Amy's Tuesday
Clad in boots, loose shorts, and an old t-shirt, Amy was more than ready to start the day despite the early hour. Opening the loft door, she paused momentarily to breathe in the warm, sweet barn scents, a pleasant mix of horse, leather and hay greeted her like an old friend. With a slight spring in her step, she descended into the barn, well lit by the overhead lights.
Like a flash, Norton darted out ahead of her. He flew down the steps in warp speed, skidded across the concrete floor, rounded Simon's ankles causing his 6 foot frame to teeter, his arms to flail, his feet to high step awkwardly to avoid trampling the tiny feral rescue. The black and white kitten somersaulted, but didn't stop, didn't slow, as he blew out the narrow opening in barn door.
"Norton. No running in the barn!" Regaining his balance, an exasperated Simon hollered after the kitten who disappeared into the new day.
Witnessing the whole comical scene, Amy couldn't help but giggle.
Hearing her, Simon whipped around to stare at her, a frown planted firmly on his face. "It's not funny, Amy."
"Oh come on. Where's your sense of humor? You have to admit, watching you dance around Norton was kinda funny." She couldn't hide her smile.
"So, you think it's hilarious that your darn cat almost killed me...or worse." Simon conjectured, immediately recognizing the ridiculousness of his exaggerated words.
"Or worse? Oh Simon. Don't be silly. He's only a kitten that hardly weighs 3 pounds. He's not trying hurt anyone. You especially." Eyebrows raised, Amy chided him playfully, explaining the situation. "He just had to go. Nature called. He couldn't help himself."
"Get him some kitty litter then. Keep it in your loft."
"Eww. No." She wrinkled her nose.
"Fine. But, you got to do something. That wayward cat is a menace. Jeopardizing the life, health and safety of this barn and its every living and nonliving inhabitant. He needs to abide the rules." His banter launched into hyperbole, he couldn't help himself.
"The rules?" She asked laughing.
"Yes. The Rules. Everyone knows not to run in the barn. Everyone except Norton. He runs around here with wild abandon like he runs the place." He kept going, relishing their back and forth. "You need to teach him The Rules!"
"I do, huh?"
"Of course! He's your darn cat!" He shot back. The corners of his mouth quivered as he tried not to smile.
"Hmm. Maybe you're right." She nodded, her brows knitted as she appeared to seriously ponder his suggestion. "Wait. Did you say that Norton runs the barn?"
"No!" He recognized his mistake immediately. "I said Like. Like he runs the place. I didn't say that he did..."
"Okay, good, because I thought that you ran the barn. Maybe I'm mistaken...?" She tucked her chin slightly, her forehead tilted toward him, her eyes locked onto his, her expression serious as she questioned him.
"No. I mean, yes." He stumbled, then cleared his throat. "Yes. I run the barn."
"Thought so." A slow smile formed on her lips. "So...if you're so concerned about life, health and safety of this barn, the barn that you run, and The Rules. Maybe you should teach Norton...The Rules.."
"No! That cat is unteachable."
"Could be. But, if anyone is in the right position to teach him, it would be you." Her grin was huge. "You do run the barn, after all. Right?"
He sighed in defeat, his hand on the back of his neck. "Fine."
"Glad you agree."
He held out his hand to shake hers. "Well played."
She chuckled as she pulled him into a quick hug instead.
Releasing him, she looked around the barn. "You've been very busy this morning...Mr. I Run the Barn." She giggled.
"Yeah, well. Had to get here early, as I do run the barn." He sparred back.
"Well, naturally.."
"Everyone's checked, watered and fed. Spartan had his pellets and mix-ins. And, no issues over night."
"Good to hear."
"Making a run to the supply store this morning. Need anything?"
"Yes, but I almost hate to ask." Her shoulders raised in slight embarrassment.
"Just tell me...Wait...It's not some girlie thing, is it?" Simon grew uneasy.
"Not girlie. Could you pick up a bag of dry kitten food, high protein for growth? Hills if they have it."
"Sure thing." He chuckled in relief, rolled his eyes then added with a bit of fake sugar. "Anything for Norton."
"Thanks Simon." She smiled appreciatively. "One more thing."
"What's that? Kitty litter?"
"No." It was her turn to roll her eyes. "Could you help me check Spartan's mouth?"
"Sure."
"Good. I'll exercise him in the yard afterwards...Harley too." She added as an afterthought.
"Harley too?" He repeated to make sure he heard right.
"Yeah. Why not? Best friends need to spend quality time together." She reasoned.
"Are you sure? Two horses? You know, your leg and all?" Concern touched his words.
"I'm not riding."
He didn't respond.
"I'll be careful. Promise."
"Okay then. I'll halter them." He offered.
"Thanks Simon." She turned her attention to the stabled horses. One by one, she greeted and petted each one, ending with Spartan.
"Hey there Spartan. I saved the best for last." She spoke quietly as she stroked his velvety soft muzzle. He lipped her hand in return. "Ready to have those ulcers checked?"
When Spartan blew a short snort, she took that as a definite No.
"I know, it's no fun. But, we have to. Let's just get it over and done with. Okay? I'll be back." She patted his neck, then headed to the office to get supplies.
Finishing up the examination of his mouth, Simon by her side, she reported to them both. "Looks like the ulcers are healing nicely. Just a few more days and he'll be good as new." Her hand ran up the bridge of his nose to his forelocks, where her fingers raked through his coarse hair.
"That's good news 'cuz he's been chomping at the bit to go out into the field with the rest of them."
"I know. He does get restless in his stall. Don't you, Spartan?" Spartan's head bobbed in response making Amy chuckle. "You're ready for that walk, aren't you, boy?"
As she led Spartan out of the barn, a warm, humid fog, remnants of the rain the prior day, engulfed her. She grimaced, looked over her shoulder, muttered. "It's sticky out here."
"Yeah." Simon agreed as he followed behind, guiding Harley up to Amy's left side, handing her his lead.
"All set?" He asked. With her nod, the threesome started on their trek, Amy tiny between the two toned horses.
"Have a nice walk." He called to her.
Suddenly, Norton came out of nowhere, sped right by Simon, then wove his way through Harley's legs, then Spartan's and shot ahead. Neither horse missed a step.
After watching for moment, Simon shook his head, returned to the barn to finish morning chores.
By the time she returned, her face was dewy and flushed, her hairline moist with sweat. The barn was empty of horses and manure. Simon was stowing away the wheelbarrow and rake, his back turned to her.
"Already done?" She remarked pleasantly surprised. The two horses stood patiently behind her.
"Yeah."
"You work fast."
"Might as well. Lots to do and its gonna be a hot one so.."
"Already is. I'm dripping." She dragged her wrist across her forehead.
