Summer Storm
“Cecilia,” said Rat Boy, putting on his raincoat and rubber boots, “I’m going to check on Mr. Tate to make sure he’s okay after the storm. Will you be alright for a few minutes?”
“I suppose,” said Cecilia, “but shouldn’t I go with you?”
“There’s a lot of damage out there,” said Rat Boy, “and I think it’s safer for you to stay here. Mom will be home from work soon, and Dad will wake up shortly.”
Cecilia nodded, and Rat Boy headed out into the stormy weather. As he approached Mr. Tate’s house, he saw his neighbor struggling to sandbag his basement. Without a word, Rat Boy grabbed a sandbag and started helping. They worked together in silence, the only sound being the pouring rain and the occasional thunderclap.
Rat Boy looked up just as he was putting another sandbag around Mr. Tate’s basement. He saw his mother walking carefully along the road, her clothes soaked from the rain.
“I’m so glad to see you home from work,” Rat Boy called out. “I’m helping Mr. Tate with his sandbags.”
“You’re such a helpful soul,” said Mother, smiling. “Did we get much damage?”
“Just a bit of water in the basement,” said Rat Boy, “but Mr. Tate’s house is closer to the river, and it looks like it might overflow any minute.”
Mother nodded, her eyes concerned. “Be careful, and please come home soon.”
Rat Boy nodded and continued helping Mr. Tate. They worked tirelessly until the last sandbag had been put down. The river finally overflowed, but thanks to their efforts, Mr. Tate’s house remained safe.
When Rat Boy returned home, soaked and shivering, his mother handed him a warm towel and a bowl of steaming soup. His father, now awake, listened in awe as Rat Boy recounted his adventure.
“You should have woken me up,” said Father, shaking his head.
“You needed your sleep,” said Rat Boy, smiling. “You have to work tonight.”
“I doubt if I will be working tonight,” said Father. “The roads are probably closed by now.”
Mother chuckled. “I thank goodness we’re all safe. And even Mr. Tate is safe, thanks to Rat Boy’s quick thinking.”
The family shared a warm laugh, grateful for their safety and Rat Boy’s kindness.
Moral of this Story:
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