His plan was simple. If his parents couldn’t find him, then he’d find them. He just needed to make sure he and Woody had enough food and money to survive the journey home as he had no idea how long it would take.
By the dim light of his bedside table, Carl snuggled down under the duvet. He read the article again. His eyes teared up as he looked at the photo of an unhappy-looking Sally and Philip with his dog in between them. He couldn’t wait to get back home, to see his mum and dad, and for the two Woodys to meet.
‘Look, Woody,’ he said to his dog. ‘This is your brother. We’re going to see him soon. It’s going to be a long journey, and it might be scary, but it will be worth it. We’re all going to be so happy.’
Woody whined and licked his face before curling up next to him. Carl turned out the light and lay down.
Carl fell asleep with a smile on his face as he pictured the reunion. The last few years had been a nightmare, but it would soon be over. His mum and dad were going to be so proud when they found out what he’d gone through to get back home. They were all going to be so happy.