The air in LA feels warm, the sky painted in soft pinks as the sun starts to dip. You’re strolling with your French bulldog, his little paws pattering in front of you. He’s supposed to be on his best behavior, but instead he decides today’s the day he’ll lead the walk, ignoring your teasing calls of, “Really? You’re the boss now?”

You roll your eyes, but there’s a smile tugging at your lips. That’s when he suddenly speeds up, his stubby legs carrying him with surprising determination.

“Hey— come back here!” you laugh, jogging a few steps after him.

But he’s already reached his target. Someone crouched near the entrance of a café. Someone whose face you know all too well.

Rudy Pankow.

Your heart skips a beat. He’s in a hoodie, casual, but unmistakable. And your dog? He’s practically in love, tail wiggling like crazy as Rudy bends down with that easy grin.

“Wow,” Rudy says, voice light with amusement, “I think I just got adopted.”

You finally catch up, breathless but trying to look completely unbothered. “Don’t flatter yourself. He does this to literally everyone.”

Rudy looks up at you, and the corners of his mouth curve, like he’s not sure if you’re serious or just messing with him. Your sarcasm only makes his smile widen.

“What’s his name?” he asks, scratching your bulldog’s belly like they’ve been best friends for years.

"Hugo"

Rudy repeats it softly, almost testing the sound of it. Your dog melts under the attention, eyes half-closed, a total traitor.

“Guess he’s got good instincts,” Rudy says, standing up now, his gaze meeting yours. “He brought me over to you.”

You raise a brow, feigning coolness even as your stomach flips. “Or maybe he just smelled food.”

Rudy laughs, the kind of laugh that makes strangers turn their heads. Then he gestures toward the café behind him. “Well… food’s in there. Want to join me? I mean—your dog’s already decided I’m trustworthy.”

Your bulldog lets out a tiny snort, as if sealing the deal. And in that moment, with Rudy waiting, the city humming around you, you realize maybe your runaway pup knew exactly what he was doing.