The officers visibly relaxed, their initial apprehension dissipating as they pieced together the situation. Relief washed over them, but they knew it was important to address the misunderstanding thoroughly.

One of the officers knelt down to Oliver’s level, where he stood clutching Max’s collar. “Oliver, you did the right thing by calling us if you thought something was wrong,” the officer said gently. “We’re here to help you. But it’s also important to make sure that it’s really an emergency next time, okay?”

Oliver looked down, a mix of emotions swirling in his young eyes. “I’m sorry,” he mumbled. “I just heard them talking and thought they were upset.”