Chapter 9: Benny and the Broken Bridges
In the lively forest town of Workington, Benny the Beaver was famous for one thing: building the best bridges anyone had ever seen. His bridges were sturdy, safe, and beautiful, connecting all the forest animals across rivers and streams. Benny took great pride in his work, always making sure every plank was perfect.
But not everyone was happy about Benny’s success.
High up in an old oak tree, Woody the Woodpecker watched Benny hammer away at yet another bridge. Woody loved to build too, but his work was… different. While Benny’s bridges stood strong and straight, Woody’s creations were quirky, wobbly, and, well, a little messy. Some animals liked them, but most preferred Benny’s reliable bridges.
“Everyone thinks Benny is so great,” Woody muttered one afternoon, tapping furiously on a branch. “But what about me? Don’t I matter?”
That evening, Woody made a plan. The next day, as Benny was setting up his tools, Woody swooped down to the meadow where the animals gathered. “Have you noticed Benny’s bridges?” Woody began, his voice low and serious. “I heard they’re not as strong as they look. What if one breaks?”
The animals gasped. “Really?” whispered Molly the Mole. “Benny’s bridges always seem so sturdy.”
“Well,” Woody said, puffing out his chest, “maybe someone else should build bridges. Someone with a… unique touch.”
The whispers spread like wildfire. By the time Benny arrived, he noticed animals avoiding him. His heart felt heavy. What had he done wrong?
That night, Benny sat by the river, staring at his reflection. Just then, Sally the Squirrel scurried up. “Benny, you won’t believe what Woody’s been saying!” she exclaimed. “He told everyone your bridges might fall apart!”
Benny’s ears drooped. “Why would Woody do that? I’ve never been anything but kind to him.”
“Maybe he’s jealous,” Sally suggested gently. “But getting angry won’t help. You’re Benny the Builder! You should talk to him.”
The next morning, Benny carried his hammer to Woody’s tree. “Woody,” he called, “can we talk?”
Woody peeked out, looking guilty. “What do you want, Benny?”
“I heard what you said about my bridges,” Benny began. “If there’s a problem, I’d like to fix it. But… why would you spread those rumors?”
Woody sighed and fluttered down to the ground. “I was jealous,” he admitted. “Everyone loves your bridges, but no one notices mine. I thought if I made you look bad, maybe animals would come to me instead.”
Benny thought for a moment. “Woody, you’re a great builder too. Your designs are fun and creative! Maybe we could work together—your creativity and my sturdiness could make bridges that are both strong and beautiful.”
Woody’s beak opened in surprise. “You’d want to work with me? Even after what I said?”
“Of course,” Benny said, smiling. “Bridges aren’t just for crossing rivers—they’re for connecting friends.”
Together, Benny and Woody built a new bridge, the most incredible one Workington had ever seen. It was strong, colorful, and full of twists and turns that made it fun to cross. The animals loved it, and Woody’s jealousy melted away.
From that day on, Benny and Woody became the best building team in the forest, showing everyone that teamwork and kindness could turn even the worst mistakes into something wonderful.
Let's always remember that jealousy can make us do hurtful things, but admitting our mistakes and working together can build stronger friendships—and stronger bridges!