Strange dreams, strange feelings, strange atmosphere. It’s all Ling’s been feeling lately. Of course there have been moments of calm but in the back of his mind, there’s that feeling of unease, that feeling of strangeness. He can’t say he’s a fan of that, considering one of the reasons he ran away was to get away from such things. Can’t win them all. It’s because tomorrow is the festival Susie has been telling Ling about. That and Susie’s little hints. What’s the worst that can happen at a festival, a time that’s supposed to be carefree and fun?
Ling kept these feelings to himself all day, did what he could to try and block them out. He tried going up to the hotel rooftop, considered visiting Kris or Noelle but changed his mind, took a stroll through the forest, but nothing could shake the unease. It’s late at night now and Ling is standing at the edge of the lake, looking out at the still water.
He doesn’t have to look to know it’s Susie who walks up to his side. This has, despite what Susie said, become their thing. Ling knows Susie has been occupied with thoughts of her own. He wanted to ask so many questions, but for her sake, he didn’t. She doesn't need him prodding at her right now.
“So, the festival is tomorrow,” Susie says, her gaze remaining on the water. “How are ya feelin’? Excited?”
Ling chuckles, although it’s humourless. “I don’t know. I’ve never gone to a festival before. Maybe that’s making me anxious.”
“I guess that could make it nervewracking, heh.” Susie looks down and kicks a pebble into the water. “Listen. I’m sure it’ll turn out alright.”
Ling doesn’t know who Susie is talking to: herself or him. Maybe both of them. There’s something comforting about that, something comforting about being in Susie’s presence in general. Yes, she is hard to understand sometimes and yes, she can be rough around the edges, but she’s a good person. She’s someone Ling knows he’s safe with, someone he trusts.
They stand in silence for a while and then Susie turns to face him. She has such a kind smile. A beautiful smile that could banish all darkness. It fills Ling with warmth.
“I’ll see ya tomorrow, huh?” Susie says, lightly punching Ling’s arm.
Ling smiles. “See you tomorrow, Suz.”