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As the warm sun shines down on the yard, Emily runs around chasing after little Max

From inside the house, grandma stands in the window watching as Emily finally catches Max.

While playing with Max, Emily sees a little boy. She notices the gloomy look on his face.

The little boy watches as Emily and Max run around having fun in a game of tag. To himself he wishes that he had a friend to play with.

After a small game of tag, Grandma comes outside. “It’s time for your nap Max.” she says. Max sighs but does as he’s told. “Emily, it’s going to be time for lunch soon.” Grandma says. Emily smiles at her.

Now that she’s alone her immediate gaze goes across the street. The boy is in the same spot with the same lost look on his face.

After feeling guilty, Emily went across the street to meet the little boy and determine why he is so gloomy.

As she approaches the boy, she can notice the detail on his face. His face is wet and his eyes are red and puffy. She hears his nose sniffle, and she feels sad.

“Hi my name is Emily. What’s yours?” she asks him as she stands next to him. “Carter.” he replies. “Why are you crying Carter? She asks. He moves his hands to his face to wipe away his tears. “I’m not crying.” he says.

“It’s ok to cry Carter. My dad says it’s natural and everyone does it. Sometimes crying can help you feel better when you’re sad.” Emily says. Carter looks at her. “Really?” he asks. “Yeah it’s ok to cry. Is there something I can do to make you feel better? She asks.

“I’m sad because I don’t have any friends to play with, and I can’t play by myself because we can’t afford toys.” Carter says as he lowers his head again. Emily feels as if her heart has broken. “Why don’t you come over to my yard and play with me?” Emily offers. “Really? I can?” he says as light fills his entire face. “Of course!” Emily says as she reaches out for Carter’s hand.