In the mountains of Colorado, Tom had been digging for gold. The sun was hot and his hands were dirty.

For months, Tom worked hard. Every day, he hoped to find gold. But all he found was dirt.

Tom's clothes were torn, and his boots had holes.

Selling his equipment, Tom wished the next miner luck. Leaving the mine, Tom felt both sad and relieved.

A new miner, Pete, arrived with big dreams. He was ready to find the gold that Tom couldn't.

Pete bought Tom's tools. He started digging in the very same spot Tom had left.

After just a week, Pete felt unsure. He decided to ask for help from an engineer named Mr. Smart.

"Let's take a closer look," said Mr. Smart. He examined the mine with careful eyes.

Mr. Smart used his tools and knowledge. "There's gold nearby," he said with a confident smile.

Digging resumed with Mr. Smart's advice. Three feet in, Pete's shovel hit something hard.

It was gold! Pete's face lit up with joy. He had found the treasure Tom had missed by just three feet.

Pete felt grateful for Mr. Smart's help and wondered about Tom. The gold was so close all this time!