You’re curled up asleep next to me again, making those little contented sighs. I’ve always had this effect on my animal companions. I take it as a compliment that they feel safe in my company. You, however,  were the most resistant to my charms. Rescue dogs always take a while to be convinced of friendship, but you took the longest.

It wasn’t as if you were beaten or came from a bad home. We think you were well-loved;  your profile said your owner went to a nursing home. She certainly left you wearing a quality collar.

I suspect your reserve was because you were not used to strangers and were wary of them. For months we begged you for any interaction other than food, but you preferred to go out onto the deck and observe us through the window.

Six years later and all your reserve has vanished. I especially love it when you fall asleep next to me or on my lap and snore. There is nothing in this world that makes me happier.