By daily 
curled up on his favorite rug, staring out into the yard. His heart felt heavy, and though he wasn’t usually one to show his sadness, today it clung to him like a weight. He closed his eyes, trying to let go of the bitter feeling that crept into his chest.
Then, from the distance, came the faint sound of footsteps. Ajk’s ears perked up, but he didn’t dare hope. Maybe it was just another passing moment, just another forgotten day.
The door creaked open, and in walked one of his humans, holding a small, brightly wrapped box. Their eyes were soft, filled with love and a touch of guilt. “I’m sorry I’m late, Ajk. I didn’t forget you.”