The Sleepover Invitation

Mariza pulled her brown jacket tighter as she knocked on the Darling house door. The blue flame in her palm flickered nervously before she quickly closed her fist.

"Mariza!" Wendy opened the door with a huge smile. "I'm so excited you're here for our sleepover!"

The two girls had become fast friends at school, bonding over their shared love of adventure stories. Wendy's room was cozy, with soft blankets spread across the floor and a plate of cookies waiting on her nightstand.

"My brothers are already asleep," Wendy whispered as they settled in. "We can talk all night without anyone bothering us."

Mariza grinned and opened her palm again, letting the small blue flame dance between her fingers. Wendy's eyes widened with wonder every time she saw it.

"That's still the coolest thing ever," Wendy said. "I wish I had magical powers too."

A soft tapping sound came from the window. Both girls turned to see a familiar silhouette hovering outside, green hat tilted at a jaunty angle.

"Is that...?" Wendy gasped.

The Boy Who Flew

The window swung open with a soft whoosh. Peter Pan floated inside, his green tunic rustling as he landed gracefully on the bedroom floor.

"Peter Pan!" Wendy gasped, scrambling to her feet. "You're really here!"

Mariza stared in amazement. The boy looked exactly like the stories described—messy brown hair, pointed ears, and that mischievous grin that seemed to promise adventure.

"I heard there were two brave girls here who love stories," Peter said, his voice bright with excitement. "How would you like to visit Neverland for real?"

"Neverland?" Wendy's eyes sparkled. "But how—"

"Just think happy thoughts!" Peter sprinkled something glittery over both girls. "And a little fairy dust helps too."

Mariza felt her feet lifting off the ground. The blue flame in her palm flickered with surprise as she began to float. Wendy laughed with pure joy beside her, spinning in the air.

"Follow me!" Peter called, already heading back toward the open window. "The lost boys are waiting, and I have so much to show you!"

The three children soared out into the starlit night, leaving the cozy bedroom far behind.