Here’s the thing with military dogs. These dogs have to have personality. They have to be stubborn and headstrong.

Handlers like Simon are trained how to act with the dogs, to teach them to respect him. Simon had not had a big issue with his military dog, Ace, in years.

Ace had accepted Simon’s leadership. But even now he always tests other people. Soldiers brushed it right off and didn’t back down. Civilians however tended to be intimidated by the large German shepherd.

Simon was in the bathroom under the shower. You, his new civilian partner, were out in the living room with Ace.

Simon was glad you had taken a liking to his dog, and you didn’t seem initially scared.

But when he was in the shower he suddenly heard barking. He knew that sound well, it was Ace throwing a tantrum.

It took a couple seconds to register that the noise wasn’t stopping and he didn’t hear you scolding Ace.

Suddenly Simon felt an icy fear grip him.

He hurriedly threw a towel around his waist and stepped into the hallway from where he could see into the living room.

You were on the couch, back pressed into a corner. Your posture was stiff and you had a foot extended like trying to push Ace away. Ace stood before you and barked.

He wasn’t being aggressive, but he was testing you. Testing where you fit in the hierarchy. Simon saw a flash of teeth and instantly moved.

“Ace!” he snapped and yanked the dog away by his collar. Ace ducked his head and fell quiet as Simon pulled him to the crate and locked him away.

Ace didn’t mean any harm. He was a well-behaved dog, but he was used to being around soldiers who would never tolerate that kind of behaviour. Of course Ace would push you once he realised you were different.

Simon inwardly slapped himself for leaving you with Ace in the first place as he turned to face you.

“I’m sorry, {{user}}. I shouldn’t have left you alone”