He pressed his cheek to her hair.
“I would have come to take care of you.”
“I know,” he said. “That’s part of the reason I didn’t confide in you. I was worried you’d jeopardize your dream of training guide dogs by caring for me.”
She released him and placed her palms on his chest. “I don’t care. You’re what matters.”
Nia nuzzled their legs.
“I’m so sorry,” he said. “I wish I would have told you earlier.”
“It’s all right,” she said. “I’m here now.”
His jaw quivered. “God, I’ve missed you.”
“Me too,” she breathed.
“How long are you able to stay?”
“I’ve been given a two-week leave,” she said, her heart breaking. “But I plan to stay as long as you’ll have me.”
CHAPTER37
LEIPZIG, GERMANY—JULY20, 1917
Max clasped the handle to Nia’s harness and shuffled out of his apartment. While Anna locked the door behind them, he descended the stairs, stepped outside, and raised his chin toward the sky, feeling the warmth of the sun on his clean-shaven face.It’s going to be a nice day, he thought.Please, God, let me have the stamina to make it to the park and back without becoming faint.
“Which way?” Anna asked, stepping to him.
Max gestured with his cane. “Nia knows the way.”
Anna smiled and patted Nia.
“Forward,” Max said.
Nia padded ahead.
He tapped his cane and walked. After traveling fifty meters, he grew short of breath and his legs turned shaky, compelling him to slow his pace.
“How about we rest for a moment?” Anna asked.
“Danke.” He stopped and took in shallow breaths. “I’m sorry. I hate for you to see me this way.”
“There’s nothing to feel sorry about,” she said. “We can take as much time as you need. Right, Nia?”
The dog wagged her tail.
Max nodded. He paused, inhaling air. His dizziness gradually subsided, and he pressed on.
It took them over twenty minutes, three times what it should have taken, to reach the park. Nia guided him to a bench, where he slumped in a seat. He took in several wheezing breaths, and then unbuckled Nia’s harness.
“It’s been a while since Nia has had a good run,” Max said. “Would you mind giving her a bit of exercise?”
“I’d love to,” Anna said. “Come, Nia.”
The dog followed Anna onto an earthen path that winded through a lush public garden filled with evergreens.
Max leaned back on the bench. The burn in his lungs faded, and his pulse rate slowed. He took in more breaths, bringing in the scent of pine. A warm breezed caressed his face. And he listened to the sweet timbre of Anna’s voice as she played with Nia.I wish I could join you.
