the girl who was burning so brightly

"What is this?"

"Really? You like it?"

He hadn’t been terribly helpful, so she probably wasn’t going to take to nicely to him tagging along. She looked frustrated as it was. But he was friends with her brother, and no way was he going to let a nine old girl wander around the forest when he didn’t know if she could watch out for herself here.

She was getting beyond frustrated with the boy now, for being so indecisive, but she had to admit, she appreciated the gesture. As she walked, Jillian turned back, giving the boy a curious look.

In what way did it seem like I was inviting you to come along, little girl?

When you said you were headed back to the palace, I guess I just assumed you meant I should go, too...

Warren did his best to ignore the excited flutter in his chest when Jillian’s hand brushed his.  It was silly.  It was foolish.  She made him feel like such an idiot—not stupid, but certainly ridiculous.  Even so…it was nice being around her.

Jillian bent down,trying not to blush as she reached out for the pup he had indicated. Everything was so easy around Warren, but so difficult at the same time. It was like she was hyperaware of everything she did, yet she still had no control whatsoever--which, naturally, ended in some form of embarrassment. "Well, I think he's lovely," she declared, scooping up the pup and holding it close. "Does he have a name yet?"

"Probably because they are a couple drinks in. But I bet if you asked them if everything was okay in their lives they would say the answer is no."

"Well, that's just awful."

"Sounds amazing!"

"Great! Let's get going, then!"

"Wow really?! I’d love to!"

"Of course! I doubt I could finish one on my own."

"I doubt it’s even that scary. Probably going to be more of something to laugh at than scream."

"Well, there's only one way to find out!"

"I’m not sure it’s the outside appearance one should worry about, young miss."

"Well, maybe it's fun!"