Here's another chapter. Sorry it takes so long to update, but I'm trying to finish this story at the same time, and it's a lot longer than I expected. Enjoy!
Haddock came back to Marlinspike Hall after a quick trip into town. He held a big box with holes in the top. Tintin was in the living room, reading the newspaper, hoping someone might have posted an ad for finding a lost dog, and wondering who the owner was. No such luck. The Captain entered the room and set the box on the table.
"What's that?" Tintin asked curiously, looking at the box.
"Something for you, lad," Haddock replied, a sly smile on his face as he sat and lit his pipe. Tintin stepped towards the box and lifted the lid. A west highland terrier pup jumped out, and into Tintin, who caught it in his arms. It began to happily lick his face, barking joyfully, and doggy smile on its face.
"What do you think?" Haddock asked a broad grin on his face. "She's a nice girl, or so the pet store owner said."
"Captain, I-" Tintin began softly, but was interrupted.
"No need to thank me," Haddock said with a laugh. "I'm sure she won't completely replace Snowy, but she'll be great company, and will help you stop missing him to much."
"Captain, I really appreciate this," Tintin said, placing the little dog on the floor, and sitting back in his chair. "But I don't want another dog. I want Snowy." Haddock's face grew solemn, and he gazed at the puppy, her tail wagging so fast it was a blur.
"I know, laddie," Haddock nodded, his voice soft. "But I can't bear to see you moping around the house all day. It's not good for you. This little pup will help keep you mind off Snowy." Tintin also looked at the pup that barked, and jumped up onto his lap, licking his hand, and curling up with a doggy sigh. Tintin couldn't help but smile. It was the first time Haddock saw him in high spirits in days.
"Of course, Captain," Tintin said, rubbing the pup's head. "She won't replace Snowy. But you're right; it's not good for me to be miserable all the time. If he's still alive, I hope Snowy finds a good home with people who will take care of him."
"So, what are you going to name her, lad?" Haddock asked. Tintin looked at the puppy, sleeping soundly. Tintin gazed at her for a few moments, taking in all the details of her; her fluffy, white fur, her dark, almond-shaped eyes, and her little black nose. He thought for a long moment.
I suppose I have to name her, he thought. We can't go around calling her the 'Pup' all the time.
"I suppose I'll name her…" he thought a moment longer. "I have no ideas. You name her, Captain."
"Are you sure, laddie?" Haddock asked, as the dog woke up, and trotted over to him, her little tail wagging. Tintin nodded. "Well, then, I think she looks like a Bella to me."
Tintin smiled half-heartedly, and thought about where Snowy might be.
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