Rain exploded across the cheerful town. Leo splashed from his home and waved neighbors toward the hill road.
A loose umbrella flipped inside out with a loud POP! Leo laughed, then pointed everyone toward safety.
Leo helped push a stroller through rushing water. Then he lifted a basket of apples high above his head.
“This way!” Leo shouted as the river rose. He hurried toward the park, where thunder boomed above the trees.
A tiny kitten cried beneath a park bench. Leo crawled through muddy puddles and reached under the seat.
Leo gently pulled the kitten free. Thunder boomed, and the little animal meowed against his shoulder.
A wave swept across the path and carried Leo’s bright yellow boot away. He grabbed the fence and held the kitten tightly.
“Help!” Leo called. The kitten meowed as the flood rushed past their knees.
Neighbors reached the hill and pulled Leo up. The kitten came safely beside him.
When the storm passed, everyone wrapped Leo in a warm blanket. “The Little Hero!” they cheered as the kitten curled against him.