From the steps of the church, Constantin \u2014 her groom \u2014 hurried toward them. Without a thought for his crisp suit or polished shoes, he dropped to his knees beside her.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat happened?\u201d he asked, alarm etched across his face.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s\u2026 saying goodbye,\u201d Ileana choked out, brushing her fingers across Rex\u2019s fur as tears spilled down her cheeks.<\/p>\n
Constantin didn\u2019t need an explanation. He squeezed Ileana\u2019s hand, then reached out to gently pet Rex\u2019s head. The crowd of guests stood silently, moved by the sacredness of the moment.<\/p>\n
Then, something astonishing happened.<\/p>\n
With a deep, labored breath, Rex pushed himself upright. His legs trembled beneath him, but he found the strength to stand. Slowly, he stepped toward Constantin and licked his hand \u2014 a gesture of trust, perhaps even approval. Then he turned to Ileana, nudged her hand one last time\u2026 and gently lay down, his eyes closing for good.<\/p>\n