Going back to work was what emphasized the need for some kind of protection, whether it be a man or dog. Jackie's schedule at American River Junior College, a tuition-free institution not far from the Burnsides' new apartment, was almost the exact opposite of Stella's work schedule. The young, perfectly proportioned blonde had classes from 8 in the morning until 3 in the afternoon, and often as much as five full days would go by when the mother and daughter wouldn't see each other at all!

And if Stella couldn't be around to look after Jackie, she at least wanted to have someone who could. A smart, loving German Shepherd who was trained as a watchdog and bodyguard would be the perfect companion.

The raven-haired beauty looked again into the dark intelligent eyes of the sleek two year old named Kaiser. A low grumbling vibration shook the large dog's chest, and Stella hugged his strong-muscled body close to hers, so she could feel the rumble through her ribs. Something told her that this puppy would be the one – Kaiser was exactly the dog she and Jackie needed to have around.

She raised her eyes to the proudly watching young dog breeder. Matt was a veterinary student at Davis, the university campus near Sacramento, and he sincerely enjoyed the way his carefully-raised dogs seemed to charm their way into his customers' hearts. He'd been raising dogs for five years, since he was only sixteen, and he knew that dog breeding was exactly the right career for him.

"Yup," he said heartily. "I think Kaiser here is yours, Mrs. Burnside… I can tell he already adores you!" Not that any man alive wouldn't adore her, he thought to himself. A guy'd have to be blind or stupid to be unaware of what Stella Burnside has to offer!