Mum, Im ten years old now, arent I? said Michael suddenly as he returned home from school.
So what? his mum replied, raising her eyebrows in surprise.
What do you mean, so what? Have you forgotten what you and Dad promised when I turned ten?
Promised? What did we promise?
You said I could finally get a dog.
No way! his mum exclaimed, a hint of panic in her voice. Anything but that! How about an electric scooter? The nicest, most expensive one out there. But only if you promise never to mention getting a dog again.
So thats how it is, is it? Michael huffed, puffing out his cheeks in disappointment. And youre always telling me to keep my word But youve gone back on yours. Alright, never mind
He retreated to his bedroom and didnt come out until his dad came home from work.
Dad, do you remember what you and Mum promised he began, but his dad cut him off.
Your mum already called me, I know what this is about! I just dont get why youre so set on this.
Dad, Ive wanted a dog for ages! You both know that.
Oh, we know! Ever since you read that book about Billy and the Friendly Ghost, youve acted like a little kid. People wish for all sorts of things, Michael. And do you even realise how expensive pedigree dogs are these days?
But I dont care if its a pedigree! Michael insisted. It can be any dogeven an abandoned one. I was just reading online about lonely dogs at shelters. Theyre so sad.
No! his dad interrupted. Why get a mutt? Theyre not good-looking! Alright, Michael, heres the deal. Id be willing to take in a rescue dogbut only if its a young pedigree. Thats the only way.
A young, pedigree one? Michael scrunched up his nose.
Yes! His dad exchanged a knowing glance with Michaels mum. Youll have to train it, take it to dog shows, the full works. You cant teach an old dog new tricks. So, if you can find a young, beautiful, abandoned pedigree dog somewhere in our town, maybe your mum and I will agree.
Alright Michael sighed, knowing full well hed never seen a pedigree stray on the streets. But hope springs eternal, so he decided to try.
That Sunday, Michael phoned his friend George and after lunch, they set off on their search.
They walked almost half the town by evening, but saw no abandoned pedigree dogs. There were loads of lovely pups out for strolls, but each one was firmly tethered to a proud owner.
Thats it, Michael said, shoulders slumping. I knew we wouldnt find one
Lets check the local kennel next Sunday, George suggested. Lots of pedigree dogs end up there. Ive read about it. We just need the address. For now, can we just sit and rest?
They found an empty bench, sat down, and dreamed out loud about bringing home a majestic rescue dog and training it together. After a bit of rest and daydreaming, they started shuffling home.
Suddenly, George tugged Michaels sleeve and pointed.
Look, Michael.
Michael followed his gaze and spotted a tiny, scruffy white puppy, hobbling awkwardly along the pavement.
Mongrel, George announced, whistling softly.
The puppy perked up at the whistle and shuffled eagerly towards them, but stopped short just a few steps away.
He doesnt trust people, George observed. Someone mustve frightened him badly.
Michael whistled quietly too and stretched a hand towards the pup. The little dog sniffed cautiously but, when Michael came closer, he didnt boltinstead, he bashfully wagged his muddy tail.
Come on, Michael, George said nervously. Why bother with this one? You wanted a pedigree. Pedigree dogs should have grand names. This ones more of a Button than anything else. George turned and marched off.
Michael gave the pup a gentle pat. Truthfully, he wouldve loved to bring this scrappy little fellow home. With a heavy heart, he started after his friend.
Suddenly, the puppy yelped from behind.
Michael froze; the little dog whimpered pathetically. George glanced back, then whispered, Come on, Michael, hurry! Dont look back. Hes staring at you.
Staring how?
Like youre leaving him behind. Like youre his only hope. Lets go.
George jogged on, but Michaels feet felt rooted to the spot. He was afraid to look. But just as he finally turned to run, something gently tugged at his trouser leg. Michael looked down into two trusting black eyes.
Right then and there, he scooped the little dog up and hugged him close, making his mind upif Mum and Dad said no, hed run away and take Button with him.
But his parents, as it turned out, had kind hearts too. The next day after school, Michael came home to Mum, Dad, and a freshly washed, snowy-white, peppy Button wagging her tail, ready to be part of their family.
Sometimes, keeping your word and showing compassion leads to the happiest surprises of all.
