Chapter 45

The dog’s frantic whimpers cut through the air, and Finn winced, then moved to aid Trent in controlling the thrashing Mike.

“It’s just a dog,” Trent said. “Don’t put your life at risk for a pet—

“He’s not just a pet. If you’ve never had a dog, you won’t understand.”

“There’s others.”

“He’s irreplaceable,” Mike snapped. “I don’t want to even think about others when mine is still alive, when he needs me.”

Finn swallowed to relieve the uncomfortable ache in his throat, but it didn’t help. He felt Mike weaken in his struggle, and his body slumped in defeat. He panted, and his eyes were glued to his helpless dog.

Trent hooked Mike under the armpits and dragged him back. Finn followed with his back to the sea. He couldn’t see the dog, but he could hear its whines. It was scared and needed help while it battled for survival.

Mike was pale, his eyes filled with tears. It was inevitable, the dog was too far out, and the current was too erratic and strong for it to swim towards them.