His 6 foot frame turned, squared toward her. His flannel shirt discarded, his cotton t-shirt soaked with sweat, clung to his chest and broad shoulders, revealing a definition she hadn't noticed before. The long months of winter had worked his body, his muscles, now sinewy and contoured. Caught unaware, Amy took in his physique, staring a second longer than necessary. Before he noticed, she looked down, slightly embarrassed.
"Not me. I'm cool as a cucumber." He smirked, then asked. "Out or in?"
A quizzical look emerged on her face, Amy didn't answer, his question didn't register.
"Like I said, its gonna be hot." He repeated, then explained his ask. "Especially in the barn. So do you want me to turnout Harley and Spartan or not?"
"How hot?" She followed with a question, not answering his.
"Weather guy says 85F."
"And, it's only mid May."
"Yeah. Climate change, global warming, conspicuous consumption, bovine farts, whatever..." He lamented in a typical Simon way. "So..what should I do with Harley and Spartan?"
"Harley can go out. Let's keep Spartan in. If it's gets too hot in here, put up that standing fan to move the air around. That should help."
"Will do." He replied, grabbing Harley's lead from her to take him to the field. "Don't worry. I'll keep them watered." He reassured her.
"No worries here. Thanks Simon." She opened Spartan's stall door, then led him in, gave him a quick once over with a soft bristled brush.
Simon returned, halter and lead, in his hand.
"Have you seen Silvie? I didn't see her under that grove of trees." She asked.
"Nope. But she's around somewhere. She's already polished off her breakfast. I'll refill her water in a bit."
"Okay. Let's get her stabled outside tonight. I'd like to get a good look at those wounds. See if they need attention."
"Sure. Not sure she'll be willing. But, I can try."
"Right. Maybe Scott can help after our field calls." She suggested. "So, what's on your agenda after the supply run?"
"Riding fences with dad. Check on the cattle."
"He picked a hot one."
"Yeah, think he planned it that way." He said flatly.
She grinned. "Well, I best get a move on. I don't want to be late."
Shower fresh, Amy put on a short, simple shift, nicely fit to her body, in her favorite color, a bluish teal. The hue brightened the blue of her eyes while the sleeveless design accentuated her toned shoulders and arms. After putting her hair in a high ponytail, she brushed her teeth then applied mascara and lip gloss. With a final check in the mirror, she smiled, pleased with her reflection.
As she turned to leave bathroom, her toothbrush caught her eye, leaning against his in the holder.
Returning to her bedroom, she slipped off her cowboy boots and put on white tennis shoes, the ones he gave her. Standing in front of full length mirror, she checked out her outfit. Her eyes drew automatically to the spotless sneakers, glowing a bright white on her feet, making them appear huge. Her lips twisted, her head tilted first to the right, then to the left as she judged, decided. In the end, she shrugged, then declared, "They're not too bad."
Grabbing her backpack off the dining room table, she stopped, stared at the bouquet of roses that arrived yesterday. No longer a dozen perfectly shaped buds of tightly wound, deep red petals; instead scores of individual petals bloomed, blossomed, stretched out, away from their center of stamens and pistils. Her fingers touched the velvety smoothness of a single, delicate petal. Leaning in, she inhaled deeply. The aroma, sweet and light, filled her sinuses.
She pulled out her phone, snapped a picture and sent it to him in a text.
"Andrew. The roses are gorgeous. Thank you. Off to my second day. Wish me luck."
Three dots immediately appeared on the screen. "Luck. But, Amy, you don't need it. You do great things on your own accord."
She send back a smiley emoji.
Propping his gifted Ray-Bans on the top of her head, she headed out the door, leaving her cowboy hat on its hook, looking more like a collegiate than a cowgirl.
Amy stepped out of the barn into the morning sun, no longer obscured by morning fog, her face tilted skyward, her eyes closed. She filled her lungs with the warm air. "Hmm." She hummed.
"You look nice Amy." He said as he approached her, carrying a galvanized bucket.
Amy turned toward his voice, smiled. "Thanks! Hey...would you mind taking my picture?"
When he set the bucket down, Norton jumped out, circled Simon's ankles.
She grinned at Simon. "Looks like you two have made amends."
"Hardly." He scoffed. "He just kept getting in my way so.."
"Uh huh." She stooped down, picked up the kitten, held his face close to hers as she rubbed his soft ears. "Norton. You be good for Simon. No running in the barn. Okay?"
Simon rolled his eyes as she handed him the kitten. "Thanks a lot." He said sarcastically. "Do you still want me to take your picture?"
"Do you mind?" She started to rummage through her backpack for her phone.
"No worries. I have mine." He pulled his phone out of his pocket. "Say Go Rex!"
She laughed, put her sunglasses on her nose then posed. "Go Rex!"
"Got it." He look at his screen. "I'll send it to you."
"Thanks. Well, I'm off."
"Have a good one." He said holding the black kitten close to his chest, tiny in his large hands.
"You too." She raised her hand in a quick wave, then walked toward her truck.
Settled behind the wheel, she put the vintage truck in neutral and pressed the clutch to the floorboard. She patted the dash, muttered. "Please Old Blue. I can't be late." She turned the key.
In return, the truck sputtered into a sluggish start, drifting backward. Amy shifted into gear, eased on the gas, giving her a bit more fuel, a little liquid encouragement. The old truck responded, jerked forward slowly. "Thank you Blue." She said enthusiastically, patting the dash again.
She glanced through the side window, waved again. Simon lifted the kitten's paw to wave back, making her laugh. She slowly drove away, picking up speed as she headed through the Heartland gate.
The morning sun shone bright in the cloudless sky the entire 48 minute drive to Calgary. Well prepared for her second day, Amy's disposition was sunny as she hummed along with the country tunes on the radio.
Once on campus, she made her way to Lot L32, then headed straight to the same parking spot as the day before, pulled in. Exiting the truck with her backpack slung on her shoulder, she tapped Old Blue's roof and muttered thanks.
"Hey Amy."
Surprised to hear her name, she turned to see Jason Beach standing at the back of her truck. He was dressed in an untucked white cotton button down shirt, sleeves rolled up, khaki shorts, and loafers without socks. His legs were muscular and tanned.
"Hey Jason." She said, then walked toward him, maneuvering between Old Blue and the mammoth truck in the next space.
"Cool truck. Is she yours?" Sunglasses perched on his head, his eyes surveying her truck.
"Yes."
"Its a '57." The know-it-all drew his hand across the white raised GMC letters on the back of the tailgate.
"Yeah. '57 Apache." She replied.
"Original equipment?" He asked as he crouched down to look under her chassis.
"Mostly." She replied confidently, though not really certain. "I need to get going. I don't want to be late." She said, cutting their conversation short.
"Parker's Biology lab?" He looked up at her.
She nodded.
