The police officers wrapped up their visit, satisfied that no further action was necessary. As they left, the woman thanked them and turned to me once more. “I’m really sorry about all this. I shouldn’t have jumped to conclusions.”

“It’s alright,” I reassured her. “Let’s just call it a misunderstanding.”

As she turned to leave, holding her daughter’s hand, I watched them go, feeling a renewed sense of gratitude for Rocky’s gentle nature. The garden seemed to exhale the tension it had held, and the sparrows resumed their playful dance in the afternoon sun.

Rocky wandered over to me, nuzzling my hand with his nose. I knelt down to scratch behind his ears, whispering, “Good boy, Rocky. Thank you for being so patient.” His tail thumped against the grass, a testament to the unwavering loyalty and love that only a dog could possess.