The Science Test: A Puppy Kisses Story
The Beginning
Scarlett loved the crisp, clean pages of a new science textbook. As the unofficial “brain” of the Puppy Pack, she thrived on facts, figures, and figuring things out. She always got the highest score on tests, and she was proud of her reputation.
When Mr. Flock announced a big test on the solar system, Scarlett’s tail gave a confident wag. The pup with the highest score would get to present their related science project to the entire school during assembly. Scarlett immediately pictured herself on stage, explaining the phases of the moon.
The Problem
The day of the test, the classroom was silent except for the scratching of pencils. The next day, Mr. Flock stood before the class with the graded tests. “Everyone did a wonderful job,” he began. “I want to give a special mention to Scarlett for an outstanding score of 98!”
Scarlett beamed. She had likely won.
“But I have some very exciting news,” Mr. Flock continued, his eyes twinkling. “For the first time this year, we have a perfect score. With 100 percent, the highest grade goes to… Emily!”
The Build-Up
The class erupted in applause. Emily’s jaw dropped in shock, then a huge, joyful smile spread across her face. Scarlett clapped along with everyone else, but on the inside, a strange, hot, and prickly feeling bloomed in her chest. It was jealousy.
She was happy for Emily, but she was also disappointed. She was supposed to be the science expert. The two feelings swirled inside her, making her feel confused and guilty. At recess, Scarlett sat alone on a bench, staring at her own test. The 98, which had felt so good minutes ago, now seemed like a failure.
The Big Moment (The Turning Point)
Cora noticed her sitting by herself and trotted over. “Hey, what’s up? I thought you’d be celebrating your awesome grade.”
Scarlett sighed. “I feel bad,” she admitted in a small voice. “I’m happy for Emily. But I’m also… jealous. And I feel terrible for feeling that way.”
Cora sat beside her and put a comforting paw on her shoulder. “I think I get it,” she said softly. “It’s like you can feel two things at once, right? Happy for your friend, but sad for yourself. That doesn’t make you a bad friend. It just makes you a pup with feelings.”
Hearing Cora say that was like a weight lifting off her shoulders. It was okay to feel this way. The important part was what she did next.
Winding Down
She took a deep breath, stood up, and walked over to where Emily was happily talking about her science project.
“Emily,” Scarlett said, her voice genuine.
Emily turned. “Oh, Scarlett! I can’t believe it! Your story about the meteorites really helped!”
Scarlett smiled, and this time, it was a real smile, reaching all the way to her eyes. “I’m so proud of you,” she said, giving her friend a hug. “You worked so hard, and you totally earned it. You’re going to be amazing at the assembly.”
The End (The Lesson Learned)
The hot, prickly feeling of jealousy was gone, replaced by the warmth of true friendship. Scarlett learned an important lesson that day: a friend’s success doesn’t dim your own light. In fact, celebrating their win made her own heart shine even brighter.
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