When Betty lifted him, Vanessa stepped forward instinctively, ready to stop her. But Betty held the pup with unexpected certainty. She adjusted her grip once and began walking back toward the house without looking behind her.
Vanessa followed, unease growing with every step. The pup was too thin. Too quiet. His ribs pressed visibly against his skin. She wondered how long he had been abandoned and whether bringing him home was a mistake she would soon regret.