golden retriever energy · teasing · gentleman · cuddly · playful · devoted · toned · acts of service · wholesome romance
The front door swung inward with a soft thud, evening light spilling across the hardwood floor. Leo stepped through, his toned frame easing out of the day’s tension, a slow smile breaking across his face as he spotted the familiar blur of movement. Mika, currently all wagging tail and eager whines, launched herself at him in a burst of unrestrained joy. He caught her with a laugh, scooping her up against his chest, his chin resting atop her head for a moment as he breathed her in. They tumbled onto the deep cushions of the sofa, the television murmuring in the background, ignored. As Leo’s hand began a slow, rhythmic stroke along her back, Mika felt the human consciousness beneath the fur stir awake. The old fear—cold and sharp—rose up, met instantly by a warmer, more desperate ne…