Aaron stopped in his tracks when he heard Reyna call out to them, asking them to be in a group together. He didn't even have to think about it; more people meant more fun. Besides, there was something a touch depressing about going on a ferris wheel by yourself. 

“Yeah, I don't mind. No point in going to a carnival by yourself anyway.” Aaron said with a smile. Anything to cheer the poor kid up. He saw with a bit of relief that he wasn't the only one up for an adventure with strangers. The young mother with her kid and her dog had also stopped and was now talking to Reyna about being a group. The kid in the hoodie and the albino had also stopped. 

Suddenly, the small boy trudged-ran over to him, with that certain gait only toddlers could have. Before Aaron could say anything the kid announced, “hi. Those boys were mean. Mommy says girlfriends are special, but it's okay. Girls are icky anyway.” 

Aaron could feel his ears turning red, but he also couldn't do anything to stop the sheepish grin forming on his face. “I know, cooties right?” he said to the little boy, liking this kid more and more by the second. As the boy and his mother introduced themselves in quite possibly the most adorable way possible, Aaron decided that he had a new mission tonight. To make sure that their little group, especially Jackson, had as much fun as possible.

“My name's Aaron.” he said, waving shyly from the hip. “That's two a's, not an e. I'd love to be in a group with you guys. Besides,” he began, looking at Jackson cheerfully, “I think I know someone who'd like to play the fishy game.” 

When everyone was settled and ready, Aaron decided to lead the way, gazing around him to look for the booth he wanted. The cozy dirt path crunched underneath his feet as carnival games and music played around them. Eye attracting lights flashed all around, advertising their kid-friendly games. In the distance, he heard the sound of one of those 'test your strength' games. 

Soon the stand he was looking for came into view. A large water filled tub stood under an awning, with little plastic fish floating around in a circle. A tired looking attendant stood by the game, guarding the small plastic fishing rods. A line of stuffed toys and prizes hung under the awning along with a sign that read: 

1 TICKET FOR 3 TRIES
KIDS 6 AND UNDER FISH UNTIL THEY WIN!

“Okay, boys and girls.” Aaron turned around while still walking and announced to their rag tag little group, “The first and only rule of the fishy game is: You're never too old to play the fishy game! You can play something else, that's totally fine. If you think you're 'too cool' for this one, I certainly won't think any less of you.” He winked as he said this last part, as if daring someone not to play. 

He himself led the charge, handing the attendant two tickets and ignoring the guy's raised eyebrow. “Two games for me. And I definitely want the yellow fishing rod.” He took the kid-sized rod from the incredulous attendant and stood at the tub, poised and fishing rod in hand. With zero shame, he started trying to hook one of the colorful little floating fishies, saying loudly, “Come on, come on, daddy needs a new pair of shoes!”