Kain, a small, scruffy dog with a heart as big as the world, sat outside the bakery, his eyes fixed on the delicious aroma wafting from within. Today was his fifth birthday, and his stomach rumbled with hunger. He had been a stray for as long as he could remember, and birthdays were often just another day of searching for food and shelter.
Kain’s ribs were visible through his thin coat, and his eyes were dull with exhaustion. He watched as people entered and exited the bakery, carrying bags filled with pastries and bread. His mouth watered, and he wished he could have just one small piece.
As the day wore on, Kain’s hunger grew more intense. He tried to distract himself by chasing after butterflies or playing with a discarded piece of cardboard, but nothing could take away the gnawing emptiness in his stomach.
Just as Kain was about to give up hope, he heard a soft voice. “Hello there, little guy,” a kind voice said. Kain looked up to see a young girl standing in front of him. She was holding a small bag of treats. “Is it your birthday today?”
Kain’s heart raced with excitement. He wagged his tail as hard as he could. The girl smiled and knelt down to pet him. “You seem like a very sweet dog,” she said. “Would you like to come home with me?”
Kain’s eyes widened. He couldn’t believe his ears. Was this really happening? The girl reached out and gently picked him up. As she carried him away, Kain looked back at the bakery. He knew his life was about to change forever.