Ben noticed the tears and gently put his hand on the back of the boy's head. "What's wrong?"

Elijah hung his head looking embarrassed. "I just.. I think.. my fingers .. need more practice."

Simon pointed. "Haha, you're weak!"
Ben instantly put Simon down on the ground. "I won't have bullying. Ye still haven't even learned to tie it right!"
The little boy pouted.
Ben turned to Elijah. "That will come with time. "

Elijah blinked wide eyed and nodded. He looked over, "A-are you ok, Simon?" He certainly wasn't used to being punished and the sight was scary though his fingers still worked on the line.

When Elijah asked if Simon was ok, Ben frowned somewhat confused. Elijah was a strange child. There didn't seem to be the tiniest bit of spite in him. He was sensitive, gentle and kind to an almost disturbing level. Simon looked from Elijah to his father.
"I want you to apologize to Elijah for mockin' 'im." Ben said sternly.
"Sorry Elijah..." the child said sheepishly.

Elijah looked down to keep working and merely nodded.

When he had apologized, Ben took Simon back into his lap. After some time, Hannah came out and called them in for dinner.

Elijah looked up when they were called in. He carefully put the netting down and nervously stood to wave them goodbye, prepared to go home so they could eat in peace.

"Come sit, Elijah." Hannah said. The two boys were already sitting on the bench, arguing over who was sitting in whose space, even though there was plenty of room.

Elijah nodded and smiled slightly. He slowly stepped in and waited until there was a spot no one seemed to fight over and sat there. "Thank you..."