There was just something special about this bouncy house. Andy couldn’t explain. The Dayton Family Fun Fair was anything but.

Outside kids were running back and forth. Old people rock music was blaring. Mom had insisted Andy play in the bounce house. He kicked up a fuss but he relented in case mommy made him go face painting with Olive. Shuddering Andy snuggled deeper into the plastic.

First in the crowded fair attraction, Andy was in a nightmare. Reeking of sick and dirty socks the bouncy house was too noisy. Hands over his ears Andy looked for his quiet place. David, a kid Andy kinda knew from school, pushed him hard. Andy fell backwards. Tumbling he flipped over somebody else.

Confused Andy tried to stand on the wobbly floor. A big headed girl rammed into his belly. He rolled into a corner of the inflatable sinking between the floor and one of the walls. Outside a kid screamed with laughter.

Outside there was the dance music and arcade games. Someone was yelling about on dollar hot dogs. Tucked in his corner the fun fair was muffled. Like a rubber hug the bouncy house held him on all sides safe.

Eventually Olive and her friends would be ready to go home. Mommy would come looking for him with that tired face. Whup whup the bouncing felt like a gentle push in and out. He had been so antsy about going to the fair but now he could rest. Andy curled into the quiet.