Someone to Love Read Free Page A

was almost there.
    I parked in the shade, in the only free place between the wall of a low modern building and a large green military jeep.
    I walked towards the main entrance, through an automatic door, and went to reception. They invited me to sit down in the waiting room and after a few minutes a nurse appeared to inform me that the Director was waiting to see me.
    I followed her down a narrow hallway and knocked on the door twice. I tried to stifle my sudden shyness. I felt awkward: perhaps it was a natural reaction to that unfamiliar situation which made me excited and disorientated at the same time.
    â€œPlease, take a seat. I was waiting for you,” said the Director, rising from his swivel chair. “It’s a pleasure to see you again,” he said, shaking my hand.
    It had been several months since I had entered that office for the first time to propose my project. Everything had remained the same: the tidy desk, two chairs and the vase full of fresh tulips. The Director had shown an interest from the start, but had preferred to deliberate a little before giving a definite answer. I couldn’t believe that I was in his office for a ‘yes’.
    â€œYou’re always so nice to me. I’m the one having to thank you for believing in me and in pet therapy, I will not let you down,” I said, full of enthusiasm.
    The Director smiled and touched his chin. His intelligent eyes were hidden behind a pair of modern glasses. “You shouldn’t be afraid of disappointing me, but the children to whom I have promised your visits. They can’t wait to meet you and to start the activities that we talked about during the last meeting. I chose three patients of different ages and problems in order to get a broad view of the benefits.”
    â€œI can’t wait to start. I’m sure it will be beneficial.”
    The Director tried to summarize in a few words the reason why I was there.
    â€œLike I said, if everything goes according to plan, we will be able to review the project and expand it,” he said, placing a stack of papers on his desk.
    Someone knocked on the door and opened it a few centimetres.
    â€œI wanted an opinion on this report—” He ended the phrase abruptly when he noticed my presence.
    â€œPlease, Alberto, come in. You’ve come just at the right moment,” said the Director, asking him to take a seat next to me. A charming man of about forty entered, rather tall, with broad shoulders, a lean physique, sculpted jaw and short hair. He stretched out his hand to introduce himself and smiled, showing white teeth that contrasted with hazel eyes framed by fine lines. “Pleased to meet you, Alberto,” he introduced himself in a deep voice.
    I bowed my head slightly. “Mia,” I answered.
    â€œMia, I’m happy to introduce you to one of our best doctors. Alberto will be happy to show you around and if you have any problems, please ask him,” and then he added, “I really admire your determination with this project.”
    I got up and shook his hand. “Thank you for your compliments and especially for this wonderful opportunity.” The Director handed Alberto a folder. “Now, I’ll leave you in good company because I have to attend to some business. Call me when you’re free for an interview with the children and their parents,” he concluded, before the phone rang. I smiled, hoping to appear re-assuring, and waved at him. I left the office following Alberto, who was walking swiftly towards the right side of the hospital, which was so white it was blinding.
    â€œSo you’re a vet…”
    I always felt embarrassed to talk about what I did. Not because I didn’t feel satisfied, but because it was like displaying an intimate part of me.
    â€œYes, I manage a little clinic outside town.”
    â€œAs a child I dreamed of becoming a vet,” he said.
    â€œWhat made you change your