Mahed reached beneath the garden bush. A small bird fluttered in the leaves.
The bird gave a tiny chirp. Mahed scooped it into a soft nest of grass.
Mahed put the bird in a cardboard box. He brought water and crumbs.
One wing drooped. "Rest here," Mahed whispered. Rain tapped the sides of the box.
Each day, Mahed came back with fresh grass, water, and crumbs.
On the third day, the bird flapped up and landed on Mahed's head. Feathers tickled his hair.
Mahed carried the bird to the garden fence. It was time to try.
The bird leaped and tumbled into a rosebush. It chirped softly.
Mahed lifted the bird out. He waited beside the rustling leaves.
At last, the bird spread both wings and flew over the trees.
Mahed waved. The bird called back from its hidden nest.
Mahed left fresh water beneath the bush. He hoped someone would come.