4:00 PM PST
Martin was sitting on his bed, sipping tea and thinking about what Seamus and Maggie had told him. He had to admit that his brother and sister-in-law were right. He nearly had been killed. Even though he has sustained many injuries throughout the years, this one was worse. He really missed being with his buddies.
Just then, there was a knock on the door. Seamus had answered. It was Juniper Parker, the girl that he was courting. Martin thought that Juniper was the prettiest and nicest girl in school. She had lovely medium brown curls and soft brown eyes, and she was two inches shorter than Martin.
'It's so nice to see you, Juniper,' replied Seamus. 'Martin is sitting up on his bed.'
'Is he alright, Seamus?' Juniper asked, blinking back tears. 'I've been so worried about him, ever since I heard of his accident yesterday. I missed seeing him in school, today.'
'He has a sprained ankle,' Seamus explained. 'He was also unconscious for a little while. He's fine, now, though. He's just sipping on some tea. I'm sure he's happy to see you.'
'Oh, Juniper, I really missed you,' exclaimed Martin. 'I'm so happy that you could come visit me, today. I get bored being in my bed all day. I wish I could be out with the other boys, fishing or something.'
'I dare say you must be rather board, Martin,' Juniper said, grabbing Martin's hands. 'How are you feeling? I felt so bad when I heard about your accident, yesterday. I was so afraid you would die.'
'Yeah, Bart Needles had dared me to walk across the ridgepole of the Nelson's house,' explained Martin. 'I couldn't bear to let him and his buddies think that I'm a coward. I guess I guess have some real insecurities with that.'
'Oh, Martin,' Juniper said, with a sigh, 'why do you care so much what those bullies think of you? It really should matter what they think, should it? Nobody else at school likes them, or care what they think. Being brave is important, but it doesn't mean that one needs to take foolish risks. Discretion is important, too.'
'I dunno,' muttered Martin, 'it's just that I had a bad experience when I was seven. You see, there was this one hill that I had refused to go sledding down, because I felt that it was too dangerous. The next day, however, I had been ruthlessly teased for it, to the point where I had been reduced to tears. It was just such a painful experience for me.'
'Oh, Martin,' Juniper said, with tears in her eyes, 'I'm so sorry that the other children were teasing you about it. I dare say, that was really mean. Still, the people that really matter would have respected your choice. You did the right thing by being concerned about your safety, and standing up for what you felt was right. Standing up for yourself is not always easy, but it shows self-respect.'
'You're right, Juniper,' Martin said, sighing. 'I guess it's just that I've always found it easier to stand up for other people, then to stand up for meself.'
'I really love you a lot, Martin,' sighed Juniper, as she gave Martin a little peck. 'One day, I hope to one day get married, and have a family. I know you would not be afraid to take a stand and defend our family if any harm shall befall us. Still, it bothers me to see you take foolish risks, just to prove yourself to others. You really are the nicest boy in school, and I love you with all of my heart.'
Then, there was a knock on the door. Juniper went to answer it.
'How nice to see you, James,' Juniper greated. 'I imagine that you're worried about Martin, too. He's lucky to just have a sprained ankle. I mean, he could have been killed. I have been so worried sick of him, yesterday.'
'I brought over some lemon drops,' explained James. 'I know it's Martin's favourite kind of candy. He must be dreadfully bored lying in bed all day.'
'It wasn't all bad,' interjected Martin. 'I've been doing some reading, which helps to keep me entertained. Of course, I would rather be out fishing.'
Then Juniper sat at the edge of Martin bed, and began to massage his foot.
'Careful, there,' Martin said, laughing, 'me foot is ticklish.'
'Sorry,' Juniper purred, and then she applied firm pressure to her fingers.
'Ah, now that feels so good,' Martin said, smiling contentedly. 'It feels so relaxing.'
'That's good,' Juniper said, softly. 'Just close your eyes and relax.'
Martin then closed his eyes, and gently breathed. He loved Juniper with all of his heart, and he know that Juniper was right. Martin had to learn to take a stand to people like Bart Needles, and not let people goad him into taking life threatening risks. Unfortunately, though, it was easier said than done.
'I agree with what Seamus is always saying,' James said, softly. 'Your life is very precious, and you could have been killed. Let this be a lesson to you. Everyone likes you - well, everyone except Bart and his buddies, but nobody really cares what those bufoons think. They're just a bunch of bullies who like to blow hot air. They don't like anyone but themselves, if even that. Martin, you have to listen to us.'
'Yes, Martin,' Juniper said, softly, 'your brother is very wise. If one day, you end up getting killed, think of all the people who will miss you. I mean, let's face it, Martin. You are a very likeable person. It's just that your one major flaw could cost you your life. We don't want to see that happen.'
Then Martin and Juniper hugged and kissed for awhile. Martin vowed that he would, from then on, saw no to any dares.
'You're right, Juniper,' Martin murmured, softly. 'From now on, I will say no to Bart.'
'Good for you,' replied Juniper, kissing Martin's cheek.