Emmi clasped Nia’s collar, and they ducked into a stall.
“Fräulein Zeller,” Fleck said, entering the barn.
“Ja, sir,” Anna said, straightening her spine.
“Dr. Stalling and members of the Ambulance Dogs Association will be arriving this afternoon for a reception in honor of our first graduate. There will be a photographer, so I want things to be in order.” His eyes locked on the buckets on the floor.
Anna’s mouth turned dry.
“You can start by cleaning up this mess.”
She nodded.
“Find Frau Bauer, sweep out the back of the building, and then clear the field of dog piles.”
“Of course, sir.” Anna squeezed the blindfold.
He turned and left.
Anna exhaled, feeling as if she’d come within inches of a speeding train.
Nia poked her snout through a gap in the stall.
Emmi stood from her hiding spot. “Maybe you should limit your obstacle training to Norbie’s workshop.”
Anna nodded.
In the afternoon, over a dozen members of the Ambulance Dogs Association, including Dr. Stalling, arrived at the school. There was a demonstration with trainers and shepherds on the obstacle course. Afterward, a brief ceremony, lacking cake or celebratory drinks, was held in the barn to recognize Paul Feyen, the first graduate of the guide dog school. Although Anna and Emmi had limited interaction with Paul, due to Fleck’s strict protocol on roles and responsibilities, they’d gotten to know him by caring for his shepherd. Paul was gentle and soft-spoken. He worked tirelessly with Fleck and the trainers, and he developed an affectionate bond with his shepherd. He’d come to Oldenburg a broken man who’d been blinded by an exploding shell. Now, he would be leaving with confidence, a loyal companion, and the means to live an independent life. Despite her supporting role, Anna was grateful to play a part in shaping his future. And as Paul posed for a photograph with his dog, a sweet black shepherd with rather large, bat-like ears, Anna beamed with pride.
“Fräulein Zeller,” Dr. Stalling said, approaching Anna. “How are you?”
“Well, Doctor,” Anna said. “And you?”
“Splendid.” He gestured to Paul, patting his dog. “It’s a new beginning.”
“For both of them,” she said.
“Indeed.”
“The world’s first guide dog school,” Anna said. “Congratulations.”
He smiled. “This would not have been possible without everyone’s effort.” With eyes filled with gratitude, he looked at Anna. “Dankefor your service.”
“It’s an honor.”
“How are you adjusting to your new work?” he asked.
“Good,” she said, despite her longing to train shepherds.
“The hospital staff often inquires of you and Emmi. If either of you should ever wish to return, please let me know.”
Anna’s role as a nurse felt like a lifetime ago.I was quite bad at giving injections and measuring medicine.“That’s very kind of you, Doctor, but I’m quite happy here.”
“I’m glad,” he said. “Here at this school, we are restoring sight with living mobility aids.”
Through the corner of Anna’s eyes, she saw Fleck approaching. Her heart rate spiked.
“Excuse me, Dr. Stalling,” Fleck said, stepping to them. “May I have a word with Fräulein Zeller?”
