Ty's Saturday Morning
"Help!" Ty cried out as he thrashed around in the fragmented edge of a sleep, the sound of his own voice nudging him closer to consciousness, but not quite. In his slumber's mind, the distorted saga continued to unfold, with vivid, gruesome details.
Using his bare hands, Ty tried desperately to stem the blood profusely flowing from Cloud's neck. With each beat of the colt's heart, hot blood spurted between his fingers, oozing down his arms, hitting his face and body with force, shaking his body. The thick gore and overwhelming metallic stench of the bright red bodily fluids made Ty's stomach turn, so he looked away.
From the corner of his eye, he saw her standing there, just out of his reach, watching him. She was beautiful as always, her long blonde hair and white gown, blowing gently in the wind. Her expression was calm, calming him in return.
"Hello Ty." She smiled shyly, then waved to him with only her dainty fingertips as their eyes locked. So stunned, so mesmerized by her presence, Ty became tongue tied, rending him unable to speak. He so desperately wanted to go to her, to hold her, to be held. Torn between love and duty, Ty knew that the young colt's life lay solely in his hands. Duty won out,he did not move.
Suddenly, out of thin air, Andrew appeared, wearing a jacket made of fine gold, riding atop of a saddled black cougar, bedazzled with a diamond studded collar. The feline's sleek body rippled with muscles with each step, its brilliant eyes shone an eerie phosphorescent green. Baring it's white, sharply chiseled teeth, the cougar hissed a warning.
Andrew said sweetly, "Come on Amy, honey. It's time to go."
She hesitated, remaining in place, waiting for Ty to speak.
"Ty?" She whispered. "Say something."
When no words came from his mouth, the blue of her eyes turned watery, her smile faded, she nodded, twisting his heart into pieces.
"Ty? You called me?" Suddenly, a naked Claire appeared, smiling, leaning her toned body, suggestively into his, a vet bag in her hand.
A single tear teetered on Amy's lash, then dropped to her cheek, forging a trail to her chin.
Andrew broke in. "Amy, even though we don't want to, we must face facts. They are damaged beyond repair. They cannot be saved." He pointed Ty and Cloud.
She didn't move.
He continued on. "Be realistic. He hurt you before, so many times. He will again. You got to let him go."
Amy nodded, turned, and with one graceful step mounted the cougar, sliding behind Andrew, her arms encircling his waist. She gazed back at Ty once more.
Soaked in darkening blood, frozen in place, Ty stood mute, his bloodied hands still applying pressure to Cloud's open wound. He helplessly watched as they rode away, fading from view.
"Amy!" Finally, Ty desperately screamed out, though it was much too late. She was gone.
The sound of his own voice jolted him from sleep.
Uncertain of his surroundings, he sat up, sweating and breathing hard as though he had run miles. In the darkness, he tried to regain his bearings. As reality slowly set in, the nightmare's grip dissipated, his heart ceased racing, his breathing returned to normal. But, his emotions were raw and bloody, his chest tight, consumed by a heaviness of regret and loss. A lump rose up, parked in his throat. He tried to swallow, to push it all away. But, there it remained, lodged in place, giving birth to a bleak mood.
He exhaled, long and weary. "Fuck."
Rising from his makeshift bed in the dark, stuffy supply closet, he turned off his phone's alarm before the annoying ringtone could sound. Not quite 5am, he turned on the light, folded the cot, and put it away.
Task completed, he exhaled hard and long through his nostrils, attempting to shake the nightmare's shadow, to lift his mood, to release the feeling of remorse and loss, to no avail.
Exiting into the quiet hallway, seeing no one, he walked quickly to the bathroom. Closing the door behind him, he turned on the shower, then striped to nothing. Standing before the mirror, he didn't bother to check his reflection, instead he closed his eyes. Breathing in deeply, Ty filled his lungs to capacity, held, then slowly exhaled. In, hold, and out. In, hold, and out in a measured rhythm, learned in Vet School to release stress, evoke calmness with every release of spent oxygen. While the exercise calmed him for the most part, the heaviness remained. He stepped into the shower, stood under the pounding spray of hot water, hoping to scrub away the lingering memory of the metallic strench of blood and the feelings of regret and loss.
Showered, dressed but still exhausted, Ty made his way into the empty kitchen and brewed a fresh pot of extra strong coffee. Leaning against the kitchen cabinet, he downed two cups of black coffee without tasting either. Needing the caffeine to kick in, he had another for good measure.
His mood still colored gray, he sighed, long and loud, again to no effect. Running his hand through his damp hair, he proceeded with rounds on his own, although he knew Mirna would repeat the same with Paul when she arrived. He could not help himself, he had to check, to focus on something else.
Wind was first. A single nod of her head and a hollow cupping sound of her lips flapping together greeted him as he entered the room.
"Hey Wind. How are you, pretty girl? How's our boy?" He said barely audible, caressing the coarse roan hair of her long neck.
Hearing his voice, sensing his presence, Cloud opened his eyes, swayed his tail, sounding like a metal whisk across the batter head of a snare drum. "Ssshhh. Ssshhh."
"Hey Cloud. How are you?" The young colt lifted his head for a moment, in response. "Feeling a bit better. Huh? Good. Good...Rest while I check your mom."
He continued his examination of the mare, his hands skillfully touching her body, looking for new issues, inspecting her wound and surrounding area. Signs of healing were evident, the angry redness and swelling of the stitches slightly diminished, satisfying him. "Good girl. Keep up the good work."
"Let's go for a walk." Untethering her, he led her through the back door, into the morning darkness, into the enclosure, no bigger than a round pen at Heartland. He released her to explore on her own, to stretch her legs, to expel waste, to nibble on the greening fescue. But, she stayed by his side.
"Want me to go with?" A quiet nicker replied. "Come on girl." She followed him as he stepped forward, continued with deliberate steps, very slow and easy. He looped around the outer edge, once, twice, then once more. The unharnessed mare kept his pace until the end, when she nibbled on the grass.
Returning inside, Wind greeted her offspring with a low vibration from her vocal chords. He returned her call, swooshing his black tail.
Crouching at Cloud's side, Ty gently talked to the colt, smoothing his short black mane, running his hand along the length of his side, back and forth, down each leg. As he vetted the young horse, he continued to talk, telling him of each step, his findings.
"Your temp seems in range. And, your drainage looks fairly clear. Good signs. Let's see what Paul wrote."
