“But why can’t I go with you, Nathan?” I let out a big sigh and looked up at my big brother who was packing his suitcase for summer camp. “I did everything that dad and ma told you to do, so you could go. Not fair!”

“I know it’s not, Pete.” He crouched down next to me, and handed me something wrapped in a pillowcase. “I want you to take care of him for me while I’m gone, OK?”

I squeezed the pillowcase. I knew who was inside. “Really, Nathan?”

“I don’t want him to be afraid while I’m gone.”