Maya, a shy girl with curly hair and wide brown eyes, stands near the edge of the playground, clutching a worn book to her chest. She watches as groups of children play, unsure of how to join in. Nearby, a new student, Lina, stands alone, her dark braids swinging as she looks around at the unfamiliar faces.
Maya gathers her courage and approaches. "Hi, I’m Maya. Do you want to go inside together?"
"I’d like that. I’m Lina. This is my first day here."
Mr. Jenkins[/@ch_3], welcomes Lina and assigns her a seat beside Maya.]
During reading time, Maya shares her book with Lina, their heads close together as they whisper about the story’s adventures. "In my old school, we read stories in my home language, too," Lina confides, her voice soft but excited.
"Maybe you can teach me some words," Maya suggests, her eyes lighting up with curiosity.
Lina unwraps a homemade flatbread, while Maya pulls out a peanut butter sandwich. They trade bites, giggling at the new flavors. "My mom says sharing food is a way to make friends," Lina says warmly.
"Then we’re definitely friends now," Maya replies, smiling wide.
Maya stands up for her new friend. "Lina has great ideas—she showed me a cool way to fold paper boats," she announces. The group watches as Lina demonstrates, her nimble fingers folding the paper with practiced ease.
Lina and Maya smile at each other, surrounded by their classmates. "I’m glad I met you, Maya,"
"Me too, Lina. Friendship makes everything brighter," Maya answers, their laughter joining the joyful chorus of the playground.
