Big Ben was surrounded by many other toys which he felt, were far more beautiful than him. There were the pink doll, the technicolour cat, the electric blue engine and the glittery golliwog. Of course, Big Ben felt really intimidated by his neighbours, but really..he had no reason to. For he himself had a luscious coat of fur, which was thick and terra-cotta in colour.

One fateful day, a girl happened to pass by the display window. She glanced at all the toys but one. She looked the longest at him. And even though he didn't know it yet, she had decided to buy him, Big Ben.

She marched into the shop and demanded to view the big brown bear on the wooden shelf, in the display window. Five minutes later, he was in her arms, away to his new home.

The girl showered Big Ben with plenty of love. They had tea-parties, with lots of pretend cake and pretend Pepsi (with a twist), and they played many fine games. She grew to love him as much as he grew to love her. And every night, before she went to bed, she would say a little prayer and kiss his stumpy nose.

From then on, Big Ben wished and wished to be a real boy, so that he could be with her for real. But deep down, he knew that it was just wishful thinking on his part.

Until one cool night, after she had said her prayer, kissed his nose and was fast asleep, Big Ben heard a flittering sound. He could not believe his eyes next. The Blue Fairy! She smiled benevolently at him and raised her wand. Big Ben shut his eyes tightly and...

*poof*