"𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐝𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥..." Marie felt obligated to say. She was just her wonderful self around Atta, no judging, free spirited.

Atta always had her way with words, much better than Marie ever could convey. After all she was rather the awkward sort, and certainly feelings with the young woman were quite complex and complicated most of the time.

"𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫-" Marie chuckled with her, her voice ringing like a thousand bells. It was no lie that Marie had a wonderful voice - it changed over the course of her singing career - even though that career still had to start. She'd graduate next year - since she was doing a specialization year for opera singing.

"𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐈'𝐦 𝐠𝐥𝐚𝐝 𝐰𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬."  Marie said softly, genuinely and warm.

"Marie, your spirit and dedication are unparalleled," Atta began, her voice filled with unwavering support. "I have witnessed your growth, your unwavering commitment to honing your craft. It's inspiring to see the passion that drives you, the resilience that fuels your dreams. Your voice is a force that will move hearts and leave an incredible mark on the world."

As Atta spoke, her eyes met Marie's, a silent exchange of understanding and encouragement. She hoped to convey that she believed in Marie's abilities with every fiber of her being, that she would be there to support her friend through every step of the journey.

"In this vast symphony of life, Marie, you are a rare gem," Atta concluded, her voice soft yet resolute. "Embrace your talent, trust in your abilities, and never forget the impact your voice has on those fortunate enough to hear it. I am honored to be by your side through it all."

Unfortunately, however, the last time he’d tried his hand at sewing, he’d ended up with a pricked thumb and so he figured this was a job best left to the actual artisans at the Teddy Bear Hospital. They could restore his beloved Mr. Cranky Caribou to his original condition and Sven would spare his fingers the pain of a sharp needle.

After checking in with the attendant at the reception desk, he turned to make his way towards one of the open seats in the waiting area. Though with his thoughts on the worn and frayed toy in his hand, he didn’t notice the person nearby and ended up knocking into them, clumsy like the animal his plushie had been modeled after.

“Sorry about that, I didn’t see—Atta?” Sven’s eyebrows shot up in surprise at seeing the young woman, his lips twitching up into a small, playful grin. “I think you might be at the wrong hospital.”

A teasing remark, bringing up a previous incident at the skating rink that had seen Atta take a spill out on the ice that had resulted in bruised shins and equally bruised ego.

"Oh, Sven," Atta replied, her voice carrying a hint of amusement. "I assure you, I'm not here seeking medical attention for my skating skills." Her eyes sparkled with a playful mischief as she gestured towards the bustling Teddy Bear Hospital around them. "I'm here as a humble visitor, not a patient. Miss Ladybug has, unfortunately taken a turn for the worst."

Atta's gaze shifted to the worn and frayed stuffed animal clutched in Sven's hand. It definitely looked as if it had seen better days, its disheveled appearance a testament to the love and wear it had endured. She couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for the well-worn plushie.

"It seems your friend has been through quite the adventure," Atta commented, her voice tinged with empathy. "But fear not, for the artisans here possess remarkable skills in restoring beloved toys to their former glory. They'll work their magic and have him looking good as new."

Atta’s lips parted to release words woven with genuine intrigue. “Indeed, the Teddy Bear Hospital calls to me like a lullaby of forgotten tales. There’s a certain enchantment in witnessing the restoration of treasured companions, don’t you think?” Atta’s voice held a gentle cadence, as if delicately tiptoeing through the corridors of sentiment.

In her mind, Atta envisioned a tapestry of narratives, interwoven threads that connected them in ways still unbeknownst to either of them. The possibility of shared experiences, however faint, flickered like a candle’s flame seeking to illuminate the path ahead.

With a warm smile, Atta chose her words carefully, seeking to foster an atmosphere of kinship and understanding. “Tell me, Sally, have you ever found yourself captivated by the memories that toys hold? The stories they silently carry, etched upon their worn fabric and faded seams? It’s as if they yearn to whisper their tales to the eager ears of those who listen.” Her voice carried a hint of wonder, a genuine invitation to delve into the realm of shared reminiscence.

