The vet’s receptionist brought him a coffee, urging him to stay calm. Derrick nodded mutely, sipping the bitter liquid and forcing himself to remain upright. Time crawled. A few other patients arrived, their owners glancing curiously at Derrick’s haggard appearance as he paced the scuffed tiles.
Eventually, the corridors quieted, leaving only the hum of overhead lights and the persistent beep of machines somewhere behind closed doors. Derrick stared at them, imagining Rusty’s labored heartbeat. Would the dog pull through? Guilt flared anew as Derrick recalled every moment he’d doubted their future together.