"We can walk together." He said with an air of confidence.
"Let's go then." She walked away, northward bound with purpose, her ponytail swayed with each step. Not wasting time, he caught up with her, taking her right side, nearest to traffic on Crowchild Trail. Soon their strides fell in sync. By side by side, they walked wordless to Science A Building.
Midway there, he broke the silence, attempting to make conversation. "Did you do your homework?"
"Yeah." She answered flatly as she looked straight ahead, quickened her pace.
"Me too. I thought it was pretty easy."
"It wasn't bad." She hedged, not wanting to admit that she didn't find the homework particularly "easy".
"I have a confession." He paused for effect, waiting for her to respond.
"Oh?" Was all Amy could muster, keeping her stride.
"I ate my Stat homework." He said seriously. "Or at least the MMs. Do you know how hard it is to find the peanut butter MMs at 10 o'clock on a Monday evening? I was frantic. I must have gone to five places before I found a bag." He said making her smile imagining him in a state of panic.
Turning to him to say something, she noticed it again, the blue truck driving toward them, south on Crowchild Trail. She stopped mid-step. As the truck approached, slowing in rush hour traffic, she caught a glimpse of the driver, a man with a dark, scruffy beard. For a split second, their eyes met. A chill ran up her spine, but she couldn't be sure.
Her eyes, her head, her entire body followed as the blue Ram truck, towing an empty horse trailer, moved forward in traffic, passing them by in slow motion, but coming to a full stop several yards away. Taking a step toward the busy street, towards the trailer, she noticed a blue and white British Columbia license plate mounted on the back.
"Ty?" His name spoken under her breath.
Suddenly a horn sounded and traffic began to move again, taking the truck and trailer with it. She watched as the rig turned right at the intersection, then disappeared.
"Amy?" Jason disrupted her focus as he looked in the same direction. "What are you looking at?"
"Nothing." She deflected, started towards class again.
"It didn't look like nothing." He said, clearly not buying her answer, but falling in stride with her again.
"Just thought I recognized that truck." She admitted, but didn't want to get into it, especially with him.
"And?"
"No." She said flatly. Wanting to change the subject, she said the first thing that came to her mind. "So, where did you find the peanut butter MMs? Smart Mart?"
He looked at her, snipped sarcastically. "Lucky guess."
"No guess. Long haul truckers love junk food." She shrugged. "Everyone knows that."
"Yeah, right." He scoffed.
"So, you want to go to medical school?" It came out sounding like she doubted him, or maybe, questioned his resolve.
"Yes, I do. A pediatrician actually." He replied somewhat defensively, then dove into a litany of accomplishments. "I had a 4.0 GPA, in high school, a 4.0 at UC, got 1592 on the SAT, 35 on the ACT. I'm on full academic scholarship including the National Merit. I volunteer at the local children's hospital in Prince Ed. My dad's a physician. A pathogist. So.." His bragging was a little much for her.
"You have brothers and sisters?" She couldn't imagine that any kid, aside from his own flesh and blood, would be drawn to him.
"No. I'm an only child."
She nodded once, secure in her suspicions.
"I'm really good with kids. I've been around them my whole life." As though he was reading her thoughts, he dug in. "Plus, I'm pretty close to my cousins. We live on the same block at home, just two houses away. We grew up together." He gave more detail than she cared to know.
"So, essentially your flesh and blood." Amy said, confirming her hunch. "Almost like siblings."
"Yeah. I guess. They're are identical twins, younger than me." His brow furrowed, he interjected. "Julianna has Type 1 Diabetes."
"Oh. I am sorry." Amy offered sincerely, taking the bite out of her tone. "That must be tough."
"Yeah. Now that she's on a strict treatment plan and her blood sugar is regulated, she's doing great. But, watching her go through it from the beginning, the whole family actually. Her symptoms, testing, diagnosis, treatment, the whole science of it, made me want to do that kind of work. Help kids."
"Does her twin have diabetes too?"
"No. That's the kicker. For a disease that is considered to have a strong genetic component, Kali has repeatedly tested negative. Their parents too. Now they think some type of virus combined with her genetic make-up was the culprit."
"So your focus will be on diabetes?"
"No." He was definite. "I actually want to focus on pediatric wellness, nutrition, exercise, prevention of disease. Keep them healthy in the first place. That's what I really want to do."
Amy was moved by his passion. "How long have you known this is what you want to do?"
He did some quick mental math. "Julianna was 2 when she was diagnosed. I was 9. So, 10 years now."
"So you're 19 now?"
"Yeah. 19. Just turned." He looked at her. "You? Didn't you say you wanted to be a vet?"
"Yeah. I did."
"So you like animals." He made a simple deduction.
"I do."
"But, it's more than that, right?"
She nodded. "I grew up on a cattle and horse ranch about an hour south of here. My mom rehabbed and retrained injured, abused and abandoned horses using natural remedies and behavioral methods. Almost 12 years ago, I took over her business."
"Twelve years ago?" He blinked, registering his disbelief.
"Yeah. I was 15 when my mom died."
"Sorry. That must have been tough." He said, echoing her sentiment.
"It was very tough." She admitted. "Still is in some ways. Anyhow, I will continue to work with horses primarily, but I also want to expand my knowledge so I can deliver the best possible care, to all animals." She added. "Sometimes modern medicine and techniques are the only cure."
"We're not so different."
She pondered his supposition. "Maybe not."
"We're here." Jason announced as they approached Science A Building. "This is the second oldest building on UC campus. It was built in the early '60s."
"It looks it." Amy said as she surveyed the long, two story building constructed of concrete, terrazzo and granite.
"Let me get that." He stepped ahead, held the door for her.
"Thanks." Inside, she was struck by the gleaming, modern interior. "I wasn't expecting this."
"They just finished renovations last year. There are greenhouses on the roof for the botany classes."
"Boy, you are just a wealth of UC trivia."
"I take that as a compliment." He said seriously.
At the end of the long center hall, they found Room 12 tucked away down a short hallway. Entering the room, Amy saw her sitting alone at a raised lab table near the front of the room. She was already wearing her lab coat.
"Hey Emma."
Emma looked up from her open textbook, smiled. "Hey Amy. Saved you a seat." She moved her backpack from the stool beside her.
"Thanks! Mind if Jason joins us?" She asked as she unloaded her lab coat, goggles and manual from her backpack onto the table.
"Not at all." Emma replied.
"Thanks." He took the stool across the lab table from Amy, then introduced himself to Emma. "Jason Beach."
"Emma Pottier."
"A fisheries research biologist, right?"
"Good memory." She scrunched her nose and guessed. "A pathologist?"
"Close. A pediatrician. My dad's the pathologist."
He saw her walk into the room. "Mind if Mary joins us?" Jason asked. "She's on a chemistry track."
