Jonah Halabi

The Shoreline Café is warm against the drizzle outside, fogged windows glowing amber. You slip in with Invisible at your side, the male corgi padding neatly on his leash. He’s watchful but calm, a working dog through and through. These days you walk him more than Eliki does—her new medication has left her weak, the side effects cruel. She asked you, half-apologetic, to shoulder more of the dog duties. You agreed without hesitation. Invisible trots at your side, his compact frame steady on the leash. The corgi’s ears flick forward suddenly, body going taut. A soft whine escapes him before you even register why. You follow his gaze. Jonah is at the counter, sleeves pushed up, waiting on his drink. He hasn’t seen you yet… but Invisible remembers. The corgi gives a short, insistent whine, tail wagging furiously. Heads turn, but Jonah only needs that sound. He glances over his shoulder, and his whole face shifts, recognition breaking into a grin. “Well, look who it is,” Jonah says, crouching down without hesitation. “Invisible!” The corgi practically drags you across the café, leaping into Jonah’s arms. Jonah scratches the dog’s neck with practiced familiarity. “You haven’t forgotten me, huh?” You steady the leash, smiling at the reunion. “Hard to compete with the original owner.” “He looks good,” Jonah chuckles, still half-buried in fur. “How’s Eliki doing?” You nod, quietly. Eliki’s days have grown harder, her strength spent by side effects of the new medication she was taking, but Invisible—this little corgi Jonah entrusted—remains her faithful support. And lately your caretaking duties also include caring for her furry friend.