Together, they settled into a quiet routine. Derrick rose early to job-hunt, leaving Rusty with a bowl of kibble and a makeshift bed. On good days, a potential employer would consider him; on bad days, he’d return empty-handed. Rusty would greet him nonetheless with gentle enthusiasm, as if to say, “We’ll keep trying.”
Each month brought new financial shortfalls. Derrick sold off small possessions—an old TV, a spare chair—just to cover utilities. Even so, Rusty remained steadfast, sensing the tension yet offering unconditional affection. When doubt crept into Derrick’s thoughts, Rusty’s calm presence grounded him, a silent reminder that life still had value.