12-LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL

LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL By the time evening fell, my snout was SUNBURNED. My paws were covered with blisters from standing all day. My spirits were low. And I was as hungry as a jumbo- size cat. All I wanted to do was go home and-curl up with a cream cheese smoothie. But Shif T. Paws had called that eleven o'clock meeting. I couldn't let down my staff. So I dragged myself to 85 Curds Court. I saw the baker's sign on the building: BUCKWHEAT'S BAKERY The best bread you'll ever buy!

I walked inside and found myself in a basement. The smell of freshly baked bread filled my snout. A small rodent with TWINKLING eyes came toward me. He shook my paw. "Hi there, Boss," he said in a friendly voice. "I'm Bagel Buckwheat. I hear business isn't so good." "My name is Stilton, Geronimo Stilton," I said. "I'm very grateful for your help. We are going through a tough time. But I'm sure we'll pull through." Bagel slapped me on the shoulder. He left a white FLOUR pawprint on my sleeve. "Of course you'll pull through, Boss!" he said cheerfully. "Never give up, that's what I always say. Keep hanging on and things will work out. You can stay here as long as you need. Which reminds me. I'm not rich, but

but if you ever need a small loan..." I shook my head, touched. What a nice mouse! Bagel gave me a closer look and frowned. "Boss, you're looking a little PALE. Have you eaten today?" Before I could answer, he pulled out a tray from one of the ovens. Then he handed me a piece of French bread covered with melted cheese. "Have a good munch, and life will look a lot better," Bagel said. "My cheese bread is guaranteed to bring a smile to your snout!" "Thank you," I said. "You are very kind." "No need to thank me," Bagel said. "I'm happy to help. Now, eat up while the bread is still HOT!" I took a bite and licked my whiskers. That cheese bread was delicious!