The next day, Esmeralda walked me to a small shop that read "Friendly Friends" despite the intimidating feel I got from it. I looked at Esmeralda and cocked my head slightly. Her eyes were brimming with tears and red circles rimmed her eyes. Her cheeks were blotchy and her hands shook. I felt dread surge through me as I saw her bend down slowly next to me. She encircled my neck with her arms and sang a song I became familiar with over the years.

"Whisper

 Sweet whisper

Whisper to me

Pull me closely to the heart that still beats

Darling

Yes darling

Darling one right here

Let the angels guard you through the night

Prayer 

Yes prayer

Lift your spirits high

Don't forget the ones you loved

And the ones willing to fight

Love 

Yes love is here

Love is everywhere

It shines so bright

The fire side

Love

Yes love is here"

          I nuzzled my snout into her neck and licked her ear affectionately. Esmeralda pulled away and looked me in the eyes carefully. See leaned forward and planted a kiss on my forehead. I whined softly as she got up and lead me towards the doors of the shop. As we passed through the doors, I felt a shiver of despair flood through me as I heard the alarmed howls of pain from inside.