Julian noticed the cardboard sign propped against her backpack, protected from the rain by the awning.
The letters were smudged but clear.
FOR SALE — PLEASE ASK
Julian’s stomach dropped.
“For sale?” he repeated gently.
The girl nodded, swallowing hard. “Yes, sir.”
Julian crouched so they were eye level. “What’s your name?”
“Rosie.”
“And this guy?” He gestured toward the dog.
“His name’s Atlas.”
Atlas flicked his ears at the sound of his name but didn’t break posture.
Julian exhaled slowly. “Rosie… why are you selling him?”
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