police knocked on our door. A neighbor had seen Noah’s “motionless” figure for hours and feared the worst. We showed them the scarecrow, and everyone had a good laugh—except Noah, who walked in mid-investigation. We confessed we had known all along and followed him. Embarrassed but smiling,

he admitted he liked drawing and being outside. We lifted the game ban but kept clear rules.Now, he balances gaming with art, joined his school’s art club, and yes—Emily, the girl from the park, is his first girlfriend. No more scarecrows—just a teenager finally living in balance.