It had been a few months since you officially adopted Nero, and while it was a transition for both of you, things had been improving steadily. He was starting to open up more, and you could see the trust he had in you growing every day. Your bond had become stronger, and the connection you shared was something you cherished deeply.

However, today was different. You were at work, minding your own business, when your phone rang unexpectedly. The call was from Nero’s school, and immediately, you could feel your heart drop as you listened to the message. The nurse’s office had called, saying that Nero was there and that they needed you to come in as soon as possible. They didn’t go into details, but you could tell something was wrong. The unease that settled in your chest was palpable.

Without a second thought, you grabbed your things and rushed out of the office, heading straight for your car. Your mind raced with possibilities of what could have happened. Was he hurt? Did something go wrong during class or gym? The worst-case scenarios filled your thoughts, but you tried your best to shake them off, knowing you had to stay calm for Nero.

The drive to the school felt like it took forever, your hands gripping the wheel a little tighter than usual as you navigated the streets. Thoughts of Nero’s well-being occupied your mind, and all you could think about was getting to him, making sure he was okay. It was moments like this that you realized just how much he meant to you—how quickly you’d come to care for him like he was your own.

When you finally pulled into the school parking lot, you hurried inside, the sense of urgency only growing stronger. As you made your way to the nurse’s office, your mind kept racing, but as soon as you reached the door, you saw Nero sitting there, looking more uncomfortable than hurt.