style="font-size:15px;"> “Great idea,” Dr. Bradley said. “It’s amazing what they can do in reducing stress.”
Maybe she needed two—or more—dogs. She nodded, even as she wondered whether he meant more than the words indicated. “Thank you for giving me this chance. I’ll keep in close touch.”
“Good. Don’t hesitate to call me if you have a question.”
But she would hesitate. He didn’t look well at all. He skin looked pasty and pale, and his breathing was labored. She’d already stayed too long.
She said goodbye and left.
Kerry was waiting for her when she arrived back at the house.
“Where’s your brother?” Lisa asked.
“He didn’t say.”
Lisa didn’t press her. She didn’t want them tattling on each other. That, she knew, was no way to build trust, which was already sorely lacking.
“Did he eat anything?”
“Some toast, then took off.”
Lisa closed her eyes. Secrecy had become a way of life with him.
At least he couldn’t get in trouble in a town this small. She suspected she would hear about it instantly. She comforted herself with the thought that he was exploring the town, not huddled in his bedroom with his cell phone.
Still, she called him. To her surprise, he answered almost immediately.
“Where are you?” she asked.
“Just hanging around.”
“Meet some kids?”
Silence.
“When will you be back?” she tried again.
“Don’t know exactly.”
“What about lunch?”
“I’m not hungry.”
“You’re always hungry.”
“Not since you made me leave Chicago.” Bitterness was thick in his voice.
She ignored the dig. “I’ll be at the clinic this afternoon,” she said. “And home by five. I want you there for dinner.”
“All right. Gotta go.” He hung up.
He gave up too easily. It worried her.
Lisa looked at her watch, noted the time. She ran a brush through her hair and added a touch of lipstick. Then she went into the kitchen. “Let’s go see about that dog, kiddo,” she said.
The delighted look on her sister’s face lightened her heart. She hoped they could find a suitable dog. At least her sister would have some happiness and maybe her brother would, as well.
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