to the town hall came into view. Charlotte opened the door and Rupert bounded in, wagging his tail in greeting to the receptionist, who waved them through.
