Thessara's POV

July appeared at the veterinary clinic the next afternoon. I saw her through the window first—standing on the sidewalk, staring at the door like it might bite her. Her hands were shoved deep in her jacket pockets, shoulders hunched against the cold. She stood there for a full five minutes before she finally pushed through the door.

The bell chimed. One look at her face told me everything. Red-rimmed eyes. Hair pulled back in a messy ponytail. Still wearing yesterday's jeans ...