Mia, feeling restless, sprawled across her bed, drumming her fingers on the quilt. The quiet house echoed her boredom until she heard the familiar clatter of the front door.
"Ethan! Finally!" she exclaimed, springing to her feet.
Mia rushed to her brother, scooping him up with ease. Ethan laughed as she carried him like a sack of potatoes through the house, his laughter filling the air.
"Let's go on an adventure, little bro!" she announced, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
Ethan, usually hesitant, couldn't resist Mia's enthusiasm. She giggled, carrying him piggyback up the stairs, each step a shared thrill.
"Hold on tight, Ethan," she warned playfully, her voice echoing in the stairwell.
"Emma's coming over, and she wants to hang out with you too!" she said, watching Ethan's eyes widen with a mix of excitement and apprehension.
"But I don't want anyone else to pick me up," he protested softly.
Emma, with a playful grin, grabbed Ethan and effortlessly tossed him over her shoulder. Ethan squealed, caught off guard but laughing nonetheless.
"You're lighter than a feather, Ethan!" she teased, spinning him around the room.
Mia and Emma each held one of Ethan's legs, lifting him high as if he were the star of their cheerleading squad.
"See, Ethan? You'd make a perfect flyer!" Mia laughed, her voice full of pride.
"I'll be back tomorrow, and we'll find a new way to pick you up, Ethan," she promised, ruffling his hair affectionately.
Ethan waved goodbye, his heart light with anticipation for the adventures awaiting him each day.
