Wiping away tears, Derrick nodded, eyes stinging with grief. He’d scheduled Rusty’s euthanasia for the next day, convinced he had no other choice. Even so, guilt tore at him. Rusty deserved a chance, however slim. Derrick bent down, pressing his forehead to Rusty’s, vowing he’d try one last time.
He stepped into the overcast afternoon, heart pounding. Phone in hand, he dialed family and friends, begging for any amount they could spare. Each call yielded the same disheartening response: silence or a politely masked “no.” Hope felt paper-thin, unraveling with every ring that went unanswered.