ENJOY THE QUIET

The first rays of dawn kissed the sleepy town, casting a golden hue over the tranquil streets. A symphony of bird songs filled the air, their cheerful chirps echoing through the open window. The gentle breeze carried the sweet scent of blooming flowers, awakening the senses.

In the heart of this peaceful neighborhood, Alfred, a seasoned chef, hummed a soft tune as he stirred a pot of fragrant stew. The rhythmic clinking of utensils against cookware filled the kitchen, a comforting sound that had been a part of Caleb's morning routine for years. The young boy, however, remained oblivious to the world outside, lost in the embrace of slumber.

As the sun climbed higher, the town began to stir. The quiet streets were transformed into a bustling hub of activity. Cyclists, their faces etched with determination, pedaled furiously, while motorists honked their horns, impatient to reach their destinations. The gentle hum of traffic blended with the distant chatter of people, creating a vibrant tapestry of sound.

Despite the growing commotion outside, Caleb remained undisturbed. His room, bathed in soft sunlight, was a sanctuary of peace. The gentle rise and fall of his chest, a testament to his deep slumber, painted a picture of tranquility.

Eventually, the aroma of freshly cooked food wafted through the house, tantalizing Caleb's senses. Alfred, a plate of steaming breakfast in hand, emerged from the kitchen and called out, "Caleb, breakfast is ready!" His voice, though firm, carried a gentle undertone.

The sound, however, failed to rouse the sleeping boy. With a knowing smile, Alfred chuckled softly and approached Caleb's room. He gently shook the boy's shoulder, his voice barely a whisper. "Time to wake up, young man. Breakfast is served."

Caleb stirred, his eyelids fluttering open to the soft glow of morning light. A warm smile spread across his face as he saw his father standing beside his bed. "Good morning, Dad," he greeted, his voice filled with sleepiness.

Alfred returned the smile, ruffling Caleb's hair. "Morning, son. Time to start the day." A firm handshake followed, a silent ritual between father and son.

With a yawn, Caleb swung his legs over the bed and padded to the bathroom. The sound of running water and the rhythmic brushing of teeth filled the quiet house.

Meanwhile, Alfred carried a plate of steaming breakfast to the dining table. The aroma of sizzling bacon and freshly brewed coffee filled the air. As he sat down, he heard footsteps approaching.

Caleb, fresh from the bathroom, joined Alfred at the dining table. The aroma of sizzling bacon and freshly brewed coffee filled the air, making his mouth water. He picked up a fork and took a bite of the golden-brown pancake.

"Mmm, this is delicious, Dad!" Caleb exclaimed, his eyes lighting up.

Alfred chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Hold on a second, young man. Haven't you forgotten something?"

Caleb paused, his fork mid-air. "Uh, what?" he asked, a bit confused.

"You haven't prayed yet!" Alfred reminded him, a stern look on his face.

Caleb groaned, rolling his eyes. "Fine, fine. I'll pray."

He bowed his head and mumbled a quick prayer, then returned to his breakfast with renewed enthusiasm. "Now, can I eat?"

Alfred grinned. "Of course, son. Enjoy your meal."

"Ain't you eating dad" he asked. Alfred smile and pat his son's shoulder, "eat first, I've spoke work to do" he replied with a smile. Bringing out his laptop he started clicking.

After the last bite of his delicious breakfast, Caleb pushed his plate away, a contented sigh escaping his lips. "That was amazing, Dad. Thanks again."

"You're welcome, son," Alfred replied, smiling warmly. "Now, go get those dishes washed."

Caleb nodded, gathering the dirty plates and silverware. He carried them to the sink and began to scrub them clean, humming a cheerful tune. The sound of running water and clinking dishes filled the quiet kitchen.

"You know, Dad," Caleb said, pausing his chore, "I'm really lucky to have you. You're the best cook, the best dad, and the best friend a guy could ask for." He shouted

Alfred chuckled. "Well, I'm lucky to have you too"

Caleb smiled and returned to the sink, determined to finish the task quickly. As he worked, he couldn't help but feel grateful for the simple joys of life, like a good meal and a loving family.

With the dishes sparkling clean, Caleb headed to the bathroom. A quick, refreshing shower later, he stepped out, feeling invigorated. He slipped into a pair of faded blue jeans, a crisp white t-shirt, and a comfortable hoodie. To complete his outfit, he laced up his favorite pair of sneakers.

After bidding his father goodbye, Caleb grabbed his skateboard and stepped out into the bustling street. The morning sun cast a warm glow on the busy thoroughfare, and the air was filled with the sounds of honking cars, chattering pedestrians, and the occasional vendor's cry. People hurried by, each lost in their own thoughts, oblivious to the world around them.

