Once there, Barb gave them an update on the beagle’s condition. She was healing well, but still needed another week or so under veterinary care. Cord and Shallie visited the dog, then chatted with Barbara, getting her opinion on the current crimes involving the illegal release of animals, which had become major news in the county. Barb said she was appalled, but thought it might be a matter of vindictiveness against the individual owners. Shallie knew Cord and Eli weren’t buying that theory, but didn’t mention it. Carly spent the entire visit with the beagle, talking softly and stroking those silky ears. She also paid attention to the other recovering pets.

Just as Shallie came into the recovery room to summon her, the Lewises showed up, also to visit the dog. They suggested meeting at Bailey’s for lunch. As Len pointed out, the restaurant seemed to be the center of their universe—something that now made sense to Shallie.

Cord, Shallie and Carly got to the restaurant first and secured a table for five, since the place was already getting crowded. Brynne wasn’t on the lunch shift. Instead they were greeted by a pleasant young man named Barry who told them he was from Detroit and had recently come here to “experience small-town prairie life.”

The three of them waited to order until the Lewises arrived, which they did within fifteen minutes. Menus were consulted, meals chosen and conversation was, as usual, pleasant. Then Len made their announcement, his and Mary Jean’s. They wanted to adopt the beagle, but felt they needed to discuss it with the three of them first. He was looking at Carly as he said this.

Cord told them he considered it an “excellent idea.” Shallie said she did, too, but thought Carly’s opinion was as important as theirs, maybe more so.

After an emotional pause Carly responded with a sunny smile and gave her consent. And Shallie knew that was exactly how the Lewises saw it—as consent. They thanked her with relieved smiles of their own.

“I’m happy about it,” Carly said. “I wish I could keep the little girl, but I’m…thrilled she’ll be going to such a good home, with such good people.”

Shallie reached over to clasp the girl’s hand and saw tears in her eyes. “It’s the best thing, Carly,” she whispered. “The best thing for the dog, and for you. You’ll know she’s safe, happy, loved. And as the Lewises said, we’ll arrange visits so you’ll get to see her.”

Carly nodded. She didn’t eat much, stirring her chowder repeatedly, not really looking at anyone.

Eventually, she spoke again. “I think we should get serious about names.”