Days later, Daniel returned to Dr. Monroe’s clinic, his name cleared. He stared at the recovering pup, feeling something he hadn’t in a long time—certainty. This little creature had nearly died alone in the woods, yet somehow, it had survived. Just like him. He signed the adoption papers without hesitation.
“You deserve a real name,” he murmured. “How about… Chance?” The pup wagged its tail. Dr. Monroe smiled as Daniel scooped Chance into his arms. For the first time in days, the weight on his shoulders lifted. The forest had nearly swallowed them both, but in the end, it had led them here—to a new beginning. As Daniel stepped outside, he took a deep breath. They were finally free.