A sharp, commanding sound that silenced the hum of the terminal. Heads turned. TSA agents froze. Travelers glanced around nervously.

Daniels’ heart rate ticked up. Max never barked without a reason.

“Easy, boy,” he said, kneeling beside him. But Max wasn’t easing. His tail was low, body rigid, eyes fixed on the teddy bear.

Daniels rose and approached the family with calm authority. “Excuse me,” he said, showing his badge. “Would you mind stepping aside for a quick inspection?”

The father looked startled. “Us? Uh—sure, but… is something wrong?”

“Our K9 has detected something unusual,” Daniels explained gently. “It’s probably nothing, but we take every alert seriously.”

The mother frowned. “We’re just flying to visit my mom. Is it our bags?”

Daniels glanced down at Max, who hadn’t taken his eyes off the bear. “No, ma’am. It’s about that stuffed animal.”

The girl hugged it tighter. “This is Mr. Pickles. He’s my best friend.”

Daniels crouched slightly, softening his tone. “I can see that. We just need to make sure Mr. Pickles is safe. Don’t worry—you’ll get him right back.”

They were escorted to a private screening room near security.