"Sure." Emma answered. "We have room."
"Mary." He waved, called to her. "Sit with us."
The petite blonde approached the table.
"Everyone. This is Mary Aster." Jason introduced her to Amy and Emma.
"Good save in Biology yesterday." Emma said.
"Geez. I can't believe that happened. Dr. Parker got me all flustered." Mary confided as she put on her lab coat. "Have you joined a study group yet?"
Emma looked to Amy who nodded.
"Why don't we four form a group?" Emma asked.
"I'm in." Mary said.
"Me too." Jason added.
"We just need to find a place to study." Emma remarked.
Dr. Parker entered the room, closing the door behind him with purposeful emphasis. He set his brief case on the front lab table.
"Attention Class. Silence. I am Dr. Reginald Parker."
The room fell quiet.
"This class is the lab component for Biology 241 Energy Flow in Biological Systems. If you did not register for Biology 241 Energy Flow in Biological Systems or prefer another instructor, please leave now. Silently." No one left the room.
"For those of you remaining, here are my rules for my one hour and 50 minute lab."
"One. Attendance will be taken every day. Notice the table and stool you are in today. You will sit in this spot the entire semester. Mr. David Jensen, our TA, will pass out the room chart. Print your full name, student number along with your signature in the box with your designated table and stool."
The professor continued on, repeating almost verbatim, the speech he gave in yesterday's Biology class, tweaking it just a tad for their lab class."
"If you had done your pre-work, you would know that we have three topics today. One, proper personal protective equipment and etiquette in this room. Two, scientific investigation. Three, microscope parts and usage."
"Let's get started. What are the PPE requirements for this class?" He pointed to Amy. "Please stand, address me and fellow classmates properly, state your full name, then answer the question."
"Dr. Parker and classmates. I am Amy Fleming. A fire resistant lab coat is to be worn at all times in class. Eye and face protection such as safety glasses, splash goggles or face guards are to be worn during any experimentation. Hair, jewelry and clothing should be secured to avoid interference with experiment."
"Why?"
"For personal safety. And to reduce contamination of the experiment."
"Correct. Next." He pointed to Emma.
To Amy, the 110 minute lab class was intense, fast paced and extremely interesting. When Dr. Parker dismissed the class at 9:50, students turned in their lab worksheets as they filed out of the room. After turning in hers, Amy approached the TA.
"Mr. Jensen. Could you tell me where our group can meet to study?" She asked.
"Amy Fleming, right?"
"Yes."
"Good. I'm trying to memorize everyone's name. How many in your group?"
"Four."
"I work in this room until noon on Tuesdays grading labs. You're welcome to study here." He offered. "But, the door must remain closed and noise kept to a minimum. Oh, and no food or drinks. This isn't a party room." He warned.
"Perfect. Thanks Mr. Jensen."
"David is fine."
"Thanks David."
Reconvening at the lab table, the four discovered that they shared the same biology, chemistry and stat classes. From there, they quickly organized, sharing their contact information, creating an email group and shared repository to post class notes. They reviewed and quizzed each other on information from the last two days and prepared for next day. The hour went fast.
"We need a place to meet after chemistry lab on Thursday." Jason said as they packed up their belongings.
"I know Mac White, Brownstein's TA. I'll text him and see if he knows somewhere." Mary pulled out her phone, tapped out a text.
"You're leaving early? We have the room for another hour." David said from the front lab table.
"We accomplished everything we needed to today." Emma replied. "Thanks for the space."
"No problem." David smiled.
"Yeah thanks." They all chimed in as they filed out of the room. "See you tomorrow."
"I'm gonna try to work something out with Scott so I can stay until noon from here on out." Amy mentioned to Emma in the hallway.
"That would be great. It would give us two solid hours." Emma said.
"Hey. Mac just texted back. He has a room we can use." Jason high-fived her.
Scott was already parked in front the barn, sitting in the driver seat, window down, talking on his phone, when Amy pulled up next to his truck.
"Yeah. Talk to you in a few." He hung up his phone when she walked up to his truck.
"Hey. Sorry I'm late. Hope you got my message." Amy apologized.
"I did. No worries. I just got here." He asked. "How was bio lab?"
"It was actually pretty interesting." She sounded surprised. "Can't wait to do the actual labs with the microscope."
"Good to hear. You ready?"
"I need to change first."
"You look nice. Don't change on my account." Scott replied.
"I learned my lesson Sunday. You know I had to throw away that flannel shirt. The stains and stink would not come out, even after 3 hot water washes." She made a funny face.
"We're not doing field work today." He informed her.
"Oh. Okay. So, what are we doing?"
"You'll see. Come on. Time's wasting."
"Okay. But, if my dress and brand new tennies get ruined, you owe me new ones." She warned him.
He stuck his head out his open window and looked down at her feet. "Hmm. Not normal vet attire. They are very white." He teased her.
"Yes. And, I want to keep them that way." She snapped back with a smirk. She walked quickly around his truck, got in the passenger side then closed the door.
"Do you have a lab coat and safety glasses in that backpack?" He asked as he put the truck in gear.
"Yeah. Why? What are you cooking up?"
"Patience Amy. You'll find out soon enough." Scott grinned sheepishly at her.
"Scott tell me. I hate surprises." She pouted.
He laughed. "Did you eat lunch?" He knew how to refocus her with an offer of food.
"Noooo." Her raised eyebrows hoping for lunch.
"Good. I'm starving. Let's pick up lunch from Maggie's. My treat."
"Hope your wallet is full because I'm starving." She teased.
On the way to Maggie's, Scott peppered her with questions about her first two days of school, each class, each professor, everything. And, Amy was more than happy to oblige him with detailed answers and funny stories.
"I can't believe that Parker is still there. Still striking fear in unsuspecting students." Scott laughed as he drove away from Maggie's, takeout lunch of vegetarian chili for three in a bag sitting between them.
"He is kinda of intimidating."
"Yeah, he is. Make no mistake, he's good at what he does. And if you follow his rules, you'll get a good grade and learn necessary lessons you'll never forget."
"I can see that." She nodded in agreement.
Scott pulled into the clinic's parking lot, parking between a silver Subaru and Cassandra's truck.
"Is Cass here? I thought she was on maternity leave for another week?"
"She came in for a special project." He said cryptically.
"Oh." She said, accepting his explanation.
He opened his truck door, grabbed their lunch and his vet bag, then got out. Amy quickly followed behind, her backpack slung over one shoulder. The sound of barking dogs seeped through the clinic's brick walls, piecing the hot afternoon air. As Scott opened the clinic's front door, the bell rang, causing the canine chorus to intensify.
"Full house today." He said apologetically, holding the door for her.
