Ottery stretched his little webbed paws and yawned, blinking sleepily at the sunbeams dancing across his favorite blue blanket. As he sat up, a warm, nutty aroma drifted from the kitchen, promising a delicious breakfast. Today felt like any other day, but Ottery hoped it would be filled with adventure and fun.
Ottery scurried in, paws tapping eagerly on the wooden floor. He reached out for the crackers, but just as his claws brushed the bowl, Mama Otter gently slid it away.
Mama Otter, Ottery’s caring mother, always wore a gentle smile and a blue apron dotted with flour.
"Not right now, Ottery. Breakfast first, then a treat,"
Ottery's whiskers drooped and his little nose wrinkled in disappointment. He clenched his paws, feeling a wave of frustration well up inside.
Ottery[/@ch_1]'s eyes fill with tears. The air is thick with tension as he stands frozen near the table.]
Ottery stomped his foot, his tail lashing. He wanted to shout, to cry, to make Mama change her mind. Instead, his voice came out as a whimper, "But I want them now!" The feelings inside him grew bigger and bigger until he didn’t know what to do with them.
Ottery[/@ch_1], her paw resting gently on his back. The scent of warm bread fills the air, calming the moment.]
"I know it's hard when you hear 'no,'" she murmured softly. "But sometimes we have to wait for good things. Let's take a few deep breaths together, okay?" Ottery hesitated, but Mama’s voice was steady and kind, and soon he found himself breathing in and out, paws on his belly.
Ottery[/@ch_1] sits with Mama, his breathing slowing, the tension easing from his small body.]
"When you feel upset, you can squeeze your favorite pebble or count to five," Mama suggested, holding out a smooth, cool stone. Ottery took it, rubbing his thumb over its surface, and counted quietly. Each number made the big feelings a little smaller.
Ottery managed a small smile as he nibbled his toast, his heart a bit lighter. He glanced at Mama, who winked and set the crackers next to his plate.
"See? Waiting isn’t so bad, and you did a great job calming yourself down," she praised. Ottery beamed, proud of himself for learning to handle a ‘no’—and even more excited for the treat he’d earned.
