The Messy House on Pinecone Lane

All the animals in Ferny Forest kept their homes neat and tidy. Bella the Squirrel polished her porch every morning. Mia the Mouse grew pink tulips in a perfect row. Even Oliver the Owl had shiny windows way up high.

But Hugo the Hedgehog’s house?

Yikes.

Leaves piled on the roof. Sticks poked out of the windows. The grass was patchy, the path was muddy, and no flowers dared to bloom.

“Looks like a raccoon dance party happened there,” giggled Mia.

“More like a skunk storm!” hooted Oliver.

Hugo just yawned from his hammock. He liked naps. He liked snacks. He did

not

like sweeping.

Sometimes he heard the others whisper.

“Messy Hugo…”

“Lazy Hugo…”

It made his nose twitch. But instead of saying anything, he curled into a ball and took another nap.

Only Bella looked at his house, sighed quietly, and thought,

Maybe he just needs a little help.