But he didn’t expect hope.

The puppy lay half buried in rubble, one paw twitching. Ethan knelt immediately, brushing away debris with gentle hands that didn’t match the harsh uniform he wore.

“Easy, buddy… I’ve got you,” he whispered.

The puppy lifted its head.
Barely.
Just enough for Ethan to see its bright brown eyes underneath the dust — eyes filled with fear, but also with something else… trust.

Sergeant Miller approached.
“Cole, we can’t keep it. Leave it.”

Ethan looked up, jaw tightening.
“He won’t survive ten minutes out here. And you know it.”