The cart stopped along the market, and Penelope dropped the coins into the driver's hand and dragged Neera's arm as they whizzed through the throng of people. The day was on the cusp of noon, the sun growing weary of work and showing its frustration by beating its heat on the people below. Neera longed for spring as sweat made its way down her scalp and down her back, and she followed Pen as they dodged traders waving their wares before their faces.
"There is this new stand we should try out," Penelope yelled over a man advertising his rodent poisons. "They have got the best sweets!"
"And I am the one acting like a kid!" Neera yelled back. Penelope's ears caught the words, and she laughed, her arms coming protectively around Neera when two dogs ran past them in a mad chase.
