The Midnight Visitor

Mariza pulled her sleeping bag closer to Wendy's bed, watching the blue flame dance in her palm. The sleepover had been perfect so far—they'd eaten popcorn, painted their nails, and shared secrets about school crushes.

"I still can't believe you can do that," Wendy whispered, her eyes wide as she stared at the flickering blue fire that didn't burn Mariza's skin.

"It's not that special," Mariza said, though she smiled. She'd been hiding her ability from everyone except Wendy for months.

A sudden rush of wind rattled the bedroom window. Both girls froze as the glass swung open on its own, letting in the cool night air. A boy with messy hair and a cocky grin floated through the opening, his feet never touching the ground.

"Peter Pan?" Wendy gasped.

He landed with a theatrical bow. "Ready for an adventure, Wendy Darling? And bring your friend—Neverland could use someone with fire magic."

Mariza's flame flickered nervously as Peter's eyes gleamed with mischief.

Silver Sand Welcome

The flight to Neverland felt like riding a roller coaster made of wind. Mariza clutched Peter's hand as they soared over moonlit clouds, her blue flame flickering nervously in her other palm.

"There it is!" Peter pointed to an island sparkling below like scattered diamonds.

They landed on a beach where crystal-clear water lapped against silver sand. Wendy stumbled as her feet touched the ground, still dizzy from flying.

"Welcome to Neverland!" A tiny voice chimed nearby.

A glowing fairy no bigger than Mariza's thumb zipped around them in angry circles. Her wings buzzed like an irritated bee.

"Tinker Bell, meet our guests," Peter said cheerfully.

The fairy's bright eyes narrowed as she looked at Wendy. She pointed at the blonde girl and made sharp jingling sounds that didn't sound friendly at all.

"What's she saying?" Wendy asked nervously.

Peter's smile faded slightly. "She's... not happy you're here. Tink can be jealous sometimes."

Tinker Bell suddenly dove at Wendy's head, her tiny fists glowing with golden dust. Mariza quickly stepped between them, her blue flame growing brighter.

"Hey! That's not okay!"