Pip squeezed behind the classroom door. The other pandas were building a bamboo tower in the yard, laughing loudly. His paws felt heavy. He pressed against the wall.
Teacher Poppy spotted him through the window. She opened her arms wide. 'Pip! Come meet my friends!' She ushered him toward the group.
A red panda waved enthusiastically. A giant panda held up a piece of bamboo. 'Want to build?' A rabbit waved a flower. 'Hello, little one!'
Pip shrunk back. He thought he didn't belong. His ears drooped low. The bamboo tower wobbled.
Teacher Poppy knelt down beside him. 'Just say hello.' She gently nudged his shoulder. The other pandas waited, smiling.
Pip took a deep breath. His voice came out tiny. 'H-hi.' Then louder. 'Hi!'
The red panda giggled. 'Your voice sounds like a squeaky door!' Everyone laughed, but it was a friendly laugh. Pip's ears perked up. He stepped forward.
Pip picked up a bamboo stick. 'Can I help?' The tower grew taller. The pandas cheered. Pip smiled big.
