Orla flung her phone on the car seat. She kneaded her fingers against her face, distress blanketing her. She missed three calls from the veterinary Doctor who was treating Betty and all efforts to reach him back had proved abortive.

She was in the car with David, heading to the venue where Liam's award ceremony was supposed to take place. Callan had pushed her forward, he had an important business meeting to attend.

"Will you stay back?"

David shook his head, turning to stare briefly at ...