In the cramped reception area, Cassandra stood talking with an elderly woman who held in her arms a mostly black and tan Chihuahua, it's muzzle white, it's eyes dull with the bluish haze of old age.
"We'll call you later today with the second set of lab results." Cass said, stepping back signaling the discussion was over.
"Dr. Fay." The gray haired woman did not move, offered. "We will wait here for the results."
"No." Cassandra pressed her lips, maintained her stance. "Look Mrs. Moseley. Given Priscilla's age, it's completely normal and expected that she's lethargic and sleeps more. She's not in pain. The first labs show nothing abnormal, nothing out of the ordinary. So, go home. We will call you as soon as possible. Now if you'll excuse me, I have another set of labs to do." She said, then turned on her rubber heel, left the room.
The elderly lady turned to Scott and implored him. "Dr. Cardinal. Please. Since we celebrated her 18th birthday on Saturday, she hasn't been herself."
Scott placed his hand on her shoulder. "Mrs. Moseley." He said with an emphatic tone. "I know you worry about Priscilla."
"She is my everything." Mrs. Moseley confessed, her eyes welled up as she drew the Chihuahua closer to her chest. "I can't lose her. Dr. Fay doesn't understand."
Scott's expression was kind. "Dr. Fay understands completely. You and I both know she has Priscilla's best interests at heart. As always. Take Priscilla home, where you both can relax. Away from all these barking dogs. Give her a special treat. Hold her close. We'll call you with the lab results."
She nodded.
"I'll walk you to your car, Mrs. Moseley." He said holding the door open for her.
After the elderly lady exited, Scott looked back at Amy. "Why don't you see if Cass needs help."
Entering the kennel room, the strong scent of disinfectant hung in the air, tickling the back of her throat. The once barking dogs had begun to quiet, many had already curled into their afternoon naps. She found her, kneeling in front of an open, empty cage, vigorously scrubbing its inside.
"Need any help?" Amy asked standing beside her.
Cassandra pulled out of the cage, looked up at her, scowled. "Help me do what? Clean this kennel? Wearing that? Don't be dumb." She shook her head No, turned her back then started scrubbing again.
Placing her backpack on the table, Amy sat down beside her, touched her upper arm. "I know it's hard to see her like that."
Cassandra froze, the scrubbing ceased. She pulled out of the cage again, looked at her friend, her eyes narrowed. "Did Scott say something?"
"No. He didn't have to. Priscilla's eyes said it all. I've seen it before with horses. It's like they know it's time."
She slowly nodded in agreement. A sadness pierced her tough exterior as she explained. "Priscilla was my first patient here. More than six years now. Mrs. Moseley is such a worry wart so we saw her pretty often. I even went to her birthday party on Saturday."
A half smile touched her lips as she continued to reminisce. "She's a funny little thing. When she's happy, her tail wags so much that her butt wiggled trying to keep up with her tail. Then she'd lose her balance, roll over on her side but her tail kept wagging, thumping against the exam table. And, whenever Mrs. Moseley would go to visit her sister in Miami, I watched her, here and at my house. She's such a snuggler too."
"Sounds like you have quite a bond."
Cassandra nodded, looking away.
"But, Cass, 18 is old for a dog, even for a Chihuahua. Clearly you've taken excellent care of her over the years."
"I tried." Her brown eyes glistened as she glanced up. She bit her lip, closed to her eyes to warn away the tears.
Amy gently put her arm around her, squeezed her shoulder. Without a word, Cassandra leaned into her, her cheek resting on her bare shoulder. Amy drew her closer, both arms now cradling her friend, lightly patting her back. The young vet began to tremble, trying to hold back her emotions.
"It's okay Cass. Let it out." Amy reassured her.
Cassandra took in a deep breath, it's intake, it's release, uneven. Deep from within her chest, a whimper of defeat and it loss, emerged. A single droplet escaped from the corner of her eye, rolled down her cheek, across her nose and onto Amy's bare shoulder. Overcome with sadness, she began to silently weep, her tears falling now without restraint.
"Its okay." Amy whispered again and again, rocking her slowly back and forth, like a mother comforts her upset child. "It's okay."
Barely a minute passed before Cassandra regained control, forcing the tears to subside. "I couldn't tell her. I just...couldn't." Cassandra muttered in admission.
"Mrs. Moseley?"
She nodded into Amy's chest, took a deep breath through her mouth then sat up. Using her sleeve, Cassandra attempted to wipe away any evidence of crying. Still, her face showed the telltale signs, smudged mascara, flushed cheeks, puffy eyes and a red, swollen nose.
"Sorry." She noticed Amy's dress, it's fabric dotted with traces of tears and mascara.
"Cass. You don't need to apologize."
"I'm ridiculous. Its not like I haven't seen an animal die before." She scowled, then tried to excuse it away. "Must be all those stupid pregnancy hormones."
She wiped her nose with the back of her hand. She grimaced at the trail of slimy snot glistening on the blue latex glove.
"Gross." Cassandra muttered, then said cynically. "I must look like shit."
"No. You're beautiful Cass, inside and out." Amy said honestly from her heart.
"Whatever." Cassandra frowned, gave a dismissive wave of her hand, pushing away Amy's words. Rising from the floor, she walked to the sink, mounted on the wall. There, she shed her gloves into the medical waste bin, then turned on the hot water. Methodically she washed her hands with antiseptic as though preparing for surgery. Finally, she looked in the mirrored medicine cabinet.
"You do look like shit." She smirked at her reflection then proceeded to splash water on her face, before drying it with a brown paper towel.
"Where's Scott?" Cassandra asked out of the blue.
"He walked Mrs. Moseley to her car."
"He's been gone a while. Did he take his vet bag?"
"I didn't notice actually."
Cassandra's shoulders slumped. "Bet he went with Mrs. Moseley..." She didn't finish her thought.
Amy pressed her lips, shrugged almost imperceptibly with one shoulder.
"I didn't say goodbye." Her quiet words were filled with remorse and sadness.
"Cass..."
"Never mind." Cassandra shook her head, straightened. Her demeanor changed, then hardened. Her suit of armor had re-emerged.
"Scott drew a bunch of specimens this morning." She said as she left the room.
When Amy didn't follow immediately, Cassandra ducked her head back into the room. "Are you coming or do you need a special invitation?"
"Coming." She grabbed her backpack off the desk, then quickly joined her. "Wow!" She muttered as she looked around at the space. "I haven't been in here since you remodeled."
More like a galley style kitchen, no more than 12 feet long and 10 deep, the newly remodeled space was fully equipped and efficiently arranged to house both the laboratory and pharmacy needs of the clinic.
