CHAPTER 23

Marisella was talking with Abuelo by the flagpole when Sofia, Rosie, Ada, and Iggy came out. She took one look at Sofia’s face and knew what had happened.

“I’m sorry, Marisella,” said Sofia. “I voted for Bird, but Turtle won. Maybe Mateo is not allergic to birds and it will be okay.”

Marisella’s eyes filled with tears. “He’s allergic,” she said.

“Oh no!” said Sofia. “Can we keep Pickles, Abuelo?”

“Oh, no, love,” said Abuelo. “Do you remember what happened when we kept him for a week last year?”

Sofia and Abuelo had kept Pickles while Marisella’s family went on vacation. Pup didn’t stop barking for a week. Pickles was a nervous wreck when he got back to Marisella.

“Pup and I will keep you company on your way home,” Abuelo said to Marisella, whose tears were streaming down her cheeks. “I’ll see you at home, Sofia.”

Sofia nodded.

Pup jumped onto Marisella’s lap and they headed down the sidewalk with Abuelo.

“I didn’t know that Marisella’s pet bird might need a home,” said Iggy. “I would have voted for a bird if I had.”

“I couldn’t tell you,” said Sofia.

“What can we do to help?” asked Ada.

The Questioneers walked and brainstormed as they went. They reached the steps of City Hall but had no ideas.

“I feel so bad for Pickles and Marisella,” said Rosie. “I wish somebody could help.”

Sofia nodded. Abuelo had said there was always a way to help, but what could they do?

They sat there for a few minutes when suddenly Sofia looked at the building next to City Hall. It was the library. She jumped up.

“That’s it!” said Sofia. “There’s always help at the library! I know what to do!”

Sofia told them her plan. Each person had something to do to help. Rosie, Ada, and Iggy took off together. Sofia ran straight to the library, pulled open the massive door, and went inside.