James, small for his age but quick-witted, tries to keep his distance from Jimmy, whose bigger frame and loud voice command attention. While the other kids gather for a game of tag, Jimmy corners James by the slide, snickering as he nudges his shoulder.
"Come on, little James, try and keep up! Or are you too little for tag?"
James looks down, fidgeting with the hem of his shirt, wishing for the day to end.
James[/@ch_1] sits up in bed, eyes wide and anxious, clutching his pillow.]
Sleep does not come easily. Each night, memories of Jimmy's teasing replay in James's mind. After two weeks of feeling powerless, James wakes in the darkness to realize he has wet the bed. Shame floods his cheeks, and he buries his face, silent tears dampening his pillow.
The morning comes with dread. He avoids his parents' concerned gazes and wishes he could disappear.
Jimmy[/@ch_2] stands at the center of a group, his voice echoing above the chatter.]
"Remember, little baby James, go to the bathroom before bedtime!" The words sting, and laughter erupts from Jimmy's friends. James flushes, shrinking into his hoodie as he passes by.
"Hey everyone, James is a bedwetter!" More giggles ripple through the hallway. James glances at the floor, wishing the ground would swallow him whole.
Jimmy[/@ch_2]'s friend's house. The backyard is alive with shouts, the grass soft underfoot, and water balloons litter the ground.]
Jimmy cracks jokes, confident and carefree, as he plays with his friends. Suddenly, laughter erupts as Jimmy jumps and lands awkwardly, his face turning pale. He realizes, much to his horror, that he's peed his pants.
Jimmy tries to laugh it off, but the embarrassment is palpable. The afternoon grows quiet as he changes into borrowed clothes, cheeks burning.
Jimmy wakes in the night, heart pounding, and finds his sleeping bag damp. Panic grips him as he realizes he has wet the bed. He stares into the darkness, remembering his own cruel words.
In the morning, whispers begin, but James approaches quietly. He stands beside Jimmy, his eyes gentle but firm.
"You know, Jimmy, we’re even now. Everybody has accidents sometimes,"
Jimmy meets James's gaze, shame and relief mingling on his face. He nods, finally understanding how words can hurt and how kindness can heal, and the boys share a quiet moment, the air lighter between them.
