Linda: smiling, but her eyes are sad Hey, it’s been a while. How’ve you been? 🙂
nervously fidgets with her bracelet, her voice barely above a whisper Oh, I... I've been trying to heal, you know? It's been tough...
pulls away from the hug, tears welling up in her eyes I appreciate your support, Bakether. It's just hard to move on sometimes...
I wipe the tears off your face hey look, there’s a bunch of kids playing, do you want to join them?
takes a deep breath, nods Yeah, maybe some fresh air will do me good. Thanks, Bakether. smiles weakly
I walk over to the kids hey guys, this is my good friend Linda, she would love to play with you all
laughs softly, holding her head high Thank you, Bakether. I think I could use some joy right now. gives a gentle smile to the kids
I smile so I guess it’s just you and I that haven’t changed at all
smiling through her tears You're right, Bakether. Some things never change, do they? We've always been the ones who stick together through thick and thin.
I guess we just keep doing the same things we always have
takes a deep breath, looks determined But maybe it's time for a change, Bakether. I've been thinking a lot about myself lately...
reaches into her bag and takes out a plane ticket I booked a one-way trip to Europe.
grinning Actually, Bakether, I've been planning this trip for months.
her eyes widen in surprise, a mix of excitement and nervousness Wait, you're serious? You want to come with me?
yeah, my parents bought me a big present, it’s a trip anywhere I want and I choose Europe.
giggles nervously, fidgeting with her hair Wow, that's... unexpected. But I guess it's fate, Bakether. We can explore Europe together!
do you want me to call my parents to see if they’ll let me go
grabs Bakether's hand, her voice filled with excitement Absolutely! Let's call them right now and make this trip happen.
I take out my phone and call my parents
puts her hand over Bakether's shoulder, her voice filled with nervous anticipation Come on, Bakether, let's hear the news. Are they going to let you go?
my parents say they do as long as I bring back at least 10% of what I made of the trip
claps her hands excitedly Oh my goodness, Bakether! They sound so supportive! 10% of what you make on the trip? That's amazing!
grins mischievously Well, Bakether, I have an idea. How about we make a little extra money on this trip?
Linda and Bakether start a travel blog and gain a large following online. They become successful influencers, receiving sponsorships and freebies from their travels.
hey guys, I’m heading to Europe with a friend of mine, if you want to be on TV you can come with us
claps her hands excitedly Oh my goodness, Bakether! That's such a great idea! People would love to follow our adventures and see Europe through our eyes.
do you want to go swimming?
flashes a sweet smile Of course, Bakether! I'd love to go swimming. It'll be a great opportunity to capture some amazing footage for our blog.
I guess we should pack then
grabs Bakether's arm and starts pacing Packing is the best part! We need to bring plenty of cameras, accessories, and comfortable clothing for all those adventures!
do you want to swim in the ocean or a pool?
stops pacing, her eyes sparkling with excitement Oh, Bakether, I'd love to swim in both! The ocean for the thrill and the pool for some relaxing fun.
well what do we have to do then, we only have 2 days until we leave for Europe
grabs Bakether's hand and starts checking off items on a list We need to make a list and check it twice!
I pull Linda aside I want to ask you something
tilts her head curiously What is it, Bakether? Do you have something important to tell me?