As Caleb skated down the street, his mind wandered to his favorite spot: a secluded boulevard lined with towering trees. It was a place of tranquility, a peaceful escape from the noise and chaos of the city. He decided to head there, eager to soak up the serene atmosphere.

Caleb arrived at the secluded boulevard, a place of solace. The towering trees cast long, dancing shadows on the winding path, and a gentle breeze rustled through the leaves. He found an empty bench, sat down, and closed his eyes, letting the tranquility wash over him.

A sudden rustling sound disrupted the peaceful moment. Curiosity piqued, Caleb stood up and cautiously approached the source of the noise. A small, furry creature emerged from the bushes, its long ears twitching. It was a rabbit, its innocent eyes blinking at Caleb. A wave of relief washed over him, followed by a burst of laughter. He couldn't believe he had thought it was a crocodile!

Shaking his head, Caleb returned to his bench. But the tranquility was short-lived. The rustling sound returned, this time louder and more urgent. A sense of unease crept into him. He stood up once more and ventured towards the sound.

Hidden behind a thick bush, he witnessed a horrifying scene. A group of young men, their faces distorted with malice, were harassing a girl who looked to be his age. Fear and desperation etched her features as she struggled to break free from their grasp. He took a second look at the guys again and Alas it was the bullies he fought at the Skate park, he decide to confront them and rescue the girl

"Hmmm, hmm" he fake a cough staring at the bulky one among the bully. His face red and hot, he's probably furious about last time and he wouldn't let this opportunity pass without taking revenge .

He let out a low growl. A sinister smile crept across his face as he straightened his shirt and squared his shoulders. "Well, well, well," he sneered, his voice dripping with malice. "Look who decided to play hero again." He said, his minions laughing and furious at the same time.

Caleb, unfazed by the bully's menacing gaze, subtly gestured to the terrified girl. His eyes, however, remained locked on the leader, distracting him from noticing the silent signal. With a surge of courage, the girl darted towards Caleb, her trembling hand reaching out. Caleb, feeling the tremor through her grasp, knew he had to act fast

"You dared me the other time and I let you live," Carwyn scoffed, his eyes narrowing. He advanced towards Caleb, his friends chuckling behind him. "You think you're getting away with this? You're a joke."

Caleb, his patience wearing thin, saw red. A surge of anger coursed through him. Without warning, he lunged forward, his fist connecting with Carwyn's jaw. The sharp crack echoed through the quiet street, silencing the bullies, Carwyn stumbled backward, blood trickling from his nose. His friends, momentarily stunned, surged forward, their faces contorted with rage.

Caleb, however, was ready. He danced and weaved, dodging their clumsy swings with effortless grace. His movements were fluid, his strikes precise. One by one, the bullies fell to the ground, their bodies limp and defeated. Carwyn, his face a mask of pain and humiliation, watched helplessly as his friends were subdued. Humiliated by the situation Carwyn decide to fight back too, he show his best skill, bringing his punches real fast but it's all useless against Caleb's instinct and fast reaction. Caleb keep dodging his attacks and do not fight back until he got tired and weary, Carwyn retreated, he pleaded and ran away with his friends.

When the dust settled, only Caleb and the terrified girl remained. The once peaceful boulevard was now a battlefield, a stark reminder of the violence that had erupted. Caleb turned to the girl, his eyes filled with concern. "Are you alright?" he asked softly.

The girl nodded, her voice barely a whisper. "Thank you," she managed to say.

Caleb smiled gently. "Don't worry. It's over now." He hesitated for a moment, then added, "You should probably go home. It's getting late."

The girl hesitated, her eyes filled with fear. Then, she turned to Caleb, her blue eyes pleading. "Could you... could you walk me home? Just to make sure they don't follow me," she asked, her voice barely a whisper.

Caleb nodded, understanding the unspoken fear in her eyes. "Of course," he replied, offering her his hand. She took it, her small hand trembling slightly in his.

As they walked, the girl glanced back nervously, her eyes scanning the darkened street. Caleb reassured her with a gentle smile, his presence a comforting shield against the lingering threat.

They walked down the boulevard till they appear at a beautiful mansion . Caleb face the girl and cough, "So is this your house?" He asked, the girl nod in affirmation " Thank you for saving me" She said with a smile on her face "You're welcome" Caleb said shyly "Guess you need to go now " he added. The girl smile and open the gate

" Oh, wait" he hold the gate from closing " I didn't ask of your name" he said stretching out his hand

" I'm Caleb"

"I'm Charlotte"

"Nice to meet you Charlotte" he said

" Nice to meet you, and thanks again" she replied

Caleb dipped his hand into his pocket and smile " I gotta go" walking away "See you around " he added

The street now look more peaceful and every sound seems like a music to Caleb, he walk elegantly beaming with smile. His head is in the cloud dreaming about Charlotte.