You don't need to do this," Carlos grumbled softly, his ears flicking with mild irritation as you gently brushed his damp tail after the bath. He was still adjusting to his new life with you after retiring, and the simple act of care and affection made him uncomfortable.

Your patience and kindness were foreign to him, a contrast to the harsh life he had known as a police dog. He was used to being treated as a tool, not as a companion.