The carnival lights shimmered like a field of fireflies. Sprout stepped inside, coins jingling in his pocket.
He bought a glowing lollipop that hummed a tiny tune. Sugar sparks landed on his whiskers. He took a happy bite and turned to the next ride.
The teacups spun and Sprout's ears flapped in the wind. Afterward, he hugged his new star plush tight.
The raccoon pointed toward the giant Ferris wheel. Sprout patted his empty pocket and looked down.
The fox offered to share tickets. Sprout shook his head and followed the glowing path alone.
Sprout watched from below as the Ferris wheel rose higher and higher. His jaw dropped. He thought, I wish I could go up there.
At the very top, the Ferris wheel lights exploded into a shape—a skunk, a fox, and a raccoon. Sprout reached up, but his paw was too short.
The raccoon laughed and tossed a coin into the air. It glinted as it fell.
The next morning, the carnival was gone. Only a single coin remained.
Sprout tucked the coin into his pocket and smiled. Next time, he would save more.