Nothing beats seeing Anna smile. It's the kind of smile that soothes the soul.
After her trial, I walked her home. We sat together, and I listened as she talked about everything and anything that came to mind. She confided in me—about her tough upbringing, how her father never cared, and how even her siblings disregarded her because she was the weakest among them.
After pouring her heart out, she seemed lighter and happier.
"Let's hang out more often, Ash. Okay?" She tilted her head, smiling at me as we sat on the couch.
I didn't respond. I couldn't. Instead, I pulled her in for a hug and patted her back. I couldn't bring myself to tell her I was leaving to fight some cat guardian, of all things. She'd worry. Or worse, she'd insist on coming with me, and I couldn't let that happen. Not when I knew the things I'd do on this journey could be quite disturbing for her.
Some goodbyes are better left unsaid.