In a modest house on Maple Lane, two brothers, Ethan and Liam, are finishing up their game of backyard basketball. Ethan, the older, is used to being the taller and stronger of the two, towering over Liam by a good few inches. But today, something feels different.

Ethan leans against the counter, eyeing the height chart on the wall that their mom uses to track their growth. Liam, with a mischievous grin, asks to be measured again. Ethan humors him, holding the ruler steady. As the pencil marks the wall, Ethan realizes with a start that Liam is now only a fraction shorter than him.

"I told you I was catching up!" Liam says, a triumphant edge to his voice. Ethan feels a twinge of annoyance mixed with disbelief. "It's just a growth spurt," he replies, trying to sound nonchalant. But inside, he wonders what this change means for their dynamic.

Their mother notices the tension between the boys and sits on the bed, inviting them to join her. She speaks with wisdom, "Growth isn't just about height. It's about growing together, supporting each other no matter what changes come." Her words linger in the air, offering a new perspective.

Ethan and Liam shoot hoops again, this time with a renewed sense of camaraderie. "Let's see if you can beat me now," Ethan challenges playfully. "Oh, I will," Liam laughs, dribbling the ball with newfound confidence.

Ethan nudges Liam, a smile on his face. "No matter how tall you get, you'll always be my little brother," he says. Liam grins, "And you'll always be my big brother." Under the starry sky, the brothers find comfort in their unchanging bond, ready to face whatever growth comes their way.