It was a calm afternoon when I decided to take Sky, my endlessly curious dog, for a walk along the river trail just outside town. The air was fresh, the birds were singing, and Sky was trotting happily beside me, sniffing every rock like it held the secrets of the universe. Everything seemed perfectly peaceful—until, in a flash of wild excitement, Sky spotted a duck near the water. Without warning, she yanked free of her leash and charged straight into the river.
My heart dropped. The current was stronger than it looked, and Sky was quickly swept away, her paws thrashing as she struggled to stay afloat. I ran along the riverbank, calling her name, but she was drifting farther by the second. Just as I was about to jump in myself, a stranger burst out from the trees nearby—barefoot, soaked, and without saying a word, he dove straight into the river with incredible speed. I could hardly believe what I was seeing.
The man swam like he belonged to the water. He reached Sky, scooped her up with one arm, and fought the current until they reached the shore. I rushed to help pull them out, breathless and shaking. Sky was cold and frightened, but safe. The man simply smiled, gave Sky a gentle pat, and said, “She’s got a wild heart. Keep a tight leash on that one.” Then, without even waiting for thanks, he turned and vanished back into the trees—leaving behind a soggy pawprint on my shoe and a wild story I’ll never forget.
