Barnaby Bear was getting ready for bed. His tummy was full of yummy berries, and his paws were clean. But Barnaby wasn't quite sleepy yet. He peeked into the living room and saw his father, Papa Bear, reading a book by the warm fire.
Barnaby waddled over to Papa Bear and snuggled close. “Papa,” he yawned, “Can you read *me* a story?” Papa Bear smiled and closed his book. He scooped Barnaby onto his lap, making Barnaby feel safe and warm.
“Of course, little one,” Papa Bear said. He opened a book filled with pictures of twinkling stars. “This story is about a little firefly who was afraid of the dark.” Barnaby listened carefully as Papa Bear read about the firefly learning that the dark wasn’t scary, but full of beautiful, quiet things.
Barnaby loved listening to his Papa’s voice. It was a cozy, rumbling sound that always made him feel sleepy. Papa Bear would change his voice for each character, making the story even more fun! He made the firefly sound tiny and squeaky, and the wise old owl sound deep and booming.
When the story was finished, Barnaby was very sleepy. He rubbed his eyes and yawned again. Papa Bear gently tucked Barnaby into his little bed. He pulled the covers up to Barnaby’s chin and kissed his forehead.
“I love you, Barnaby,” Papa Bear whispered. “Sweet dreams.”
“I love you too, Papa,” Barnaby mumbled, already drifting off to sleep. He felt so loved and safe knowing his Papa was nearby.
Papa Bear sat beside Barnaby’s bed for a little while, watching him sleep. He smiled. Being a father was the best job in the world. He quietly closed the door, leaving a little nightlight to chase away any shadows, and went back to his book, his heart full of love for his little Barnaby.