"So why do you carry that bear around?"
Paula glanced up at Ness, who was walking backwards to better look at her. Her cheeks pinkened slightly (a very cute look for her), and she tightened her grip on the tattered stuffed toy.
"I know it seems childish," she laughed, shaking blonde curls away from her face, "and, well, it probably is. But I've had it since I was little, and it makes me feel safe. Like a security blanket."
"Yeah, I get what you mean." Ness looked the toy over appraisingly. "It's probably gonna rip soon, though."
"I know..."
Paula frowned, burying her face in the teddy bear's fur. Suddenly she realized that she could no longer hear Ness' footsteps. She looked up. Ness was grinning at her, holding his arm out.
"You could just hold on to me, if it makes you feel better. I won't rip."
She stood silent for a moment, gaze drifting from the bear to the boy. Then, smiling, she took his hand and gave it an affectionate squeeze. "Thanks," she whispered.
They walked on.