That night, Josh and his new four-legged friend sit next to the phone, waiting for Eddie’s call. When the promised ring comes many hours later, Josh is relieved to hear the sound of Eddie’s voice. “How is everything?” Josh asks, lowering the volume on the TV in his bedroom.
“Not very good.”
“What is the doctor saying?”
“The last time I spoke to a doctor was when I arrived. He told me Shelly only has a few weeks to live—if that.”
Josh clamps his eyes shut against the burning tears. “I’m sorry, Eddie.”
“I can’t handle any more death,” Eddie says.
Josh glances up at the TV mounted on the wall, where a horror movie is playing. He hears Eddie crying. He clicks the OFF button and turns his attention back to Eddie on the line. “You’re tired, Eddie. Can you get some sleep?”
“Yeah. Soon. But
