He crouched beside Rusty, gently lifting the dog’s head. A small whine confirmed Rusty’s pain. Without further hesitation, Derrick scooped Rusty into his arms. Although Rusty weighed more than a mere lapdog, Derrick’s adrenaline and concern fueled him, pressing him onward toward the nearest veterinary clinic.
Derrick’s shoes scuffed the pavement as he rushed through side streets, ignoring the chill in his chest. Anxiety knotted his stomach, and his thoughts raced. He couldn’t lose Rusty. Not like this. Not after they’d survived so many hardships together, clinging to each other in desperate times.