Felix[/@ch_1], his little sister, and their parents—amidst the crowd.]
Felix tugs at his father’s shirt, eyes wide beneath tousled brown hair, his Spiderman shirt bright against his blue jeans. Suitcases pile at their feet as announcements echo overhead and his sister giggles, weaving between their legs. The family moves toward security, but in the sea of people, a moment’s distraction is all it takes.
Felix[/@ch_1] turns and suddenly, his family is gone. His small hands clutch his father’s wallet, his heart pounding as he looks around.]
Felix calls out for his parents, but only strangers’ faces meet his gaze. He brushes a tear from his cheek and takes a deep breath, remembering his father’s words about being brave. With determination, he makes his way toward the exit, the city’s skyline shimmering beyond the airport’s glass walls.
Felix[/@ch_1] spots a bright yellow cab, climbs in, and shows the driver his father’s wallet.]
"Can you take me to Manhattan, please?"
The driver, surprised but touched by the boy’s bravery, nods and they set off. The cab weaves through traffic, the world outside bursting with colors and life, but Felix feels a pang of sadness—he has never been so alone.
Felix[/@ch_1] steps out of the cab into the golden afternoon light. Towering buildings cast long shadows, and the city seems impossibly vast. Suddenly, a curious squirrel scampers over, its bushy tail twitching.]
The squirrel pauses, looking up at Felix with bright, mischievous eyes before darting toward a nearby park. Intrigued, Felix follows, where he finds murals splashed with color, musicians playing lively tunes, and the scent of roasted nuts in the air. One after another, animals appear—a clever pigeon guides him to a rooftop garden, a friendly dog leads him to a food cart with the tastiest pretzels, and a singing parrot shows him a hidden jazz band in the park.
Felix[/@ch_1] sits on a park bench, the squirrel curled beside him, and watches the world bustle around him.]
As he listens to the music and laughter, Felix realizes he is not alone at all. The city is full of magic—kind animals, warm-hearted strangers, and endless surprises. He thinks about all the new friends he’s made, both furry and human, and feels a gentle happiness settle in his chest.
Felix[/@ch_1], cheeks flushed with excitement, hears a familiar voice calling his name above the noise.]
"Felix! There you are!"
Turning, he sees his parents and little sister running toward him, their faces filled with relief and joy. Felix rushes into their arms, laughter and tears mingling as he tells them all about the magic animals, the wonders of the city, and the kindness he found at every turn. Together, they walk beneath the city lights, Felix knowing that the world is full of friends, and he will never truly be alone.
