Joie Makes Friends With The Lunchbox

Joie smoothed her lavender tunic, tracing the embroidered golden stars to steady her beating heart. The cafeteria was loud, filled with new kids. She squeezed the rainbow friendship bracelet her parents gave her, remembering their words: true strength comes from kindness. She took a deep breath, her bright hazel eyes scanning for a spot. She sat at the end of a long blue table and set down her canvas satchel. From inside, she pulled out her shiny red lunchbox. As her fingers touched the clasp, a tiny, trembling voice whispered, "Please don't open it! It's too scary out there!" Joie froze, her wavy dark brown hair slipping over her shoulder. The voice was coming from inside the lunchbox.