The schoolyard patio gleamed in the bright sun. Children scattered across the play area.
Luna raced across the patio. Bump! She crashed into a small boy and they tumbled onto the warm gravel.
Luna froze. A ladybug crawled over his red sneaker.
Luna sat up and reached out a hand. The boy took it, then pointed to his crushed tin truck and whimpered.
She picked up the truck. Cool metal pressed against her palm. She offered it — he shook his head and looked away.
Later, the boy swung high. Whoosh — a gust of wind snatched his hat and sent it spiraling toward the sandbox.
Luna sprinted after it, arms windmilling, and caught it in a pile of shiny shells.
The boy gasped from the swing. Luna held up the hat — a spiral shell clung to the brim.
The boy climbed down, smiling. 'Race you to the tree?' he said.
She grinned and they took off together, feet pounding the path in sync.
The school bell rang. Neither stopped until they crossed the finish line side by side.
They stood together, breathing hard and laughing.