Molly sits cross-legged on her bed, tracing circles on the quilt with her finger. She glances longingly at the window, watching as neighborhood kids race their bikes down the street. The room feels too big, echoing with silence, and the weight of being an only child presses against her heart.

Molly walks hesitantly behind her mother, her hands clasped tightly together. They are at the dog shelter. She pauses in front of a small kennel where a golden puppy with floppy ears sits, tail thumping rapidly against the bars. The puppy’s eyes are wide and trusting, and as Molly kneels, the puppy stretches forward, licking her fingers.

Molly giggles as the puppy, whom she names Ella, chases her shoelaces and wags her tail with every step. "Welcome home, Ella. I think we're going to be best friends," Molly whispers, her voice full of hope and affection. Ella responds with a joyful bark, settling beside Molly’s feet as if she’s always belonged.

Each morning, Molly wakes to find Ella nestled close, her little body radiating comfort. After school, Ella greets her at the door, spinning in delighted circles. Molly laughs, scooping Ella into her arms, feeling the worry of the day melt away.

Ella climbs onto the bed, curling into Molly’s side and licking her face, warm and insistent. Molly can’t help but smile through her tears. "Thank you, Ella. You always know how to make me feel better," she murmurs, hugging her puppy close as thunder rumbles in the distance.

Molly throws a ball, and Ella bounds after it, ears flopping as she returns triumphant. In that moment, Molly realizes she is never truly alone—not with Ella by her side. Sometimes, a best friend is not a person, but a loyal dog who listens, understands, and loves unconditionally.