Hope had to recover, or Luna would be crushed. Only God knew the final outcome, but Carl chose to believe God would heal Hope. He wouldn’t consider the other possibility.
“You’ll have her spoiled rotten in no time.”
“That’s my plan.” He wiggled his brows. “She deserves it after all she’s been through.”
If she understood he meant that about her as well, she gave no indication. “Yes, she does.”
“I’m on shift until six. Will that be too late to get her?”
“I’ll call the office and see.” Another strong wind blew, and she hugged herself. “I’m on duty to help Aloni with lunch, but I can let you know when you come eat.”
“Sounds good.” He noticed her shivering, then realized she didn’t wear a coat. “You’re going to catch a cold.”
“That’s an old wives’ tale.” Her teeth chattered. “But I am freezing. I think I’ll grab one of those donuts and a coffee before starting on lunch.”
“I’ll see you soon.” He left for the maintenance shed and prepped the snowblower.
A generous businessman from the community had donated the machine two years ago. It was a solid, quality device that would clear the sidewalks and lot without the need of a plow. He spent the next three hours working in the cold until he finished the task.
Once the sidewalks and parking lot were safe, he spread a layer of salt to keep it from freezing over. The cold reached to his bones. Even his toes gave up being warm despite his thick wool socks and waterproof boots. He needed another cup of coffee, but he had to put the snowblower away first.
By the time he walked inside the second round of snow had arrived. He speculated they’d get more than the two inches predicted, and he worried about Hope. His truck could navigate the roads with no problem, but if they got too bad, the vet’s office would shut down.
An idea formed, and he made his way to the office to speak with Rachel. Seeing her door was open, he tapped lightly and waited for permission to enter.
“How does it look out there?” she asked, concern drawn on her face. “A few of the ladies have to work this afternoon, and two have already gone in.”
“The sidewalks and lot are cleared for now, but I think we’re in for a surprise.” He pointed out the window, inviting her to look. “Round two came ahead of schedule, and it’s falling hard.”
Her teeth grazed her bottom lip. She gripped her computer mouse and clicked it several times. “The meteorologist posted an update. Due to unforeseen atmospheric changes, there could be an additional eight inches by midnight.”
“It’s not even Thanksgiving yet. I hope this isn’t an indication of how winter will be.”
“Tell me about it.” Rachel pressed her fingertips against her forehead. “I’ll call the ladies already at work and find out if their bosses will let them leave early. The ones who haven’t gone in yet should stay home, but I know they won’t want to miss a shift.”
“Who drove their own vehicle and who had transportation?”
“Christy and Bekah drove together to the nursing home this morning. Mia had arranged a ride to and from the hotel, and a lady from church took Terri to the grocery store.”
He knew what he had to do, even if that prolonged picking up Hope. “My truck is four-wheel drive, and I can fit three people in the back, one in front. If you find out when they can clock out, I’ll pick them up plus take the other ladies to work this afternoon if needed.”
“Would you? I know it’s not in your job description, but it would help tremendously.”
“No problem.” He sat down on one of the visitor chairs and leaned forward. “I have a favor to ask, though.”
“Anything.” She smiled and backtracked. “Well, anything within reason and law.”
“Has Luna told you about Hope?”
Rachel nodded. “I’ve prayed every day for the sweet pup.”
“Dr. Scott said she could come home today, but my guess is the office will close early.” He crossed his hands, unconsciously placing them in a pleading motion. “I know there’s a no pets allowed policy, but if the pet didn’tlivehere, would that make a difference?”
An understanding gleam lit her eyes. “The board has no problem with Roxie coming to work with me occasionally, so I don’t see why we can’t let an injured pup come to visit. However, let’s keep her away from the kids for now, until we know how she’ll react.”
“Thank you.” He jumped to his feet. “I’ll skip lunch to get her. Let me know what you find out about the ladies.”
“I will.”
