A steeply sloping road
Right after walking past the station, the street began sloping steeply upward.
Taku pushed the wheelchair firmly up the hill, being careful not to be pushed back.
Some high-school students came down the hill talking and laughing happily. They were probably coming back from some after-school activities.
"Taku, it must be hard for you to push the wheelchair uphill. Are you okay?"
Chii said, worried.
"No problem. Usually, I exercise a lot through playing soccer"
Many groups of high-school students came down the hill. They were so absorbed in their talk that they didn't notice Chii and Taku.
As may be expected, Taku could not push the wheelchair further. He put on the brake and decided to take a rest.
Right at that time...
"Excuse me. Could you help push the wheelchair?" Chii said in a cheerful voice to two high-school students that were passing.
The two finally noticed the wheelchair and stopped.
"No problem". And they gladly helped. With the help of the two high-school students the wheelchair was pushed up the hill without any difficulty.
"That's right. When in trouble we just have to ask somebody to help us. And they will notice and cooperate."
Taku felt Chii had taught him one more lesson.
"Thank you very much."
The students nodded their heads.
"Take care."
They waved, and started walking and talking happily again.
Chii and Taku felt a warm feeling that they could not quite describe.
