Jeremy's Brave Choice

Jeremy was a bright, happy seven-year-old boy who loved adventures. One sunny afternoon, he was at the park with his family and friends for a picnic. The grass was soft and the trees cast lovely shade, perfect for running, playing, and hiding. His friends Emily, Sarah, Jake, Jonny, and his little sister Mae were excited, especially because they were playing a game of hide and seek while waiting for the picnic food to be ready. 'One... two... three!' Emily began counting, and Jeremy raced off to find the best hiding spot.

Jeremy darted behind a tree, peeking out to make sure no one saw him. This is perfect! he thought. But just as he was about to crouch down, a man with a friendly smile approached. - Hey there, the man said, I've lost my dog. Would you help me find him? He's right near my car in the parking lot. Jeremy paused. He loved dogs, and he wanted to be helpful. But something about the way the man was looking at him didn’t feel quite right.

Before Jeremy could say anything, he heard a distant voice. - Kids! The food is ready! It was Jeremy’s dad calling from the picnic blanket. All the other children began running back toward their families, but Jeremy was still standing near the man. - Come on, just real quick, the stranger said, stepping closer and gently taking Jeremy’s arm. Jeremy looked back toward the park, and his heart began to race. Where were his friends? Where was his family?

His dad was calling his name again, sounding a bit worried this time. In that moment, Jeremy knew he didn’t want to go with this man. His dad had always told him never to go anywhere with a stranger. With a burst of bravery, Jeremy yanked his arm away and started running, calling out, - Dad! Dad! His heart pounded as his feet flew across the grass. The man behind him tried to catch up, but Jeremy was fast—too fast.

Finally, in the distance, he saw his dad standing tall near the picnic blanket, scanning the park. Jeremy sprinted straight into his dad’s arms, feeling safe and protected. - Jeremy! Thank goodness! his dad said, holding him close as the rest of the family gathered around. His mom knelt down, hugging him tightly. - Why did you run off without telling us? his dad asked gently. - I-I almost went with a stranger, Jeremy said, his voice shaking a little.

But I remembered what you told me, and I came back. His dad’s face softened. - You did the right thing, Jeremy. You must always, always stay close to us and never go anywhere with someone you don’t know, no matter what they say. Jeremy nodded, feeling a mix of relief and pride. His family hugged him tightly, grateful he made the brave choice. Later, as the sun set, they all enjoyed their picnic together, feeling safer and closer than ever.