“That’s great news,” Thomas replied. “So, I take it you’ll be heading out now?”
“Yeah. We need to get on the road,” Cathy answered. “I can stay if you need me to.”
Thomas dismissed the offer with a wave of his hand. “Not at all. You go to your daughter, and get this man to his wife. Me and Butch will be fine.”
“You sure?” Cathy asked.
“I am. I’ll sweet talk Ms. Nurse-lady over there about Butch as we get things wrapped up here.” Thomas winked, then smiled.
Cathy gave him one last hug. “Thank you for everything, and sorry about all of the trouble.”
“Not a problem, sweetie. That’s what family is for.”
Butch groaned and nudged her hand. She dropped to a knee and rubbed the sides of his head.
“Thanks again for everything, sir. It’s much appreciated,” Russell said, while extending his hand.
Thomas grabbed hold and gave him a firm handshake. “You’re welcome, son. Get back to that wife of yours.”
“Will do, sir.”
Russell knelt before Butch. His hand rubbed under his maw as the cane corso licked his face. Russell didn’t lean away or complain. Instead, he took the loving gesture and embraced the beast’s neck. “You take care of him, all right?”
Butch groaned and gave Russell one last lick before he stood up.
“Looks like you got some bonding time in,” Thomas observed.
“That we did,” Russell said.
“If you need a ride, I still got my other vehicle,” Thomas said. “It should be good to go.”
Cathy glanced to the entrance. “Thanks, but we found one. Besides, your SUV is toast, and you’ll need it.”
“Good deal. I’m glad you found a ride. Give Amber my best.”
“I will.” Cathy gave Thomas one last hug before walking away.
Russell shook his hand and nodded.
They headed out of the hospital to the Bronco where Max was looking out the cracked window. He pawed at the glass and paced about the backseat as they loaded up into the SUV. The German shepherd licked the side of Russell’s face as he started the vehicle up.
“We ready to do this?” Russell asked.
Cathy nodded. “Philadelphia, here we come.”
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Also by Derek Shupert
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About the Author
Derek Shupert is an emerging Science Fiction Author known for his captivating dystopian storylines and post-apocalyptic-laden plots. With various books and anthologies underway, he is also the author of the Afflicted series and Sentry Squad.
Outside of the fantastical world of sci-fi, Derek serves as the Assistant Vice President at Woodforest National Bank. During his free time, he enjoys reading, exercising, and watching apocalyptic movies and TV shows like Mad Max and The Walking Dead. Above all, he is a family man who cherishes nothing more than quality time spent with his loved ones.
To find out more about Derek Shupert and his forthcoming publications, visit his official website at www.derekshupert.com.
Survive The Fall | Book 2 | Madness Rising Page 19