“...And that’s what happened.”

  The energy in the room was weird in a comfortable way. Zoe’s face was equal parts awestruck and concern. Even her masked assistant was riveted, eyes wide with shock. What made it truly bizarre was that the gang of animal ghosts had all gone quiet and were either watching Ever or listening intently to his story. This in turn meant that Mimi also wasn’t trembling anymore in his arms.

  “The world needs more people like you who would put their lives on the line to protect animals,” Zoe said, “isn’t that right Jin?”

  “Yes Zoe,” she squeaked, her eyes shining with admiration. “You’re a hero.”

  “I-I don’t know,” Ever said, feeling his face becoming warm. He couldn't remember the last time he'd received a compliment.

  Mimi squirmed out from Ever’s arms, jumping onto the examination table. Her nails clicked on the metal surface as she turned around to look at him. ^You are my hero!^ Happy barks, accompanied by furious tail wagging.

  Ever blushed, only just stopping himself from responding with "thank you".

  “Well,” Zoe said, pushing off the bench behind her, “let’s have a look at this good girl then, shall we…”

  Ever watched in fascination as the vet and her nurse hovered around the examination table inspecting Mimi. The dog became very still but even from the distance where he was standing, Ever could see that she wasn’t shaking anymore.

  Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.

  They took her for x-rays in another room, looked at the scans, nodding and pointing to specific spots. The ghost animals were strangely respectful of Zoe, as if seeing that she was tending to one of their own, they left her be. Most of the dog ghosts had disappeared, probably wandering between the walls of the waiting and examination rooms, while the cat ghosts napped. There was feline soul that perched itself high on top of a cupboard, peering down at Ever disapprovingly.

  “OK.”

  Ever looked back at Zoe. She pulled off her blue, latex gloves, combing back some stray bangs that had fallen across her face. “So,” she said, clearing her throat, “it looks like there aren’t any fractures or breaks in Mimi’s jaw, which is great news.”

  “It is,” Ever responded.

  “In further good news, the rest of her body looks to be in good working order: teeth are fine, no gum problems, nice shiny coat and most importantly, she seems to be happy.”

  Mimi glanced reproachfully at Ever. ^I told you so.^ A single bark, followed by a whine and a shake of her head.

  Zoe turned to assistant, who was sorting some files in the corner. “Jin, could you speak with Carol and see if Dr Mandalay can see my next patient?”

  The nurse dipped her head, quietly leaving the room.

  “There’s only one more thing to do now,” Zoe said.

  Ever was going to pick up Mimi again and hesitated. “What’s that?”

  “I’m going to examine your injury,” Zoe said, a sly grin appearing on her face. “Take off your shirt.”