Jon and Jon, both seven years old and nearly indistinguishable except for the color of their caps, giggle as they run toward the old oak tree at the park’s edge.
"Race you to the big tree!"
"You’re on! Last one there has to do the silly dance!"
Jon hops from one foot to the other, casting worried glances toward the distant restrooms.
"Uh-oh, I really need to pee," he admits, voice wavering between embarrassment and urgency.
"Me too! But the bathroom’s so far away," replies Jon, his brow furrowed.
Jon leans in, whispering conspiratorially to his friend.
"What if we just go behind the big bush? No one will see us,"
"Are you sure it’s okay? What if someone catches us?"
Jon peeks back toward the playground, making sure no adults are watching.
"Quick, before anyone comes!"
Both boys take turns, muffling their laughter as they relieve themselves in the hidden patch.
The teacher, Ms. Carter, crosses her arms, her stance both stern and understanding.
"We’re really sorry, Ms. Carter," stammers Jon, his voice barely above a whisper.
Jon and Jon listen as Ms. Carter explains the importance of following rules and using the restroom properly, her words kind but clear.
"We promise to wait next time, even if it’s hard," says Jon, nodding earnestly.
With a smile, Ms. Carter leads them back to the playground, the mischief behind them and the sunlight still bright on Maplewood Park.
