Chapter # 3

I rescued the dog and left the alley.

I went to a pharmacy, bought some band-aids and ointments, and sat on a bench, treating the dog. He licked my hands, gratitude shining in his eyes.

Me: "Oh, aren't you a sweet dog? But what exactly are you?" I wondered aloud, as the dog was an unusual shade of blue with captivating eyes. I had never seen a dog like him before.

I played with him a little, feeling an overwhelming fatigue as if all my energy had been drained. Unwittingly, I dozed off on the bench.

??: Just like her parents. Won't retaliate against any harm inflicted upon her. But won't stand idly by when someone hurts even a dog.

I woke up and found myself in my bed. 'Wait... What? How did I get back to my room?'

I descended the stairs and saw my grandma in the living room.

Grandma: "Oh, you're awake."

Me: "Yes, but grandma, how did I end up in my room? I mean-"

Grandma: "Oh, that... You silly, who falls asleep right in front of their house?"

Me: "In front of the house??"

Grandma: "Yes, you were sleeping right outside the door. I had to ask the neighbor's aunt to help me move you to your bed."

'But how is that even possible?'

Me: "Oh, I'm just really clumsy. How could I fall asleep there? I'm sorry for bothering you, Grandma."

Grandma: "No worries, sweetheart. Now, come and have breakfast."

I went to the dining table and started eating pancakes. I couldn't help but think about yesterday.

'Was that dog real? Did I really defeat those three guys? No, it can't be true. I'm not that strong. It must have been a dream... But if it's just a dream, how did I end up sleeping outside? Ugh, my head hurts trying to make sense of all this.'

Grandma: "Earth to Katie."

Katie: "Oh, I'm sorry. What were you saying?"

Grandma: "Nothing. But why are you lost in thought?"

Me: "Oh, it's nothing, Grandma. Just thinking about today's test."

Grandma: "Alright..."

I finished my breakfast and washed my hands. "I'll be going now, Grandma."

Grandma: "Goodbye, darling. Take care."

I left the house. Today, I decided to walk instead of taking the bus. As I strolled through the streets, I spotted the same dog again. I was sure now that it wasn't a dream. I started walking toward the dog, and he noticed me, coming toward me too.

While I approached him, I noticed his wounds were completely healed. I was happy but also puzzled. I mean, the dog was seriously injured. How could he have recovered so quickly? I crouched down and began petting him. He closed his eyes, savoring the attention. Despite his strange appearance, he was undeniably adorable.

Suddenly, I remembered I had college to attend and was running late. I stood up abruptly. The dog opened his eyes, looking a bit puzzled.

Me: "Oh, I'm sorry. But I have to go now."

I waved at him, and to my surprise, he stood on his feet and waved back.

My jaw dropped in astonishment. Did he really stand and wave? He smiled at me and trotted away.

[In class]

Teacher: "Why are you late, Katie?"

Me: "I'm really sorry, sir. It won't happen again."

Teacher: "I won't give you a punishment this time since it's the first time you're late. But make sure it doesn't repeat."

Me: "Yes, sir, I understand. Thank you."

Teacher: "Good. Now, go to your seat."

Ugh, it's been an hour since the lecture started, and I can't concentrate at all. All I can think about is that dog and what happened yesterday. My thoughts were interrupted by the bell ringing.

Teacher: "Okay, class. You have to review today's lecture for homework. Your recess has started. Enjoy your break." The teacher said and left the class.

I didn't feel like going to the cafeteria, as I wasn't hungry. Instead, I decided to visit the library.

I entered the library and greeted the librarian.

I perused the books, but I couldn't find one that I hadn't read. I approached the librarian.

Me: "Excuse me, Ma'am. Are there any new books?"

Librarian: "Yes, Katie. We just received some new books yesterday. I haven't had the chance to shelve them properly. They're on that table." She pointed to a table in the corner.

I went over to that table, picked up a random book, and started reading it.

After a while, the bell rang again. I returned the book to the table. As I was about to leave, my eyes fell on a book placed in the lower right corner. It looked ancient. I glanced at the title, "The Wizard and the Black Hole" by "Nicole Palice." It claimed to be "based on a real story."

'Huh, that's a good joke. How can this be real? Magic doesn't exist.' I put the book back and left the library.