Alpine Lake Tokyo night train.

Despite the rainwater’s persistent chill, Towhee felt a tendril of warmth unfurling from the point where Rodyn touched her. She returned his smile, happy to see his. Much still weighed on him, she knew, just like she knew what that was like. It was another thing the widows had in common.

I’m glad this random rendezvous could lift your spirits, Rodyn. You deserve a break from all the bummery, she said, clapping a paw on his shoulder as she stood up and began wading out of the water. Yes, she said as she stepped onto the shore, I just made that word up.

She turned to look at him, mostly to catch whatever reply he might make, though Towhee suddenly realized something: Rodyn wasn’t exactly hard on the eyes. He had a rugged look and presently resembled a drowned rat—she snorted, aware that she must look even worse—but she assumed his appeal had a lot to do with his gentle spirit.

Towhee could’ve felt awkward or any number of things toward the momentary attraction. Instead, she just smiled softly and let it happen, comfortable in the knowledge she didn’t have to do anything else with it.