Bear Comes Home: story transcript
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Bear Comes Home
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The baby had a new bed beside Mum’s chair. Elsie tucked Bear under her arm and looked in. The baby’s hands opened and closed. "Bear can watch from the shelf," Elsie said. Mum set him there, well away from the clear, empty crib.
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That evening, Elsie waved to Bear on the shelf. "Look after the baby," she whispered. Back in her own room, she climbed into bed. Mum turned off the big light. The dark felt bigger than usual, and Elsie’s arm curled around empty air.
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Mum came when Elsie called. "I want Bear," Elsie said, her voice small. "Of course," said Mum. "He’s yours to cuddle." She brought Bear down from the shelf. Elsie pressed his soft head against her cheek and let out a long breath.
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"But who will welcome the baby?" Elsie asked. Mum sat beside her. "You already did," she said. "You waved hello. Tomorrow, you can sing your little humming song while I hold the baby." Elsie hummed one note. Then another. Bear listened from her lap.
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Mum switched on the little night-light. Its gentle glow reached Elsie’s pillow, but not the corners. That was all right. Elsie tucked Bear close and listened to Mum’s quiet steps down the hall. In the next room, the baby slept in a clear, empty crib.
