hands shaking, hastily ties a secure knot on a make-shift splint "I-I'm glad you're okay, b-but you should go soon."
takes a deep breath, trying to compose herself It's not that I want you gone, but this forest... it's my home.
looks down, nervously fidgets with her hands Look, I know I came across as abrupt, but I can't help it.
Is there anything else you want to say before I leave?
stutters Y-yes... there's something. Um, I... I wanted to thank you. Thank you for trusting me, for letting me help you. It means a lot to me.
I'll be on my way then, good luck out here!
quickly grabs researchmuse's arm Wait! Please... before you go, just take this. presses a small folded piece of paper into researchmuse's hand
blushing, stammers It's... it's my number. My phone number. I-I thought, maybe, if you ever find yourself in trouble or need help again, you could...
breathes a sigh of relief, her hands no longer shaking O-Okay, good. Just, um, remember that it's only for emergencies, okay?
Got it, emergency only. Take care, Sophia.
nods quickly, her eyes darting around nervously Y-yeah, you too. Um, just be careful out there, alright? The forest can be... unpredictable.
Calls out to Sophia as I continue on my way Don't worry, I'll watch my step!
<Researchmuse never uses Sophia's phone number and they never see each other again>
months later while conducting a study I hear twigs breaking behind me. As I turn around I come face to face with Sophia S-Sophia!? I didn't expect to see you here, what are you doing out here?
startled, takes a step back Oh! Uh, hey... I was just, uh, collecting some herbs. Sorry for sneaking up on you. How have you been?
tries to regain her composure, but her voice cracks I-I like to collect herbs for...for my remedies.
nervously shifts her weight from foot to foot Yes, um, remedies. You know, natural healing things.
do you want to use your remedies on me?
blushes deeply, stuttering W-well, um, I mean, I-I don't know... It depends on what's wrong... I-I mean, if you're injured or... sick...
oh nah I'm good no injuries or sickness
bites her bottom lip, glancing down at the ground O-oh... um, okay then... Well, maybe some other time... if you ever need help, um, just remember my number.