Dark clouds rolled over the village hills. Tashi grabbed the bright umbrella and ran down the dusty path. “Come on!” he called.
Rain tapped the rooftops. Tashi hurried past puddles and called again, “Come on!” The village path shone beneath the gathering storm.
Tsering appeared beside the old wall. Tashi lifted the umbrella over both boys, and together they hurried toward home as rain drummed above them.
WHOOSH! A gust flipped the umbrella inside out. Raindrops pattered on their noses, and the two friends burst into laughter.
Tashi tugged the umbrella open and walked beside Tsering. The wind pushed it left, then right, while muddy puddles splashed their shoes.
They took turns carrying the umbrella. Each time it lurched away, one friend grabbed the handle while the other splashed after it.
A stronger gust lifted the umbrella high. It tumbled across the meadow like a flying flower. “Wait!” shouted Tashi and Tsering.
The bright umbrella rolled past the old oak tree. Tashi dashed faster, reached out, and caught its wooden handle.
Tashi held the umbrella over both friends as they walked home. They shared the dry space and giggled at every puddle.
Pitter-patter! Rain drummed above them. Tashi and Tsering hopped through one last puddle, sending silver drops dancing beneath the bright umbrella.
