Safe arms and soft voices held him through the pain.
Time moved slowly while he rested and healed.
Food came every day, and he no longer had to beg.
Water stayed beside him, cool and fresh.
Blankets stayed under him, soft and warm.
He started to recognize the footsteps of the people who cared.

Days passed, and the swelling in his face slowly began to fade.
His eyes looked brighter, though sadness still lived deep inside.
Loud sounds still made him jump, and sudden moves scared him.
But each gentle touch chipped away at the fear.
One afternoon, a new scent entered the room, calm and steady.
A person knelt beside him, eyes filled with quiet kindness.
Chance watched carefully, unsure but curious.
When the leash clipped on, his heart jumped with fear.
But the hand holding it did not pull or rush him.
The car ride felt different this time, peaceful and still.
Hope felt scary but warm at the same time.
He lay quietly, watching the world pass through the window.
When they stopped, the air smelled like grass and safety.
Inside, a soft bed waited, and he stared at it in disbelief.
He stepped onto it slowly, afraid it might vanish.
But it stayed under him, holding his tired body.

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Food came at the same time every day in the foster home.
Gentle hands touched him, and soft voices called his name.
He followed his foster parent from room to room, afraid to be alone again.
At night, he slept deeply instead of listening for someone leaving.
The swelling in his face continued to go down little by little.
His steps grew stronger, though he still moved carefully.
Scars remained on his body, and fear lingered in his eyes.
But love wrapped around him every single day.
He tried playing with a toy, unsure at first.
Then his tail wagged faster than before.
This sweet soul had not given up on love.
He learned bowls could stay full and hands could stay kind.
He learned doors could close without meaning goodbye.
He learned beds could be soft and safe.
His body grew stronger, and his breathing felt easier.
The fear inside him loosened its tight grip.
He started greeting mornings with small tail wags.
He rested his head gently on caring knees.
He watched doors without panic in his chest.
Trust came slowly, like sunlight after a long storm.
Sometimes he still looked toward the door with quiet worry.
Old memories do not fade as quickly as pain.
