By daily 
In a quiet backyard, two old dogs, both 13 years old, lay close together with no celebration. Max’s eyes glistened with tears, reflecting the weight of years gone by and the unspoken fear of what was to come.
Beside him, his lifelong friend, Benny, sensed his sadness. Without a word, Benny leaned in, wrapping his body around Max in a comforting embrace. They had spent every day of their lives together, sharing countless moments of joy and mischief. But today, there was a somberness that neither could shake.
Max sniffled, his breath hitching with each sob. He knew he didn’t have much time left. The aches in his bones were getting worse, and every step felt heavier than the last. Benny, always the strong one, was there to hold him, to remind him that he wasn’t alone, not now, not ever.
As the sun dipped lower, casting a warm, golden light over the backyard, the two friends remained huddled together. Benny rested his head on Max’s shoulder, offering silent comfort. The birthday felt more like a goodbye, but in that embrace, they found a moment of peace.
The world outside the backyard continued on, unaware of the two old dogs and their quiet sorrow. But in that small space, under the oak tree, there was a bond that time couldn’t break, and for Max, that was the greatest gift of all.