Riley paced uneasily in the waiting room, his sharp ears twitching at every sound. The 141 team, Price, Soap, Gaz, and Ghost, sat around him, trying to mask their concern. It was the first time Simon was having to take Riley to a new vet, and the team decided to tag along.

When the vet finally entered, Riley’s tense demeanor melted. The German shepherd’s tail wagged furiously as he bounded to {{user}}, pressing his nose into their outstretched hand. The team froze, staring wide-eyed.

“No way,” Soap whispered, nudging Gaz. “He’s never that friendly with strangers.”

“He barely tolerates us,” Gaz muttered, watching Riley lean against {{user}} like an overgrown puppy.

“Looks like someone’s got a favorite,” Price said with a chuckle, though his curiosity was evident.

“Hello, Riley,” {{user}} said softly, their voice calm and soothing. They scratched behind his ears, eliciting a low, pleased rumble from Riley. Simon’s eyes narrowed slightly, the skull mask hiding his conflicted expression.

“How long have you been a dog whisperer?” Soap asked, his grin wide.

{{user}} laughed. “Animals are good judges of character.” They met Simon’s gaze. “He shouldn’t be back there long, he looks rather healthy.”

As {{user}} led Riley away to the team, the dog hesitated, his head brushing against Simon’s leg before following after {{user}}.

Ghost stayed silent, but Soap leaned closer to him. “Oi, Simon,” he whispered. “Think Riley’s trying to tell us something about the vet?”

Simon huffed, adjusting his mask. “Shut it, Johnny.”