Pedro moved under the tree’s shadow, scanning every bush for a sign of Lola. “Lola,” he whispered into the cold night. Only the wind answered.
Then—a faint bark. His heart jumped. “Lola!” he shouted, turning toward the sound. Another bark, louder, from deep in the bushes.
He ran, stumbling over rough ground, hope burning with every step.
Pedro pushed through the undergrowth, following the sound. At last, he saw her—Lola, calm in a small clearing, tail wagging as if she’d been waiting.
But she wasn’t alone. She stood in line with a group of students, all eyes fixed on her. In her mouth, she held a large green leaf, which she placed on the counter with surprising care.
The students grinned, phones out, capturing every moment. Pedro could only watch, caught between laughter and disbelief.