Page 12 of Saved By Love at Christmas
* * *
BEN
Although I hadn’t been on call last night, the vet on duty had asked me to go in because she wanted a second opinion. Someone’s beloved pet cat had been run over. We tried everything to save her, but her injuries were too severe. Having to tell the family that she was gone, like always, broke my heart. But it was part of the job and something I had to deal with. I worked through until late morning and had popped out for a quick bite to eat when I spotted Ruby. She was about to go into one of our favourite haunts. I preferred to support small independent shops and cafes whenever I could.
“Are you sitting down or grabbing a takeaway?” I asked, breaking our silence.
“Having a very quick lunch break before preparing tea for Grandad and me. What about you?”
“Same. Well, I mean having a quick break before going back to work. Can I join you?”
Her smile left me breathless. “Yes, that would be great.”
We headed inside and gave our order to the waitress. Ruby chose a table in the corner. Her eyes flitted around the room, and when it appeared no one was looking at her, she relaxed. Was she afraid someone would recognise her and ask awkward questions? I’d make sure they didn’t.
“So, how does it feel to be home?” I asked as we waited for our order.
“It feels great. Grandad has been feeding me up and we’ve had walks along the river. This is the first time I’ve ventured into town. I’m a little nervous. I’m just afraid if anyone asks me about Jamie that I’ll fall apart. Even the mention of his name reminds me of him hitting me.”
“You’re bound to be apprehensive. We all know how small this town is. But you’re doing fine.”
She smiled. “It would be so easy to hide away, but I need to get out there again. You look tired.”
I ran a hand across my face. “I gave a second opinion to the duty vet about putting a cat to sleep last night, so I was out late.”
“Oh, Ben. I’m so sorry.” She covered her hand with mine. The warmth of her touch travelled up the length of my arm.
“It’s the hardest part of the job. But at least we put her to sleep painlessly.”
“Thank you for not contacting me. I really needed the space to be with Grandad.”
“No problem, Rubes. I was tempted to ring, but I respected the fact you wanted some space. Marie was desperate to call you, but I threatened her with all sorts.”
“Bless her. I’m looking forward to seeing her, even if it means I’ll get the third degree.”
I laughed. My sister always seemed to live life at warp speed.
“Did you come to get anything in particular or just for a change of scenery?”
“Both. I wanted to get ingredients for a beef stew for Grandad. It’s his favourite.”
“Lucky Tom.”
The waitress brought over our orders, and we ate in companionable silence.
“I’m thinking of getting a cat. Animals are such good therapy. I know Grandad won’t mind. As you know, we had cats when I was growing up. Animals give and receive love in equal measures, and they never judge. I like that.”
My smile widened. “That’s what I like to hear.”
“I may even volunteer at one of the rehoming centres. It’s always good to give back.”
“Let me know when you’re ready. I can put you in touch with one of them.”
“Thank you, Dr Driscoll.” She returned my smile.
“Oh my God. Ruby James, is that you?”
I watched as Ruby’s whole demeanour changed. Her eyes widened and her hands shook. She dropped her half-eaten sandwich back on the plate and folded her hands in her lap beneath the table to calm them. Her bottom lip trembled and her eyes filled with tears.
