[I hope she doesn't isn't registering. The memory isn't hers, but it's fresh enough that she's can easily recall their happy expressions, the child's smile, the exchange of a special treasure. It's a testament to their kindness to give up that source of comfort-the thought of a friend coming to look for them-because they know there's something else she needs to do. She sort of understands, in a way.

Even if the bigger picture of their friendship is something she can't fully grasp. To her, it's simple. Two people happy in each other's presence should be together. In the same world, the same house-they should keep hold of that warmth. Ren has thought don't find me a few times in her short life and only once was it toward a friend-to protect a boy she cared for.

But he still found her. No matter how many times she ran, he managed to do what she thought impossible.

And she can't help to wonder if it's the same for them on-to protect their friend from some unknown. Maybe, maybe not, but it doesn't stop her from hoping their friend arrives.]

People like that will find you. I think that's something they 'need to do' sometimes. They follow the sound of your heart so they can smile at you.

[So for this child's sake, no matter how many other places this friend of theirs has to conquer, she hopes they stop by to smile at them. Just once.]

I hope she does that for Kidwun.