As he read through the chart from the night before, Paul approached from behind.
"Hey."
"Hey." He barely responded without looking up from the notes on the clipboard. "Looks like they both had a good night."
"Yeah. No codes, no spikes." Paul replied.
Ty nodded.
"Too bad I can't say the same for you. What did you eat before bed?"
Ty turned to face Paul, perplexed. "What do you mean?"
"Don't you remember? I had to wake you. You were having some kind of weird nightmare and yelling all sorts of mumbo jumbo. Again."
His brows raised, his mouth opened in surprise. "Really? I don't remember that."
"And, who's Amy? You kept calling for her."
Ty shrugged, offered no words.
"Yeah. Well. Do me a favor. Sleep at home tonight." He scowled.
"One more night." He admitted.
"Great." Paul retorted sarcastically, then asked. "Rounds?"
"Yeah, sure. Why not?"
Though he would never admit it, Ty relished rounding, especially with Paul. The routine of moving room to room, discussing each animal's status and treatment plan, even Paul's monotone voice, his unaffected, sometime dour demeanor, were a low-key start to his day. The process relaxed and calmed him, in the same way that rounding with Scott always did.
Paul led the way into the darkened cougar room, lit only by the light streaming in from the open exam room. The melanistic cougar was asleep, laying on her side, her legs stretched out before her, leg still splinted and bandaged. Surround by the white plastic cone, her head was propped up awkwardly, her eyes were closed. Her sleeping cub was snuggled beside her, his back to her belly, his brown fur spotted with black dots and black tinged tail, contrasted, yet complimented her sleek black fur. His paw rested next to a small, bright orange ball, partially deflated. A gnawed bone lay not far away.
As he entered behind Paul, the big cat instinctively opened her eyes, a glowing greenish-gold color in the nightlight. Not moving a single muscle, she emitted a growl, deep and low from her throat as a warning. As Ty stepped closer, she drew back her lips, baring her white, sharply chiseled teeth, then hissed. Suddenly, pushing off her powerful back legs, she lunged at Ty, the cone hitting the inside of the cage with a thud.
Reflexively, he stepped back, unafraid for himself, but concerned for potential injury to the cougar or cub. Hissing, the big cat stood her ground, her injured leg slightly raised.
"Fierce doesn't like you." Paul said with a smirk.
"Clearly." Ty said calmly as he walked out of the room, to not further agitate the big cat. Paul following behind him.
"Fierce?" Ty asked.
"Chip and Kerry."
"Hmm. The cub?"
"Percy."
"Good names. How are they doing?"
"Fine. The cub alternates between playing and sleeping. The big cat mostly rests. She's still adjusting to the splint and cone. I hadn't seen her move like that though."
"Maybe a good sign? Anyhow, I'll minimize my presence for a few days. Plans for a transfer?"
He shrugged. "None that I know of. Too soon anyhow."
"Right."
As the two walked the canine room, the white pitbull stood in her cage, wagging her tail excitedly, thumping loudly against the metal enclosure. Ty opened the cage, scratched behind her ears.
"She looks like she's filling out."
"Yeah."
"How the heart worm treatment going?"
"Good. No adverse affects."
As he closed the cage door, he looked closer at the label in the cage. "Bella?"
Paul groused. "They've named them all."
"Of course. Is one of the puppies is gone? Weren't there four?"
Paul looked at the log. "Adopted yesterday. Only Sarge, Petra and Hudson are left."
Ty shook his head.
Moving on to the avian room, the last of the raptors, four eagles and one red tail hawk, were perched on various branches throughout the large cage. Each bird was sharp-eyed, robust and on ready, awaiting their next meal. The eagle pair, however, nestled on the same branch, the female, the larger of the two, preening her mate.
"They look real good and healthy." Ty remarked.
"Yeah. They're more than ready for the release today."
"Today? That's terrific." Ty was pleasantly surprised.
"Yeah. At Fraser River Estuary...hey, wait. I thought you were doing it."
"What? Me? No, I'm still in that vet conference today."
"Mirna mentioned it during rounds last night."
"Not to me." He said adamantly. "This is the first I've heard."
"The press conference is scheduled for 5:30, its after your conference ends, Ty." Chip said authoritatively, entering the avian room behind the vets, carrying a jug of distilled water.
"A press conference too?" Ty's mood suddenly turned sour.
"Yep. I told Mirna that we would handle it together."
"Oh, you did?" A bit miffed, Ty replied sarcastically, his jaw clenched.
"Yeah. Like we did last time. I knew you'd want to release them as soon as possible." Oblivious, the teenager continued on, pleased with himself. "You always say, the longer in captivity, the harder to return to the wild."
"Right. Guess we are doing a press conference and release then. Tonight." Ty smirked, reluctantly gave in, but crossing his arms over his chest in protest. "I can't wait."
Ty looked to Paul for backup but got nothing.
"We named them too." Chip continued on as he pointed to the eagle pair. "That's Johnny and June. We named them after Johnny and June Cash. Johnny said that June helped him get over his drug problem. Get it?"
The two vets didn't respond.
"Anyhow. The red tail is just Red. That eagle is Boss Hog cuz he eats the most. And that's Elle. Kerry named her that after Elle in that movie Legally Blonde. Elle is always posing and preening." He kept talking as he emptied and cleaned the water basin.
"Good to know." Still irked about the prospect of a press conference, he asked with a bit of bite. "Why are you here Chip? It's not even 6."
Filling the avian basin with the clean water, Chip replied. "There just lots to do and everyone is..out. You are at that conference. Joe is gimped up. And, Mirna..." He didn't finish.
"Mirna?"
"She's...been busy." Chip seemed evasive.
"With what?"
Chip shrugged. "How should I know?"
"Paul?"
Paul shrugged.
Ty steered the conversation back to rounds. "Do raptors need to be fed?"
"No. They had carrion yesterday." Paul replied.
"Vera dropped off raccoon roadkill. It was disgusting. Stiff as a board, smelled horrible. And I had to cut it up." Chip closed his eyes, curled his lips, pretending to retch. "There's nothing like rotting flesh."
"Nice." Ty winced. "Okay then. Let's move on to the felines."
"You two can do the cats on your own." Paul said as he headed towards the door. "I got paperwork to do before rounds with Mirna."
"Right. Thanks Paul."
