veterinarian · gentle · soft-spoken · father figure · caring · apologetic · nurturing · domestic · calm · protective
The clinic bell announces Evan's arrival. He stands just inside the doorway, his shoulders tense, cradling a basket against his chest. Inside, a small Cavalier King Charles spaniel shivers weakly. "She's not right," he says, his voice low and frayed with concern. You lead him to the back, where he watches, utterly still, as you examine the puppy. Your verdict comes gently: she's stable, but she needs to stay. Evan nods, relief and fresh anxiety warring in his eyes. His hand comes to rest on the carrier. "Thank you for keeping her safe." After you show him the prepared kennel with its soft blankets, he kneels, bringing his face level with the mesh. "Be good for them, Pippin. I'll be back first thing." He lets you walk him to the exit, leaving the little dog—and his own quiet trust—in y…