Otto, a golden retriever with a glossy coat, lay sprawled on the porch, his brown eyes following the movements of his owner, Marley. She sat cross-legged on a colorful mat, her eyes closed, breathing deeply and evenly.
"What's she doing?" Otto mused, tilting his head in that curious way only dogs can. He wanted to understand this ritual she did every morning.
Otto walked over to Marley and sat beside her. Mimicking her, he attempted to sit still, but his tail wagged involuntarily. Marley opened one eye and chuckled softly, reaching out to pat his head. "You're trying to meditate too, Otto?" she asked, her voice gentle and amused. Otto wagged his tail more vigorously, pleased by her attention.
Otto lay beside Marley, his head resting on his paws. He tried to focus on his breathing, just like her. Inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth—though for him, it was more like panting.
Marley smiled, observing Otto's earnest attempts. "You're doing great, buddy," she encouraged.
Suddenly, Otto felt a wave of calm wash over him. The scents, sounds, and warmth of the sun blended into a soothing symphony.
Marley reached over and hugged Otto. "You've taught me something today, Otto," she whispered, feeling a deeper connection with him.
"Woof," Otto replied softly, feeling the bond between them strengthen.
Marley and Otto sat together, watching the night unfold. Marley closed her eyes again, this time feeling Otto's calm presence beside her, guiding her own meditation.
"Thank you, Otto," she said, her voice a quiet echo in the night.
Otto nuzzled her hand, content in the knowledge that he had found peace and shared it with someone he loved.
As the stars watched over them, Marley and Otto drifted into a restful sleep, side by side, enveloped in a cocoon of serenity.
