April 10, 2023, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about “the old lady and the beast.” What does age have to say about the story? Who is the beast and why? Go where the prompt leads!

This week at Carrot Ranch Charli challenged us to write about an old woman and a beast. My mind went to my friend’s dog, Duke Ellington, 150 lbs of lovable white fur, he truly is a “beast.” I mean that in only a nice way. And, by the way, my friend is not the old lady in my story, I hope you like my story.

Today like every other Marge stepped out her backdoor for her early morning walk. The sun peaked over the horizon casting a shimmer on the pond. Birds floated above through fresh, clean air from an overnight shower. Squirrels chittered to say “Good Morning.” Marge loved this time of day when the world seemed at peace.

In the distance, she barely heard the guttural growl. “Where and what is it?” She walked on listening. Again, closer, louder. It jumped and pinned her under its huge paws, its fur thick and silky, her eyes opened, “You beast, get off the bed!”

If you like 99i Word Stories or stories about dogs, visit last week’s Collection on Dogs in a Desert.