Without talking, the two worked side by side, Ty checked each mother cat and kitten, made notes in the log while Chip cleaned each cage, changed the litter and provided fresh food and water.
"We homed three kittens yesterday. Kerry took Sadie. My neighbor took Aspen. Someone else took Felix." Chip said, breaking into the quiet. "Her photos and write-up's are great." He said proudly.
"Good." Ty said half-heartedly, still put out with him.
Work finished, Ty lifted A.K from her cage, drew her to his chest, his thumb stroking her tiny ears, calming them both.
"Um. Ty?" Chip gathered his nerve.
"Yeah?" He didn't look up.
"Um. I need some advice." He said tentatively.
"If it's about women, you'd do better asking Paul." Ty responded seriously.
Chip laughed. "Yeah right!" He said confidently. "No, I don't need that kind of advice. Kerry and I are good." He explained. "...It's about school."
"Oh?" Ty continued to make notes in the chart, balancing the clipboard and A.K..
"Yeah so." Chip hesitated. "Um. Ty. You have your GED, right?"
"Yeah, only because I was too stupid and too hard headed to stay in school." He shot back. "Hope you're not thinking about dropping out."
"Well..." He hemmed and hawed. "I figure I can get my GED online at night and"
Ty didn't let him finish his sentence. "Chip. Don't be stupid..." He said a bit roughly. "If you're asking my advice, here it is. Don't drop out. You'll regret it. Trust me on that."
"I'm not dropping out exactly." Chip forged on. "High school is just a means to an end, a diploma. Right? I can get that online."
"What about your friends? Or prom and hockey games? Your senior year? And graduation?"
"I can't dance or play hockey. I don't have any friends there. My real friends are here." Chip retorted. "I don't care about senior year or some dumb long, boring ceremony."
"You need to talk to your dad. Not me." Ty said, deflecting.
"I did. He said to talk to you."
"Me? No. Talk to Mirna." He balked.
"I did already. She said to talk to you. That you'd have to mentor me."
Ty let out an exaggerated sigh. "Chip. No. I can barely figure out my own life, how could I possibly mentor you in yours?" Frustrated, Ty responded sharper, harsher than necessary. "So no."
"So, that's it? No discussion?" Chip was taken aback.
"No need."
"Fine. Be an asshole." Discouraged, Chip lashed out, then kicked the kitty litter bin with his foot, knocking it over, spilling its gritty contents across the floor.
"Chip! What the...!" Ty yelled as Chip stormed out of the room.
Ty sighed heavily, groused aloud to A.K. "This morning keeps getting better and better."
Putting away the clipboard, he followed after Chip, holding his kitten to his chest.
In the front reception, Celina was hanging up her jacket when Ty entered.
"Hey Ty. Hey A.K."
"Hey." He answered back, not in the mood for chit chat.
"What's the problem with Chip? I saw him sitting outside. He looked upset." She asked as stepped up, pet the tiny cat.
"I'm the problem apparently." He sniffed, scoffed. Without missing a beat, he asked her pointedly. "So, what's this I hear about me doing a press conference tonight?"
"5:30 tonight. The release is at Fraser River Estuary. Same as before." She answered calmly.
"Will Mirna be there too? Or you?" He challenged her, already knowing the answer.
"Unfortunately not. Someone needs to mind the shop." She didn't take the bait.
"How come no one said anything to me?" He was annoyed.
"Chip said the two of you could handle it." She remained unaffected by his tone. "Figured you had conferred."
"Just great." Frustrated, Ty spouted off. "So now Chip, a wannabe high school dropout, is calling the shots around here? And I'm supposed to be fine with it?" He said sarcastically, then piled on. "Then he wants me to mentor him. So, that's my job now too? Just great!" He made a step toward the front door.
"Hold up mister." She calmly commanded, stepping in front of him, stopping him in his tracks. "You need to change that attitude of yours before you go out there. You're the adult."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Ty retorted indignantly.
Hands on hips, she looked straight into his eyes. "You know that those eagles are ready to go. Who did you think was going to release them?" She asked firmly.
"I didn't say I wasn't gonna do it." He backpedaled.
She shook her head. "So what's your big problem? We didn't send you a formal invitation? Shouldn't you have been the one coordinating the release?"
He didn't have an answer.
"Right. Thought so." Celina continued. "Ty. You know that Chip, that so-called high school dropout, works extremely hard here, is punctual, is good with animals. He's been a lifesaver around here. And, for whatever reason, he worships you, hangs on your every word, wants to be like you. But, you know that too. So, of course, he wants to be a vet. And, he wants you to be his mentor. He wants to be a full-time vet tech here. Mirna told him to talk to you. He's been trying to work up the courage all week to talk to you."
Ty hung his head.
"Remember. You were in his shoes once upon a time too. Set it right, Ty." She was more than firm.
He sighed heavily, softened, then nodded. "Celina. Guess I wasn't thinking about that. You're right. Chip is as good as they come. I'll try to fix it."
He pushed open the front door, walked outside. The seventeen almost eighteen year old was sulking, sitting on the bench outside. "Chip?" He tried to remain calm.
"Leave me alone ass wipe." Chip refused to look at him as he turned his head away to wipe his eye.
Ty took a seat next to him anyhow. "First. I'm sorry. With everything going on, I haven't been sleeping well. And, now the...press conference." He clenched his jaw. "But that's no excuse. I should not have taken it out on you."
"No shit, Sherlock." He shot back.
"Second. Cut the swearing. It's not helping your case. Neither is flying off the handle when you don't get your way."
Chip nodded, but mumbled something under his breath.
Ty raised a brow at him.
"Okay okay." Chip reluctantly agreed.
"Chip. You're a great volunteer. You're terrific with animals, clients, staff. You've been a life saver around here." Ty stole Celine's words. "And. I like working with you. A lot."
"Thanks...but?"
"No buts. Celina told me about your plans for college and vet school. And, wanting to be a vet tech here."
"Thought you knew."
"I wasn't thinking when we talked earlier. No excuse, of course."
Chip didn't respond.
"So. Vet school?" Ty asked him. "Are you sure? I mean it's a huge commitment, hard work, long hours, no money." He spoke truthfully from experience.
"You're right. I know nothing about that stuff." Chip looked at him, dared him. "Maybe you should do the press conference and release by yourself."
Ty bowed his head, apologized. "Sorry. That came out wrong."
