Scooby submitted without too much resistance, walking where he was guided. But when Betty was asked to step away, he stopped. His body went rigid. He did not growl or lunge. He simply refused to move until Betty stood within reach again.
A DNA analysis was ordered. Blood samples were taken. Measurements recorded. Photos archived. Vanessa signed forms she barely read, her name steady on the page even as her thoughts spiraled toward outcomes she did not want to imagine.