Miguel wandered through the sea of people, his eyes wide with excitement as he absorbed the sights and sounds. The aroma of popcorn and cotton candy swirled around him, leading him towards the long concession line where eager patrons awaited their treats.

As Miguel stood in line, a friend approached him with open arms, a broad smile stretching across their face. "Hey, Miguel! It's so good to see you!" they exclaimed, moving in for a hug. Miguel took a small step back, a polite yet firm expression on his face. "Hey, it's great to see you too, but can we save the hugs for later? This isn't really the place," he said gently.

Miguel watched the children, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. He considered how important it was to feel comfortable and safe in any situation, realizing that boundaries weren't just about physical space but about emotional comfort too.

The friend nodded, understanding dawning in their eyes. "You're right, Miguel. I didn't think about how crowded it is here. Thanks for letting me know," they replied with a smile. Miguel returned the smile, grateful for the understanding. "Thanks for being cool about it. I love hugs, just not when I feel squished," he chuckled, the tension from before dissipating like mist under the sun.

Miguel and his friend continued to chat, their conversation now filled with laughter and shared stories. The understanding between them reinforced their friendship, a reminder that respecting each other's boundaries only strengthened their bond.

Miguel left the concession line with his friend, a newfound sense of confidence in his ability to express his boundaries. The carnival continued around them, a vibrant celebration of joy and togetherness, underscoring the lesson he had embraced that day.