Team8s and Counting

193. Rolling Into Something New

The day of Thread's wheelchair appointment had arrived, and Thread had a lot of mixed emotions going through her mind. Pin, Coiny, and Needle all headed with her to the front door with her, excited to help Thread shop.

Before they walked in, Thread tapped Needle on the shoulder, and gestured to her as if she was going to whisper something to her.

"Mommy." Thread whispered in Needle's ear. "Is Golf Ball still a bossy bot?"

Needle smiled, putting her mouth up against Thread's ear. "She still likes to be in charge, but I'd say she's calmed down a bit since the show. All I know is that she will not let you walk out of that store until you have the perfect chair for you."

Pin noticed the whispering, and looked Needle in the eye. "What are you guys talking about?"

Needle looked away. "Nothing."

Thread giggled. "Just about how excited I am to finally get a new chair!"

Coiny chuckled back. "We're excited to Thread. Hopefully no more faulty wheelchair parts!"

They stepped inside, the bell above the door jingling softly. The store had a clean, modern look, with rows of mobility aids and accessories neatly displayed. Near the back, a sleek white desk sat in front of a wall lined with different wheelchair models. Behind the desk stood a familiar face—Golf Ball.

She seemed to be doing some housekeeping on her computer, but as soon as she looked up and saw them, she broke into a smile. "Ah, Thread! And the whole family's here too." She set the clipboard down and walked around the desk. "Ready to find the perfect chair?"

Thread nodded eagerly. "Yes! I'm so excited!"

"Good, because I've already got a few models in mind for you," Golf Ball said, motioning them toward the display area. "I factored in your height, weight, and daily activities, plus your current chair's issues, so I think these options will be much better."

Pin smirked. "Still as efficient as ever, I see."

Golf Ball scoffed playfully. "Someone's got to make sure things are done right."

Thread giggled as she was led to a section filled with different chairs—some lightweight, some sportier, some with cool color designs. She looked at each one with wide eyes, already imagining how they would feel.

Tennis Ball was standing near a selection of wheelchairs that were picked out for Thread to try. "There you all are!" He greeted them excitedly.

"Hey, Tennis Ball!" Coiny greeted back, walking over to greet him. "You helping out with the selection today?"

"Of course! Golf Ball likes things to be efficient, and I like making sure the customer is happy," Tennis Ball said with a grin. "Thread, we've got some great options for you."

Thread beamed as she rolled up beside him. "I can't wait to try them out!"

Tennis Ball nodded. "Alright, let's start with this one." He gestured to a sleek, ultralight model with a bright blue frame. "It's lightweight, easy to maneuver, and it's designed for both indoor and outdoor use."

Thread was about to transfer into the wheelchair, but her mom tried to step in.

"Here Thread." Pin took a hold of her hand. "Let me help you."

Thread pulled her hand away. "No mom, I can do it myself, I know it!"

Pin backed away, respecting her daughter's wish for independence. "Okay, but let us know if you need help!"

"I said I got it!" Thread repeated. She was able into the chair without her parents' help and gripped the wheels, testing how it moved. She pushed herself forward, then tried a quick turn. "Ooooh, this one is really smooth."