The class hamster, Nugget, always hid in her little wooden house. No one could get her to come out.
The kids tried treats, gentle voices, and waiting very still. Nugget peeked out but would not step outside.
A quiet girl named Bea decided to try something different. She sat near the cage and read a book aloud in a soft voice.
The next day Bea did the same thing. And the day after that.
On the fourth day, Nugget crept to the cage door and sniffed the air. Then she came all the way out.
Everyone froze. Bea kept reading in her calm, quiet voice. Nugget climbed onto Bea's sleeve.
She did it! someone whispered. Bea smiled but kept reading so she would not startle Nugget.
After that, Nugget came out every day when Bea sat near the cage. Some friendships just need a little patience.