18 18 - Companion

"I want him."

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In his long career with the bureau, Saturdays had always found Maximillian Grant at his desk. Even on quiet days, the division chief made a point of appearing. He would gather intel from the shift officers, ensuring that Friday nights did not spill into unpleasant surprises.

His absence was welcomed with raging enthusiasm. Subordinates from two divisions, liberated from his watchful eye, snatched their outdoor gear and bolted from the building like convicts fleeing a breached prison.

Oblivious to the event unfolding in his absence, Maximillian embarked on his first official date with Julian. Their mission was to find the perfect canine companion for Julian.

Unlike the sprawling giants of the pet store industry, the pet shop in question emanated a sense of warmth and tranquility. Divided into sections – one each for playful puppies, curious kittens, and their more dignified grown counterparts – the space was clean and well-maintained.

Food and water bowls were generously filled, and the animals themselves, from wide-eyed kittens to seasoned felines, all appeared healthy and content.

As Maximillian and Julian entered, a friendly attendant greeted them. "Good morning, gentlemen! Looking for a furry friend today?"

"Yes, a puppy," Maximillian declared.

"I would like to pick a dog, please," Julian countered, his gaze meeting Maximillian's in a silent exchange.

The attendant shifted slightly, waiting for them to reach a consensus. "I thought you wanted a puppy, Julian," Maximillian finally spoke, a hint of hesitation in his voice.

"And I thought you wanted a companion animal to protect me from harm," Julian countered. "A dog would be more practical for that, wouldn't you agree?"

"... Right."

Maximillian's jaw clenched slightly. A puppy was delightful and manageable, even for a toddler. A grown dog, however, was a completely different story. It might be too much for Julian to handle.

The store attendant quickly spoke up to address the unspoken concern in Maximillian's eyes.

"If I may offer some insight, gentlemen," the attendant began, her voice warm and inviting. "Many of our grown cats and dogs here have found themselves in unfortunate situations. Their previous owners, sadly, chose to abandon them.

But thanks to the kindness of the police officers, they were brought here to our care. We provide them with the medical attention they need and a safe haven to recover.

Most importantly, these animals are full of life and overflowing with love to give! Unlike pet stores that only sell animals, we believe in fostering forever homes. We work with potential owners like yourselves, searching for loving individuals who can offer these deserving companions a warm place to call their own."

"Great, I would like to take a look at some of the dogs," Julian said.

"This way, please!" the store attendant happily led the way.

Maximillian gently pulled at the omega's elbow.

"Julian, if this is about money..."

Julian stopped in his tracks and squinted at Maximillian.

"Agent Grant, I am not that poor. I really want a dog and not a puppy."

"..."

Maximillian sighed internally. Fine, he thought to himself. If that's the case, then they better pick a very obedient and friendly dog for Julian.

The store attendant led Julian and Maximillian through a corridor full of bigger cages, each one sheltering a dog of various breeds.

"German Shepherds are very popular," she pointed at several cages to her right. "they are intelligent and loyal. Definitely a good choice if you want a companion animal who can protect you."

"Hmm..."

Seeing that Julian remained uninterested, the store attendant led them to another breed.

"Or maybe a Siberian Husky??? This breed is hardworking and resilient. Also a very active and playful."

Julian rubbed at his chin in contemplation, but he did not seem interested.

"What about Golden Retrievers?" Maximillian asked, searching for said breed.

"Oh, our last grown Golden Retriever was picked up by a loving family a week ago," the store attendant regretfully said.

"What a pity."

Maximillian and the attendant trailed behind Julian as he navigated the aisles, his gaze flitting from cage to cage. Each canine resident perked up hopefully at their approach, tails thumping a rhythmic counterpoint against the tiled floor. Yet, Julian seemed unmoved. Then, abruptly, he halted before a particular enclosure, his posture stiffening with a flicker of surprise.

Inside, a magnificent specimen awaited their attention. Its massive frame, dwarfing the other dogs around it, was draped in a coat of three distinct colors -- a blanket of midnight black adorned with vibrant markings of rust and clean white. The dog, sensing their presence, lifted its head, a low whimper escaping its throat. Large, soulful brown eyes blinked at them, responding to Julian's intensive stares.

"I want him," Julian decided.

"Oh!" the store attendant seemed surprised. Catching the reluctance in her demeanor, Maximillian immediately jumped to a questioning mode.

"What's wrong with the dog?"

The attendant's initial "Nothing!" came out a little too quickly. She then cleared her throat and softened her voice. "It's a Bernese Mountain Dog, not a purebred. He just arrived a week ago, quite down on his luck. Poor fellow might have gotten separated from his family, or worse, faced some neglect. It's hard to say for sure."

A frown etched itself onto Maximillian's face.

This dog was not suitable for Julian, he decided.

"No," the alpha said firmly, "let's look at other options."

Julian, however, seemed captivated with his first choice. "I want him," he declared again, turning to face Maximillian with a determined glint in his eyes.