Buddy was a fluffy, light-colored teddy bear with button eyes, a tiny stitched smile, and fur so soft it could tickle a whisper. He lived in a cozy corner of Bear Factory Room 7, nestled between his Papa Bear and Mama Bear. One day, they handed him a book titled "So, You’re Getting a Kid!" in bright, crayon-colored letters.

“Every bear needs to be ready,” Papa Bear said, patting Buddy’s head.

“You’re going to be loved, snuggled, and probably very sticky,” Mama Bear added.

Buddy opened the book and began to read.

There would be mud pies and make-believe tea parties, which often led to suspicious stains and mysterious smells. Bears could be carried upside down, inside out, or by just one limb, for what felt like bear-years at a time.

There were cautionary tales from legendary bears: One-eyed Ed who lost his left eye in a tragic tricycle crash. Seamless Stella who came apart at the seams during an overly enthusiastic hug. Paws the Purple Bear who was once kicked across an entire backyard soccer match. And still, each tale ended with the same happy note:

"At night, no matter what happened during the day, your child will hold you close, whisper their dreams to you, and fall asleep feeling safe. That’s when you’ll know you’re doing it right."

Buddy’s fluff quivered. He wasn’t sure if he was more excited or terrified.

“I’m ready,” he said, clutching the book close. “Bring on the drool, danger, and dirt.”

That very night, something unexpected did happen. Without warning, Buddy was gently placed in a cardboard box. Inside were other wide-eyed teddy bears, all freshly fluffed and equally puzzled.

“Where are we going?” Buddy whispered.

No one knew.

As the box lid closed and darkness fell, Buddy held the book tight and wondered what came next.