María walked through the cobblestone streets of her small town, her heart full of excitement and expectations. She had decided to adopt a shelter dog, one that needed a home and affection as much as she needed company. Her mother had recently passed away, leaving her alone in the house that was usually filled with laughter and hugs. It was time to fill that void with love and loyalty, Maria thought as she headed to the local animal shelter.

Upon arrival, she was greeted by a cacophony of barking and meowing that echoed through the air. He walked through the hallways, looking through the bars at the different animals waiting to be adopted. Then, his eyes landed on a sad-looking dog, his eyes full of melancholy. He approached and the dog looked up, as if sensing the instant connection between them.

After the necessary paperwork, Maria left the shelter with her new friend by her side. The dog, whom he decided to name Ciro, walked cautiously at first, as if unsure of his destination. But as they walked down the road toward home, his attitude changed.

Ciro began to wag his tail harder, raising his head to look at Maria with gratitude in his eyes. They stopped occasionally for him to smell the flowers or explore a bush, and each time he did, Maria felt a stronger bond between them.

When they finally arrived home, Ciro ran through the garden as if he had never been unhappy. María watched him with a smile, feeling a weight lifted from her shoulders. I knew that, from that moment on, I would not be alone.

As they sat together on the porch, the sun was setting on the horizon, painting the sky in warm, golden tones. María caressed Ciro, feeling an inner peace that she had not experienced in a long time. In that moment, she knew her mother would be happy to see her finding joy and companionship in the form of a faithful four-legged friend.