gonna tell the whole town and Spitz is going to kill me just for her.” Balto said, almost to himself.

“Oh, c’mon Balto, if that’s the worst, you can take Spitz.” Rusty confirmed.

“True, but he’ll be fighting out of anger and I’m not sure if that’ll be and advantage on my part or his.”

“You don’t have much of a choice now?”

“No, except to avoid Spitz when Gunnar isn’t around.”

“I can help.” Molly said.

“How can you help?” Rusty asked.

“I can warn Balto if Spitz is around a corner or something. I can scout out for him, Spitz won’t be angry at me, besides, he can’t hurt me.” Molly offered.

“We can do that until I figure out a different plan. I shouldn’t have to live in fear within the walls of my own domain. After all, I am the alph- I mean, lead dog.”

“I’ll talk to my sister about it, maybe she has an idea or two.”

“Alright. I’m gonna head inside. Molly, this is time to try out your skills.” Balto said.

“I’ll go with her.” Rusty said.

“You act casual. I don’t want to risk your physical being along with mine.”

Rusty grunted, “Fine.”

“Go ahead, Mol.” Balto said.

“Right!” Molly dashed off across the street and then slowed to a walking speed at the open door. She looked inside, wondered if Spitz was lying the couch but concluded that the distance between the couch and the wall was too small and she signaled Balto that the coast was clear.

Balto ran inside the doorway and looked around. Safe. He turned and gave Molly a kiss on the ear. She smiled.