The Cool-Down Conundrum of Ice Cream Man

Starring Ice Cream Man

Ice Cream Man arrived at Mina’s party, his waffle-cone hat sprinkled bright. “I’m ready to celebrate!” he said, as music thumped and cupcakes smelled like vanilla clouds. The sun felt toasty, so tiny ribbons of hot fudge slid down his scoops, which made him dab his brow with a napkin. Mina grinned, “Stay close to the shade!”

Because the music was bouncy, Ice Cream Man joined the dance. His strawberry swirls softened, and a sticky fudge drip splatted on the floor. Leo slid a little and frowned, which made Ice Cream Man’s cherry eyes look sorry. “I made a mess,” he said, choosing to help, and they grabbed towels to clean.

After they wiped the floor, Ice Cream Man said, “Let’s build a Cool Corner!” So Mina, Leo, and he stretched a big sheet between chairs for shade and set a fan by a bowl of ice to make gentle mist. The cool air helped his scoops hold their shape, which made everyone relax. Laughter returned as they saved time and the party.

Just then the fan went quiet and cake candles made hot, flickery air, so Ice Cream Man began to puddle again. He made a new plan: “Cake under the Cool Corner!” Everyone carried it to shade, and they blew the candles together—one big whoosh. Cheers burst out, and a cold drip plinked into his cone hat. “Friends help you chill,” he said, feeling sweet and safe.