Fred was my first Betta. When I saw him at the store, I just knew he was the right one, even though he was not as handsome or colorful as most of the others. It was just the way he looked at me.
I got him home and he was just so much fun. To begin with, it was just him and the frogs but he still kept plenty busy patrolling amongst the plants, watching my every move, and making sure the frogs didn't do anything he was not included in. He was quick to accept new tank mates after making sure they were not looking to claim his territory or eat his food. Every day he turned darker and more vibrant until he was the handsomest Betta of all (in my opinion).
Unfortunately our friendship ended when he left me for the Great aquarium in the sky, where he has infinite space to explore and patrol and is never cold, nor hungry. On earth, he got a proper funeral and I can see his little grave from my office window. Maybe one day, I will get to swim with him in his Great aquarium. We can share our memories and he can teach me all about patrolling and doing the Betta Dance.