Small Encounter

Small Encounter

“I don’t understand...”

Pete heard the worried voice but he couldn’t see anyone.

“I don’t understand...” he heard again, and then a scuffling sound.

Pete decided to find the owner of the voice. A tall broom was standing in the corner, a perfect stairway for a mouse. He climbed until he could see around. Soon he heard the sound, at the window.

Pete climbed up to the sill. Peering over, all he could see was a red dot. Then it moved!

“Oh dear, oh dear,” the red dot said clearly, “I don’t know what to do.”

“Can I help you?” Pete said.

The dot turned, and on the front were two frightened eyes. “Are you going to eat me?” it said.

“I don’t think so,” Pete answered, "I don’t usually eat dots.” The dot looked relieved. “Why are you so upset?” Pete asked.

“I need to get to the garden, I can’t seem to get there. I just woke up!”

“Oh I get it!” said Pete, “You've been hibernating, you're a ladybug, I’ve heard of you. Mother says ladybugs sometimes hibernate
in windows, and not to eat them.”

“Do you usually eat bugs?” the ladybug said, a bit frightened.

“Not usually...”

“I see the garden, but I can’t get there,” she said, bumping her head against the window.”

“Because you can’t get through glass. I can help you.” Pete scooped the ladybug up then scurried to a little hole behind the chair. Soon he had her outside. “Here you go!” He held up his hand and the ladybug opened her wings.

As she flew off she yelled back, “Thank you!!”

Pete watched her. ‘You know,’ he thought, ‘I’ve heard ladybugs bring good luck... I bet I’ll find a nice meal when I get back inside!”

And he did.