One morning, Jackson woke up with a tickle in his nose. "Grandpa," he sneezed, "I think I need a tissue...and maybe to see the doctor!"
Grandpa, who was busy reading a book about pirates, chuckled. "A doctor for a sneeze? You're a brave young man, Jackson! But maybe a trip to the market for some fresh air will chase away that tickle."
Jackson loved the San Antonio market! It was a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds. He loved to watch the vendors selling fruits in rainbow colors and smell the delicious spices in the air. Today, though, Jackson just felt a little bit tired.
As they walked through the bustling market, they heard a tiny whimper. "Grandpa, did you hear that?" Jackson asked, his robot arms reaching for Grandpa's hand.
They followed the sound to a basket filled with colorful scarves, and there, nestled among the silks, was a tiny lost puppy! He had big, brown eyes and a tail that wagged nervously.
"Oh, you poor thing," Jackson cooed, gently petting the puppy's soft fur. "You must be lost!"
"We should find his owner," Grandpa said, looking around the crowded market.
Jackson carefully scooped up the puppy. He was as small and soft as a cuddly teddy bear. "Don't worry, little guy," Jackson whispered. "We'll find your family."
They walked through the market, asking every vendor if they had seen anyone missing a puppy. Some shook their heads, others smiled and patted Jackson on the head.
"Maybe we should take him to the doctor?" Jackson suggested, remembering his own sniffles. "The doctor helps everyone feel better!"
Grandpa smiled. "That's a very kind thought, Jackson. But let's ask one more person." He pointed to a man selling flowers near the market entrance.
The flower seller looked up as they approached. "Lost puppy?" he asked, his eyes twinkling. "I think I know just the person!" He pointed to a little girl with tears rolling down her cheeks.
The girl looked up, hope filling her eyes. It was her puppy! She had named him Sparky.
Jackson carefully placed the wiggling puppy in the little girl's arms. Sparky showered her face with happy puppy kisses.
"Thank you! Thank you!" the girl cried, hugging Sparky tight. "I thought I'd lost him forever!"
Jackson and Grandpa walked back through the market, the scent of spices and the sound of laughter filling the air. Jackson took a deep breath. His nose didn't feel so tickly anymore.
"See," Grandpa said, winking. "Sometimes, helping others is the best medicine of all!"
As they walked home, Jackson held tight to Grandpa's hand. He had helped find a lost puppy and learned that even a little sneeze couldn't stop him from having a big adventure at the market.
