Lawrence was just going on a grocery run for the week when he crossed the path of Jasmine Fenton and the young Ellie probably-a-Fenton-but-who-knows.
They were standing a little further away from him, arms half full of everything one might need for a camping trip, sleeping bags and tent included.
"So, where are you heading next ?"
"Probably Perú. Seems like a good place for some hiking."
Jasmine nodded, picking up two sort of soap and scanning the components thoughtfully for a minute.
"And after that ? There's still a full month until the solstice."
"Van wants to see the rock cliffs in Ireland for himself."
"Hmm. They are quite a sight."
The older (probably) of the two tucked two pillows, night blue and pearl grey into Ellie's arms, right besides the matching sleeping bags that were half hanging off her shoulders.
Jasmine herself was holding onto a bag full of cans, shampoo and soap, and was just adding toothbrushes in when she spoke again. A tent was hanging off on her elbow.
"Ny wanted to go with you, you know ?"
(That nickname brought Lawrence back to the first day of October, in the graveyard. That was one moment he did not like to remember.)
"He hadn't said anything."
"Obviously. It's Ny we're talking about."
Jasmine grabbed two books, adventure novels that he remembered gifting his nephew (some stories about a boy who couldn't fit in and befriended those he shouldn't have, for the best) and tucked them in her bag as well, careful not to fold the covers in between the cans.
"A book ?"
"It'll keep him entertained at least for a little longer."
"Wish he could come."
The older didn't answer immediately, instead turning around and beginning to walk toward the exit and the cashiers.
The last thing he heard from the children made him drop his own groceries.
"I know, little sister. I know."
(Lawrence didn't notice when he left the shop, but he hadn't picked up any items on his list.)