Lord was a stray dog, his coat a faded brown that blended seamlessly with the city’s grime. He’d spent his entire life on the streets, scavenging for food and shelter wherever he could find it. Today was his fifth birthday, a day that most dogs celebrated with their families. But for Lord, it was just another day of uncertainty and loneliness.
As the sun rose, Lord wandered the city, his tail tucked between his legs. He watched as people walked their dogs, their happy barks filling the air. A pang of envy shot through him. He longed for a home, a warm bed, and someone to call his own.
Lord found a quiet corner under a bridge to rest. He curled up into a ball, his heart heavy with longing. He thought about the other dogs he’d seen. They had toys, treats, and endless love. He wished he could be like them.
As the day wore on, Lord’s spirits sank. He was hungry, cold, and alone. Just as he was about to drift off to sleep, he heard a faint sound. It was a gentle voice calling out. “There you are, little guy.”
Lord looked up, his eyes widening in surprise. A young girl, no older than ten, was standing a few feet away. She had a kind smile and a bag of treats in her hand. “Happy birthday, Lord,” she said, kneeling down to pet him. “I brought you a present.”
Lord wagged his tail excitedly as she gave him a treat. As they sat together, Lord felt a warmth spread through his body. For the first time in a long time, he felt loved and wanted.
As the girl walked away, Lord watched her until she was out of sight. A smile crept onto his face. Today, despite being homeless, he had received the most precious gift of all: a friend.
