Maya sat cross-legged beneath the oak tree, her eyes tracing the familiar grooves of its bark. Each ridge and bump echoed with memories of Baxter's playful antics. Her heart ached with the absence of his wagging tail and the warmth of his fur against her fingers. "Hey Baxter," she whispered, her voice carried away by the wind. She placed a small, folded letter next to a little mound of earth, topped with a makeshift cross of twigs.

Maya leaned against the tree, a scrapbook open on her lap. Each page was a testament to the bond she and Baxter shared—photos of walks in the park, picnics in the backyard, and cozy evenings by the fireplace. Her fingers traced over a picture of Baxter with his favorite red ball, eyes filled with joy and mischief. "I miss you so much, buddy," she murmured, her tears glistening in the fading light.

Maya closed her eyes, imagining Baxter bounding through a field of stars, free and happy. She hugged the scrapbook close, drawing comfort from the thought that Baxter might still be listening, watching over her. "I hope you're having fun up there," she said softly, her voice filled with love and longing.

Maya stretched, feeling a gentle peace settle over her. She gathered her letters, each one a promise to Baxter that she would keep his memory alive. She tucked them under the oak tree, where she believed he could still feel her love. "I'll write to you every day," she vowed, a smile breaking through her tears. "You'll always be my best friend."

Maya picked up her scrapbook, her heart lighter with the promise of a new day. With one last look at the spot where Baxter rested, she turned towards the house, ready to embrace the future with Baxter forever in her heart. "I'll see you in my dreams," she whispered, as the first rays of sunlight kissed the earth.