My Perfect Imperfections by Jalpa Williby Read Free Book Online Page A

He has become my best friend. I swear he can sense my every emotion. Maybe Layna was right about animals. Maybe they do have a sixth sense. Maybe that’s the reason I don’t need to talk for him to understand my feelings.
    Although I have no will to leave the house, Dad forces me to go to college. He comes into my room one day and says, “You can’t lock yourself in your room forever, Lily. It doesn’t work that way. You may hate me for this, but since you’re in no state to make any decisions, I’m going to make them for you. You will go to college and get your degree. You have no choice in that matter.”
    And that’s that. I know my father enough to know that when he puts his foot down on something, that’s the end of the discussion.
    I schedule my classes so they’re either lumped together before lunch on a particular day or after lunch. That way, I don’t have to worry about eating lunch there. Luckily, Dad’s job is flexible enough where he can take me and pick me up.
    I force myself to go through the motions. Not because I agree. I do it for him. After all, Dad has to be strong not only for me, but also for Mom.
    I soon learn that college keeps me busy. The busier I remain, the more the pain stays away. Some days are actually somewhat tolerable.
     

     
    When Dad brings me home from college one day, I sense immediately that something is wrong with Duke. He normally greets me at the door, but today, he has remained in this doggy bed.
    I immediately drive my wheelchair to him, and he slowly lifts his head at me.
    Dad follows me and sits next to Duke. “What’s wrong, boy?”
    He then brings him some food and water, but Duke refuses both. Dad tries to stand him up, but after a couple of steps, Duke collapses.
    “Let’s take him to the vet, Lily, and ask the doctor what’s wrong with our boy.” He calls Mom at work and notifies her.
    My head spins the entire ride to the vet. Feeling nauseated from worrying, I wait anxiously until the vet can speak to us. We find out that Duke seems to be having mini strokes. He says sometimes they stop on their own, but occasionally they can lead to a major stroke.
    “Duke is old now, and sometimes this happens. Really, unless you’re willing to spend a lot of money on tests and surgeries, I don’t know what else you can do. Because of his age, I don’t even recommend any surgeries. He probably wouldn’t survive it.”
    I hold back the tears until I reach home. Once Dad puts Duke on his bed, I request to lie down with him. Dad places me next to Duke, and I hug him tight.
    When Mom rushes home from work, she lies down with us as well, right there on the floor. “I’m so sorry, Lily.” Hearing Mom’s shaky voice and seeing her red eyes, I know she’s been crying as well.
    The rest of the evening, I refuse to do anything else but stay with Duke. Finally, as the night progresses, Dad carries both of us to my bed.
    As I continue to cuddle with Duke all night, I think of all of our happy moments. I wonder if he can sense thoughts because once in a while he kisses my face or my hand.
    Duke, you are my everything. I wish you would stay with me. Besides Layna, you’ve been the only one who has understood me. What am I going to do without you?
    Duke once again kisses me.
    I hope you’re not in any pain. God, please don’t let him hurt. If he’s coming to you, please help him find Layna .
    Through the tears, the thought of Layna and Duke being together gives me some sense of peace.
    As Duke’s breathing becomes shallower, I can’t seem to stop my sobbing. Mom and Dad must have heard me because they run into my room. They both kneel around the bed, knowing the end is near.
    Duke, I love you and always will. Thank you for being my best friend.
    Somehow, Duke manages to open his eyes. He looks straight at me and kisses my tears. Just as quickly, his eyes close, and I can barely hear him breathing. Desperately, I try to give him one more message.
    Duke, look for Layna.