Toby sits cross-legged on his bed, pulling his favorite green jacket over his messy, sandy-brown hair. His bright, curious eyes scan the room for treasures to tuck into his deep pockets—a shiny marble, a folded paper plane, and Scout’s battered tennis ball. Scout waits by the door, tail thumping against the floor. One ear stands tall while the other flops down, and his salt-and-pepper fur glows in the morning light. "Ready for the park, Scout?" "Woof!"

Toby hesitates near the entrance, clutching Scout’s tennis ball. Though he wants to join the games, his feet stay planted as he watches other kids chase each other in a flurry of color and sound. Scout nudges his leg gently, eyes sparkling with encouragement. "Do you think... maybe today I’ll talk to someone new?" "Woof-woof!"

Toby[/@ch_2]'s feet, stopping at his sneakers.] He glances at the other children, heart thumping, unsure what to say. Scout bounces up, tail wagging, and grabs the ball in his mouth, trotting toward the group. The children laugh, calling to the scruffy dog with the funny "beard" and mismatched ears. "Scout, wait!" One boy waves. Scout drops the ball at the boy’s feet, then looks back at Toby as if inviting him.

Scout[/@ch_1], admiring his white “sock” and brave, silly antics. Toby steps closer, his shy smile growing as he watches Scout charm everyone.] "That's Scout. He loves playing fetch and finding treasures," Toby says, voice trembling but proud. A girl with pigtails grins. "Do you want to play tag with us? Scout can be our referee!" "Um... okay! And Scout will make sure nobody cheats."

Toby[/@ch_2] runs with the others, his jacket pockets jingling with treasures. Scout races alongside, barking encouragement, never leaving Toby's side.] In the swirl of movement and fun, Toby finds his voice, calling out rules, laughing at mistakes, and even sharing his marble with a new friend. The world feels bigger and brighter, and he realizes he is braver than he thought. "Scout, I did it. I made friends!" "Woof-woof!"

Toby[/@ch_2] and Scout sit beneath the oak. The park is quieter now, the day’s adventures settling into memory. Scout’s fur glows golden, and Toby leans against him, feeling content.] "Thank you, Scout. You’re my courage coach," "Woof," Scout replies softly, nuzzling Toby's hand as stars begin to blink above.