The car shot past, drenching me with a splash of icy slush. In its wake came a frigid gust so powerful I stumbled backwards. I shook myself off, my ear tips stinging as they slapped the sides of my head. I stepped up to the curb again. Lift your chin, I silently coached myself, and wag your tail. Ears up. Another car roared into and out of sight, ripping the morning stillness in half. My head hurt. Stay visible, I told myself. Stand up. Lift your head. I limped forward, turning back to sniff the trail of blood I left on the icy-gritty pavement. My sisters cowered in the ditch, below the mountain of snow left behind by the plow truck, cringing at each passing vehicle. I stayed on the pavem...
