Todd looked over at Nick and patted his knee under the table. “Nick did great.”
Nick felt a surge of warmth from the pride on Todd’s face and in his voice.
“Carol.”
Porter nodded. “I’ve arranged for her to oversee your studies if for some reason I can’t help you finish. Two of my associates at the hospital in Yellowknife City will start coming to Elk’s Ridge every couple of weeks to take over my more difficult cases and help you when needed. You’ll mainly need to concentrate on caring for people’s animals.”
“Are you sick? You’re talking like you’re going to die,” Nick said softly. Something cold and sharp started prickling in his chest.
“Nick,” Porter said in the gentle voice he often used on patients. “I’m not going to be here forever. I’ve had a good long life, but I have to face th
