The house felt unusually quiet the morning BuEm went for her medical check up. CUTIS noticed it right away. BuEm’s favorite blanket was folded neatly, and Mom moved with a careful, serious expression. When BuEm was gently placed into her carrier, CUTIS’s smile slowly faded into confusion.
He followed closely, his small hands gripping the edge of the carrier as if afraid she might disappear. CUTIS tilted his head, studying BuEm’s face, searching for reassurance. When Mom explained they were going to the doctor, CUTIS nodded, but his eyes filled with worry. To him, doctors meant something unknown—and unknown felt scary.
As the door closed behind them, CUTIS stood frozen. He ran to the window and pressed his face against the glass, watching until the car disappeared. The moment it was gone, his brave expression crumbled. CUTIS sat on the floor, hugging BuEm’s pillow tightly, refusing to let anyone move it.
Throughout the morning, CUTIS kept checking the clock. Every sound outside made him jump. He paced back and forth, sometimes whispering BuEm’s name, sometimes wiping his eyes with the back of his hand. Even his favorite toys failed to distract him. Without BuEm, the house felt too big and too quiet.
To cope, CUTIS decided to “take care of things” for her. He carefully lined up her toys, straightened her blanket, and even placed a snack beside her pillow so she wouldn’t be hungry when she came home. His actions were small, but filled with love and concern far beyond his age.
When the door finally opened, CUTIS rushed forward. The moment he saw BuEm safe in Mom’s arms, his face lit up with relief. He hugged her gently, afraid to squeeze too hard, tears turning into shy smiles. BuEm responded with a soft sound that felt like a thank you.
That day, CUTIS learned how heavy worry can feel—and how powerful love is. His emotional reaction wasn’t just fear; it was proof of a deep bond. Sometimes, caring for someone means waiting, hoping, and believing they’ll come back safe.
