You tossed the ball across the tiny patch of grass again, the tiny Labrador launching itself after it, flying headlong. 

When it and the ball returned to your feet, you beamed down at it, scooping the dog up to kiss its nose, then throwing the ball again, further this time. 

“Why don’t I get nose kisses?” Axel asked from behind you.

“You never fetch,” you replied, “I have to get everything myself. The dog, on the other hand…”

“You really love that dog, don’t you?” 

“Well, of course,” came your reply, as the tiny thing smacked into your shins, getting another kiss and the ball thrown again.

“If you love it so much, then why don’t you marry it?” He teased, sticking out his tongue.

You mocked offense. “What, are you off the market now? Displaced by a dog?”