Chapter 18 - The Defense
Oliver graduated from high school.
He grew into a tall, quiet, and incredibly warm young man.
For the senior prom, Oliver didn't ask the most popular girl in school.
He invited Maya, a girl paralyzed from the waist down who used a wheelchair.
When Oliver pushed Maya's wheelchair into the grand hall, many mocking glances were thrown their way.
A few boys started whispering and pointing fingers.
Lily, now sixteen, was standing with a group of friends in the corner.
She saw Oliver standing perfectly still, trying to shield Maya from the malicious stares.
Lily immediately set her drink down.
She walked straight to the center of the hall.
"This is a great song," Lily said loudly.
She bent down and offered her hand to Maya.
"Maya, do you mind if Oliver and I dance with you?"
Oliver smiled, understanding his sister instantly.
He took Maya's hand, and Lily held the other.
They began to spin the wheelchair in circles to the music.
Soon enough, other students stepped out onto the dance floor too.
The mockery vanished, replaced entirely by laughter.
That night, Lily didn't need to use her fists to protect her brother.
She used kindness.
May you like
Exactly as she had said when she was seven years old.
Kind people are the strongest people.
