With Rusty finally cleared to return home, Derrick helped load his dog into a borrowed crate. The whole clinic staff offered supportive cheers and smiles. Rusty’s tail wagged weakly, but a glimmer of his old spirit shone through. Outside, fresh morning light felt like a blessing bestowed.
After settling Rusty on a comfortable blanket in their modest apartment, Derrick glanced at the pile of mail and leftover bills. He inhaled, acknowledging that life would never be easy, but maybe now it could be manageable. He scrolled through messages from donors, tears gathering once more.