. . .

The years pass.

Each time Saul comes home — whether it’s from working in town, or school, or from a date with his lady love — the puppy is happy. It dances in delight.

One day Saul turns sixteen.

“Have you been good?” Saul’s mother asks.

“I have,” says Saul.

Suddenly there are tears in his eyes although he doesn’t quite know why.

“I thought so,” Aubrid says softly. So she gets up from their breakfast. She goes around the table. She hugs him. She tries to let go, but only hugs him tighter. Actually letting go takes a second try.

“Go on, then,” she tells him.

He looks at her.

“The sugar fairies are here.”

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