– You know, dear, animals aren’t allowed in the hospital. You’re very fragile right now, and there’s a risk of infection…
The boy turned his face away, a silent tear glistening at the corner of his eye:
– But maybe… I’ll never see him again.
Those words struck the nurse’s heart like a sharp blade.
Time seemed to freeze. Only the rhythmic drip of the IV broke the stillness. She exchanged glances with her colleagues, and without hesitation, quietly nodded:
– Okay. Just for a moment.
An hour later, the boy’s parents arrived with Archie. The dog was medium-sized, with a brown and white coat and intelligent eyes that instantly brightened upon sensing his owner.
As soon as Archie entered the room, he paused briefly, gave a small whine, then darted toward the bed.
With a swift leap, he was beside the boy, snuggling close as if shielding him from the world.
For the first time in weeks, a smile appeared on the child’s face. He wrapped his arms around the dog’s neck and held him tightly for several long minutes.
