Benny looked up at her, then at the leash, and finally took a few steps forward. His eyes, full of loyalty and something deeper, met hers.

He didn’t need to be asked twice.

Today, Benny sleeps at the foot of Annie’s bed. He has a warm blanket, a full belly, and a little kitten who curls up on his back every night.

Neighbors still smile when they see the pair walking down Maple Street—Misty perched in a carrier bag, and Benny trotting proudly by Annie’s side.