.

Sally chuckled. “Yes, I really like this place,” she said. Back when she was barely a teenager, and had given up on the dreams of being a fashion designer, she had been certain her best option was to find her place in the Teddy Bear Hospital staff. It sounded truly wonderful, to help fix beloved toys with the only skills the seamstress was sure she had.

“Aren’t you...?” she dared to ask, holding her ragdoll closer to her chest. “I’m sorry, I might be the one mistaking you for someone else now, but... Are you Ms Hill?” More than once her father had spent dinner complaining about the Hills’ factory, and she had once or twice linked the name to a few faces from one of the lists of notable Redwood citizens she watched out for during the town’s events. She had never oficially met her, though, so she assumed it was perfectly likely she was mistaken.

“Oh, uh... Yes, actually. A couple years now I’ve sold a few soft toys at the marketplace. I make them out of scraps of fabric... They’re not that bad, if I may say so myself,” Sally replied with a bit of pride. From her bag she quickly took out the ragdoll her own hands had sewn together as a child, and showed her off affectionately. “This is mine. Princess Caroline, I’ve called her. She’s not exactly a beauty queen, maybe... But she was my best friend, growing up.” Was that a weird thing to say? Probably, Sally thought, immediately regretting her words.

A warm smile spread across Atta's lips as she nodded gently. "Yes, you're correct. I'm Atta Hill," she confirmed, her voice carrying a touch of humility. She appreciated Sally's candor and the genuine interest she displayed. It was a reminder of the impact her family's business had on the community, both positive and negative.

As Sally shared her own craft of creating soft toys from scraps of fabric, Atta's eyes lit up with intrigue. She admired the resourcefulness and creativity that shone through in Sally's work. It was a testament to the power of imagination and the ability to transform something seemingly insignificant into cherished companions.

"That's truly remarkable, Sally," Atta replied, her voice filled with admiration. "To create something beautiful out of humble materials is a testament to your skill and passion. Princess Caroline," she continued, her eyes glancing at the ragdoll held affectionately by Sally, "she may not fit traditional standards of beauty, but love and friendship have a way of transcending appearances. She holds a special place in your heart, and that's what truly matters."

Atta’s eyes softened, capturing the flicker of recognition that danced within them, like a spark rekindled after a long slumber. Remy’s familiar face, etched with the passage of time, stirred a gentle warmth within her heart. She marveled at the way life wove its intricate tapestry, bringing them together once more amidst the bustling rhythm of Redwood Hollow.

"I’m delighted to hear that you’ve found a more enjoyable endeavor, Remy,” Atta replied, her words enveloped in genuine warmth. “As for me, the business continues to flourish. It’s been a journey of creativity and positivity trying to embrace inheriting it when the time comes, but I find solace in the artistry that blooms within its walls.”

She paused for a moment, her gaze softening as she met Remy’s eyes. Memories of shared laughter, youthful camaraderie echoed within her, a testament to the bond they had once shared. “I understand how life can lead us on divergent paths, but it warms my heart to see you again.”

With a gentle smile, Atta extended an invitation, a gesture of rekindling the bond that had weathered the tests of time. “We should take a moment to catch up, share stories of the journey’s we’ve embarked upon? Over a cup of tea, perhaps?”

.

Remy smiled and nodded. “Best of luck with that. It doesn’t seem like an easy job, managing such a big factory.” He knew of some people who worked there, a couple uncles and cousins who had a better grasp of what it was that the Hills did with their business. His father had suggested he applied for a job there, back in the day, when he was much more set on having Remy choose any path that wasn’t the one he had so stubbornly stuck to.

Her comment about life’s divergent paths made him shift a little, avoiding looking straight at her for a moment. Their paths had never meant to converge anyways. There he was, feeling so awkward about the unexpected reunion, while she seemed so at ease.

