In the story, a boy named James argues with his mother about a game that she believes is inappropriate for kids. She expresses concern that it promotes aggression and disrespects women, which is why she forbids him from playing. James feels it's unfair, especially since all his friends are playing. The conversation shifts when James learns that his father is coming to pick him up for the weekend and will take him to an amusement park, prompting him to wish his mother could be as "cool" as his dad. The exchange highlights the tension between parental authority and a child's desire for freedom and fun.