"No kidding." Chip huffed, rolled his eyes.
"Chip, let me try again. Being a vet has its rewards, working with animals, healing them, seeing them thrive, working with you, Mirna, Paul. But, I have to be honest. Vet school is expensive and likely you'll go into debt. I did. It's years of study and work. Chemistry and biology classes are brutal. There's a ton of sleepless nights. Your relationships may suffer. You'll have to give up a lot." He added quietly. "I had to give up much more than I ever imagined."
"I can handle it." He said seriously.
"And, school and working? Are you prepared to do both?"
"I'm doing that now."
"It will be much harder once you are in college and vet school." Ty forged on. "And. You'll have to go away to vet school. The closest one is in Saskatchewan."
"I did want to go to UCVM." He paused, then added quietly. "Like you."
Ty nodded.
Chip continued. "You know at the last eagle release, you said that I was your assistant, that one day I would be an amazing vet. I thought you meant that."
"I did." He was being honest. "I do."
"Ty. I've thought about this...a lot. This is what I want to do. I want to be a vet. But, I have to be a vet tech first. I want to shadow you, be your vet tech. I want to learn more from you.." He sounded defeated. "But, you don't seem to want me.."
"It's not that." Ty replied.
"What is it then?" Chip implored him.
Ty didn't know what to say. Side by side, the two sat in silence, looking out across the street, seeing nothing. A.K. wiggled from Ty's arms, leapt into Chip's lap. He picked her up, nuzzled her to his neck.
"Geez. Is everyone mad at me this morning?" Ty asked.
"Clearly." He jabbed, trying not to smile. "Right A.K.?" His finger rubbed under her chin.
As the stalemate ensued, both returned to silence for several long minutes. As Ty considered the situation, his knee bounced lightly. Finally he made Chip a proposal.
"Look. How 'bout we go to Roscoe's next weekend, after I get back from Calgary? We can really talk this out, look at the options, figure out how this could work."
Chip sighed, shook his head No. "I'm supposed to meet with my school counselor on Monday. So.."
Ty's knee started bouncing again.
"Okay. How about this? After we do this thing tonight, you, me and Michael go to Roscoe's. We can discuss it more. Figure it out."
"Does that mean I can be your vet tech? You'll mentor me?" Chip was hopeful.
"I need to talk to Mirna first." He said noncommittal, then explained. "I don't want to do it unless we can pay you. That would not be fair to you if we didn't."
"Okay." Chip was somewhat relieved. "Thanks Ty."
He extended his hand to Chip who grabbed on immediately, sealing their truce. A.K. jumped out of Chip's hands, sauntered back to Ty.
"Oh, so you decided to come back, huh?" Ty asked the kitten as he picked her up.
Chip smirked. "By the way, are you buying?"
"Tonight?" His brows raised. "You're pushing it."
"Just thought I'd ask...Think Celina brought bagels? I'm hungry." Chip was back to his old self.
"Naturally." Ty chuckled. "Clean up that kitty litter first."
"On it."
Inside, Celina and Michael were in a deep discussion. Chip made a beeline to the bakery box, full of bagels. He snatched an Everything bagel and a packet of cream cheese, then headed down the hall.
Celina watched Chip go down the hall, then she turned to Ty, raised her brows. "Fix it?"
"Hope so. At least for now. I've got to talk to Mirna first."
She smiled. "Good. Thank you."
"Hey Michael. Chip and I are releasing the eagles and hawk tonight. You in?"
"Absolutely." Michael answered, easy going as usual.
"And. There's a press conference too." He tried to sound enthused.
"So my mug might end up on TV? Sweet." He grinned.
"Thanks Michael. I owe you. Dinner after? With Chip. My treat." Relief echoed in his voice.
"You bet. Let me guess. Roscoe's?"
"You called it." The two eyed each other, smirked.
"So, you're not going to dinner with us? Remember. We invited...Claire." Celina frowned as she reminded him. "She's coming here after the vet conference for a tour, then we're all going to Bruno's. You love Italian."
"Sorry Celina." Ty declined.
She sighed heavily.
Before Ty could respond, the vintage bell jingled interrupted as Mirna opened the front door.
"Morning everyone." Her upbeat tone belied the dark circles under her eyes. "All my favorite peeps."
A chorus of voices greeted her, small talk bubbled.
"Where's Paul? And Chip?" She asked.
"In the back. I'll text them." Celina suggested.
"Thanks." Turning to Ty, she asked. "Did you call our donors yet?"
"No. We decided it was too late to call given the time difference. I'll make calls on the road tomorrow."
"Do it today." She was abrupt. "We need not wait to show our gratitude."
"Okay. I will find a quiet place at the conference to call." He acquiesced.
"Good. And, dinner tonight with Claire? You be there, right?"
"Turns out, we have that press conference. So No."
"Right. I didn't have a chance to tell you. I have been..." She sighed. "Anyhow. Now that they are more than ready, knew you'd want to be there."
"No worries. Chip, Michael and I are going to handle it. So..." He tried to be upbeat.
"Good. Join us at Bruno's right after." Again, she didn't ask.
Before Ty could answer either way, Paul and Chip entered the reception area. "Mirna. Rounds?"
Paul plucked a bagel from the bakery box on the counter, then shoved a huge bite in his mouth.
"Ready." Mirna responded as she started down the hall without a goodbye. "Chip, coming?"
"Yes." Chip and Paul trailed after her.
As soon as they were out of sight, Ty touched Celina's arm.
"Is something going on?" He asked with concern in his voice.
She hesitated.
"I can step out if you like." Michael offered.
"No, stay. Michael, you're family." She ran her hand through her hair, suddenly looking old. "Let's sit."
Settled into seats, Celina and Ty sat side by side in the two leather wingbacks, Michael took a wooden chair next to Celina.
"Okay. Out with it." Ty didn't waste any time.
She took a deep breath, closed her eyes, shook her head slowly back and forth. Michael and Ty looked at each other.
"Is Mirna sick?" Ty guessed.
"No. No. Thank god. Nothing like that." She shook her head. "Ty. Michael." Her voice cracked, her eyes began to water.
"It's okay." Ty encouraged her quietly, taking her hand.
She nodded. "Honestly. The Rescue has been running in the red for some time. And, we hoped that her trip to Namibia would spark lots of speaking engagements and..well, an influx of donations."
"But, we just got twenty thousand in donations for the eagles." He implored.
