In this story, Robert, a student who wears hearing aids, faces bullying from his classmate Billy, who mocks him for his hearing difficulties. Robert struggles with his hearing and is trying to adjust to his new aids while dealing with the challenges of school life. During a science experiment, the teacher tests the class's ability to hear different sounds, and Robert impressively hears a dog whistle, showcasing the effectiveness of his aids.

As the narrative unfolds, Billy has an accident in gym class, resulting in a temporary need for a hearing aid himself. This experience helps him understand what Robert went through, prompting a change in his behavior. Robert learns that his infection is gone and he no longer needs to wear the hearing aids, leading to a sense of relief.

By the end, Billy apologizes to Robert for his previous behavior, acknowledging how hurtful his words were. The story conveys important lessons about empathy, understanding differences, and the impact of one's words on others. It emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and consideration, no matter their circumstances.