Chapter thirteen: Sid's new leaf
As Sid walked through the playground of P.S. 118 everyone was avoiding him. He had a new repetition as someone who would sell out his friends for an easy life, curtsy of Big Gino. That night that Sid spied on Arnold and Helga and saw them kiss went thorough Sid's mind over and over. Why did he tell Big Gino? Why did he rat out his friends? Sid's thoughts were interrupted by the sudden cold hand of Big Gino on his shoulder.
"Good job Sidney! You did a great job. What do you want? Anything you want, just name it and I can get it for you." Big Gino said in his usual calm, cold voice.
"Big Gino, I want one thing only. I want you to stop spreading rumors about Arnold and Helga." Sid stated in the biggest voice he could muster.
"What? Oh, Sidney, you have to learn how business works. You give the boss info and I expose it."
"If that's the way business works then I don't want any part of it!"
"Sid, listen to me. I'm going to be very firm with you. You do business with me or I'll make your life a living heck!"
That's when Sid couldn't take it anymore. He has had enough with this loan shark. That's when Sid threw a left hook which nocked Big Gino to the ground. Everyone looked over at Sid and Gino starting to get up. Gino's eye was started to swell. Gino called to one of his goons. The goon held Sid up by the shirt and was about to punch him. That's when they heard an unlikely voice.
"Put him DOWN! NOW!" As they looked over to Arnold who was standing right next to the goon.
"Why? What are you going to do, shorty?" The goon asked in a very deep voice.
"I don't want to hurt you, so just put Sid down and we can forget about all this."
"Yeah right kid, if you want Sid to get unharmed show your stuff."
Arnold didn't want to do this, but Sid was still his friend and he had to protect him. Arnold attack to embarrass not to harm. What Arnold did next only took about half a second. Arnold hit the bully lightly but fast that's when the goons clothes completely fell off. Leaving him standing there in nothing but his boxers. Everyone on the playground started to laugh. The goon ran off to his house. Sid sat on the ground and looked at Arnold.
"Arnold, forgive me, please. I didn't mean to…"
"Save it Sid. I forgive you, and thanks for trying to set things right."
Sid smiled a wide smile as the two shock hands. Then Arnold looked at Big Gino and smiled an evil smile. Which made Big Gino bolt. Sid and Arnold started laughing.
"Oh, Sid you're too funny. Oh shoot I have to prepare for my date tonight! I have to go, Sid see you later!"
"Have fun Arnold!" Sid stood there with everyone looking at him with approval.