The Last Blue Stone

Arlo had made a stepping-stone path across his bedroom rug. The stones were flat blue paper circles. His friend Mia stood beside him at the start. They were both four. Dad sat nearby, folding clean clothes. “We can cheer for each other,” Arlo said. Mia clapped her hands. She wanted to reach the last stone without stepping off.

“Ready? Go!” Arlo hopped quickly. Mia stretched her arms out to help her balance. Arlo landed on the last circle first. His chest felt warm with excitement. “I won!” he shouted. “You’re the worst hopper, Mia!” The words came out with his cheer. He was thinking about winning. He did not see Mia’s smile disappear.