Page 32 of Always Almost You

“You do realize flying back to California isn’t an option?”

Mike nodded. “I checked the airline’s policy while I waited. I’ve already planned to drive him home,” he continued, only now realizing he had chosen the SUV with that possibility in mind. “Is there any chance one of your vets could examine him before we leave? I’m supposed to be in Charleston for dinner.”

The receptionist’s professional composure softened into something warmer. “We’re booked solid,” she said. “But if you’re willing to wait, I’ll work you in. I can’t promise you won’t miss dinner.”

Mike smiled. “I’d be very grateful.”

Within the hour, they were called back.

The veterinarian examined the dog thoroughly, assessing teeth, gums, ears, eyes, heart, and lungs. She ran practiced hands along his ribs and spine. He obeyed every command to sit and stand, then promptly rolled onto his back and flung his paws into the air in shameless invitation.

The vet laughed and obliged him with a belly rub. “Good boy.” She looked at Mike. “You’re adopting him?”

“Yes.”

“You’ve got yourself a lovely dog. Excellent teeth and gums. He still has some puppy behavior. I’d guess he’s about two years old.” She stroked his side again. “He’s slightly underweight. His ribs are a bit more prominent than I’d like. There’s matting behind the ears and under the legs, which suggests he’s been on his own for a couple of weeks. He has no parasites. You found him just in time, especially with last night’s temperatures.”

“So, I can take him with me?”

She nodded. “I’ll vaccinate him for rabies and DHPP.”

“Can you microchip him for me?”

“We’d be happy to.” She gave his belly another pass. “We can’t have this guy getting lost a second time.”

“I’d appreciate that.”

“Sit tight. I’ll send in the technician.” Before leaving, she paused. “Happy endings like this are the best part of our day.”

When they were alone, Mike lifted the pup off the exam table and clutched him against his chest. The retriever wriggled, then wrapped his front legs around Mike’s neck, tail thumping.

Mike laughed, stepping back to steady himself. “I couldn’t agree more,” he said, voice rough.

The former stray planted enthusiastic kisses along his jaw.

Mike lowered the dog to the floor and dropped to one knee. “It’s official,” he said. “You and I are a family.”

The pup stared at him, golden eyes bright.

“I don’t know what your name used to be. But I know what it is now.” He swallowed. “Buddy.”

The dog’s tail thumped against the cabinet like applause.

CHAPTER 24

Mike pulled into a parking space at the big-box pet store near the animal clinic. Buddy turned away from the passenger-side window, already smeared with nose prints, and looked at Mike expectantly.

“We’re going to buy you a few essentials,” Mike said. “And when we’re done, we’re heading to Charleston. To your grandmother’s house.”

Buddy tilted his head.

“And you, my friend, are riding in the back seat. It’s not safe for you up front. I’ll get you a car harness and one of those hammock seat protectors. You’ll be comfy and cozy back there.”

Buddy gave a small huff, unconvinced.

Mike crossed in front of the SUV and opened the passenger door. He grasped the temporary leash bearing the clinic’s bright blue logo. “Come on, Buddy.”

The dog jumped down, landing lightly despite his size, and fell into step beside Mike. A large sign near the register advertised grooming services.