“Good morning, Katie!” a cheerful voice called from below. Marc pushed aside a cascade of blonde hair that had fallen over his eyes and peered out the window. Outside, a sun-drenched Adventure Bay bustled with life. The quaint town felt vibrant and alive, filled with the energy that flooded through the TV screen during every episode of Paw Patrol.
Panic surged within him. “Katie? I’m Katie now?” He stumbled out of bed, feeling the warm, cotton sundress brush against his legs. He took a deep breath, recognizing the gravity of the situation. He had transformed into the young woman who ran the pet salon in his son Tommy’s beloved show.
The presence of a woman in the store snapped him back to reality. “Katie! Are you awake?” the woman said. Marc recognized her as mayor Goodheart.
“Of course I am! Just, uh, give me a second!” Marc/Katie called, scrambling to gather his thoughts. His mind raced as he ran to the door, opening it slowly. Standing in the doorway was the early-rising Mayor Goodheart, a kind-looking woman with a warm smile carrying a red purse.
“Katie! I hope you’re ready for another busy day at the pet salon!” she exclaimed enthusiastically. “The town could use your expertise today, especially with the upcoming Adventure Bay Pets Festival next week. Are you ready to help? We have some new puppies arriving in the town!”
“Uhh, puppies?” Marc stuttered, trying to force the new persona’s charm into his voice. “Yeah, puppies are… great?”
Mayor Goodheart looked at new Katie quizzically, shoulders slightly raised in good-natured optimism. “Perfect! I know you’ll do a fantastic job. Now, don’t forget about the grooming appointment for the Paw Patrol pups in the afternoon! And by the way, it’s time to unlock your special grooming technique—remember? That’s what makes you the best in Adventure Bay!”
Marc’s heart raced. Special grooming technique? What did that even mean? He had watched the show countless times, but the thought of implementing any of it as Katie was overwhelming. “Right! The… technique...” He stammered, trying to remember anything about the character he’d somehow slipped into.
“Great! I’ll leave you to your preparations. Let me know if you need anything, okay?” The Mayor waved as he turned to leave, leaving Katie standing in the doorway with her heart pounding.
As the door clicked shut, Marc took a deep breath, his mind racing with possibilities and responsibilities he never wanted. His memories of being a man and a father to little Tommy felt distant. But then a thought hit him — he had to find a way to survive this unexpected turn. After all, this wasn't just about him anymore. His son was still in the world somewhere, and he would do anything to get back to him.
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