I had just gotten back to the oak tree when I heard it.

“I found something! This way!â€?

The Bigs followed my trail and found Allie and me. Lyn scooped Allie up and held her tight.

“Are you all right?â€?

Allie nodded.

“Don’t ever do that again!â€?

“I’m sorry, Mom.â€? Allie meant it. Lyn held her tighter and stood up.

They headed off together. Headed off without me!

“We forgot Booboo!â€? Allie cried.

Lyn turned around. She frowned at the sight of me.

“He’s kind of beat up, Allie. Why don’t I just get you a new bear?â€?

Admittedly, I had seen better days. But Allie shook herself free and picked me up.

“No!â€? She cried. “I want Booboo! He saved me! There was a coyote and he made it go away!â€?

“But, Allison—“

“Please, Mom?â€?

Lyn thought for a moment. “Alright. We’ll take him to Bear Hospital and see what Dr. Mom can do.â€?