Summary

Chapter 1 introduces readers to Buddy, a black Labrador, Hannah, Gloria and Clarity June. It takes place on the farm Buddy lives on with Hannah. As Buddy sits near a pond on the farm, he thinks about his past lives as a dog and his deceased master Ethan. Gloria is sunbathing and not paying attention to Clarity June who Buddy senses is going to fall into the pond. He thinks Ethan would want him to protect Clarity June, so he tries to get Gloria's attention as Clarity teeters over the edge of the dock. Gloria tells him to be quiet. Clarity does fall in and Buddy saves her. Gloria finally pays attention and tells Hannah that Buddy pushed Clarity in the water. Hannah is doubtful and Clarity reaches for Buddy, calling him Bubby. Buddy has just noticed a metallic taste in his mouth and...