Grinning puppy

It started like any other Wednesday, sipping coffee at my desk when an email notification appeared. A stranger’s name flashed on the screen, prompting curiosity. “Hi! Remember to appreciate the little things that bring you joy, like a warm cup of coffee or a friendly smile. I sent you a dog picture to brighten your day!” I hesitated but opened the attachment. My heart sank at the sight—a dog with wide, unsettling eyes, matted fur, and a twisted grin that revealed sharp, yellowed teeth. Its hunched posture felt predatory. Was this a sick joke? I was about to delete it when another email arrived: “Joy can be… deceptive.” An inexplicable dread settled in, and I typed back, “Who are you?” But no answer came. The eerie image of the dog seemed to leer at me. That night, unable to shake the feeling of dread, I tried to sleep. Suddenly, scratching outside my window jolted me awake. I peered outside to find the same glowing eyes from the picture staring back at me. My heart raced. I stumbled back, but the scratching intensified. My phone buzzed again, displaying another message. “Remember to appreciate the little things, like a dog’s love… or your last moments of peace.” Panic surged as I rushed to close the window, but it was too late. The dog's laughter rang in my ears, a haunting mix of joy and malice. I realized the truth—the stranger was not just watching; he was coming for me. The last thing I heard was the scratching at the door, and then darkness engulfed me.