The lab equipment, supplies and work space were entirely situated on the wall opposite the door. A narrow, glass fronted refrigerator was inset in the right corner. Sleek upper and lower metal cabinetry with a metal counter overhang and open shelving spanned the remainder of the wall. Beyond three feet of open counter space sat two microscopes, an older model on the shelf and a newer, more powerful one, on the metal counter. Advanced blood and urine analyzers and centrifuge were station on the far end with a built in autoclave below. Two stools on wheels were positioned at the counter.
The pharmacy and supply area was situated across from the lab, on the opposite wall. The area shared the same sleek cabinetry anchored by a tall locked refrigerator and medicine cabinet in the right corner and a sink on the opposite end.
"Like it?"
"Yes!"
"Me too. Scott got everything moved in while I was in maternity leave." Cassandra smiled, closing the door behind them.
"Nice."
"So, Scott said that you had your first biology lab today."
"I did."
"Good. Because you're going to test all those samples in there." Cassandra pointed to the refrigerator in the corner.
Amy leaned in get a better look. Behind the glass door were several test tubes filled with blood and containers, some filled with urine and other specimens.
"But, I didn't learn how to do that yet." Amy stepped back, her voice a mixture of exasperation and doubt.
"No time like the present." Cassandra reached for her lab coat from the back of the door, then put it on. Two more hung there.
"Guess I don't have a choice." She said, her voice uneasy.
"Nope." She smiled. "Wash your hands. Use that antiseptic. And, put on a lab coat."
"Okay."
As Amy turned to the sink and began washing her hands, Cassandra offered, pointing to the door. "Oh. You can wear the lab coat on the right."
"Thanks. But I brought my own." She replied concentrating on washing.
"I found it when I was looking through some boxes this morning." She said, then added without much thought. "Not sure who left it."
Amy stopped short, her head jerked toward the door, her eyes focusing on the old blue lab coat, hanging there, lifeless and nearly forgotten. Ty only wore a blue lab coat, it had to be his she reasoned.
"Um. Okay." She dried her hands quickly. Hesitantly, she stepped toward the door, reached out, lifted the coat from the hook, hanging her backpack in its place.
The old lab coat dwarfed her body, the bottom hem extended past her knees, the sleeves hung well past the tips of her fingers. It smelled of laundry soap instead of him as she had hoped. Regardless, she imagined being securely wrapped in his arms.
"Just roll the sleeves. It will be fine." Cassandra commented breaking her thoughts of him. "And, put on these gloves. And, you'll need glasses too." She handed her a pair of blue latex gloves and safety glasses.
As Amy watched, Cassandra retrieved two small tubes of blood from the refrigerator and put them on a rack by the microscope.
"To start, we're going to do Priscilla's CBC. That's a complete blood count. And, a full chemistry profile. Here are her specimens. You'll prepare the slides and do inspection, both visual and under microscope. After that, we'll move to the urine and stool samples."
"Okay." She replied hesitantly, putting on gloves and glasses. "What if..?"
"Don't worry. We've already done all these once and reported them. So, you are just confirming our results. Okay?"
"Okay."
"Good. I'll show you first. Then you do it. I'll be right here the whole time, checking your work." She reassured her, then pulled out a stool, sat down and pointed to the other. "Take a seat. This is going to take a while. Let's make a blood smear first."
"Don't you use some sort of an analyzer?"
"Yes, of course. Already have, though we'll do it again. But, the examination of a smear is a critical step to testing. Smears are used to confirm platelet and white blood cell counts. What the analyzer lacks is the ability to detect infectious agents, parasites, neoplastic cells, and certain morphology changes. Plus, a hematology analyzer isn't always readily available."
"Gotcha."
"Ready?"
Amy nodded.
"From this box, pull out a microscopic slide. Notice it has a frosted end to write the specimen number. Using this pencil, write the number from the EDTA tube on it. Add your initials and the slide number." Cassandra showed her how to mark the slide.
"What does EDTA stand for?" Amy asked while she wrote.
"Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. It's sprayed in the inside of the tube to act as an anticoagulant. So the blood doesn't clot. Notice the tube cap is purple."
Amy nodded.
"Now, clean the slide with a piece of lens paper to remove the residue, like grease and dust." She demonstrated. "Your turn." She watched as Amy imitated her.
"Good. Now place the micro slide on the table. Whatever surface you use has to be flat, or the specimen will run. And, pull out a spreader slide from this box and clean it."
Amy nodded, and did the same.
Cassandra picked up the EDTA tube of blood again, inverted it, then gently rocked it back and forth. "Mix the sample. Gently. Next draw a bit of blood into capillary tube. It's also called a microhaematocrit tube. Now, put a small dot of blood on the top of the micro slide, just below the sample identification. Like this. You try."
Amy mimicked her.
"Okay. This next part is tricky and does take practice." She smiled. "Now place the edge of the spreader slide at an approximately 35-45 angle on the first glass slide, in front of the blood drop. Using gentle pressure, gently pull the second slide back into the blood drop and allow the blood to spread to the edge of the slide. See how the blood feathers across the edge of the second slide?"
"Yeah."
"To spread the blood, rapidly but gently push the top slide forward through the remainder of the smear. It is important to keep gentle, equal pressure throughout the whole process, and do not lift the top slide before it reaches the edge of the bottom slide. A feathered edge should be present."
Amy followed her instructions.
"Good try, but it's a bit uneven. Set it aside. We'll exam it but I want you to try again. This time try to apply equal pressure, the whole way down. You can use the same spreader slide. Just clean it with this sterile water first." Cassandra placed a bottle before her. "Then clean it with the wipes."
Amy tried again.
"Much better. We let the slide air dry, then we examine it under the microscope. In the meanwhile, let me show you how to use the hematology analyzer."
Cassandra stepped to the table top hematology analyzer. "Okay. So, first turn on the analyzer, enter the species, and patient information. Remove the cap, put the vial here. Note that is a red top tube. No anticoagulants. Then press run. In 3 minutes, we'll have the results." The machine began to hum.
"That's pretty cool." The two women watched as they waiting for its results.
"Yeah. Until Scott bought this, we had to send off the blood samples to an outside lab to have them resulted. Sometimes the results would take days." She frowned. "This is a million times better."
"Hey." Scott said as he entered from the side door. He did a double take when he saw Amy wearing the blue lab coat, but said nothing. Instead, he turned to the sink to wash his hands.
"How's Mrs. Moseley? Is she okay?" Cassandra anxiously asked.
"She seemed to be when she and Priscilla finally left." His brows knitted. "Did something happen?"
"So you didn't go to her house to put her down?"
"No. Of course not. Priscilla's old but she's not in pain and there's nothing abnormal. That's what her vet said at least." He gave her a smile, then reached for his lab coat.
"Where have you been then?"
"In the parking lot. Mrs. Moseley wanted to show me pictures from the birthday party on her phone." He shrugged good naturedly. "Have you been showing Amy the ropes?"
