A Mate After A Pup

Harper’s POV     “Harper Jade Newton, congratulations on completing your residency with Waller Hospital!” The room boomed with applause. I did it. I completed my pediatrics residency at the age of 27.      “Have you accepted any positions yet?” Tyler asked as he hugged me. Tyler has been my closest friend all through college, medical school and residency. He was a year ahead of me and works at the pediatrics clinic adjacent to Waller Hospital, thanks to his father. His father owned the hospital and created a clinic for Tyler to run when he completed his residency.     “No, I don’t think I am going to accept anything yet. I want to take some time off to visit with my parents and brother before I jump into something. I miss them.” I haven’t seen my family in a few months. Even though the packhouse is only 45 minutes from the hospital, I rented a small apartment in town when I started medical school so I wouldn’t have to drive back and forth during the week. I did the drive the first few years in hopes I would find my mate but I never did so I was determined to continue my education after I received my Bachelor’s degree.     When I started medical school, I moved into the city and visited home every weekend. Once I began my residency, I only came every few months due to the hectic schedules and random on call times. I really did miss my family, but my human friends didn’t know I was moving back home to work at the pack hospital. It has always been my dream to be a Pediatrician.     “Well if you ever decide you want to be my partner, I will always make room at my clinic.” he winked. Tyler was single and has always been extremely friendly with me. I honestly have never seen him more than a friend but I wasn’t sure if he felt the same way. I always made my human friends know that I was not going to date while I was in school. My excuse was I wanted to focus my time on my studies but really, I was waiting for my mate. I assume that if he wanted to be more than friends, he respected my wishes instead and never pushed me to be more. He was a great friend and support.     “Thanks!” We dug into the cake Dr. James made for me. For a busy doctor, I am surprised she had time to bake me a cake. I am so ecstatic. It’s so delicious.     “Harper has been one of the most exceptional doctors I have ever had the chance to train and work with. It is a true loss that she has not accepted my offer to join our pediatrics team here at Waller Hospital but I do believe she will go on and do great things. Harper, you are incredible and I am so proud of you! Please come back and visit us often.” Dr. James said and looked me in the eyes with the biggest smile. I can’t believe how much joy it has been working with her. This is such a bittersweet day for me.