Sunshine filled the neighborhood playground. A football rolled across the grass and bumped Liam’s shoe.
Liam kicked the football back toward the game. It thumped against the goal while Noah watched quietly beside the field.
Liam dribbled past the swings, then stopped. He noticed Noah had no team.
Liam stepped closer and said, “Noah, play with Liam’s team!” The swing chains squeaked as Noah looked at the grass.
Liam raised one hand. “Noah can join us!” he called to the players.
A player passed the football. It zipped between Liam’s feet and shot under the slide.
Everyone scrambled after it. Liam and Noah chased the football together, laughing.
Liam passed the football to Noah. Noah kicked, and it flew straight into the blue bucket.
The blue bucket rolled across the field like a runaway drum. The children cheered, and Noah laughed.
Liam pointed to the goal. “One more try!” he said.
Liam and Noah kicked the football together. It flew into the net with a soft swish.
The players clapped. Noah joined the game, and everyone ran, passed, and laughed beneath the bright sunny sky.
