You break out into a brisk trot, and make it to the school gates just as the school bell rings to signal the end of the school day, audible even from out here. The voices of the students rise to a hubbub, a few people beginning to trickle out in ones and twos.
Mami bursts from the school doors a moment later, school bag in hand. Her head swivels wildly as she hunts for you, and upon spotting you standing outside the gate, runs over, golden drills bouncing. She slows to a walk as she approaches, expression becoming apprehensive. Fearful and apprehensive, afraid that you've found some reason to discard her.
Your heart aches at the sight. Mami... shouldn't be this way. She shouldn't be jumping at shadows, worried that the slightest mistake she makes will offend you. She shouldn't be terrified of being alone.
But this is something that will take time to heal. Time, and friendship, and acceptance.
You smile at her, hiding your own worry, and you hold out a hand to her. She reaches out and takes it in her own, fingers interlacing with your own.
"I'm here," you say, squeezing her fingers between yours. "I'm here, Mami."
Mami takes a shuddering breath. "I... yes," she says.