"Those were great. But, not enough to keep this place running. We were already behind in the note, utilities, taxes, expenses, not to mention...salaries." She stumbled over the word salaries.
"Salaries?" Ty leaned in.
"Mirna and I haven't taken a paycheck in two months." She admitted.
"Oh. I had no idea. Why didn't you say something?"
"We didn't want to worry you, or Paul." She explained. "So Mirna is looking at other things."
"Like?"
"Like...going back to teaching full time. She's been talking with Dr. Singh."
"So, at UCVM?" Michael asked. "In Calgary?"
"Yes. At least for a while. That's why she needs another vet here. Especially with Joe's situation."
"So Claire?" He guessed.
Celina nodded. "You know she would not be my first choice. Or, even my last choice. She's not my..." She paused, searching for a diplomatic word. "... favorite."
"But, can we afford another vet?" Ty asked.
"According to Mirna, VWB vets are used to not making much money." She puckered her lips, not wanting to say more.
"But there other VWB vets. Why Claire?"
"Yeah...and, well, Mirna promised her..." Celina shook her head.
"Promised her what?" His forehead wrinkled.
"If another position opened up here, Mirna would hire her. It's just serendipitous that she's here, now."
Ty leaned in further. "When? When did she promise her?"
"When you were hired.."
Ty's eyes grew wide.
Michael uttered. "What are the odds of that? It's been, what? Three or four years?"
The three fell silent, pondering the dire circumstance and improbable coincidence.
"Celina. Did Mirna offer her a job yet?" Ty asked.
"No."
"So at dinner tonight?"
"Right." Celina nodded. "Mirna thinks we don't have any other options, except.." She stopped short, then almost whispered. "Except to close."
The three exhaled heavily, saying nothing, each looking off into space.
After several minutes, Celina stood. "That's enough of this. You two need to get going or you'll be late."
Michael stood as well. "What can I do? I want to help."
"Pray for a miracle." Celina said seriously.
"You got it."
"Michael. Do me a favor." Ty spoke up.
"Anything."
"Take my truck, pick up Claire and go to the conference. I'll meet you there."
"Sure. No problem." Michael agreed. Ty reached into his pocket, pulled out his keys and handed them to him.
"Um. You may want to call her on the way and before you go in the apartment." Ty advised his friend.
"Will do."
"You are not going to skip out on the conference." Celina warned him.
"I am going. I'll just miss the opening presentation. I will attend all my VCE sessions."
"Promise?"
"Promise." He kissed he cheek. "I got a plan. I just need to get you and Mirna on board."
More than hour later at the conference, Claire and Michael sat in the second row. Michael focused intently on the speaker on stage discussing financial health of veterinary clinics. From bottom line management profitability, bottom line net, true profits, gross earnings to discounted fees, missed charges, inventory practices, reduced expenses, and sponsors, Michael took copious notes.
"This is so boring. No wonder Ty is skipping." Claire said aloud, seeming to not care whether others around her, or even the speaker, heard.
Michael leaned over, whispered in her ear. "This is good stuff. But, she's almost done. I see Dr. Steele in the wings." He pointed to him, who was standing just off stage.
"I sure as hell hope so. I see even Dr. Steele is yawning with boredom." She pursed her lips.
Moments later, as the speaker concluded her presentation, Dr. Steele joined her at the podium.
"That was extremely informative. Thank you. Vets, please give Ms. Nelda Evans a round of applause. Remember, her book will be available for purchase outside by the coffee bar."
"Her book plus a gallon of coffee to keep you awake." Claire smirked.
Michael tried not to laugh.
As polite clapping started, the two shook hands, then the tall, slender accountant in a navy business suit walked off the stage, with a final wave to the audience.
"Wasn't that great? I really enjoyed that. When I get back to my clinic, I'm doing an inventory of my medications, first thing." He smiled broadly.
"Well, on to our next topic! I know that you are all anxiously waiting for the results of our annual contest for your favorite vet tech and vet. It truly has been an exciting race to watch as the votes poured in. A whooping 97% of you voted in the poll this year. Just incredible. So give yourselves a hand."
Clapping, cheers and hoots erupted. Someone called out, "We Rock!"
Dr. Steele chuckled. "Yes, you do!" As the clapping died down, he continued.
"This year, the photos entries of vet techs and vets have been incredible, showcasing the wide variety of beautiful creatures, wild and domesticated, great and small, and of course, all wonderful. And, each representing the diversity in veterinary practices. Before I announce our vet tech winner, let's first take one last look at all of our vet tech contestants."
The lights dimmed slightly. One by one, the images flashed on the huge screen on stage as well as numerous screens mounted around the room. The first photo displayed, Chip grinning with the two bear cubs, sparked clapping and murmuring, as did every photo that followed.
"As announced, today's vet tech winner will receive a state of the art stethoscope, designed for use with animals. The perfect instrument for a future veterinarian. The winner will also receive an annual membership to the Greater Vancouver Zoo and a jumbo box of arm length, latex gloves for the close up and personal encounters with the hind end of a big animal!" The last line elicited laughter.
"And, as an added bonus, the winner will receive a 1000 dollar scholarship to continue their education at the school of their choice." A thunderous applause rang out.
"So without any further delay…drumroll please!" Dr. Steele tapped the microphone trying to simulating the sound of a drum.
"And, our vet tech winner is...Ms. Amy Fleming of the Hudson Animal Clinic in Hudson, Alberta. The photo was submitted by Dr. Scott Cardinal, veterinarian and proprietor of the clinic. Dr. Cardinal, please come up on stage to collect her prizes! Congratulations!"
Behind him and around the room, Amy's beautiful face loomed large, her blonde hair blowing in the breeze, her blue eyes soft and focused, her pink lips formed around the snout of a tiny spotted fawn that she held in her arms.
The audience went wild, clapping and hooting. "Marry me!" Someone shouted.
Michael's eyes and mouth flew open. "Amy?" He gasped in surprise as he slowly rose to his feet, clapping enthusiastically.
Standing and clapping as well, Claire asked. "Do you know her?"
Not hearing her question, he muttered. "Oh my god. Is Ty here yet?"
He desperately looked around for his friend, hoping that he would see him. Hoping that Ty would see her.
"Claire. Do you see him?"
Claire stepped up onto the seat of her chair, looked around the room. "No. I don't." Then she called his name. "Ty! ...Ty!"
