The bus finally comes to a halt at the park's entrance, and with a burst of excitement, the group disembarks.
"Wow, Andy, you were spot on. This place is beyond amazing. Are we really allowed to have fun here too? You mentioned it was designed for individuals with special needs," Katie marvels.
"Absolutely, Katie. This park caters to everyone, not just those with special needs. There are slides and swings for all to enjoy," Andy reassures.
"Awesome! Steven, lead the way. Show Tyler and me what you're most excited to do first," Katie urges, brimming with anticipation.
"Wait, you want to play with me?" Steven asks, taken aback by the offer.
"Of course, Steven. You're our friend, and we're here to spend time with you. That's the whole reason we came," Katie affirms.
Grinning widely, Steven signs his gratitude, saying, "Thank you."
"You're welcome," Katie signs in response.
"Do you think anyone else here knows sign language?" Steven signs to Andy.
"I'm not sure, buddy. You'll have to go into the park and find out. I'm sure you'll find someone who can be your new friend," Andy says, providing a verbal response.
"Okay, Andy," Steven says, switching back to speaking with his mouth and entering the park.
"Andy, I'm curious. Why is it that when Steven uses sign language, you respond verbally instead of signing back?" Camille asks.
"I do sign back sometimes, but this is our special way of communicating. He signs with his hands, and I don't. In certain situations, I do sign back, especially when he's feeling really stressed out. It helps him calm down when I respond in sign language. I know it may seem strange, but it works for us. Thank you for showing interest and wanting to understand. Most people who see me using sign language with Steven assume we're both deaf. Many kids think it's weird that I use sign language when we can just communicate verbally. Our method is not widely understood," Andy explains.
"I think your special method is really cool," Camille says.
"Thank you. I wish more people, especially my classmates, were as understanding as you are towards me and Steven," Andy expresses.
Steven notices a boy of similar age sitting alone on a bench, appearing desolate and forlorn. He approaches the boy cautiously, taking a seat beside him. Tyson, his loyal service dog, remains vigilant.
"Hello, I am Andy. This is my brother Steven and Tyson. May I inquire about your name?" Andy introduces himself.
"Giovanni," the boy responds, avoiding eye contact.
"A pleasure to meet you, Giovanni. Allow me to introduce you to my companions, Katie and Tyler," Andy continues.
"Hello," Katie greets.
"Hi there," Tyler adds.
Curious, Giovanni questions, "Can Steven speak?"
Andy affirms, "Yes, he can. However, he is quite reserved. He noticed you sitting alone and wanted to offer his company."
Giovanni retorts, "Perhaps I prefer solitude. Do you pity me for being alone?"
Taken aback by Giovanni's abrupt change in demeanor, Andy clarifies, "No, that was not our intention. Steven simply wanted to befriend you, as he seeks companionship as well."
Expressing his frustration, Giovanni remarks, "If he desires friendship, he must learn to communicate first."
Steven lets out a dejected sigh.
In defense of his brother, Andy asserts, "We approached you with kindness and support. If you cannot appreciate that, we shall take our leave. Remember, cultivating friendships requires kindness and respect." With that, Andy leads Katie, Tyler, Steven, and Tyson away in search of a more receptive companion.