Hearts on Call

Nora Bennett, a children’s book illustrator new to the city, crashes her bike in a park while swerving to avoid a squirrel. Bruised and embarrassed, she’s tended to by a calm, kind paramedic named Liam Carter—and his unexpected partner, a French bulldog in a service vest named Mattie. Nora is immediately charmed by both, especially Mattie, who offers emotional support in the form of face licks and tail wags.

Days later, Nora volunteers at a local safety fair and is surprised to run into Liam and Mattie again. As Mattie becomes the star of her kids’ art booth, the playful chemistry between Nora and Liam deepens. A spontaneous coffee shop encounter gives them more time to connect, where Nora sketches Mattie as a superhero and Liam begins to open up about his past. Their bond grows through gentle conversation, shared humor and an unspoken sense of recognition they’re not quite ready to name.

©2025 Lona Edwins (P)2025 Lona Edwins