Chapter 17

Sofia had been waiting in the chilly reception area for what seemed like an eternity, her nerves on edge. Where was Mateo? Why had he sent her on this bizarre errand that ended with discovering a mistreated dog? It all felt so perplexing.

Just as she was considering leaving, the doors burst open and a vet tech emerged, peeling off her gloves. "Excuse me, are you the one who brought in the dog?"

Sofia stood up eagerly. "Yes, that's me. How is he? Will he be okay?"

The tech's expression turned solemn. "He's stable for now, but he's endured severe injuries. Multiple fractures, internal bleeding... it's dire."

Sofia gasped, her hand covering her mouth. "Who could be so cruel to an innocent animal?"

"It's unfortunately not uncommon," the tech replied grimly. "Dogs used for fighting, abused by owners, left injured on the streets... people can be heartless."

A chill