Turning thirteen was proving to be a difficult transition for everyone in the family. — Today’s Author

Memories flooded as they all sat in the living room, waiting for the clock to strike. None of them felt the joy of a birthday. Silence thronged.

Rick lay there, too weak to move a limb. How could he possibly know that in a matter of minutes, he would turn thirteen?

How would he have reacted had he been able to move at all?

Kevin forcefully wiped a tear from his eye. Despite his continued efforts, they kept incessantly falling. He looked over at Rick — his buddy, his best friend for thirteen years. Goodbyes are never easy.

Kevin stirred as Rick opened his eyes a fraction. It was the signal; he rushed to his friend’s side. “I’m here buddy,” he said in a falsely cheery voice. Something Rick surely would notice.

Rick blinked slowly, the effort showing in his tiny beetle eyes. Kevin stared back at him, trying to smile reassuringly.

The clock struck, and with it came Rick’s thirteen birthday.

The doctor whispered to Kevin’s mother, “This is the first time I’ve seen a dog live so long. You should be proud.”

Rick was staring, blankly.