Breathlessly I peddled up the hill. Jack loved the woods. We were going there anyway, but as soon as I’d reached for his collar he’d bolted out the back door.

I threw my bike down at the end of the lane. Sandals pounding over the dry earth, I called out, running this way and that.

No Jack.

I ran deeper into the woods.
‘Jack! Jack!’

Where would a little dog go? Suddenly the woods seemed huge.

Calling his name, I ran and ran until I could run no more. I leant against the nearest tree, fighting my rising panic.

Tears ran down my cheeks. I closed my eyes and began to howl.

Then I felt something rub against my leg. I opened my eyes.

It was Jack!

I crouched down and put my arms around my little dog. I’d gone to find him, but it was he who’d found me.

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Written as a ‘two for one’ prompt response to:

1) Sadje’s What Do You See #18 photo prompt – photo credit: Hoi An, Unsplash.
2) Di‘s Three Things Challenge #155 – rub, howl, collar