Ethan, the energetic 8-year-old boy, dashes past his friends, his sneakers thudding against the grass. Maya, clever and quick-witted, tries to intercept him, giggling as she nearly grabs his sleeve. Liam, Sophie, Noah, Olivia, and Lucas chase and cheer, their faces glowing with excitement. The gentle breeze carries the scent of lemonade from a nearby table, promising refreshment after their game.
Sophie picks up a dandelion puff and holds it out. "Let’s all make a wish, together. Maybe something magical will happen," she suggests, her eyes shining. The friends close their eyes, each wishing for something they secretly desire—a closer bond, a family to call their own, or simply a day that never ends. As they blow the dandelion seeds into the air, a mysterious shimmer seems to linger, unnoticed by the children.
Ethan blinks in confusion as he notices Lucas stretching taller, his hair paling at the temples and wrinkles creasing his face. Liam, wide-eyed, points and stutters, "Lucas, you look... older. Like, really old!" The others gasp as Lucas now stands at the edge of the group—a 55-year-old man, bewildered and clutching his shirt. "What’s happening to me? I feel so strange!"
Lucas[/@ch_7], concern etched on their young faces. The backyard is now shadowed, porch lights flickering on, casting long silhouettes.]
Maya takes charge, her voice trembling but determined. "We wished for something magical, maybe this is it. But why did only Lucas change?" Noah adds, "Maybe the magic made us a family, and Lucas became... the adult?" Lucas looks down at his hands, then at his friends, a new warmth in his eyes. "Maybe I’m supposed to take care of you all now," he says, his voice deep but gentle.
Olivia curls up beside Lucas, who sits on the couch, looking both nervous and proud. "We’re a real family now, aren’t we?" she asks softly. Lucas smiles, pulling everyone into a group hug. "As long as we stick together, we can handle anything. Let’s always look out for each other," he assures them, and the others nod, comforted by his newfound presence.
Ethan passes the toast to Sophie, laughter and chatter filling the room. Maya proposes a new game for the day, while Lucas pours juice, his movements practiced and caring. Liam grins, "I think this is going to be the best adventure of all," and everyone cheers, ready to face whatever magic the day brings—together, as a family.
