A faint rustle of wings brought Lauren's attention to Lavender, who had remained curiously silent. Lauren's brow furrowed as she regarded the fairy, her voice laced with concern. "Lavender, what's the matter? You've been awfully quiet."
Lavender's guilt-ridden gaze met Lauren's, her tiny form appearing almost diminished by the weight of her thoughts. "After watching your childhood and your parents' accident," she began hesitantly, her voice soft and apologetic, "I've been trying to find the right words to console you. I didn't want to burden you with my inarticulate attempts."
A faint, bittersweet smile tugged at the corners of Lauren's lips. "You've been collecting words of condolence for me?" she asked, a mixture of surprise and gratitude colouring her tone. "Lavender, you really are a steadfast friend."
Lavender's wings fluttered with a mixture of embarrassment and relief, her tiny face flushing with colour.
