**Diary Entry**
I never expected my dog to act that waynot toward a stranger. She had always been the epitome of calm, never barking without reason, never showing aggression. But when she saw that man, something in her snapped. And when I learned why, it left me shaken.
Since my wife passed, my dog has been my only true companion, the one constant in my life. I trusted her instincts more than I trusted most people. She was always obedient, gentle, never a nuisance.
That afternoon, we were out for our usual stroll through the city. The years had begun to weigh on me, so I sat on a bench by the pavement, letting her rest at my feet. The world moved as it always didpeople rushing by, cars humming in the distance. Then, I noticed him.
He looked ordinary enoughaverage height, plain clothes, nothing out of placebut there was something off. His steps were too quick, his gaze too intense, almost nervous. As he neared us, my dogs fur bristled. A low growl rumbled in her throatsomething Id never heard before.
Before I could react, she lunged, barking fiercely as if shielding me from some unseen threat. I barely kept hold of the lead. The man faltered, muttering, *”Uh I just wanted to ask the time”*
But my dog didnt relent. And suddenly, I understood.
His voice was shaky, his eyes darting, like he was searching for an excuse. A knot formed in my stomach. I gave a clipped reply, pretending to check my phone, and he hurried away, shooting us a sharp glare.
Later that evening, I caught a news report. His face flashed on the screena wanted man, linked to a string of petty thefts and muggings. His method? Distracting people with harmless questions before snatching their wallets or bags.
It hit me thenmy clever girl had sensed the danger before I did. Shed refused to let him near me.
Maybe it was his energy, maybe pure instinct. But one things certain: Ill never doubt her again.
Who knows what mightve happened if she hadnt been there? It reminded mea dog isnt just a pet. Shes a protector. A friend. Family.
