If asked if she can imagine a time, in the future, where she will be without Phoenix, she won't know how to answer. Of course she won't be without him! He might have to take trips and do impressive things, but he will come back. ...right?

This is the first time she has been scared that he might not. That fear combined with her growing feelings for him makes it easy for her to touch him and seek his laughter. Whatever happened, it's okay because...well...

She's here. Fish Fairy is here too. Xufeng will be safe.

"They try to knock over my plants." and poop on her shelves. The fiends!

His cheek is so warm under her hand and she shakes her head, smiling for his sake.

"They can't take me anywhere. I'm too big!"