In the corner of the room, Eli, a curious young boy with tousled hair and bright eyes, sat cross-legged on the carpet. Beside him lay Cico, his loyal, golden-furred dog, whose gentle eyes seemed to watch over him with patience and love. Books were scattered around them, their colorful covers promising adventures and mysteries. "I wish I could read all of these, Cico," Eli sighed, running his fingers over the cover of a book with a dragon on it.

Eli picked up a book titled "A Dragon's Tale" and began to sound out the words. Cico watched him intently, as if understanding every word. "The... dra-gon... flew... over... the... moun-tains," Eli read slowly, his voice gaining confidence with each word. Cico's tail wagged enthusiastically, as if cheering him on. "You're my best teacher, Cico," Eli chuckled, patting his furry friend.

Despite his efforts, Eli stumbled over the longer words, his frustration mounting. Cico, sensing his friend's struggle, nudged Eli's hand with his nose. "I know, Cico. I just want to read like everyone else," Eli muttered, his voice tinged with determination. With a deep breath, he picked up the book again, determined to conquer the words that challenged him.

Eli finally stumbled upon a page that he could read with ease. The sentences flowed from his mouth like a melody, each word clearer than the last. Cico wagged his tail, his eyes full of pride and encouragement. "The dragon soared through the sky, feeling free as the wind," Eli read, his voice steady and clear. A smile broke across his face as he realized he was truly reading.

Eli closed the book with a satisfied sigh, leaning back against Cico who nuzzled closer. "We did it, Cico! I can read!" Eli exclaimed joyfully, wrapping his arms around his furry companion. The room felt alive with the success of his achievement, and Eli knew that with Cico by his side, there was nothing he couldn't do.

The next morning, Eli was up early, a new book in hand and Cico by his side, ready for another day of reading. The room buzzed with excitement as Eli opened the book, eager to dive into new stories and worlds. "Let's see what adventure awaits us today, Cico," Eli said with a grin, knowing that with determination and a loyal friend, he could read anything.