Eight-year-old Tarun desperately wants a pet, especially after his best friend Joey received a puppy. Tarun's own attempts at companionship are with a silent lizard named Silent Sunny, which he observes in his room. Tarun and Joey are described as being very similar in age, appearance, and achievements, but Joey now has a pet, creating a perceived lead in their friendly rivalry. The article focuses on Tarun's longing for a pet and his observations of his lizard.