"I can't believe he's missing this." Michael groused, shaking his head. "Just his rotten luck." He dialed his cell, but his call went straight to voicemail.
"Who the hell is she, Michael?" Claire demanded as she stepped down off the chair.
"Ty's soulmate." Michael said bluntly.
Claire's eyes narrowed, a deep frown formed on her mouth. But she said nothing.
Dr. Scott Cardinal, dressed in jeans, boots, red plaid flannel, walked across the stage to the podium. The two men shook hands.
Scott introduced himself. "Hello Dr. Steele. Scott Cardinal."
"Pleased to meet you." He responded.
He turned to the microphone and announced. "Vets. I give you Dr. Scott Cardinal." Scott held his hand up in a wave to the audience.
"Dr. Cardinal. Could you tell us a bit about Ms. Fleming?"
Clearly uncomfortable in front of a crowd, Scott apprehensively leaned into the mic. "Ah. Thank you. Amy is a very talented young woman. She has a gift with animals, especially horses, of every kind. She will be an excellent vet some day." He stepped away from the mic, then step up again.
"She starts school at the University of Calgary on Monday." His forehead was glistening with nervous sweat.
"Wonderful. Could you tell us about this photo you submitted?"
"Oh. Yes. Amy was riding horses with her friend Simon Emerson. A doe and her two fawns were crossing Highwood River, which was swollen and swift from the spring melt. The fawn in the picture got swept downstream by the current. The two rescued the exhausted fawn who had been sucked under the current several times. Amy performed mouth to snout recitation to revive him." He paused. "Um. Simon took the picture."
"Wow! How's the fawn?"
"He lived." He said bluntly, then added. "Ran off with his mom and sibling."
Dr. Steele chuckled. "Well, that's great to hear. Tell us about your practice, Dr. Cardinal. please."
"Um. I own the Hudson Animal Clinic in Hudson, Alberta. Hudson and surrounding area are mostly ranch and farm land. We care for domesticated animals, dogs, cats, cattle, horses, llamas and the like." Scott was now sweating profusely under the spotlight. "We occasionally treat wildlife."
"Anything else?"
"No." He drug his white hankie across his forehead. "Thanks."
"Well, there you have it!" Dr. Steele grinned. "Thank you, Dr. Cardinal!"
Scott did a slight head nod to the audience, then hurried off the stage, out of the auditorium, and straight outdoors to cool himself as clapping resumed.
Clearing his throat, Dr. Steele took the microphone again. "Next, we will announce your favorite vet. Like our vet tech photos, this year's crop of vet photos were outstanding, representing a wide array of animals and every walk of veterinary life."
"Before I announce our vet winner, let's first take one last look at all of our vet entrants." Again the screens around the room flashed with images, Ty's among them. Applause rose up with each new photo.
"As announced, today's vet winner will receive free admission to next year's vet conference, plus, 1000 dollars to cover expenses. But, that's not all. The winner will also a genuine leather Coach vet bag complete with an array of state of the art instruments and an annual membership to the Greater Vancouver Zoo. Long gloves are not included!"
The crowd laughed.
"Drumroll, please." Again he tapped the mic. "And, here's our winner. Dr. Ty Borden, of Vancouver Animal Rescue, right here in lovely Vancouver, British Columbia. Dr. Mirna Hickerson is the lead veterinarian and practice proprietor. Congratulations Dr. Borden! Please come to the stage to collect your prizes."
His picture projected everywhere. His intense green eyes matched the eyes of the sleek black cougar in front of him. His handsome face, wide toothy grin, the trace of stubble, nestled just above the big cat's haunting regal head.
Applause burst out as scores of female voices cheered, swooned, calling his name. "Ty!" "Marry me Ty!" "I love you!"
"Oh my god. Ty won!" Claire jumped up and down, grabbing Michael's arm, as his photo was projected everywhere. Michael was sweated up in her excitement, clapped and whistled.
But, he did not come forward. Dr. Steele began to look around uncomfortably.
"Dr. Ty Borden? Please come to the stage."
"Is he here yet?" Michael looked frantically around the room. Again, he called Ty's cell, but his call went voicemail.
Claire climbed up in her chair again, frantically looking for him to no avail.
"I don't see him." She concluded. Suddenly, she climbed off the chair, then began to push her way down the row of chairs and over people.
"Hey. Isn't that you?" A tiny voice beside him pulled him from his daze, his stare into space. His eyes blinked rapidly as he came down to earth. He glanced down at her.
"Um, I'm sorry. What did you say?" Still in a light fog, he said to the petite, brunette standing next to him.
"Aren't you, Ty Borden?" She asked again.
"Oh. Um. Yes." He racked his brain to remember if he knew her.
"I thought so. I voted for you." Her hazel eyes twinkled as she touched his arm. "He's calling you! Dr. Steele. You won."
"Oh. Okay." Not registering her words, he just stood there.
"You won the vet contest. You better go up there." She said a little louder, pointing to the stage.
"Oh, really?"
"Yes. You better go." She urged him.
"Oh. Thanks."
Wits about him again, he walked quickly toward the stage from the back of the auditorium. But, before he could get there, she was already next to him giving him an alluring smile, standing impossibly close to the elder veterinarian. Per her nature, she couldn't help herself.
A bit uncomfortable, Dr. Steele took a half step away but smiled back at her. Bending to the microphone so the audience could hear, he asked. "Well, young lady, who might you be?"
"Hello Everyone. I'm Dr. Claire Russell. I'm Ty's girlfriend. He's had to step out." She said boldly into the microphone, then smooth as silk, she fibbed again. "He had an vet emergency."
"Always on call. Now, that's a dedicated vet. Let's give Dr. Borden and Dr. Russell a round of applause." He handed her the leather vet bag.
Applause rose again from the rows of chairs, absent were the catcalls, but it rose. As it died down, Ty stepped on stage, then walked directly toward the podium, hand outstretched.
As he shook Dr. Steele's hand, he said in his ear. "Hello Dr. Steele. I'm Ty Borden. Very nice to meet you."
"Better late, then never, Dr. Borden." He responded, then turned to Claire. "The bag, please."
She gave it up as asked, but remained on stage with Dr. Steele standing between her and Ty.
He turned to the microphone and announced. "Vets. I give you Dr. Ty Borden, our winner." He handed him the bag. The crowd expressed their approval.
