A Work In Progress (COMPLETED)

Chapter 41

Everyone watched as Olena entered the restaurant, Austin not far behind. Each trying to read their expressions as Olena smiled while he appeared to be off in his own world. Dena quickly suggested she sit next to her with Bobby and Emily to sit on her other side. For some reason they felt protective of her, especially now.

Austin tried his damndest not to look at her or participate in the conversation about what she had been up to recently.  It did sound as if she was becoming what she had wanted, independent, confident and flourishing in her lifes dream. He couldn't help but wonder why she felt she had to leave him, the group in order to attain her goals. After all, she traveled all over the world with them, photographed and was included in developing the visions they had for the songs videos. Why, why had she found it necessary to leave them, leave him.

Olena caught him staring at her, the look in his eyes made her feel more uncomfortable than she anticipated. Quickly she looked away finding Chance walking into the restaurant. Bobby motioned to him as he made his way to the table. The seat next to Austin was purposely left open so that he could sit there to watch Olena and keep Austin in check if need be.

"Sorry I'm late everyone, was making sure Tim was set before I left" he told them pulling out his chair.

"You've gone above and beyond Chance in taking care of him. I really appreciate it and I'm sure he does too" Dena told him.

"Well, he's got someone else to take my place, for awhile anyway. Dr. Lynch set him up with a service dog to assist in getting around until he's totally healed. But, Tim's being as stubborn as usual. That pup is big, fluffy and seems to have taken a liking to him already. He stood up by the bed nudging his hand to get him to pet him" Chance explained putting his napkin in his lap.

"What did Timmy do" asked Emily.

"He's not too thrilled, I can tell. He refused to acknowledge him" Chance answered.

"Well, do you blame him. I mean a service dog, that's like telling him his vision problems are permanent. Kind of a slap in the face if ya ask me" Austin remarked.

Adam gave him a quick kick under the table, which Austin immediately asked" what the hell was that for" Adam shot him a look to let it go while Austin leaned down to rub his shin.

"This dog has been left with him for the night so they can become accustomed to each other then the real training begins tomorrow " Chance added as the waitress approached with their drinks.

"He'll come around, I know he will" Dena replied as the waitress took their orders.

"What's the dogs name, what kind is he" Emily asked.

"Satchmo, after Louis Armstrong. Apparently this therapy group names the animals after influential people, you know like those that have made contributions to society, then pairs them up with individuals of similar personalities" Chance explained.

Austin began to make a comment when both Rob and Adam shot him a look. He merely raised his hands to acknowledge that he would not say anything at the moment.

"That's kinda cool, I can't wait to meet him" Emily replied with excitement.

"You're going to love him Em. I think he's a Great Pyrenees, at least that's what he appears to be to me. Oh and he has one blue eye and one brown eye" Chance chuckled.

"How the hell is a dog with two different eyes gonna see to guide someone along. He's probably blind in that blue eye himself" Austin remarked taking a sip from his drink. Choosing to ignore his sarcastic remarks the rest continued on with their conversation.

"Olena, will you please tell us how you're going to help Tim" asked Rob.

Olena looked around the table, all eyes on her waiting for an explanation but she couldn't, she had to wait. Only the attorneys could know before anyone else, it was that important to keep it private till the trial. The waitress came back with their meals, saving her from having to answer the question.

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Tim lay in his bed still ignoring Satchmo has he attempted to interact with him. Despite his persistence, Tim wouldn't give in. Slowly getting down and jumping up into the nearby chair, Satch settled in letting out a sigh.

Tim couldn't help but snicker a little at the dogs reaction, much like his own when he felt defeated. "Gotta say you tried buddy " Tim barely stated aloud, "but I just can't, you wouldn't understand. I'm sure you're a fine dog but I ...I can't "