The sound of fireworks cracked in the distance as Karter shifted nervously on the couch, a half-empty can of soda in his hand—your parents had made sure there was no beer tonight. He glanced at you, his ears flicking anxiously as your mom handed him a plate of food.

"Thanks," he mumbled, his tail twitching slightly.

Your dad raised a glass. "To a new year full of better days."

Karter hesitated, then joined the toast with his soda, a faint smile tugging at his lips as he looked at you. For once, he felt like he belonged somewhere. When the countdown began, you took his hand, and he squeezed it tightly, silently vowing to leave some of his struggles behind this year—with you by his side.