The Fence Between Us

Episode 2: Puppy

“Leyla! Did you hear what I said?” I snapped out of my notes.

Mom's voice echoed from the kitchen, sharp and firm: “Go to the market and get me some tomatoes and onions. It’s written on the note on the fridge! Move it, girl!”

I sighed, pushed my chair back, grabbed the little canvas bag by the door, stuffed the crumpled note into my pocket, and stepped out into the fading afternoon light.

Willow Creek’s evening market was nothing special.

A few veggie carts, some old ladies I’d seen a thousand times, and golden sunlight falling through dusty leaves. I finished shopping and headed home, taking the familiar dirt path that curved behind the house, through the weedy field. And that’s when I saw him Mathis.

Sunlight hit his white shirt just right, making his hair look almost golden. He was walking fast, holding his phone, heading toward the trees behind the village. Without thinking, I sped up.

Just a little closer, I told myself. Maybe he’d turn around. Maybe Then I heard it.

A small sound. Weak. Barely a whimper.

I froze. Turned my head.

There, in the dried yellow grass by the road, was a tiny dog curled up tightly against the ground, ribs showing through its thin skin.

I stood still. Then looked up — realizing I had already lost sight of him. I looked back at the poor little thing and made my choice.

I turned back toward town, stepped into a small roadside store, and bought a can of paté, a bottle of water, and a few sausage sticks.

When I returned, it was still there. I sat down, opened the food, and placed each piece gently in front of it.

I didn’t say anything.

Just wanted it to know... it wasn’t forgotten.