For actor Alaya F, home isn’t complete without the pitter-patter of little paws. Her three-year-old Maltese, MJ — short for Magic Junior — is not just a pet, but a living tribute to her late dog, Magic, and the undeniable centre of her world.

While she grew up with pets around her, the decision to bring MJ home three years ago was not an easy one. The 27-year-old recalls, “When I moved into my own house four years ago, I decided I will not get a pet. They are like babies and it would be a big responsibility. I didn’t want to take it up since I had to manage everything alone.”

But fate had other plans. A friend, travelling out of town, asked Alaya to care for his dog temporarily. “The pet was comfortable with me, so he requested me. I reluctantly agreed,” shares the actor who debuted in Jawaani Jaaneman (2020), adding, “But I got so attached that, when he had to go, I told my friend, ‘Either I steal yours or get my own’.”

And that’s when Alaya began the search for her own fur baby. “The first image I was sent was a photo of MJ, asking, ‘Would you like to take him?’ I said, ‘No one send me any more photos, I have found the love of my life’!”

Since then, MJ has become her constant companion and an undeniable mood-lifter. “He made the home come alive. He’s such a badmaash! He’s been a source of joy ever since for me and anybody who enters my home.”

Balancing her bustling work life with pet parenting isn’t always easy, but Alaya has found a rhythm: “He has a working mum and he knows that. But MJ is chill. He’s a relaxed guy, I will give him credit for that.”

Though she often travels for shoots, MJ has never been short on love or care. The actor elaborates, “He is used to seeing me go in and out of home. I have two caretakers at home and he is obsessed with them. He’s also very happy when the house is crowded or when my teams come over.”

Despite the distance at times, the bond runs deep. “I miss him so much when I’m away, and I know he misses me, too,” she says, eyes twinkling.