Mia and Lulu raced down the pavement, their laughter ringing out loud in the street.
Baiyi stood stiffly by the door. He held the doorknob for a few seconds, looking hesitant, but his hand eventually dropped to his side. Although everything was peaceful at the moment, Baiyi could not afford to push his luck by attending any festivities.
Mia returned home at dusk, with her ponytails in a disheveled state. She was exhausted and happy at the same time. The grin on her face could divert attention from her disheveled state; this was a clear sign that she had enjoyed herself. Before Mia entered the cottage, she could be heard promising her new friend Lulu — in a voice as loud as Lulu's — that their adventure would continue the next day.