The veterinarian, understanding the gravity of the moment, decided to delay any further action. She knew the flicker of life in Leo’s body might be temporary, but it was a gift nonetheless — a chance for Artem and Leo to share more time together, to rewrite their farewell.

Artem, cradling Leo’s head against his chest, felt a sense of peace and gratitude. Whatever time they had left, whether days or mere hours, he vowed to fill it with love and presence. The clinic, once a somber stage for an end, had transformed into a sanctuary of grace.