Prompt #3391

A dog was the perfect surveillance excuse. Walking it past villain’s various operations had revealed access points, cameras, traps, and employees that the hero had never seen before. They were just congratulating themself when the dog perked up and then yanked.

“Sorry!” the hero cried, as their dog jumped up at a very expensive suit. “So sorry, my dog just really seems to have taken a real interest in you.” The hero looked up at their victim, and their heart stopped.

The villain’s eyes sparkled knowingly. “Just the dog?”

'Shit. Fuck. Shit. He's on to us, or he's just flirting. Say something normal. Be charming. Claw this back.'

Their thoughts were running away from them. They had to say something.

"Well, actually, those pigeons in that tree seem to be watching you really closely too. You must have a way with dogs. And birds. Maybe all animals. I wouldn't know. I don't know you."

Villain's eyes lost their knowing sparkle as confusion set it. Their response wasn't as normal as it could have been.

"Uh, thank you." He paused. "I think."

Okay, he was confused. He was on the back foot. Things were going well.

"You're welcome. I'm a little jealous in fact. This begging mutt is only interested in me when I have food on my hand." The hero pulled back on the lead as the dog made another effort to scrabble at the villain's suit.

"You know, it seems like you're struggling to control your dog." Hero was offended, but it was better to let villain think them an irresponsible pet owner than correct them. Hero would be able to rein in a dog with ease, this stranger in the park couldn't, and so, they must be totally different people. "I actually train animals in my spare time. I'll give you my card. Call me, if you'd like. I won't charge for the first session while we get to know each other - see if we like one another."

Hero was pretty sure they weren't imagining the suggestive tone. They accepted the card Villain offered. It actually had his mobile phone number on it.

"Thank you." Hero said sincerely. "I'll definitely give you a call."