When social services prepared to reassign the girl to a new foster home, she panicked, clinging to Manny with desperate strength. Her cries filled the small hospital room; the dog growled at anyone who stepped near. The officials hesitated, shaken by her terror. It was clear that moving her would cause more harm.
Manny stepped forward, requesting emergency foster rights on the spot. His voice held no hesitation, only conviction. Administrators exchanged glances, then agreed, recognizing he had already become the safest place she knew. The girl sagged in relief, gripping Manny’s hand tightly, the dog settling protectively at her feet.