As the soft light of the late afternoon filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows across the bench, Raika continued to gently stroke Mia's hair. The soothing rhythm seemed to have calmed Mia somewhat, though the weight of her grief still lingered in the air. Raika's eyes, usually bright with determination, softened as she looked down at her friend, who was so lost in her sadness.
Out of the blue, Raika broke the silence, her voice quiet but warm. "Mia… can I come to your house tonight? After I tell my mother?" She smiled gently, trying to convey that she wasn't just offering comfort but a companion to share the weight of this burden.