The Monkey's Paw by W. W. Jacobs

The Monkey's Paw is a chilling story by W. W. Jacobs about the White family and a mysterious talisman they acquire. The paw, gifted to them by a mystical sergeant-major, grants three wishes but with a sinister twist.

The Whites, initially skeptical, are drawn into the paw's power. Their first wish is for a sum of money to ease their financial woes. The money arrives, but through a tragic accident. Grief-stricken, particularly Mrs. White, they consider using a second wish to bring their deceased son back. Against his better judgment, Mr. White makes the wish.

Their son seemingly returns, but a horrifyingly altered version. He's a pale, cold embodiment, a ghost of his former self. The family is terrified, realizing the unintended consequence of their wish. In a desperate attempt to restore normalcy, Mr. White makes their final wish – the story leaving the nature of this wish ambiguous but hinting it's for their son's demise. The ending is left open ended, with an unsettling silence replacing the ominous knocking at the door.