Lila’s eyes widened with surprise. “You did?”
Doc nodded with enthusiasm. “I sure did. And the Matterhorn, the spinning teacups, and we toured Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. Oh, and did you know there’s a Big Thunder Mountain Railroad? Same name as our town.” He chuckled. “Who knew?”
She listened with rapt interest. This was a side of Doc Tillman she’d never seen. His entire demeanor was different. His eyes sparkled with a newfound excitement, and a genuine smile lit up his face as he recounted his adventures.
Lila couldn’t help but feel a twinge of awe at the transformation before her. Gone was the condescending tone and aloof demeanor she had grown accustomed to—in its place was a warmth and openness she hadn’t expected from Doc Tillman. As she gazed into his eyes, she saw a glimmer of joy and passion that she had never witnessed before. It was as if her boss had shed his old self and emerged anew, revealing a side of him she had never known existed.
“Well, that’s good to hear, Doc. So glad you had a good time.”
The phone buzzed in his pocket, and he plucked it out. He looked at the tiny screen and smiled. “Well, hello sweetheart,” he answered, beaming.
Lila continued to listen, still amazed at the profound change in Doc.
“Yes, Winnie. Yes, dear. No, I haven’t told her yet.” He smiled as he listened. “Okay, yeah. I’ll try to be home early. I love you, too.” He whispered something then and chuckled. “I look forward to it.”
Doc pocketed his phone and opened his mouth. “We have something we need to discuss,” he told her.
Suddenly, they heard the front office door open. “Doc! Come quick!”
Both Doc and Lila raced into the waiting room to find Earl Dunlop rushing toward them cradling his ginger-colored kitty in his arms.
“Fluffy is sick again, Doc!” Earl announced, his voice filled with concern as he made his way to the front counter.
Doc Tillman gently pushed Lila aside, his eyebrows knit with worry. “Here, give Fluffy to me.”
Earl shifted uncomfortably and quickly did as he was told. “Doc, you have to do something.” He placed his precious pet into Doc’s waiting hands.
Lila’s heart dropped as she glanced between the frantic man and his lethargic cat. “Wait here, Earl.”
She followed her boss to the treatment area in the back of the clinic.
Doc Tillman’s commitment to saving every creature was evident in his every action. With a gentle touch and a determined spirit, he worked tirelessly to heal the beloved pets of their town, including Earl’s cat, Fluffy.
Despite his best efforts, there were moments when the harsh reality of veterinary care was painfully clear. Even given Doc’s expertise and compassion, he couldn’t save them all. Each loss weighed heavily on him, casting a somber shadow over his demeanor. In those moments, she couldn’t help but admire his dedication, even as he faced the heart-wrenching truth that not every animal could be saved.
Sadly, when Doc looked up at her, she knew.
This was one of those cases.
12
Fluffy’s funeral was held that evening in Earl’s backyard. Several townspeople showed up in support of the large, gruff man who ran the county snow removal fleet. He was their friend, and he was broken at the loss of his pet.
Lila approached Earl, gently patting his arm. “You did everything you could, Earl. Fluffy knew she was loved.”
Albie, standing nearby, chimed in with a reassuring nod. “That’s right, Earl. You gave that kitty a good life.”
Pastor Pete stepped forward, offering a comforting hand on Earl’s shoulder. “Fluffy was more than just a pet, Earl. She was family. And remember, in the eyes of the Lord, all creatures great and small find their way to heaven.”
Earl nodded, his eyes misty with emotion. “Thanks, Pastor Pete. Means a lot.”
Meanwhile, the Knit Wits had taken charge of the food, and they certainly didn’t disappoint. As friends gathered in Earl’s backyard, they were greeted with a sumptuous spread of homemade dishes. The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked brisket, savory potato side dishes, and freshly baked bread. There were casseroles overflowing with cheesy goodness, bowls of steaming soup, and platters of delectable desserts. It was a true feast, a testament to the Knit Wits’ culinary prowess and their unwavering support for their grieving friend.
Oma Griffith passed a plate to Earl. “Honey, eat something.”
He wiped at the corner of his eyes and took the plate, thanking her. He loaded it with mounds of food. Minutes later, he was seen eating like he hadn’t had a meal in days.
It wasn’t until the following morning that Lila remembered what Doc had said to his wife on the phone before Earl had shown up with his sick pet.
