Liam, a ten-year-old boy with burn scars on his arms, sits near the fire, his eyes reflecting the dancing flames. He glances at his friends, Ella and Max, who are eagerly warming marshmallows on sticks.
"You know, I used to think fire was the coolest thing ever," Liam begins, his voice carrying a mix of nostalgia and caution.
Liam pauses, looking at the scars that speak volumes of his past.
"I remember the day it happened. I was playing with matches in the garage, thinking I could control it," he says. Ella and Max exchange worried glances, the gravity of Liam's story sinking in.
"It got out of hand so quickly," Liam continues, his voice trembling slightly. "What did you do?" Max asks, his eyes wide with concern.
"I tried to put it out, but it was too late. The flames caught my sleeve. I screamed, but my parents were outside," Liam explains, the memory still vivid in his mind.
"I spent weeks in the hospital, recovering. The pain was unbearable, but what hurt more was knowing it could have been avoided," Liam confesses. Ella reaches out, her hand gently squeezing Liam's shoulder in support.
"We're glad you're okay now," she says softly.
"I want you guys to promise me something," Liam says, looking earnestly at his friends. "Anything," Max replies. "Never underestimate fire. Always respect it and be safe," Liam urges, his voice firm yet caring.
"We promise, Liam," Ella assures, her eyes reflecting the sincerity of their vow. "Yeah, thanks for sharing your story. It’s a lesson we won’t forget," Max adds.
Liam smiles, feeling the warmth of their friendship, more comforting than any fire could ever be.
















