“We will, indeed,” Maddie replied, her tone clearly indicating that she was certain she'd be the one who was right. There was a chance Nick was right and words would be enough. A slim chance, although Maddie would never admit it aloud. Kids the same age as these boys seemed to respond well to Nick, for whatever reason.
Okay, so maybe her opening words weren't exactly effective. They were too vague, but they did manage to get the boys' attention, which was objective number one. Maddie hid her slight embarrassment behind a mask of annoyance, crossing her arms over her chest while Nick elaborated.
Naturally, Nick's kinder, less violent approach had to be the first thing they tried. Maddie pursed her lips to hide the twitch of amusement that came at the thought of doing this in the opposite order. Maddie's forceful approach, followed by Nick's kinder approach. Somehow, she didn't think the kids would be at all willing to listen to Nick if Maddie went first.
The oldest of the boys, who looked to be around eleven or so, straightened his posture and frowned at them. “Ooooh, we're so scared,” he taunted, waggling his fingers for emphasis. “We can play any game we want. These little twerps can't do anything about it.” He indicated the younger kids. One of his buddies raised his arms over his head and growled loudly, sending a couple of the younger ones running off to a different part of the playground.
A scowl settled on Maddie's features. She shot a look at Nick, one that clearly said See? Told you your way wouldn't work.