It could have been the start of an ordinary afternoon, but it turned into something unforgettable.
On a warm May day, Lydia and Mark sat on the grass in the park, dressed in matching school uniforms. Beside them sprawled Bob — Lydia’s shaggy Alabai puppy, all big paws and kind eyes.
“Bob, give me your paw!” Lydia called. The dog eagerly pressed a huge paw into his hand, then bounded over to Mark, knocking him over and showering his face with licks. The boys collapsed into laughter.
“You spoil him,” Mark teased.
“He’s my friend,” Lydia replied with pride. “The smartest dog in the world.”
Mark stroked Bob’s head softly. “Wish I had a dog.”
“You’ve got me and Bob,” Lydia grinned. “Tomorrow I’ll bring him treats.”
That evening, Mark went home to his mother, Helena, who was recovering from a serious injury that had changed their lives. His father had left long ago, leaving mother and son to manage alone.
The next day, Lydia arrived looking troubled. His father’s new partner, Victoria, had moved in. “She hates Bob,” he muttered. “Won’t even let me walk him.”
Days passed without Lydia visiting. Then, one early morning, Mark went to the river — and saw a silver car stop. A tall woman in a bright scarf pulled a moving bag from the trunk and hurled it into the water.
