Mom’s voice, thick with tears: “Oh, Bailey, my sweet boy. Don’t you fight it, honey. It’s okay to let go.”

Bailey whines softly, nuzzling closer. His once bright eyes are clouded, but a flicker of recognition seems to pass through them.

Mom: “Remember all those squirrels you chased in the park? And that time you ate a whole roll of toilet paper? We were so mad, but you looked so darn proud of yourself.” (A watery chuckle escapes her lips)

Bailey (in a weak voice): Woof…those were the good times.

Mom: “They were the best, Bailey-bear. You were the best dog a girl could ask for. You were there for my first heartbreak, every birthday, and every lonely night. You never judged.”

A tear rolls down Bailey’s fur.

Mom: “I don’t know what I’m going to do without you, Bailey-bear. But I promise, you’ll always be in my heart.”

She tightens her hug, burying her face in his fur. In a choked sob, she whispers, “Thank you. Thank you for everything.”

Bailey (with a weak wag of his tail): You’re welcome…Mom. Love you…forever.

Mom: “I love you too, Bailey. More than words can say.”

A heavy silence falls between them, punctuated only by Bailey’s shallow breaths.

Mom: “Is there anything you want me to do for you, Bailey?”

Bailey (barely a whisper): Just…stay with me…

Mom: “I’ll never leave your side, my boy. Not ever.”

She continues to hold him close, whispering stories of their life together, filling the room with their love. As Bailey’s breaths slow and weaken, she speaks softly.

Mom: “Go chase the squirrels in the sky now, Bailey. Run free and be happy.”

A weak thump of his tail, a final sigh, and Bailey is gone. Mom cries harder, clinging to him, the warmth of his fur slowly fading.

In the quiet room, filled with love and grief, a loyal friend takes his last breath, safe and loved in his forever home.