C is for Cahoots

: a partnership that is usually secret

“What an adorable puppy!” Marigold gushed as she knelt down to lavish affection upon the bundle of fluff. The dog’s owner apologized for his excitable companion and introduced himself with a handsome smile. Marigold had fallen victim to an unholy tryst between man and beast. The canine and his crony were in cahoots for belly rubs and phone numbers.