Ethan spotted Maya from across the yard, her cheeks flushed with energy as she joined a group of friends. With a mischievous grin, he approached quietly, determined to surprise her. Just as he had planned, he leaped onto her back.
"Gotcha!" He exclaimed, expecting them to collapse into a heap of giggles.
To his surprise, Maya barely flinched, her strength steady as she carried him effortlessly across the yard.
"Wow, you're strong!" Ethan laughed, holding on as she marched confidently.
Maya set Ethan down gently, her eyes sparkling with pride.
"I've been training with my sister. We're both pretty strong now," she explained, tossing her hair back. "You should come over tomorrow. I'll show you!"
Ethan's curiosity piqued, and he nodded eagerly.
"I'd love to see that!" he responded, already looking forward to the visit.
Lilie, Maya's older sister, greeted him at the door. She was tall and athletic, her eyes twinkling with the same mischievousness as her sister's.
"Hi, Ethan! Ready for a fun day?" she asked, her voice warm and welcoming.
"Absolutely!" he replied, feeling the excitement build.
Lilie picked Ethan up with ease, settling him on her shoulder. He laughed in surprise, feeling like he was on top of the world.
Maya joined them, climbing onto her sister's other shoulder. Together, they made their way through the garden, each step light-hearted and joyful.
"This is amazing!" Ethan exclaimed, arms outstretched like a bird in flight.
Maya looked over at Ethan, a smile spread wide across her face.
"Remember when we used to do this in kindergarten?" she asked, her voice filled with nostalgia.
"I remember falling over every time!" Ethan chuckled, recalling the carefree days of their early friendship.
Lilie gently set them down, a contented look on her face.
"Thanks for coming, Ethan. This was so much fun," Maya said, her eyes bright with happiness.
Ethan nodded, feeling grateful for the bond they shared, one that had only grown stronger over time.
"Can't wait to do it again," he replied, knowing that this was just the beginning of many more adventures together.
