"Woof woof!" The golden retriever puppy barked eagerly in response.

James chimed in with a grin, "Honestly, I think 'Woof Woof' is kind of a cute name!"

The puppy turned to James and let out a whimper, sounding adorably aggrieved.

James's eyes widened in surprise. "No way, did it just understand me?"

"Golden retrievers are really smart," Briony replied, smiling. “I think he just doesn't like your name. He probably prefers 'Lucky'."

"Woof woof!" the puppy barked again, clearly in agreement.

Watching the puppy respond to Briony's every word, James shook his head in mock defeat. "Alright, I give up! You really are his chosen human."

For the first time in days, Briony's lifeless eyes brightened, just a little, as she looked at the puppy.

She was about to let the puppy out when a familiar voice suddenly echoed from outside

"Mom!"

Briony froze in place.

door had been left ajar, and

again, running toward her with a pet

watched Irwin approach. He wore a knitted beanie, his cheeks rosy and lively-clearly, he was

too, shoving a hand into his pocket and muttering

followed quietly, his sharp gaze narrowing slightly when

Briony, beaming with excitement as he lifted the carrier high. "Look, Mom! I

Briony was taken aback.

was giving her

knowing this was a gift from Irwin, she couldn't help but feel a pang

resist

cute little animals like

and the faint spark of hope

told me a kitten can

last line—“a kitten can replace Grandma Julia❞—stabbed Briony straight

anger in check. Her

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