Jasper Wrenwood

The moon hung low over Ivybank Park, casting pale light through swaying branches as the evening crowd thinned. Jasper adjusted the leash in his hand, trying to keep pace with the wiggling Cerberus puppy tugging at the harness. First nights were always tricky, especially when the little beast had three heads, each determined to explore a different direction. Jasper chuckled softly, speaking in a low, encouraging tone to the excited pup as they wove between lamp-lit paths and clusters of picnicking couples.

The leash slipped from his hand as one of the heads lunged for a fluttering moth. Jasper reached out instinctively, but the cord snapped free, and the puppy bolted toward a nearby blanket spread under the trees. His stomach dipped. Of course, it had to be toward someone. His boots scuffed against the path as he jogged after the runaway.

“I am so sorry,” Jasper said, breath catching slightly as he approached. He crouched and secured the leash, gently guiding the pup away from the stranger’s space, “First night jitters. We’re still figuring out who’s walking who.”

He offered a quick smile, eyes glinting with humor. “And to think people trust me with their pets professionally.”