There was a warm feeling in Nzinga's heart, an emotion that she couldn't put a name to. She didn't feel bad for smiling at the innocent Jini. "Of course I'll stick around, and come back and see you sometimes," she said. "My new...friend." She had a friend.

For the first time, she had a connection to some one - to some place. She made up her mind that she would stay in this area for a while longer. Why was there any reason to go anywhere else?

"I'll see you again sometime soon," she promised. She sincerely planned to come and visit him again. "Have a good evening, Jini." She flashed a quick smile and headed in the direction of the river. Water was one thing she could smell, hear, and almost feel, from miles away.