As Amy exited the trail, she remained in thought over Shadow's question. How could loneliness be good?
She kicked a pebble and stopped by a lake. Her gaze turned to the glossy clear surface where nothing disturbed it. The sunlight bounced off the water with perfect reflections.
The pink Hedgehog looked into her reflection. Her red eyes came to her attention. She wiped her cheeks and sniffled.
Great. I've been crying. Wonder if Shadow saw that.
Two birds swooped over the lake and twirled into the sky. Their graceful movements were in beautiful sync. Amy watched as they rested on a long branch of a thick, old maple.
Everyone seems to be destined for someone. So why not me?
She reached into her purse. A mall flier was crumpled in her hand. Despite how the idea of going made her smile, it only produced gloom.
No one wanted to be around her.
With a deep sigh, she released the paper. It flapped and spun in the powerful wind. Not soon after, Amy crouched and hugged her knees. Her pink hair tangled together in the cold breeze.
A soft, scarlet scarf was pulled around her by a pair of white-gloved hands. She sat up and looked down at the surprise gift. Next to her sat Shadow.
Amy backed up a bit while his blood-red red eyes studied her. They narrowed at her as he frowned.
He said, "The temperature had dropped it seems. Why did you run away?"
"I..."
The girl was unable to finish. Shadow watched her in full silence.
Amy continued, "I don't think anyone wants me."
Her friend raised an eyebrow and interjected, "That's a rather peculiar thought."
"But..."
"Where did you get that idea?"
"I probably annoy everyone with being happy all the time and talking too much."
"You're overthinking it."
"It's true though!"
Shadow looked at the sky and answered, "Some scientists have studied that happy people are healthy to have around. What have people said that indicated this odd idea?"
Amy became silent. Her face darkened, and she frowned. Shadow didn't say a word and looked at the sky again.
Amy asked, "Do you think I talk too much?"
"No."
"I thought you hated talking?"
"Depends on who is talking to me. You're not obnoxious."
He turned to her with a gaze that she almost read as kind but still serious. The worry and friendliness is all mixed into one stare. He is sitting so close to me.
He pulled out a red rose and placed onto Amy's lap. She stared at the deep scarlet petals from the partially blossomed flower. With gentle care, she picked it up and looked at Shadow.
Why is he being so kind? Is there something he wants to tell me?