SOLVING THE PUZZLE OF KINDNESS

                        Allie Gray

                        Published by: Maple Grove Press

Maya loved quiet things, puzzle books, mysteries, and deep thoughts.

At school, Maya didn't talk much. Her mind was also busy on solving clues and hard challenges.

But then there was Ben. He was loud, fast, and always noticed. He always needed to be center of attention.

Ben saw maya sitting alone and came over to bother her. "Solving baby puzzles again?", he said sarcastically.

Maya stayed quiet and just looked at her puzzle. Deep down, she was upset and wanted to cry.

Ben's teasing didn't stop. Everytime Maya solved something, he would laugh and roll his eyes. Maya still would never say a word back.

At recess, Maya sat under a big oak tree. She opened her puzzle book, but a piece in her heart felt broken.

Maya's best friend Rachel noticed she looked sad, sitting alone under the tree. Maya explained that she did not want to run into Ben. Rachel gave her a hug and told her she was a strong girl.

The next day, Ms. Carter stood in front of the class with a big smile announcing the annual school scavenger hunt. Everyone was excited but Maya.

Maya's name was on the board right next to Ben's. Her stomach sank like a rock in a pond.

Ben smirked and said, "Guess im stuck with the puzzle princess." Maya didn't reply and just gripped her book tighter.

They got their first clue. "Find the place where books go to sleep" Ben shrugged and didn't know. Maya pointed to the library.

They found the next clue taped to a bookshelf. Ben grabbed it and ran around the corner.

The clues got harder and harder. Ben stared blankly. Maya knew where to go and told him to go to the math room.

Ben asked her, "How do you know all of this?" Maya shrugged and told him she just sees the patterns. Ben looked at her and was impressed.

They followed clues into the art room, the gym, and the front office. Each time Maya solved the riddle and Ben just stayed quiet. 

Finally, they reached the last clue. It was a tricky one. Ben read it and frowned. He told her "no way we will figure this one out."