At work during a break, Xavier reviewed his clinic’s finances and the costs of traveling to see Samantha, whom he had been calling and texting daily since returning home a week earlier. He calculated that even a pared-down monthly visit would cost about $500, conflicting with clinic needs like an aging air conditioner, laptop upgrades, and more kennels.

Considering ways to increase revenue, Xavier discussed adding retail items and new services with staff members Maggie and Tina, but he dismissed hiring a second doctor as unaffordable due to loan payments and tight margins. He reflected on choosing ownership over stable employment and how that limited his flexibility to travel.

Maggie and Tina confronted Xavier about whether his recent “conference” trip had actually been to see Samantha. He admitted it, and when they pressed about the relationship’s status, their questions made Xavier realize he had not formally defined exclusivity with Samantha.

Xavier called Samantha, who was making orange juice for Lisa, and directly asked about exclusivity. After Samantha joked that it was a strange way to ask, Xavier asked her to be his girlfriend, and Samantha accepted. Xavier returned to the break room and confirmed to Maggie and Tina that he and Samantha were official, prompting their celebratory reaction.

Later, Xavier contemplated his schedule and finances and concluded he would have to stop his volunteer work to free Sundays for travel. He also considered picking up shifts at the emergency clinic to supplement income. A texted photo from Samantha of her and Lisa taking orange juice shots made him happy about their new status, despite the continuing strain of distance.