“It’s good to see you too,” he replied in a small voice as he stared down at the counter, arms crossed. “... It’s been a while, you know.” Maybe it was just because he wasn’t a particularly nostalgic person, but he had the distinct feeling that he didn’t remember that childhood with quite the same fondness as she did.

As Remy mentioned the challenges of managing a large factory, Atta nodded, at times it was definitely difficult; to say the least.

A gentle smile graced her lips as Remy acknowledged the passage of time, his voice carrying a hint of nostalgia. She understood that their memories of childhood might not align, each colored by individual experiences and perspectives. Nonetheless, Atta cherished the connection they once shared, even if it had evolved in unexpected ways.

"Yes, it has been a while," Atta replied, her voice gentle yet tinged with a touch of melancholy. She could sense Remy's apprehension and it saddened her to think that their reunion was met was such unease. Still, she chose to focus on the present moment, on the opportunity to reconnect and discover the people they had become.

Atta's gaze met Remy's, her eyes filled with a gentle understanding. She recognized the value of each individual's story, regardless of its perceived significance. Her curiosity piqued, eager to learn about the person Remy had become beyond the confines of their shared past.

"Mondays would work perfectly for me," Atta replied with a nod.

Atta’s blue eyes shimmered with warmth as Ollie’s vibrant energy enveloped her, infusing the air with their buoyant spirit. She cherished these chance encounters, where the tapestry of lives intertwined in the whimsical embrace of Pooh’s Corner. Ollie’s presence never failed to bring a smile to her face, for they exuded an enchanting aura that invited connection and stories yet untold.

She returned Ollie’s greeting with a gentle nod, acknowledging their exuberance and genuine interest. Atta’s voice, soft yet melodious, carried her response like a gentle breeze through a sunlit meadow.

“Ollie, it’s such a pleasure to see you,” she said, her words imbued with genuine warmth. “I’m well, thank you for asking. The wonder of this place never ceases to bring joy to my heart. How about you? What brings you to this magical corner today?”

“Oh, well Wortel, one of my bunnies, chewed the legs off one of his stuffed animals. So, I always bring them here to get fixed. And then I figured I’d look around at toys for the new bunny I just added to the brood.” Tucking a curl behind their ear, Ollie gave Atta a warm smile. “How about you? Anything in particular bringing you in here? Or just want to relieve being a child again for a little bit.” 

"I must confess, I don't have any bunnies causing mischief. But I have come here to hopefully fix a beloved toy of my own, Miss Ladybug." Granted, it wasn't the most unique name for a stuffed ladybug; but Atta had, had the toy for as long as she could remember.

Atta's gaze wondered across the colorful shelves, filled with an array of toys and games. It was a visual feast, triggering memories of cherished playthings from years gone by. Atta's fingers itched with the desire to reach out and touch the toys, to immerse herself in the nostalgia that permeated the air.

"But who knows," Atta continued, a mischievous grin playing at the corners of her lips. "Perhaps I'll stumble upon something that captures my imagination and brings a touch of childlike wonder back into my life. After all, there's a certain magic in the simplest of toys, isn't there? It's a reminder that joy can be found in the smallest of things."

It wasn’t polite to stare, he remembered his nana telling him once or twice, but he couldn’t help it. Atta looked about the same, or at the very least, quite easily recognizable. Remy quickly looked away, down to the pile of paper bags, and grabbed one and put the scone in it. “It’ll be two dollars."

“I’ve been doing good,” Remy shrugged as he brushed some scone crumbles off the counter. “I got this job, for one. It’s definitely more fun than mopping the floor and washing dishes,” he even chuckled, giving Atta a half smile. “... How have you been? And how’s the old business? I’ve been kinda out of the loop recently, to be honest.”

