Ben, a skinny ten-year-old with messy red hair and a face still soft with childhood, blinks awake, feeling a cold dampness beneath him. He glances down and sighs, cheeks burning with embarrassment, but quickly remembers today is the last day of school—and the big field trip to the water park. He shrugs, trying to convince himself it’s just excitement that caused the mishap. The smell of pancakes wafts from the kitchen, promising a normal start to the day.
Ben meets up with his best friend Nick, a round-faced boy with a wide grin and a mop of brown hair. Nick is bouncing excitedly, barely able to stand still as the teachers usher the students onto the buses. "I can't believe we're really going to Splash Mountain! What are you gonna do first?" asks Nick. "Definitely the big slide. And maybe the lazy river if I get tired," replies Ben, his voice full of anticipation.
As they splash through the park, Ben pauses to catch his breath beside Nick's mom, a kind woman with gentle eyes who’s been watching over them. "Thank you so much for paying for my ticket, Mrs. Thompson," Ben says shyly. "Nick wanted you here, Ben. He says you always help him with his homework and studying for tests. You’re a good friend," Nick's mom replies, ruffling his hair.
Nick nudges Ben as they munch on ice cream cones, talking about their plans for the summer. "My mom says you can spend the night at our place tonight. We can play superhero, like last time!" Nick suggests. "That’s awesome! We’ll stay up late—unless we’re too tired," Ben laughs, feeling relief and happiness that the day turned out so well.
Nick’s older brother tiptoes in, adding extra pillows under their heads and telling them to sleep tight. As soon as Ben and Nick nestle in, their heads heavy with exhaustion, they drift into a deep, peaceful sleep. The night is quiet except for the occasional creak of the house settling.
Ben sits up, glancing at Nick, who is already laughing. "I guess the water park followed us home!" Ben jokes, his embarrassment melting away. "Superheroes have accidents too, right?" Nick grins. Together, they burst out laughing, throw on fresh clothes, and race outside to join their friends, the morning bright with promise and new adventures.
