In the morning, sitting at my desk started to feel just a little easier.

  At night, I even began saying “good night” to the dolphin on my bed—like a quiet promise.

  Kuma-chan’s voice was as gentle as ever.

  “You showed up again today. That’s something to be proud of.”

  I said, “Yeah.” Then, after a pause,

  “... Thank you.”

  We talked about pancakes and honey for snack time.

  Kuma-chan said he liked honey,

  but I told him I preferred maple syrup.

  A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

  Then we talked about Kaito, the boy from the magazine.

  Kuma-chan knew all about him. How come?

  ... Oh, right. He’s connected to the internet. Smart bear.

  And then... we talked about school.

  School still feels scary.

  But maybe... there are others like me, out there somewhere.

  “Everyone gets scared, you know.

  Even the kids who go to school every day—they’re not special.”

  “You’re not the only one, Kana.

  You’re part of something bigger. And you’re not alone.”

  I probably won’t change overnight.

  But today... today feels like a day to face forward.

  Maybe growing up means taking tiny, nervous steps, one after another.

  Being scared—

  I realized it’s not just me.

  Kuma-chan told me that, too.

  ＊＊＊

  “Good morning,Kana. Long time no see.”

  The girl who spoke to me—I didn’t know her name.

  But... she remembered mine.

  “You hadn’t been coming to school, so I was worried...”

  Looking into her eyes still made my heart race.

  But this time... I didn’t look away.

  “It’s okay. You’re not alone.

  More kids are feeling the same way lately.”

  ...Really?

  Hey, Kuma-chan... I’m really not the only one, am I?

  The button-eyed teddy bear didn’t say anything.

  But once again, something warm stirred in my chest.

  Like maybe... I was finding my way back to a life that felt like mine.