Tofu was a fluffy, snow-white chihuahua puppy, with the biggest eyes and ears that perked up at the tiniest sound. Today was his 3-month birthday. The house was usually full of laughter, hugs, and warm cuddles, especially for Tofu. He loved when his favorite humans gave him treats, played games, and made him feel special.
But this morning was different.
Tofu woke up and stretched his tiny paws, his pink nose twitching in excitement. He wagged his tail and bounced off his soft blanket, ready to start his birthday adventure. But as he padded around the house, he noticed something strange. The house was quiet. Too quiet.
The living room, where his humans usually sipped coffee and watched TV, was empty. His little paws trotted over to the remote on the bed. He stared at it, confused. Where was everyone?
He let out a tiny, high-pitched bark. Nothing. Not even a footstep.
Tofu’s little heart felt a pang of confusion. Did they forget about me? he wondered. He plopped down on his blanket, his ears drooping just a bit. The colorful remote sat next to him, as if waiting for someone to turn on his favorite show. Tofu stared at the door, expecting it to swing open any second with cheers of “Happy Birthday!”
But it didn’t.
Feeling lonelier than ever, Tofu curled up into a ball, his tiny body just a fluff of white against the soft blanket. A tear glistened in his eye. He didn’t understand why the people he loved were gone today of all days.
Then, a soft creak.
His ears perked up.
The door swung open. There they were! His humans rushed in with party hats and squeaky toys, carrying a tiny cake just for him. The room lit up with warmth and love.
“Happy Birthday, Tofu!” they cheered.
Tofu’s tail wagged so fast it was a blur. He yipped with joy, jumping into their arms. The loneliness faded, replaced by cuddles, kisses, and the sweet smell of his birthday cake. They hadn’t forgotten him. They had just been getting everything ready for his surprise party!
As he gobbled his cake and played with his new toys, Tofu knew that even when things seemed quiet and confusing, love was never far away.
