Prodigal

She's imperfect, but she tries She is good, but she lies She is hard on herself She is broken and won't ask for help More than anything, it is the strane saying about oxen and lions that causes Amalia to break into a strange mix of laughter and sobs, her defenses finally falling apart as tears flow freely down her cheeks, punctuated by shuddering giggles. It sounds so much like one of the ridiculous sayings her grandmother might have used to describe the situation, and though there is no way Jigano could have anticipated it, it is exactly what the girl needs. When at last her laughter subsides Amalia pulls away, angular face tear-streaked and red-eyed, though a smile curls on her coral lips. "Thank you, Jigano," the baker murmurs, looking up at the man through a black gaze that still glitters with unshed tears. "Sometimes I forget that I'm not alone anymore. But I'll... I'll work on remembering, from now on." The rest of the day passes without much event, the pair looking through books and pursuing their own interest in comfortable camaraderie and quiet friendship. It is a nice respite for both of the, to leave the troubles of the past season behind a moment, recall the days of easy study and looking through tomes. And when the time comes for them each to go home Amalia makes Jigano stop by the bakery, loading him up with food and treats to take back to Rory and a promise of more adventures to come. a m a l i a She is messy, but she's kind She is lonely most of the time She is all of this mixed up and baked in a beautiful pie She is gone, but she used to be mine