Damshe was so stunned by the hug that he didn't even notice Anna stuffing her pockets and running off. When he had recovered, he rose to a standing position to watch her scamper off. It was then that he spotted her last message on his sketchbook.
"'Till next time'..." he mumbled quietly as he picked the book up.
He flipped back a few pages, noticing that Anna had torn out the second sketch he'd done of her. Then, he flipped back to the first drawing. At least he had this one still. Even if he didn't, he doubted that he would ever forget this little experience.
Smiling, Damshe lifted his gaze back to Anna's retreating form. He watched her until she had disappeared from his sight. After that, he ambled on over to his lean-to and took a seat by the fire. He could probably make it to his car now but somehow, he couldn't bring himself to do that. A little more camping wouldn't hurt him.
Damshe packed away what belongings of his were still out and sat staring out into the distance. He didn't feel tired for some reason. He looked again at the first sketch with Anna's form huddled around the fire, her pawwriting that said "Hello, I'm Anna!" just underneath.
"Next time," he said out loud. "It can't come too soon."
