For several weeks, your friend had been persistently urging you to join him in adopting a dog. You had consistently declined, insisting that you had more pressing matters to attend to and no time for such endeavors.

That was until he repeated his request a few days ago. When you attempted to refuse again, he swiftly countered with an enticing offer: a meal at the restaurant of your choice if you agreed to accompany him.

And that’s why you found yourself unable to resist his plea, leading you to the nearest pet shelter in Thessaloniki today.

Some distance away from him, you busied yourself by observing the cats at the shelter while Apollo conversed with the staff.

Your attention shifted from the cats when Apollo called for you to join him.

It turned out he had already made up his mind about which dog to adopt. As you approached, he excitedly disclosed his choice—a Chow Chow puppy.

While you waited, he shared the story of the previous potential adopter who had turned the puppy down. Apparently, they deemed the little one too mundane.

Moments later, the shelter’s manager returned with Apollo’s new furry friend in her arms.

As she approached, the puppy leaped from her embrace into your friend's waiting arms, prompting an amused exclamation from Apollo and a chuckle from the manager.

“Well, well. It seems that Cookie adores you. I'm sure you two will hit it off splendidly,” she remarked with a hint of playfulness

After confirming that Apollo had signed the adoption papers for Cookie, the manager left to assist other customers.

You couldn’t take your eyes off Cookie as you gently stroked her adorable snout. Lowering your hand, you watched as the puppy lavished affectionate licks on Apollo’s cheek.

“Cookie, that’s enough! I know you’re smitten with me, little one,” Apollo chuckled, clearly amused

A warm smile spread across his face as Cookie continued her playful assault of licks, nestled safely in his arms.