He hoped his wife knew him well enough to realize it. Try as he would to get past it, he knew it would eventually drive them apart. It was a gamble; a...l he could do was hope and pray she would make the right decision. A tear broke free from the corner of his eye and ran down his cheek to the pillow below; it would be followed by several more before he finally drifted to sleep.It had been a full month since the accident; Carl was sitting in a chair by the window staring out at little green buds. See you Allen.’ ‘Bye Allen,’ Hollie called as Mary rushed her out. Allen watched them leave with an odd expression on his face. The X-Mart owner came in to work at 7:30 and relieved Allen. The somber vet was the best overnight guy he had ever hired. Nothing ever seemed to phase Allen, be it lot lizards, would-be robbers, or inclement weather. That is, nothing HAD ever seemed to phase him till this morning. Allen barely said anything, unless directly asked, but he was fantastic at following. “Just taking my morning walk Jeff, how about you?” I asked.“I got a report about a possible gang fight in progress at the convenience store down the hill. Did you see anything?” he asked.“Nope the only thing I noticed was a few kids high on weed hanging out in the parking lot harassing the customers,” I said.“Well, if you see anything give us a call,” he said.“I’ll do it,” I replied. I really didn’t want to explain the hiking stick with the weighted handle and camo paint job to some half ass. ‘Ma, stop that, I’m here.’ Jed said as he let go and walked to his seat where his placemat was set. He smiled at his mom as he squeezed Cameron’s shoulders. Those two never gave up on him, EVER. He sat and ate quietly as everyone stared at him. He looked up. ‘You know, I could always leave if you guys feel that I’m interrupting-‘ ‘NOOO-‘ everyone practically screamed in unison. Jed forced a smile as they all started talking at the same time. ‘Miss Gwen’s granddaughter is moving in next to go to.