5. The First Storm

One day, rain poured without warning. Thunder cracked overhead. The boy ran to the corner — but the dog was gone. Panic rose. He searched nearby alleys, calling softly. Nothing. Drenched and heart sinking, the boy didn’t go home. He waited. And then, from under an old bench, came a bark. The dog had been hiding — scared but alive. The reunion was wet, muddy, and perfect.

6. The Watchful Stranger

Someone had been watching. An old man from across the street had seen the boy and dog every day. That stormy night, he finally spoke. “That dog’s been around a long time,” he said. “Never trusted anyone — until now.” The boy listened. The man smiled. “You’ve done something special, kid.” The words stuck. For the first time, the boy realized their friendship wasn’t just his secret anymore.