I’ve had a special friend for four years.

I still remember the summer day in 2016 when I met him for the first time at the pet shop. His golden fur, little body, round face and black eyes melted my heart right away. He was such an adorable puppy that I decided to get him for 200 yuan. I named him Ginger.

The first evening with us, Ginger was more than scared. Only when I stayed with him did he stop whining. Therefore, I had to let Ginger share my bed for the night.

Ginger was a timid dog. After he was with us for weeks, he still did not dare to go downstairs. Each time I went out, I gestured to the door, trying to cajole him into following me. Whimpering anxiously, Ginger would not venture a step out of the room. Then I would laugh at him.

As time went by, Ginger grew fast. Now when I go downstairs for a walk, he streaks out even faster than me, like lightning. He never whines at night even though I do not stay with him any longer. These days when I am doing my work at home, Ginger will be lying right there at my feet.

Ginger is my first pet. He has become an indispensable part of my teenage life. Thanks to Ginger, my existence is less lonely and more colourful.