The Tardy Cub

Mrs. Bear glanced at the clock on the wall.  It was a big, round clock with bold black dots and hands that pointed to two and twelve.  “Look at the time, dear,” she said to Mr. Bear, her voice a little worried. “Our little cub hasn’t come home from school yet.”

Mr. Bear looked up, his big brown eyes widening. “Oh my, you’re right!” He sprang to his feet, his chair scraping against the floor. “Don’t you worry, I’ll find him.”

He rushed out the door, his big paws padding softly on the forest path.  He looked behind every tree and under every bush.  He called out, “Cub! Cub, where are you?”

Finally, he heard a giggle coming from a dark cave.  He peeked inside and saw his little cub, playing with another young bear.

“Hey there, little one,” Mr. Bear said gently, “What are you doing here?”

The cub looked up, a little surprised. “Oh, hi Daddy! I was playing with my friend,” he said, pointing to the other bear. “That’s why I’m late.”

Mr. Bear smiled. “Well, that’s alright, but you know your mama gets worried when you’re late.  We should head home now.”

The cub nodded and waved goodbye to his friend.  He took Mr. Bear’s big paw and they walked back through the forest, the sun starting to set behind the trees.

When they got home, Mrs. Bear was waiting by the door.  She gave the cub a big hug. “Oh, I’m so glad you’re safe!” she said.

The cub hugged her back. “I’m sorry I was late, Mama. I was playing with my friend.”

Mrs. Bear smiled. “That’s okay, but next time, remember to tell us if you’re going to be late, alright?”

The cub nodded, feeling a little sleepy.  He was glad to be home, safe and sound, with his loving mama and daddy.  And as he drifted off to sleep, he knew that even though he was a little late, his parents would always be there to look for him.