Before Cassandra could answer, the analyzer beeped. "What's it say?" Scott asked.
Cassandra reviewed the printed output from the analyzer. "Same as before. Nothing's out of normal, not even an elevated white blood count." Casandra sounded somewhat relieved and perplexed at the same time.
"Good. Smear confirm it?" He asked.
"Haven't checked yet. Amy prepared the slide though." Cassandra said. "She's a natural. She made a very good slide on the second try."
"Well, then. Let's look at this very good slide." Over the next half hour, both Scott and Cassandra taught Amy how to read the slide, counting white and red blood cells and platelets with the microscope.
"So, the analyzer results are confirmed?" Amy asked. "That's good, right?"
"Yes."
"Good. So. What's next urinalyses?" Amy asked.
"Yes. And stool analysis and FOBT."
"FOBT?"
"Fecal Occult Blood Test." Cassandra's replied.
The bell door rang announcing the arrival of a client. "Sounds like you two have this well in hand. I'll get the door." Scott said as he disappeared out of the room.
When he returned some time later, he stated. "Salesman." then asked about the tests.
"They closely mimicked what Cass found the first time around." Amy replied with growing confidence.
"Amy is literally killing this." Cassandra complimented her work. "She can take over all the lab work."
Scott chuckled at Cass' exuberance. "Well good. Did you hear back on TT4 test?"
"Just a minute ago. Surprisingly, her thyroid hormone level was in the low normal range. 1.5 μg/dl."
"I was hoping that hypothyroidism would be the culprit."
"Me too."
"Hypothyroidism?"
"Hypo meaning low. Anyhow. In older dogs especially a low thyroid hormone level can lead to a whole host of symptoms including lethargy and increased sleeping." Scott explained.
"I'll have her come in next week so we can monitor it closely." Cassandra promised.
"Good idea. But she's still not out of the woods." Scott reminded her. "It's only be a matter of time. We may be able to delay it by days, weeks maybe even months...but it will happen relatively soon." Scott cautioned.
"Mind if I leave early?" Cassandra asked.
Although somewhat surprised, Scott responded calmly. "That's fine."
"Like now? I want to go see those birthday pictures. And do another blood draw."
Scott grinned. "Go. Amy and I got this under control." He winked at Amy.
"Thanks for showing me the ropes, Cass. You're a great teacher."
"No problem. You're a natural." Cassandra said as she took off her lab coat and hung it back on the hook. "Thanks Scott."
After Cassandra exited, Scott asked. "Did you have lunch?"
"No, neither of us did."
"Cass had lunch before she came to work. That extra bowl was for me." He grinned. "Let's eat."
Scrapping the last bit chili from the plastic bowl, Scott proclaimed. "Still good despite being cold."
"Yeah. Good."
"Guess we should get back to work. Lots of samples awaiting. And, the owners will be arriving soon to pick up their pets. The place will turn into a zoo." He said, then wiped his mouth with a paper napkin.
"Scott. Can I show you show you something first? It's on my phone." She said pulling her phone from her pocket. "It won't take long, promise."
"Sure. What is it?"
"Just watch." She pressed Play and handed her phone to him.
Ty was at a microphone speaking. "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, our mentor. I am forever grateful to them both."
With glistening eyes, Scott looked at his friend, somewhat dazed. He cleared his throat. "Where did you get this?"
"From you. That video link from the conference. Ty was at the same conference as you last week. He won the vet contest."
His head jerked back expressing his shock. "He was? He did? I had no idea." Scott was genuinely surprised.
"You didn't see him?"
"No. I left the stage right after you won. I was so...so anxious to get out of there. All those people. I kept walking until I was outside in the cool air."
"Did you know that he's practicing at a wildlife rescue in Vancouver?" She asked.
His head bowed slightly, just to avoid her questioning eyes. He didn't reply.
"Scott please."
He nodded. "Okay. I knew he was in B.C. somewhere. Figured he was in Vancouver. But, I didn't know for sure."
"How? How did you know?"
"I got a letter from him. That winter, I suppose, after he left. What 3 or so years ago."
"Can you tell me what it said?"
Scott sighed heavily, but didn't respond.
"Please." She begged him.
He exhaled heavily, then acquiesced. "Okay. I remember it was short. He said that you two had broken up and he wasn't coming back to Hudson per your request. He had taken a job with a wildlife rescue in B.C."
She sighed heavily. "Is that all?"
"He thanked me. That's it."
"I am so glad that he wrote you and explained." She said, then asked. "Why didn't you tell me?"
"Not my story to tell." He shrugged.
"Right. Well. Thanks for telling me now. It means a lot." She added quietly.
"Plus, I didn't think you wanted to hear it, back then."
"No. I didn't. I wasn't in a good place then." She admitted.
"But, now? Given everything?"
"Yes, given everything. I am in a good place." She said with a gentle smile. "Scott. It's been really weird lately."
"How so?"
"You know, it's been years since he left. And, during that time I heard nothing from him, or about him, and that was more than okay. It's what I wanted, after all. A clean break."
"So what's weird? Has something changed?"
"Yes. Out of the blue, all these signs about him started appearing. Like this video. Almost every day. I can't explain it."
"But, why now do you think?"
"Don't know honestly." She said. "But, its really good to know he's okay. And, that I am okay too."
"You are more than okay, Amy. I've never seen you so confident and determined."
She smiled.
"Thanks for showing me the clip. That means a lot to me too." He pressed his lips and took a deep inhale through his nose. "Now. I have a question."
"Shoot."
"Where did you get that lab coat?"
"Cass found it in some box. She lent it to me." After a pause, she asked. "Is it Ty's?"
He nodded. "I packed it away when I got the letter. I kept hoping that he'd come back before that."
She nodded.
"You can have it." He offered.
"No. Its yours." She smiled. "He left it for you."
He nodded. "You can wear it when you're here."
The two old friends sat in silence together in their own thoughts.
"We have work to do." Scott said after a bit, getting up from his chair. Amy did the same.
Although it was nearly 8 pm when he finally drove Amy back to Heartland, it was still light enough for Simon and Scott to capture and stall Silvie. The three were leaning over the stable railing, watching her as the wild horse hungrily ate her evening meal.
"Amy. What's the course of action?" Scott challenged her.
"Well. She doesn't have a fever and there's no sign of infection. So. We'll finish her course of antibiotics, of course." She started. "Her wounds could use some cleaning and debris removal. Then a flushing with an antiseptic solution and water."
"Agree. Then what?"
"A wet-to-dry bandage with honey and eucalyptus oil against the wound. Dry bandage on top."
"Good. If your salve doesn't do the trick, you could always try anti-bacterial ointment such as Betadine or Savlon. In any case, When you change the bandage tomorrow or the next day, see if you can switch to dry bandage."
