Molly skipped excitedly from tank to tank, her eyes sparkling with wonder. "Look at this one, Mom! It's so colorful," she exclaimed, pointing at a particularly vibrant betta fish.
Mom smiled, watching her daughter's enthusiasm. "Remember, Molly, we need to choose a fish that you'll be able to take care of," she said gently.
Max, Molly's older brother, stood a little way off, arms crossed, a skeptical look on his face. "Fish aren't really that exciting," he muttered under his breath.
Molly pressed her hands against the glass, her face just inches away from the water. "This one, Mom! I want to name him Bubbles," she declared, her voice filled with excitement.
Mom nodded, smiling at the store clerk who carefully scooped the fish into a small container. "He's beautiful, Molly. I think Bubbles is a perfect name," she agreed.
Max shrugged, peering over Molly's shoulder. "I guess he's kinda cool. But you'll have to feed him every day," he reminded Molly with a smirk.
Molly carefully poured Bubbles into the tank, watching as he gracefully swam into his new home. "Welcome home, Bubbles," she whispered, her voice filled with warmth.
Mom handed Molly the fish food, instructing her on the correct amount to feed. "Just a few pellets, Molly. We don't want to overfeed him," she explained patiently.
Max leaned in closer, examining Bubbles with newfound interest. "You know, he's actually pretty cool when you see him up close," he admitted.
Molly frowned, watching the uneaten food float in the water. "Why isn't he eating, Mom?" she asked, worry creeping into her voice.
Mom knelt beside her, offering reassurance. "Sometimes fish take a little while to adjust to a new environment. Let's give him some time," she suggested.
Max chimed in, surprisingly supportive. "Yeah, Molly. Bubbles just needs to get used to his new home. He'll be munching away in no time," he said confidently.
Molly giggled as Bubbles playfully chased his own reflection. "Look, Max! He's eating now and seems so happy!" she exclaimed, her joy infectious.
Max smiled, watching his sister's delight. "I guess having a fish isn't so boring after all," he conceded, nudging Molly's shoulder playfully.
Mom joined them, satisfied with the harmony Bubbles had brought into their lives. "Taking care of a pet is a big responsibility, Molly, but you're doing such a great job," she praised warmly.
Molly yawned, her eyes heavy with sleep but her heart full. "Goodnight, Bubbles," she whispered, gently tapping the tank.
Mom and Max exchanged a smile, both proud of Molly's dedication and growth. "Sweet dreams, Molly," Mom said softly as she tucked her in.
Max gave her a thumbs up. "And goodnight, Bubbles. Keep swimming strong," he added with a grin.
As the house fell quiet, Bubbles swam gracefully in his tank, a small but cherished new member of the family.
