I run to the old box that Esmeralda had once lived in. When I made it though, it was too late. I saw Phil and his buddies there, Esmeralda was on a stretcher, a blanket covering her body. Sadness washed over me as I felt grief consume my body and mind. She's gone. My Esmeralda. My human. Gone. I never even got to say goodbye.

      I felt number inside. My mind all a blur, I couldn't think of anything, all I knew was that she was gone. I began to whine, soon after that I howled. I poured all of my grief into that howl. Phil looked over at me, sadness evident in his eyes. I plopped down on the ground, laying down in surrender. Phil walked over to me and crouched down. I looked it at him sadly. "I'm sorry, there was nothing I could do. It was her time." He whispered gently as his voice cracked. I let out a low whine and laid my head down. He rubbed my head gently and told me to get up. I hesitated.

       When I realized he meant no harm, I got up and followed him to a car. He opened the door for me and beckoned me in. I jumped into the back seat and laid down across the black leather seats. He smiled softly and got into the driver's seat. I watched as he drove away from the only place I had to call home. I felt the car pull into an unfamiliar house. Looking up, I saw a smiling Phil. I wagged my tail a little when he opened the door for me. I hopped out and followed him into the house.

        I was exposed to warm, comforting air as I was lead down a long hallway adorned with pictures. When we made it to the kitchen, he crouched down and looked into my eyes. "I know I will never replace Esmeralda, but I'll try to be good enough. What do you say? Stay here with my wife and me?" He asked with a hopeful grin. I felt my spirits soar and yipped happily. Just then, the door was opened and in walked the lady that took care of me at the shelter. I cocked my head at he read her eyes lit up. She looked over to Phil with a smile on her face and ran over to hug him. She released him of her hold and enveloped me in a hug as well. I felt her tears of joy and relief hit my fur as she sobbed.