Koda’s little hand wrapped around mine like a vice, tugging me forward with all the determination of a general leading his army. His other hand clutched Luca’s fingers—his patience already being tested as our three-year-old commander marched us straight toward Build-A-Bear.
“Bear, DADA! Bear!” Koda shouted, curls bouncing as he pulled us through the Plaza like the place belonged to him.
I glanced at Luca, who gave me that look—half amused, half exasperated. “You’re the one who spoiled him with the last bear,” he muttered, adjusting his stride to keep up.
I smirked. “And you’re the one who taught him persistence. Don’t blame me when he uses it.”
Inside the store, Koda’s eyes lit up like fireworks. He darted between bins of plush animals, his squeals echoing off the walls, until he froze
