When I was six, my parents and I went to our neighbors garage sale.I was bored, scuffing my feet while my parents talked and talked for what felt like hours. I disinterestedly dug through boxes, hoping to find a toy or a doll. At the bottom of one such box was a blanket; I pulled it aside curiously and saw something fluffy and brown. I pulled it out and squealed with delight, hugging a round-bellied teddy bear to my chest.

I showed him proudly to my parents, like he was a prize.

“look what I found!” I giggled, holding him up.

“He’s wonderful sweetie. What will you name him?” My mom asked, gazing at the bear.

“Mr. Knubbs, because his legs and ears are so short.”

“That’s cute honey. Go put Mr. Knubbs in the car.” My mother said, shooing me away and getting out her wallet to pay for the bear.

The minute I got in the car, I buckled Mr. Knubbs into the seat next to my booster and ruffled his fur affectionately.

“We’re going to be good friends, you and I.” I smiled and buckled myself in next to him.

Later, at the house, I showed Mr. Knubbs around.

“This is my bed, and this is my mommies room, and this is daddies office…” I showed him every nook and cranny in the house until my parents made me eat lunch.

I had Mr.Knubbs until I was nine. I decided I was too old to have stupid stuffed animals anymore. I wanted to be mature; So I went to the nightstand, where Mr.Knubbs was often perched, watching over me while I slept.

He looked up at me, and I looked down at him.

“Sorry Mr.Knubbs. I need a new best friend now. I’m older, i’ve outgrown you.”

I picked up gently by his bottom and cradled him like a little baby. I took him downstairs, to the fresh garbage bags. I said my final goodbyes to him, a small tear falling from my eye and onto his fur.

I took him outside, and left the garbage bags and Mr.Knubbs behind. Then I cried some more and went to bed.

That night, it was terribly dark outside, and I awoke from a nightmare about forests and dogs and scary monsters. I stared up at my plaster ceiling;

Then I threw back the covers and went out to the road.

I tore open the trash bag, grabbed my best friend, and ran inside. I hugged him tightly, climbing back into bed.

“I love you. I’m sorry.” I whispered.

Mr.Knubbs has remained on my nightstand ever since.

THE END