cuentosIA
The Monster Who Collected Smiles
Halloween night smelled like leaves and sweet candy.
Daniel walked from porch to porch with his treat bag, feeling brave and bouncy. A jack-o-lantern winked from the steps.
Then, behind it, someone gave a tiny giggle.
Daniel blinked. —Pumpkins do not giggle, right?
The giggle came again, soft as a bubble.
Daniel leaned closer, very slowly. Behind the pumpkin sat Comemiedos, trying to hide and not sneeze.
—Please do not run away, he said.
Daniel smiled. —I only run from broccoli soup.
Comemiedos peeked out and sighed.
—I do not collect candy, he told Daniel. —I collect smiles. But tonight everyone runs before looking properly.
Daniel looked properly. He saw a shy friend, not a fright.
—Then we need a plan.
At the next porch, Daniel knocked. Knock, knock!
The door opened, and Daniel held up his bag. Comemiedos hid behind him, jingling by mistake.
Daniel whispered, ready?
Comemiedos popped out and waved.
The neighbor gasped, then laughed. One bright smile floated into Comemiedos's heart.
Door by door, the plan grew sweeter.
Daniel got candy. Comemiedos got smiles. Some neighbors clapped and called him the best costume of the night.
Comemiedos stood taller each time.
—Should I say trick or treat?
—Say smile or treat. It is your thing.
Near the last house, Comemiedos stopped on the sidewalk.
—What if this smile runs away too?
Daniel took his paw and squeezed it gently.
—Then we wait. Smiles are shy sometimes.
Comemiedos rang his bell: ding! The door opened, and laughter spilled out.
Later, Daniel and Comemiedos sat on the porch steps under the October moon.
Daniel opened his bag and chose one candy.
—Trade? One candy for one last smile.
Comemiedos grinned so wide Daniel laughed too.
Their night ended sweet, brave, and full of light.
