Daniel asked for the clinic’s address and left the hospital.
At the veterinary clinic, he found Duke lying on a padded examination table.
The Great Dane lifted his head as soon as Daniel entered.
His tail moved weakly against the blanket.
“Hey, big boy,” Daniel whispered.
Duke tried to stand.
Daniel dropped to his knees and wrapped his arms around the dog’s enormous neck.
“It’s okay. I’m here.”
For several seconds, he couldn’t speak.
He had spent the night wondering whether Duke had hurt his sister.
Now he understood that the dog had been trapped in the same dangerous environment and had been desperately trying to get help.
The veterinarian explained that Duke needed observation and further assessment. Fortunately, he was responsive, and the clinic was providing supportive treatment while monitoring his condition.
Daniel remained beside him until morning.
At 7:40 a.m., his phone rang.
It was the hospital.
“Mr. Cole, your sister is awake.”
