Ida laughed, delighted at the young girl's enthusiasm. It made her happy to see it and it lightened some of her own burdens, seeing someone so carefree and genuinely happy. As long as someone was happy, life wasn't as bad as it seemed.

Warmth crept into her cheeks, turning them pink and the older girl moved to put an arm around Elvira's shoulders and hug her gently, pleased by the declaration.

"I love you too, Elvira. I mean... you really do mean a lot to me and I hope you know that." She said as she held her. "Any time you want to show me something, I'll be there. I'd love to see more of this wonderful place."

It had been a short, but fun trip, and Ida was glad she had been there to support her young friend. Its what she wanted most, really. Just a chance to be there for people.

"I'm ready when you are." She said, gently squeezing Elvira's shoulder.

Orangeish Sherbert
fin ~