"I'm delighted to hear that you've found a more enjoyable endeavor, Remy," Atta replied, her words enveloped in genuine warmth. "As for me, the business continues to flourish. It's been a journey of creativity and positivity trying to embrace inheriting it when the time comes, but I find solace in the artistry that blooms within its walls."

She paused for a moment, her gaze softening as she met Remy's eyes. Memories of shared laughter, youthful camaraderie echoed within her, a testament to the bond they had once shared. "I understand how life can lead us on divergent paths, but it warms my heart to see you again."

With a gentle smile, Atta extended an invitation, a gesture of rekindling the bond that had weathered the tests of time. "We should take a moment to catch up, share stories of the journey's we've embarked upon? Over a cup of tea, perhaps?"

The seamstress nodded, stealing little glances from the other woman. She had seen her face before, she was now sure of it. Did she ever star in a community theater play? Was she a discrete part of the event committee?

“I suppose it does,” Sally said with a chuckle. She then gestured to the section of the toy museum that advertised itself as the Teddy Bear Hospital. “You’ve, um, also come to have a toy fixed?”

In her mind, Atta envisioned a tapestry of narratives, interwoven threads that connected them in ways still unbeknownst to either of them. The possibility of shared experiences, however faint, flickered like a candle's flame seeking to illuminate the path ahead.

With a warm smile, Atta chose her words carefully, seeking to foster an atmosphere of kinship and understanding. "Tell me, Sally, have you ever found yourself captivated by the memories that toys hold? The stories they silently carry, etched upon their worn fabric and faded seams? It's as if they yearn to whisper their tales to the eager ears of those who listen." Her voice carried a hint of wonder, a genuine invitation to delve into the realm of shared reminiscence.

@happieststarters

Stepping into the whimsical world of the House at Pooh Corner, Atta found herself surrounded by a treasure trove of childhood memories. The air was laced with nostalgia, carrying the faint scent of well-loved toys and the gentle hum of anticipation.

Atta’s eyes sparkled with fondness as she approached the reception desk, where a kind-hearted attendant greeted her with a warm smile. The air hummed with a sense of compassion, a shared understanding of the emotional ties we forge with our beloved companions. Atta gently cradled her worn soft toy, its seams frayed and stitches unraveling, seeking the healing touch of the skilled artisans within the Teddy Bear Hospital.

Lost in her thoughts, Atta was caught off guard by a sudden bump, an unexpected collision that interrupted her reverie. Surprise danced across her features, followed swiftly by a joyous recognition. The person who had accidentally crossed her path was someone she hadn’t seen in quite some time.

Her voice, filled with genuine delight, rang out amidst the playful atmosphere. “Oh, how lovely to see you here!” she exclaimed, her words carrying the warmth of a long-awaited reunion.

Ollie somtimes hated to admit it, but they came to Pooh’s Corner a bit more than they probably should. In part for themselves, being around so many plush animals made them feel all fuzzy inside. But, if they were being honest with themselves, they were always in here for their rabbits. Each one of their fluffy companions, had their own fluffy companion. The bunnies needed friends so, Ollie took to buying them stuffed animals. 

Today however, was a bit of an emergency. Their beloved, and secretly favorite rabbit, Wortel had chewed one of the legs of their puffin stuffed toy clean off, Ollie being a proud bunny parent didn’t have the heart to replace it. So, here they were at the Toy Hospital that afternoon to get it fixed. Taking a stroll up and down a few the aisle while they waited, their attention was pulled at the sound of a familiar voice. “Atta! Hi there! How are you doing?” They asked bouncing up to the woman. 

She returned Ollie's greeting with a gentle nod, acknowledging their exuberance and genuine interest. Atta's voice, soft yet melodious, carried her response like a gentle breeze through a sunlit meadow.

"Ollie, it's such a pleasure to see you," she said, her words imbued with genuine warmth. "I'm well, thank you for asking. The wonder of this place never ceases to bring joy to my heart. How about you? What brings you to this magical corner today?"

no feeling is final.