Growth

Althea turned to continue her way, with Fufi following with his naturally bouncy gait. Whether or not Sheila would gather herself and follow her would no longer be of her concern.

Watching her tall back, Sheila's eyes widened with tears in her eyes. However, the feeling of disappointment was soon pushed away by reason.

Although she never thought of Althea protecting her… subconsciously, wasn't it what she really thought? Otherwise, why would she be disappointed?

Shame.

Shame enveloped her whole being and she felt like crying. It overflowed in her veins to the point of covering up the fear and terror that occupied her emotions a moment prior.

Sheila couldn't help but remember the heart-stopping moment where she was sure she was dead. How helpless she was.

"T…Thank you for the reminder." She said, sincerely. "And thank you for saving my life, again."

Althea nodded, relieved, before turning to continue walking to the opposite direction the monsters were from.