While waiting for the light to change, he glanced at his cell and deleted yet another cat gif from a do-gooder friend. Henry preferred walking ever since the crash that stole Derrick’s life.

Tucked between Big Guy Tattoo Parlor and Hank’s Shoes and Shirts stood a block-shaped building with an advertisement in the window for an Animal Artist, whatever that was. Henry always loved sketching animals, and Derrick had wanted him to focus more on his art. They had even discussed escaping from their humdrum jobs and opening an animal-themed business. 

The nose-pinching odor of rancid pickles greeted Henry as he entered the studio. Clumps of feathers and an array of tools covered a work bench. Bottles of chemicals lined the shelves above the sink. From the back room emerged a man with a pencil-thin mustache and the look of a left bank artist. “I’m Clel. Welcome to Animals Are Forever.” 

“I saw your ad in the window. Are you like a taxidermist?” 

“Yes. A dying art, some might say. But the millennials have discovered it, and there’s been a rebirth of sorts. Let me show you a few pieces.”

Henry knew he could never work in this environment. There was too much death here.

“This is Andi, a turtle that Chelsea and Tyler had for five years. I think I’ve captured her essence.”

“Very lifelike.” 

Clel continued to guide Henry through his studio, showing him several works in progress along with the materials he used. “I’m looking for someone who loves animals and wants to learn the art of taxidermy.” 

Henry tilted his head from side to side. “Well, I’m just not sure.” 

“I think you have what it takes. I can tell you’re creative from the way you dress. Simple and unique.” Clel’s compliment sounded exactly like something Derrick would have said. 

The bell on the door jingled, and Clel and Henry turned to see a young man holding a paper bag. “We only had Stella for eight years. And we love the work you did with our friend’s rabbit.” 

“Let’s have a look.” Clel opened the bag to find a Rainbow Lorikeet.  

The young man asked, “Will you be able to help us?”

“It will be an exciting challenge.” Clel wrapped Stella in the bag and placed her in a refrigerator.

After the young man left the studio, Henry sidled toward the door. “Thanks for your time.”

“Are you afraid of something? Perhaps your passion?”

Henry took a step back and began to dry-wash his hands.  

“I don’t mean to be so forward, but I sense you’re searching for something.”

Henry looked around the studio and focused on twin Chihuahuas nodding to each other as if they were meeting for the first time. “I think the Lorikeet would look natural perched on a limb of a Eucalyptus tree.” 

Clel picked up a sketch pad and pencil. “Let’s get started.”