Page 5 of Mail Order Splash

“You sure? I could help you get all the way back in.” I smiled. “I wasn’t doing anything important.”

“You seem to have a bunch of friends waiting on you, based on all the people waving.” She nodded toward the yacht. “Can I pay you for your help?”

“I didn’t help to get paid. I am curious, though, where are you taking this dolphin?”

“Dalt, we gotta go. The captain says if we don’t head back now we won’t make it back for the party on time.” Eli floated up to us on his jet ski. “You know how it is when we’re late.”

“Yeah, I know, and Kellan is with us as well.” I frowned. “I’d rather stay and help, but I gotta go. I hope she makes it.”

“You wanna name her before you go?” She squinted up into the sun.

“I can pick her name? That would be so amazing.” I climbed up on the back of the jet ski. “How about…”

Chapter Three

KLEINE

Well, I didn’t see that name coming.

“You know, ‘cause she was caught in the netting.” He chuckled. “So, Netty. Do you hate it?”

“I don’t hate it; I was expecting something else is all. But, cute idea.”

“You were judging me because I came off of that big obnoxious yacht, weren’t you?” he asked. “Would you think differently if I was only a passenger on it?”

Maybe, but you’re still on it, so you play with the rich. Don’t say that aloud.

“It had nothing to do with the cruise liner over there, but thanks for naming her.” I motioned for Josh to start going again. “Bye.”

I was glad he had to go. I didn’t want him going back to the rescue that was falling apart. It would have been too embarrassing. The water tanks were the only areas I’d been able to maintain, and I’d been able to keep everyone fed, including myself. Every fiber in me had me determined to bring the aquarium back to its original state and have guests visit like in the old days, especially schools, then maybe move on to paying customers.

“You want me to move the others out of the holding area until you evaluate her?” Josh called down once we were inside our water space.

“Yeah, go ahead, she’s weak still. Might have to put her in the sling.” I rested my head on hers. “Come on, girl, you’re safe now, but I need you to help me get you better.”

She wiggled just a little and tried to move her fin. I’d have been happier if I heard any sound from her. We gently moved her into the sling that held her in the water but up enough to breathe.

“Good girl. When you feel better, I have some friends for you to play with.” I rubbed her sides. “I’m wondering where your pod was, and why did they leave you?”

“It would be easy if she could tell you.” My mentor, Dr. Garcia, lowered himself to the edge of the holding area. “What do we have?”

“She has at least ten cuts. Only a few are bad.” I stayed with her, splashing her with water. “She was under for long periods, and very weak.”

“She may have water in her lungs. Looks like your floating device worked. You want me to have a listen or do you have it?”

“I always want your opinion. Where would I be without you?” I shook my head, smiling. “I may not have made it through to residency.”

“You didn’t need me, and you still don’t.” He slid into the water. “Go take a break. You must be exhausted from what I heard about this rescue.”

“If you’re sure. But don’t let her off the floater yet.”

“She doesn’t look anywhere near ready to be off of it. Thank goodness you made this thing.”

“I would have lost her out there without it.” I went to her front, looking into her eyes. “Come on, girl, let me see you.”

“Don’t worry about the weakness. She looks young; she should be alright once the stress settles down.” He listened to her lungs. “We may have some pneumonia set in. I’ll start her on meds.”

“I’ll get my stuff. Josh is getting the lift ready.” I stood from the edge of the water.

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