"Okay."
"She seems to be recovering well." Scott concluded as he jumped down from the railing. "I need to get a move on. Paperwork to do. And, I need to check on Stan, make sure he hasn't fallen asleep on the job." Scott smirked.
"What about Calpurnia?" Simon asked.
"Right. I received the expedited adoption paper work from feral horse advisory just yesterday. So, you can either keep her or sell her and recoup your expenses. Either way, I'll provide the bill of sale. Let me know what you decide." Scott suggested.
"Okay. We'll discuss it and let you know the decision." Amy said.
"Good. Well, I'm off. Good work today Amy."
"Thanks for everything Scott. Let me walk you to your truck."
Amy returned to the barn first to get supplies, then headed back to Silvie's stall. Together, Simon and Amy cleaned and bandaged her wounds.
"What should we do about Calpurnia?" Simon asked.
"It's your call." Amy replied.
"Mine?" Simon was incredulous.
"Yes. You manage the barn. So, if we keep her, you have to do all her upkeep. If we sell her, you have to find a buyer. So, it makes sense that it's your decision."
"Really? My decision?"
"Yes, yours. You've done a ton of work with her. And, more since I started school. And, I can't afford to pay you any more. If you decide to keep her, she's mine. But, if you decide to sell her, you keep the proceeds. In any case, it's your decision."
"Wow. I wasn't expecting that." He scratched his head. "I don't know what to say. Except thank you, I think. I mean. Yes. Thank you."
She patted his arm. "Just let me know what you decide."
"Thank you. Can I sleep on it?"
"Take as along as you like."
Past 10:45pm, Amy, freshly showered but exhausted, slid between her cool sheets of her bed.
"What a day!" She said to Norton as he lay curled beside her, purring loudly. Her index finger slowly drawing a tiny pattern in his soft fur.
The ding on her phone alerted her to a text. Checking the screen, she saw it was from Andrew. "Hey. Are you awake?"
Amy dialed his number. "Hey Andrew. You're up late."
"Yeah. I've been thinking about you."
"Oh?" She questioned him.
"Yeah. Um. Are you and Alicia still coming to the games in August?" He asked, sounding a bit hesitant.
"Andrew. What do you want us to do?"
"I really want you to come." He paused then added. "Both of you."
"Are you sure? You could give your game tickets to someone else." She pressed him.
"Absolutely. I want you there. Both of you."
"Okay. We'll be there then. To cheer you and Dandy on. And, to support Canada, of course."
"Excellent. Don't forget to wear your maple leaves."
She laughed.
"So tell me about your second day of school."
"Well, I looked pretty hip today." She said with attitude.
"Hip, huh?"
"Yes. I wore my new white tennies and my Ray-Bans that you gave me. Here, let me send you a pic."
Amy proceeded to tell him about every facet of her day but left out anything associated with Ty.
Before she turned off the light on the night stand and put her phone in its charger, she decided to watch the whole video. She adjusted her pillows, took in a deep breath then pressed play.
The familiar video started from the beginning with Dr. Steele at the microphone on stage.
"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."
She watched the video through the vet tech award and Scott's acceptance. She chuckled at Scott mopping his head with a handkerchief then hurrying off the stage. She watched Dr. Steele take the microphone again to announce the vet award.
"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."
When the screen flashed with images, this time she looked for Ty's photo among them. When his photo appeared, she paused the video. Amy looked more closely at the tiny image of him posing with the rare cougar, their matching eyes, green and bold. Satisfied, she pressed play to continue on.
"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."
Somehow Mirna Hickerson's name slipped right by Amy, unnoticed. The video played on.
"Congratulations Dr. Borden! Please come to the stage to collect your prizes."
His picture projected again, but larger. And, once again, she paused the video. She leaned, the screen just inches from her face. She examined every facet of the picture.
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.
She sighed and pressed play. Applause burst out as scores of female voices cheered, swooned, calling his name. "Ty!" "Marry me Ty!" "I love you!"
Everyone in the room was cheering but Ty did not come forward. Dr. Steele began to look around uncomfortably.
"Dr. Ty Borden? Please come to the stage." He asked again. Time passed.
Suddenly a beautiful young woman appeared on stage at the microphone, smiling, standing impossibly close to Dr. Steele. The camera suddenly focused on her.
Her long dark hair, naturally curling into silky ringlets, framed her face, hung down over her shoulders. She had dark eyes, very white straight teeth, and mocha skin. She was dressed in field fatigues, that molded to her every curve.
Looking 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."
Amy's eyes widened. "Oh my god. Claire! Of course, he has a girlfriend. She's a Vet too."
Rattled, she paused the video, looked carefully, critically at her. The Girlfriend seemed oddly familiar, as did her name, Claire, but she couldn't place her. She frowned, pressed play again.
The Girlfriend smiled, leaned into the microphone and said. "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 suddenly rose again as Ty appeared at the podium, his hand outstretched to Dr. Steele.
"Ty.." Amy muttered.
As Ty shook Dr. Steele's hand, he leaned in, said something in his ear. Dr. Steele said something in return, before turning to The Girlfriend.
She handed Dr Steele the leather bag. Suddenly, the camera focused on Dr Steele and Ty. The Girlfriend was no longer in the picture.
Dr Steele said. "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?" Dr. Steele asked.
"Of course. The Vancouver Animal Rescue has both 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."
"Namibia?" Amy gasped, shook her head in disbelief. "Dr. Hickerson? Oh my god."
The video played on.
"Sounds like critical work."
"It is. In addition to that, we also have a brick 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. "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 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."
Thoughts of Dr. Hickerson and Claire seemed to melt away, Amy was completely mesmerized by his presence, confidence, his smooth delivery.
"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.
"So, were Fierce and Percy part of your emergency today?"
"No. No. 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."
"The eagle release?" Amy couldn't believe it.
"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?" Dr. Steele asked.
"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.
"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, our 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."
Amy stopped the video.
Without a second thought, she texted her friend. "Alicia. Are you still up?"
The return text came quickly. "Everything okay?"
"I watched the whole video."
"I'm coming over. Leave the lights on."
Hello Everyone and Happy Holidays to you and yours.
I hope you enjoyed this latest chapter, it's a very long one. Hopefully, it makes up in part for the enormous delay in getting it posted.
I started writing this chapter the day I posted SW Chapter 31. But, work, health issues, holidays and just plain life had other plans for me. Hope, with this chapter's posting, to be back on track again. SW Chapter 33 is up next.
Thank you to all of you who took the time to write a reviews and/or PM. As a very part time writer, those golden nuggets are so inspiring to me.
A special thanks to those that write a review for every chapter and to my biggest FanFiction cheerleader, LifeIn3D.
I wish you and yours only the happiest of new years.
SBR