"Why do some kids say mean things, Lucas?" Emma asked, her voice tinged with curiosity and a hint of sadness. "I think sometimes they might be hurting inside," Lucas replied softly, glancing at the children playing.

"But why would they hurt others if they're the ones feeling bad?" Emma wondered aloud, her brow furrowed in thought. "Maybe it's because they don't know how to talk about what's bothering them," Lucas suggested, his voice calm and understanding.

"Do you think we should talk to him?" Emma asked, nodding towards the boy. "I think that might help," Lucas agreed, his eyes filled with empathy.

"Hi, I'm Emma, and this is Lucas. Do you want to play with us?" Emma offered with a warm smile. "I... I guess," Max replied hesitantly, a flicker of hope in his eyes.

"See, sometimes all it takes is a little kindness," Lucas whispered to Emma, who nodded with understanding.

"I think we learned something important today," Emma said, her voice filled with contentment. "That everyone has a story, and sometimes, it's the ones who seem the toughest that need a friend the most," Lucas concluded, both of them feeling a sense of accomplishment and understanding.