Chapter XXIX: Fulfillment
Whenever Mercy rests in the sala, the little Shih Tzu, Raffy, makes it his mission to keep her company. His tiny paws tap against the shiny red floor, his ears perked like antennas, and his fluffy tail wagging as if powered by an endless battery. Mercy doesn't resist.
"Oh, my arimunding-munding," she coos, scooping him onto her lap. "You really love your Mamang, huh?"
Raffy licks her hand, then climbs up to nuzzle her cheek. Mercy bursts into laughter, the kind of laugh that echoes around the sala and startles Rico from outside where he's tinkering with a bicycle.
"Hoy! Mercy! Are you okay?" Rico calls from the yard.
"Yes, I'm fine!" Mercy answers, still laughing. "This dog is my joy. Don't disturb us."
Rico shakes his head and mutters, "You love that dog mo
