Leo didn't want summer to end. The thought of school made him uneasy. He scrolled through his favorite videos, trying to pretend that morning wouldn't come. His mother entered, tapping his shoulder gently, and pointed at the clock with a smile. But Leo wasn't ready for sleep. "Just one more video, please," he pleaded.
His room was his haven, the place where everything felt just right. The school was different—loud, bright, and overwhelming. Leo watched a familiar video, one of a brave turtle finding its way home. It was comforting, a story he knew well, much like the walls of his room.
She showed him a picture of Miss Parker, his teacher, wearing the scarf that always made him smile. Miss Parker understood him, giving him quiet moments when he needed them. Leo nodded slowly, absorbing the reassurance, though the thought of school still loomed large.
Leo groaned, burying his face in his pillow as his mom entered with a plate of his favorite pancakes. Blueberries dotted the pancakes like tiny suns, and their sweetness was enough to coax him from bed. Mom signed, "The bus will be here soon," pointing to the clock.
Leo hesitated at the door, his backpack filled with familiar comforts—his fidget toy, noise-canceling headphones, and a cherished picture from home. Mom knelt down, hugging him gently. She signed, "Miss Parker will be waiting for you," and gave him one last reassuring smile.
Miss Parker greeted him warmly, showing him to his favorite spot by the window. During recess, Max, a boy from his class, invited Leo to join him in building a tower of blocks. Hesitant at first, Leo picked up a block and added to the tower, feeling a small sense of accomplishment.
He had drawn it during art class, inspired by Mom's picture from the night before. It was a reminder that tomorrow might be special, just like today had been. As he watched his favorite video one last time, Leo felt a warmth spread through him. School wasn't so bad after all. He climbed into bed, his smartphone beside him, and thought, "Tomorrow will be okay."
