Trayvion clutches his backpack, his green shoes squeaking as he steps forward, eyes wide at the sight of the dragon-bus. Soleil, wearing a bright yellow dress, twirls in excitement, while Halo bites her lip, her hand trembling with both nerves and anticipation. Noel kneels beside his fluffy white dog, giving it a quick hug before waving goodbye. Ms. Olsen, tall and cheerful with a sunflower pin on her shirt, stands at the entrance, waving to every student.
"Welcome, everyone! You’re going to have the best day ever!"
Jonathan and Jose scramble into the front row, eyes shining with disbelief, while Alex examines the dragon’s tail, amazed by the tiny bells tied to each spike. Liam, still clutching his lunchbox, asks, "Does it really fly?"
"I hope so! How cool would that be?"
Ms. Shaw, with bright blue glasses, reassures everyone, "Hold tight! Our magical bus is the best way to start school."
Kassidy[/@ch_11] carefully places her green shoes under her chair, and Soleil unwraps a lunchbox to reveal a slice of Oreo cake.]
Ms. Cynthia, warm and welcoming, gathers everyone on the rug. She sings the ABC song, her voice bright and clear, and soon the whole class joins in.
"A, B, C, D, E, F, G," Soleil sings joyfully, mouth full of Oreo cake, crumbs dotting her smile.
Halo giggles, her own piece of chocolate cake balanced on her knee.
Noel[/@ch_4] laughs as he chases after his imaginary dog, while Trayvion races Alex on the bikes, their green shoes flashing as they pedal furiously.]
Jose and Jonathan build a castle in the sandbox, and Kassidy helps decorate it with sticks and dandelions.
"If only my dog were here—he’d be the king of this castle!"
"Maybe next time, we can invite him!"
Ms. Olsen[/@ch_5], Ms. Shaw, and Ms. Cynthia beam with pride as they pass out stickers and high-fives, their excitement echoing in their bright voices.]
"You’ve all been so brave and kind today. We’re so happy to have you in our school family!"
"Remember, every day here can be just as magical," Ms. Cynthia adds, her eyes twinkling.
"I can’t wait to come back tomorrow," whispers Liam, hugging his backpack tight.
"Me too! And maybe next time, I’ll bring enough Oreo cake for everyone," Soleil declares, her eyes sparkling as the dragon lifts into the evening sky.
