The sun blazed over the street. Kai clutched his bright yellow costume and ran outside.
Music pulsed from every corner. The air smelled of frying plantains. Kai watched others dance in fancy outfits.
Kai’s shoulders drooped. He pulled at his cheap-looking wings. 'I can't do this,' he whispered.
His grandmother knelt beside him. She handed him a steel pan drum. 'Just one step,' she said.
Kai tapped the drum. Tink, tink. A small smile broke through his worry.
Children beckoned him into the line. Kai stomped his feet and swung his arms.
The drum beat a steady rhythm. Kai felt big and bold.
Confetti rained down like gold and green sunshine. Kai leaped into the air.
He threw his head back and laughed. 'I am here!' he shouted.
The whole street cheered with him. The festival was alive.
