*Saffron*
['Still in the past']
We began walking down the street, searching for a stand selling shoes. It was hard to do so, though with the crowd.
"It's so crowded tonight," Rose said, glancing around.
I nodded. "Yeah, it's way different from the smaller celebrations in my village."
Look looked back at me. "Where are you from?"
"A small village in Makkuroyama, it's not too far from here via boat, actually."
"Sounds nice." She sighed. "I wish I could leave this city and live somewhere else."
"Why? Won't you miss Drew and the kids?"
She nodded. "I would, but..." She stared at her feet. "It's a long story."
I placed my hand on her head. "If you need an ear, I have two."
She chuckled weakly. "Thanks, but I have burdened you enough as is. You do not need to hear about my troubles."
I shook my head. "It's really no trouble at all."
