Before long, we’re pulling into Crystal Cove Animal Clinic’s parking lot, Stripe and Shadow already voicing their discontent as if they know what’s coming.
Inside, Dex is at the front desk, tapping away at a keyboard.
“Well, if it isn’t our favorite couple,” he says without glancing up.
Cami shoots him a look that somehow manages to be both a smirk and a warning. “Still not a couple.”
Dex glances over his glasses. “Sure. My bad. Just neighbors who are fostering kittens together. Totally platonic behavior.”
“Is our room ready?” I ask because there’s no winning this conversation.
“Of course.” He waves us toward Exam Room Four. “I’m only teasing, you know. But we all may or may not have started a wager on when you two will saunter in here holding hands. You’d be surprised at how playing house with kittens can quickly turn into sharing keys and toothbrushes.”
Cami mutters something under her breath as she walks past him. I pretend not to hear it and definitely don’t smile like a man who wouldn’t mind if any of it comes true.
I follow a beat behind, setting Stripe and Shadow’s carrier on the stainless-steel table while Cami’s practically nose-to-mesh, ready to supervise.
Dex shuts the door and leans in to unzip the flap.
“Well, look who’s gotten so much bigger,” he coos. “This little queen’s filled out, and—hello, chunky guy—someone sure has been eatin’ well.”
Shadow arches into his palm with a satisfied purr; Stripe rushes back to scale over the carrier as though his attention quota’s been fully met.
“We named her Shadow,” Cami says, eyes bright. “And that’s Stripe, the sly troublemaker.”
Dex grins. “Names definitely suit ’em.” He gives Shadow a gentle once-over. “To think they were so tiny when you rescued them. You two have done good. Real good.”
Cami beams, proud and radiant, tugging at my chest in a way kitten paws never could.
Dex glances up, still checking Shadow’s ears. “Wanda will be thrilled to know her babies are in good hands.”
“How’s she doing?” I ask.
“Recovering well. Still convinced she runs this place.” Dex smirks. “I’ll make sure you two get a peek at her soon. Maybe arrange a bonding date for them.”
Cami’s infectious smile tells me she’s already in love with the idea. “And what about the third kitten that was delivered here?”
“He’s in good hands,” Dex assures. “Another little boy. Tiniest of the bunch, but also the loudest. We call him Biscuit. One of our techs takes him home each night to assist with late-night bottle feedings.”
“Aw,” Cami says, hand over her heart. “Lucky little guy.”
Dr. Ochoa steps in, wearing his usual calm presence and a look of quiet amusement.
With Dex’s help, he listens to both kittens’ hearts, checks their weight, then straightens with a smile.
“They look great. Gaining weight. Lively. No signs of dehydration.” Dr. Ochoa gives Stripe a gentle scratch behind theears, earning a tiny purr in return. “Are they sleeping through the night?”
“At least six hours now.” I slip my hands in my pockets. “And it’s been glorious.”
“Awesome. Looks like they’re thriving under your care.” He scribbles something on the chart. “I’d like to keep them for a few hours, though. Run some tests, give them a few shots.”
“Wait,” Cami says, brows pulling in. “You mean…without us?”
Dr. Ochoa nods. “They’ll be fine. Dex and I can handle them. Totally routine. We’ll call you when they’re ready to go home.” He pauses. “Assuming you two are up for continued fostering?”
“Yes,” Cami says, all high-pitched.
I look at Dr. Ochoa. “We’ll definitely keep fostering.”
