Benny presses his nose against the glass, watching the baker arrange golden pastries. His striped shirt strains against his round belly as he fishes coins from his pocket, grinning slyly.
"Maybe just one chocolate croissant. No one will notice,"
He glances over his shoulder, checking for his parents, before darting inside.
Benny[/@ch_1] arrives, his hands sticky with chocolate. The cobblestones shimmer in the heat as taunts drift through the air.]
A group of older kids point and snicker, their words biting. Benny's cheeks flush, but he tries to joke along, masking the sting.
"You're just jealous because you can't afford as many treats as me!"
His voice wobbles, but his grin stays, hiding the hurt in his eyes.
Benny[/@ch_1]'s parents set the table, worry lines creasing their faces. Their voices are gentle, but firm.]
Benny's mother places a small portion on his plate, glancing at him with concern.
"Benny, we can't let you eat so much anymore. It's not healthy, sweetheart,"
Benny pushes his peas with his fork, eyes cast downward. His father sighs, ruffling his hair.
"We just want you to be happy, Benny. There are other ways to have fun, you know,"
Benny[/@ch_1]'s room as he tiptoes to his dresser, clutching his piggy bank. The only sound is the soft clink of coins.]
He pulls on his slippers, sneaks out, and hurries to the tiny store at the edge of the square. The thrill of secrecy makes his heart race.
"One big chocolate bar, please. And don't tell anyone,"
The shopkeeper winks, handing over the treat. Benny slips back home, chocolate tucked beneath his pillow.
Benny, out playing with his toy boat, is the first to spot the danger. Without thinking, he sprints to the dam, splashing through puddles as rain lashes his face.
"Somebody help! The dam is breaking!"
No one is close enough—the crack widens, threatening disaster. With a deep breath, Benny throws himself against the gap, plugging it with his body.
Benny[/@ch_1] wedged in place, water held at bay by his round belly. His face is muddy but determined.]
Adults and children alike pull him free, patching the dam behind him. Cheers and tears mingle in the air as everyone realizes what Benny has done.
"You saved us all, Benny. We're so sorry for the things we said,"
The children who once mocked him offer hugs, and his parents scoop him into their arms, proud and grateful.
Benny[/@ch_1] is at the center, not for his appetite, but his heroism. The sunset paints the sky gold as laughter and music fill the air.]
Benny sits at the head of the table, a chocolate cake before him. He beams as everyone raises their glasses in a toast.
"To Benny, our hero! May we always remember that everyone is special in their own way,"
Benny grins, cheeks pink with pride, as the village celebrates the boy who saved them all.