Ty smiled and held his hand up to acknowledge the audience, then leaned into the microphone, spoke clearly, without hesitation.
"Hello Everyone. I just want say thank you for your vote. I am both humbled and honored. Thank you."
The audience cheered back.
"Dr. Borden. Could you tell us a bit about your practice?"
"Of course. The Vancouver Animal Rescue has both a domestic and global missions. Our proprietor, Dr. Mirna Hickerson, a world renowned veterinarian and humanitarian travels the globe to save wildlife from disease, injury, death and extinction. She just returned from Namibia vetting the wild horses who inhabit the Namib Desert Reserve along Africa's Atlantic Ocean coast."
"Sounds like critical work."
"It is. In addition to that, we also have a bricks and mortar presence here, at the Vancouver Animal Rescue, Dr. Hickerson, Dr. Paul Bourne, myself and our staff provide care, treatment and recovery services for diseased, injured, abused, threatened and misplaced wildlife. But, we also care for domesticated animals of all kinds for all reasons."
"And, the cougar in the photo?"
"That's Fierce. Isn't she beautiful?" He flashed a bright white smile to the audience. They swooned. "She is a rare melanistic cougar. She and her month old cub, Percy, came to us by the Chief Ian Campbell of the Squamish Tribe. They found Fierce with a compound leg fracture of her right front leg, rendering her unable to walk, hunt or care for her cub. Fierce's injuries required surgery and a combination of interlocking nails, bone plates and screws to repair her radius and ulna, with splints and cone external support. Without that surgery and follow-up care, she and her cub would have starved to death in the wild."
"How are they doing now?"
"I am happy to report that Fierce is recovering nicely. And, both are gaining their weight. In a few weeks, Both should be ready to be released back into the wild, or more likely, to a wildlife sanctuary."
"Dr. Borden, did you perform the surgery?"
"I did."
"Interlocking nails and plates?"
"Yes. The combination of the two provides the most stability in the long run. For now, we are keeping her with her cub in a confined space to limit her movement, but not entirely." He smiled as her morning's lunge flashed before him.
"So, were Fierce and Percy part of your emergency today?"
"No. No." He deflected, refocused his reply. "A couple of weeks ago, the Rescue received twelve raptors, nine bald eagles and one red tail hawk that were poisoned and near death after eating an euthanized carcass illegally dumped in a landfill. Unfortunately, two died on arrival."
"That's tragic."
"Yes. But, through round the clock care since, the remaining ten have finally made a full recovery. Five were released back to the wild last week. The remaining five, given their initial state, took more time to recover and rehabilitate. Especially afflicted was a male bald eagle, named Johnny Cash. Although his mate, June Carter Cash, recovered more quickly, we did not want to separate the pair. She was critical to Johnny's recovery, as eagles mate for life. Long story short, we did the final vetting this morning, clearing them for release this afternoon."
"Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash? Very appropriate names. Do you always name your patients?"
"This is a recent phenomenon, honestly. But, the names do help us and the public connect with these animals and their plight. As we all know, animals from the wild do not have an owner to fund their care, treatments, surgeries. Instead, citizens of our community band together to ensure their continued health and existence."
"Well stated. And, message received. Your rescue and others like yours depend upon the generosity of donors to do your good works."
"Yes." Ty bowed his head slightly. "And. We are incredibly thankful for every dollar we receive. It is critical to continuing our mission."
"So, there was no emergency?" He eyed Claire.
"For domesticated animals, no, that would not be considered an emergency. But, for these raptors, and any wild animal, time is definitely of the essence. As my assistant, Chip Boyer, reminded me this morning, the longer kept in captivity, the harder to return to the wild. We don't want them to become accustomed to us, lose their fear of us, or even grow dependent upon us. We want these beautiful creatures to have every chance to survive on their own in their natural habitat."
"When will they be released?"
"5:30 today at Fraser River Estuary. Dr. Steele, I invite you and everyone in the audience to come, witness this breathtaking event."
"Thank you Dr. Borden. I will be there. I hope everyone in the audience will attend as well. Any last words?"
"Yes. Thank you again everyone for your vote..." He paused slightly. His throat tightened, but his heart opened. "And. Congratulations to Ms. Amy Fleming on her win. Ms. Fleming is truly one of the most naturally gifted animal behavioralist, herbalist, and humanitarian I have ever known. She is an inspiration. She, no doubt, will excel in her academic pursuits. And, congratulations to Dr. Scott Cardinal, her mentor. I am forever grateful to them both."
"Ah. There you have it. Very good. Thank you Dr. Borden." He nodded to Ty, then continued on. "Again congratulations to you, Dr. Borden and to Ms. Fleming. And, thank you everyone in our audience. Our session is over. Enjoy the rest of your conference. Hope to see you all at Fraser River Estuary at 5:30." Dr. Steele turned off the microphone.
The audience clapped as Ty shook Dr. Steele's hand again, left the stage, Claire trailing behind him. Telling Claire he needed to find the men's room, Ty instead hurried out of the auditorium alone, in search of his mentor, his old friend Scott Cardinal, to whom he owed so much.
His phone vibrated in his pocket. He looked at its display, it was Michael.
"Michael. Hey."
"Ty. Thank god. We have our call with Singh in one minute." Michael was hurried, his tone anxious. "I can hook you in on a three way."
"Shoot. I completely forgot. Yeah. Pull me in." Ty asked. "Where are you? I'll walk in your direction."
"I'm just outside the auditorium. By the door we entered the first day."
"On my way." He said as he walked quickly in that direction. Halfway there, Michael connected him to the call with Dr. Singh, which lasted less than five minutes.
"Well, that went better than I feared." Ty commented as he finally caught up with Michael.
"Yeah. But, do you think Cloud will be able to travel tomorrow?"
"I don't know. He had a good night last night but it all depends on the next 24 hours. Even so, we would have to stop fairly often to make sure he's okay."
"Wish Singh would have agreed to my teaching virtually. That would have made things easier." Michael groused.
"It will be fine. We'll drive together tomorrow. If not, I'll come next weekend alone. Bet I can find someone to drive with me."
Michael frowned.
"Don't worry. We'll figure it out. Singh agreed to take them. That's what's important." Upbeat and optimistic for a change, Ty tried to encourage Michael. "And, now Wind and Cloud are going to have a real chance at UCVM. That's goal."
