Why Is Life So Harding?

Ch.14

On another nice summer day, Mac, Nick, Peter, and Sammy decided to walk to the nearby park have some fun. The park was bustling with activity, children running around, and families picnicking under the shade of trees.

As soon as they arrived, the boys made a beeline for the four-square court. It was their favorite game, and they wasted no time grabbing a ball and joining the queue. Excited chatter filled the air as they waited for their turn.

"Who's in? I'm ready to dominate!" Peter exclaimed, bouncing on his toes.

"Bring it on, Peter! I'm not letting you win this time," Nick retorted with a competitive grin.

Sammy, always eager to join in, stood close to Mac, watching the game with wide eyes. "Can I play too, Mac?"

Mac nodded, handing him the ball gently. "Sure, Sammy. Just watch how we play first, okay? You'll get the hang of it."

As they played, the neighborhood kids noticed their enthusiasm and joined the game, forming a lively rotation. Mac, Nick, and Peter showed off their skills, diving for the ball and making impressive saves. Sammy, with Mac's guidance, quickly picked up the rules and soon was holding his own in the game.

The game continued for hours, the boys taking breaks only to grab a drink of water from the nearby fountain or to cool off in the shade. Their laughter echoed across the park, blending with the sounds of other children playing on the swings and climbing on the jungle gym.

At one point, a group of younger kids gathered around to watch, amazed by the skills displayed by the Thompson boys. Mac noticed them and smiled, inviting a few of them to join in for a round. Their giggles and squeals of delight added to the joyful atmosphere of the afternoon.

They were taking a break from four square. Nick, Peter, and Mac were sitting on a shaded bench, drinking water and catching their breath. The park was alive with the sounds of children laughing and playing. Sammy was off at the playground, playing tag with a group of other kids.

Mac watched his younger brother dart around the playground, his laughter clear and bright. But then he noticed something that made him sit up straighter. A boy, a little older than Sammy, was standing off to the side. His posture was aggressive, and his body language conveyed that his words were probably not very nice.

"Hey, guys, look at that," Mac said, nodding toward the playground.

Nick and Peter followed his gaze. "What'?" Nick asked.

"I think that kid is bothering Sammy," Mac replied, standing up. "I'm going to check it out."

Peter and Nick stood up as well, ready to back up their brother. They made their way over to the playground, watching the interaction unfold. The older boy was standing over Sammy, who looked uncomfortable and unsure.

"What's wrong, Sammy?" Mac asked, stepping between Sammy and the older boy.

Sammy looked relieved to see his brothers. "He was calling me names and saying I can't play tag with them because I'm too slow."

"That's not cool," Peter said, glaring at the older boy. "Everyone gets to play."

The older boy crossed his arms, sneering. "Why do you care? He's just a little kid."

"He's our brother," Nick said firmly. "And no one gets to treat him like that."

The boy looked at the three older brothers, clearly reconsidering his position. "Whatever," he muttered before turning and walking away.

Mac knelt down to Sammy's level. "You okay, bud?"

Sammy nodded, though his eyes were still watery. "Thanks, Mac."