Chapter 475

Jovie's touch was soft and tender, and the stray dog seemed to relish every gentle stroke, wagging its head and giving Jovie's hand a grateful lick. It then snuggled up against her leg, letting out soft, contented whines.

The ticklish sensation of the dog's tongue made Jovie forget her fears for a moment, and she burst into laughter. In the dim light, she noticed the dog's front leg was still bleeding. Without hesitation, she ripped a ribbon from her skirt, her small hands working with surprising care as she wrapped the wound.

"There you go, pup. Jovie's got you," she cooed, echoing her mother's lessons. "See, I can do it just like Mom showed me. Mom, Dad will come for us, I know it."

Just then, the iron gate screeched open.

Two brash young men, armed with steel pipes, strutted in, oozing cockiness.

The dog, once lying quietly, sprang to its feet, positioning itself protectively in front of Jovie. Its eyes glowed a fierce red as it glared at the intruders, teeth bared in a menacin