Ember's Ride to Belonging
by

Thomas

A story about Adoption
for your 3rd Grader.

Cactus Cody rode through the sunlit canyon, feeling the warm breeze on his face. He had heard rumors of a magical oasis hidden behind tall rock walls, and he was ready to find it. Ember Flare, his curious dragon pal, flapped overhead, eager to explore every dusty trail.

Ember Flare swooped low, stirring up small clouds of dust with each wingbeat. "Do you really think there’s a hidden oasis out here?" he asked, his voice bubbling with excitement. Cody grinned and tipped his hat, dreaming of the green palms that might be waiting for them.

They passed tall cactus flowers bursting with brilliant reds and yellows. Each spiky stem seemed to guard the path like a silent sentinel. Rustling in the wind, the blossoms whispered of hidden wonders just beyond the canyon bend.

At midday, Cody paused to share a cool drink with Ember Flare. "I’ve always felt proud of my home," Cody said. "But it’s okay to feel like you belong in more than one place, too." Ember Flare nodded, wondering about his own origins and where his heart truly lived.

Ember Flare’s eyes glowed with curiosity as he gazed at the distant ranches below. "Sometimes, I worry I don’t fit in," he admitted softly. "What if my true home is somewhere else?" Cody reminded him that asking questions was the best way to learn and grow.

They stopped to greet a traveling family who had built their own new beginning. The parents explained how they opened their hearts to a child who needed them, filling their wagon with care and laughter. Ember Flare felt a warm spark of hope flutter in his chest.

Hearing the family’s cheerful voices, Cody gave Ember Flare a reassuring pat. "We can each have more than one circle of loved ones," Cody said. "Sometimes, a person or dragon just needs folks who understand and accept them." Ember Flare felt lighter, like he could soar forever.

When twilight fell, Ember Flare searched the star-filled sky for answers. "It’s strange to have so many questions, but not always the answers," he whispered. Cody reminded him that talking to friends, old or new, often helps calm big worries, especially about family and belonging.