Mitchell sat on the floor, his eyes a striking contrast of blue and green, glistening with unshed tears. He wore a green t-shirt with purple sleeves, a purple tutu, and matching sneakers, his outfit a colorful armor against the sorrow enveloping him. Nearby, a white diaper lay freshly changed by his mother's gentle hands, adding a sense of vulnerability to the scene. Renee, his girlfriend with long black hair and deep brown eyes, sat beside him, her presence a comforting balm. "I know it hurts, Mitch," she whispered, "but remember the good times you had with Max. She loved you so much."

Mitchell looked up, his voice shaky yet grateful. "She was my best friend, Renee. I just wish I had more time with her." Renee leaned in closer, her arm around his shoulders offering silent support. "She’ll always be with you, in your heart," she reassured.

Mitchell wiped his eyes, the weight of his loss slowly easing with Renee's presence. "I remember the first day we brought her home," he said, a faint smile tugging at his lips. Renee nodded, encouraging him to share more. "She was so tiny, and she tripped over her own paws," Mitchell added, a light chuckle escaping despite his grief.

"You gave her a wonderful life, Mitch," Renee said, her voice filled with conviction. Mitchell nodded, feeling a sense of peace begin to settle. "Thanks, Renee. I couldn't have gotten through this without you," he admitted, his gratitude evident.

Mitchell stood, taking a deep breath as if to gather strength from the air around him. Renee rose with him, her hand slipping into his, a silent promise of support. Together, they stepped forward, ready to face the future with memories of Max etched in their hearts.