This Golden Retriever had all the breed's iconic features: a radiant golden coat that shone like sunshine, plush and silky, so soft it seemed like you could sink your hand right into it. Its ears drooped slightly, and its eyes held a warmth and tenderness that made anyone feel at ease. Those bright brown eyes conveyed boundless wisdom and kindness, as if they could sense every emotion in the room. Evan couldn't help but think that this dog had the air of an ideal companion.
Yet, what surprised Evan most was the dog's demeanor. Unlike the other dogs who showed curiosity and excitement upon his approach, this one simply watched him, neither wary nor overly friendly, as though they were already familiar. It made no move to approach nor showed any signs of unease, merely observing with a serene gaze, like a quiet, thoughtful observer.
"This Golden Retriever's name is Max; he's Mr. Damian's favorite," Lucas explained softly, a note of respect in his voice, as though he didn't want to disturb the peaceful creature.
Hearing this, Evan looked at Max again. To be regarded as a "favorite" by someone like Damian, Max must have something special. As if understanding the conversation, Max tilted his head slightly, slowly blinking his deep brown eyes in response to Evan's gaze.
Evan crouched down to meet Max's eyes, speaking gently. "Hello, Max. I'm Evan, nice to meet you." Max continued to look at him with those calm eyes, wagging his tail just a little, as if welcoming him with reserved friendliness.
Evan smiled, feeling a subtle closeness. After a moment's thought, he reached out his hand, palm up, pausing mid-air to let Max decide if he wanted to approach.
Max tilted his head as though considering, then placed one heavy paw in Evan's palm—a gesture of greeting or promise. After a brief moment, he withdrew his paw and turned, striding away with a quiet elegance. Evan felt an inexplicable curiosity and warmth toward the intelligent dog, as though Max saw right through him.
With these thoughts lingering, Evan began checking each dog, silently admiring the impeccable care they'd all received. Each dog looked lively, fur soft and eyes relaxed, clearly given the best care possible. It seemed that Damian not only hired regular vet check-ups but put considerable effort into making sure these dogs lived in comfort and love.
When it was Max's turn, the dignified Retriever showed no hint of unease, standing quietly while Evan gently examined him. Everything seemed normal. However, when Evan signaled Max that he was free to go, Max didn't leave; instead, he sat next to him, with a hint of sadness in his eyes.
Evan chuckled, leaning in to whisper, "What? Don't want me to leave just yet?" He thought it was just a tease, but to his surprise, Max gave a subtle nod! Evan's eyes widened in shock, staring at him in wonder. Just what was going on with this dog?
He crouched down, speaking softly. "Do you feel uncomfortable somewhere? Need a more thorough check-up?" Max lowered his head, gazing at him with a hint of understanding, nodding once more. Evan's surprise gave way to concern and curiosity.
Turning to Lucas, he said thoughtfully, "Max seems unusually perceptive, and something seems a bit off. Could I take him to the clinic for a more thorough examination?"
Lucas smiled gently and said, "No need to worry; we have the most advanced medical equipment here as well. Any examination you need can be done right here. But since it's already late, why don't you come back tomorrow and take your time with a thorough checkup for Max?"
At that moment, a rumble of thunder boomed, cutting Lucas off mid-sentence. Outside, darkness blanketed the sky, lightning flashed, and rain pounded against the windows like a torrent, as if the whole world had been swallowed by the storm. Evan walked over to the window, frowning at the heavy downpour, a sense of unease settling within him.
Noticing Evan's expression, Lucas spoke with sincere concern, "Mr. Evan, the rain is so intense, it may not be safe out on the roads. Why not stay in the mansion for the night? When the weather clears in the morning, you can do Max's checkup here."
Evan sighed, glancing out the window again, then nodded reluctantly as he took in the relentless rain. "All right, thank you, Lucas. I'll stay."
As soon as Evan agreed, Max's tail began wagging happily, his eyes fixed eagerly on Evan, looking as though he'd just heard the best news ever. Seeing this, Evan couldn't help but smile as he knelt down to gently pat Max's head. "Looks like you really wanted me to stick around a bit longer, huh?"
Evan gently stroked Max's head, feeling his warm fur, and a sense of warmth stirred in his heart. Lucas watched the scene with a smile and then gently reminded him, "I'll go arrange your room. Please make yourself at home, and let me know if you need anything."
Evan nodded, glancing at Max's reluctant eyes and offering a small smile, feeling that his unease was somewhat alleviated by this warm companionship. The sound of rain continued to patter against the window, while the distant thunder gradually faded away. Time flowed quietly, and the entire castle slowly immersed in the atmosphere of the rainy night, carrying a strange sense of tranquility.
However, as deep night fell, everything around was silent, with only the rain outside occasionally mixed with faint rumbles of thunder. Evan tossed and turned in his room, unable to sleep, and whenever he closed his eyes, he would think of Max's trusting gaze. A question surged in his heart: given the situation with all the cats and dogs, surely countless veterinarians had come before him—why had he never heard of them, and why had Damian sought him out?
The silence of the night seemed to amplify his thoughts, forcing him to contemplate the true meaning of his connection to this situation. A wave of unease washed over him; perhaps this rainy night would change his destiny.