Their phones started to vibrate indicating class would start in five minutes. "Guess we need to head that way."
"Yeah. I don't want to be late, Celina would ring my neck." He smirked.
"No doubt." Michael looked at his phone. "I'm in The Equine Vet and Farrier Partnership session. It's all morning. What are you in?"
Glanced at his schedule as well. "Performing a Necropsy. Darting, Immobilizing and Recovery." Ty replied.
"Seriously? Wildlife stuff is always more exciting." Michael gripped.
"I used to think so." He admitted, surprising Michael. "You know, I've always been fascinated watching a farrier work." He smiled, then stopped at room 27. "Oh. Here's my room."
"Okay. I'm down the hall." He added. "See you at lunch."
"Can't. I gotta make those calls. Don't wait for me."
"Right. Hey, congrats by the way. And, nice speech."
"Thanks." Ty mumbled, somewhat uncomfortable.
"And Amy. That was wild seeing her photo."
"Yeah." A smile blossomed on his lips, in his eyes. "That was pretty great."
Michael recognized the change in his old friend, so chose not to dive in with more questions, instead he changed the topic. "Great idea to invite folks to the release. I'll talk it up in class."
"The rescue needs all the help it can get."
"I better get to my session." As Michael hurried away, down the hall towards his class, Ty entered his own classroom, taking a seat in the last row, something he never did. He knew he wouldn't be able to concentrate, she was the only thing he could think about. From the conference website, he found her photo, copied it to his photos library. Trying to be inconspicuous, he rested his phone on his thigh under the table. Throughout the session, his eyes drifted back and forth to her photo, but his mind was stuck on her.
Morning classes were over at noon. Ty found a quiet corner of an empty, back hallway to make the phone calls to the externship donors. A Ms. Cheryl Jones was first on his list, she made the one hundred dollar donation. She answered the phone on the first ring.
"Hello?" She answered with a sing-song lightness to her voice.
"Hello. May I speak to Ms. Cheryl Jones?" Ty tried to be serious.
"You already are. This is she." She laughed. Ty liked her sense of humor right away.
"Well Hello again, Ms. Jones. This is Dr. Ty Borden with the Vancouver Animal Rescue. Am I calling you at a convenient time?"
"Oh heavens, yes. What can I do for you, ah, um, Dr. Boyer, did you say?"
"Close. It's Dr. Borden. But, please call me Ty."
"Well, okay Ty. Ty...is that short for something?" She inquired going down a bit of a rabbit hole.
"Tyler."
"Tyler. That's a nice name." She reminded him of Mrs. Bell, his adopted grandmother from Hudson. "Tyler, do you mind if I call you Tyler?"
"No, I don't mind one bit."
"So Tyler. What can I help you with?"
"Actually, Ms. Jones, you already have helped me quite a bit and I am calling thank you."
"Oh?"
"Yes. When you attended the ABOTA dinner on Thursday night you made a very generous donation to the UCVM Wildhorse externship. I was just calling to thank you. So thank you!"
"Oh my. I believe you have made my day, Tyler. Thank you sweetheart."
"Ms. Jones. The externship to which you donated is the same externship that I participated in as a vet student 4 years ago. That externship, honestly, changed my life. I learned so much during that year. We intend to ensure the same type of experience for the next student in the externship."
"Tyler. I am so pleased to hear that. Tell me, what do you do now, dear?"
"I am a wildlife veterinarian with the Vancouver Animal Rescue specializing in surgery."
"Really? What kinds of wildlife?"
"Everything from hawks and eagles to snakes, cougars and bears. Today, we even have two horses and a handful of cats and dogs at the rescue."
"That must be very rewarding."
"It is, Ms. Jones. May I ask, what do you do for a living? Are you involved with thoroughbreds or racehorses?"
"I will have know, young man, that I no longer need to do anything for a living. I am 83 years young." She chuckled. "I have spent my whole life around racehorses. My family runs River Road Ranch outside of Calgary. Ever heard of Northern Light"
"The winner of the Queen's Plate a few years back?"
"Yes! I am proud to say that he was bred, born and trained here. He is still lives here. Do you live in Calgary?"
"No. Vancouver. But, I do plan on visiting in the next week or so."
"Good. When you do, I'd like to meet you here at the ranch."
"Thank you for invitation. I will take you up on that. And, thank you for the donation. I so appreciate you."
"You are welcomed young man. See you soon."
Though buoyed by the last call, knowing that Lisa was next on his list made him apprehensive again. His heart began to beat faster, anticipating hearing her voice after so many years, trying to imagine their conversation, knowing that may be unpleasant.
"Just do it." He mumbled, dialed her number, then sunk to a squatting position, his back against the hall. After one ring and couple of clicks, his call was answered.
"Fairfield Stables. This is Liz. How may I help you?" A professional, but young voice asked.
"Hello Liz. I'd like to speak to Lisa." He tried to remain calm, to keep his voice from quivering.
"Who may I ask is calling?"
"Ty Borden. Dr. Ty Borden." He hesitated, then added as a second thought. "Lisa and I are old friends from my Heartland days. I used to work with her husband, Jack Bartlett."
"Oh Dr. Borden." Her tone became more friendly. "Yes, of course. Lisa and Jack are in France. Would you like to leave a message?"
"No. I'd like it to be a surprise. When will they be back?"
"Late May."
"I will call back then. Thank you."
"You are very welcome."
"Oh, by the way. Is Andy Pierson there by chance?" He asked on a whim.
"Oh you just missed him. He left for Heartland a few moments ago." She paused, then asked. "Do you have his private cell?"
"Yes. I believe I do. Thank you." Then his curiosity overcame him and he blurted out. "Is he training with Amy?"
"Not training this time, just visiting. He flew in all the way from France to see her especially." She sounded a little giddy. "They make such a cute couple."
He hesitated as he tried to think of a expected response. His mind was racing.
"Are you still there?"
"Oh yes. Must have hit a dead spot." He stumbled, recovered. "Well thank you Liz. I'll call Andrew tonight."
"You're more than welcome."
He sunk to the ground. His heart was racing and sinking at the same time. His emotions were once again raw and bloody, his chest tight, consumed by a heaviness of regret and loss.
Hey there Readers. Hope you enjoyed this installment. If so, let me know. As always, it was fun to write. Take care. Happy Friday. Happy Memorial Day.
SBR
LTF is next.