Looking back, I realize he's standing in the same spot. I guess he doesn't understand. Walking back dejectedly, I explain the rules of tag to him.

What is it supposed to be?

Why do people run away from it??

Maybe it just wants to make friends???

Please stop asking me questions that I can't answer, Crescia...

Deciding this was more trouble than it was worth, we hop around instead. Pollen and petals kick up as we spring around aimlessly. I don't think either of us know what we're even playing, but it's fun nonetheless.

"Aeriea, it's time for lunch!" Mommy peeks through an open windowsill. "What!? How did all these flowers-"

She finally notices me and Crescia holding hands, spinning around in a ring. Disappearing with a swoosh, the sound of frantic footsteps crackle inside the household.

"Oh. I think I should leave, Aeriea."

"Why? Don't go, I'll introduce you to my mommy. I promise she's nice, so please stay!"

He looks troubled. "Sorry... The wise ones are always telling us we shouldn't talk to strangers. Especially Children of Man and Children of the Dark."

That's surprising. "Why'd you speak with me then?"

"Oh. Well, you seemed..."

"Warm and cold or something?"

"Haha..." His ears and nose become a bit pink.

I wonder what he means. Getting a bit lost in thought, I look back to ask but Crescia is already halfway towards the forest.

"Wha-!"

"I promise I'll come back soon!" He sings out cheerfully as he bounds away like a deer.

*

"I've arrived to a pouting little blossom." Mommy says in confusion when she arrives.

"You scared my friend away."

"Who was your friend?"

"His name is Crescia, he wasn't going to lead me astray or trick me if that's what you were thinking. He made all these flowers bloom!" My mood rises steadily as I remember it. "And and and, he's part of a nomadic tribe that brings spring to people!"

"Oh my, how lovely. It sounds like Crescia is part of the Folletto." She gently embraces me. "I'm sorry I scared him off, dear. That wasn't my intention at all."

Her bright smile is contagious and I smile right back. I know she was just worried, I shouldn't have been mad. "Sorry for being mad, mommy." I hug her tightly and snuggle into her chest.

Warm and softtt.

She shows a dazzling expression and takes my hand, walking to the entrance where daddy is waiting. "You spoil our little blossom too much, Eve." Daddy chides mommy and sternly reprimands me. "You shouldn't talk to strangers, Aeriea."

I grumble as he pokes me on the forehead. Mommy and I explain to daddy about Crescia as we walk towards the dining hall for lunch.

*

The next day, I lie in wait underneath the flowerbed like a predator awaiting its prey. I've decided to scare him when he arrives as punishment for suddenly leaving.

He's here!

I wait for him to get a little closer, before jumping up with my hands shaped as claws. "AHHHHRRRR!"

Crescia looks at me with wide, droopy eyes... Before laughing so much, tears fall from his face. "Why do you like being a bear, Aeriea?"

Uuu, I failed again.

He innocently smiles, "Being a bear doesn't suit you at all."

So pure!

I-I guess I'll forgive him just this once.