Samantha Squirrel, a senior with a round belly and a sparkle of ambition in her eyes, nibbles on a muffin while staring at the colorful flyer. The flyer reads: “The Splashy Paradise Pool – Fat Squirrels Only! Come make a splash!” A dreamy sigh escapes her as she envisions herself floating carefree in the crystal-blue waters, surrounded by fellow chubby critters.
"If only I could be even bigger, I’d finally fit in at the Paradise Pool," she murmurs to herself, determination flickering in her gaze.
Samantha flips through the pages, jotting down ideas and counting calories. She imagines herself waddling up to the pool gate, her belly leading the way, greeted with cheers from other plump squirrels. The challenge is daunting, but her resolve is firm.
"I just need to eat more, try new recipes, and never give up," she declares, stuffing a pawful of trail mix into her cheek.
Samantha works determinedly, whisking batter and sampling spoonfuls of creamy pudding. Each bite brings her closer to her goal. She glances at her reflection in the oven door, watching her round belly press against her apron, and grins.
"Almost there, Samantha," she whispers. "You can do this."
Samantha sighs, tail drooping. She wonders if she’ll ever be “fat enough,” or if she’ll always feel like an outsider. Her phone buzzes—a message from her best friend, Molly Chipmunk, pops up: “You’re awesome just the way you are! Pool party tomorrow?”
"Maybe I don't need to change so much," she says quietly, her spirits lifting with the thought of friendship.
Samantha waddles up to the gate, clutching her invite. The lifeguard waves her in with a wide grin, and the other squirrels cheer as she cannonballs into the water, sending up a joyous splash. She floats easily, her belly bobbing like a raft.
"This is perfect," she laughs, joining a group of new friends in a game of pool volleyball.
Molly Chipmunk paddles over, offering her a slice of watermelon. "You did it, Sam. But you were always one of us," she says, squeezing Samantha’s paw.
"Thanks, Molly," Samantha replies, her heart full. "I think I finally belong—just the way I am."
