Just for a second.
But it was long enough for the silence to deepen.
Atlas shifted slightly, his paw trembling despite his effort to remain still. Grant tightened his grip on the leash, though not in restraint—more in reassurance.
“He saved lives tonight,” Grant said, his voice quieter now, but steadier somehow.
Evan looked at the dog again.
And then he didn’t step away.
Instead, he reached for a fresh set of gauze.
“I’m not treating an animal,” he said, his voice calm but firm. “I’m stopping active bleeding in an emergency setting.”
Patricia’s eyes narrowed slightly. “You’re putting your job on the line.”
“Maybe,” Evan replied. “But I’m not going to stand here and watch him bleed out on our floor.”
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