Seven years later
"Are you sure you want to do this, Piccola?" I ask as I look into her eyes and search for a hint of doubt. I don't see any, but I know she's nervous. "We can leave right now."
"No, I want to do this. It's time."
"I'll be by your side the whole time. I'm not going anywhere."
She smiles softly as she nods. "I know."
I take her hand in mine, and we walk into the nearly empty restaurant and make our way to the back. I'd specifically asked for a private room today, and we all wanted to be on neutral ground. When the manager of the restaurant comes over to greet us, we keep the chat brief, and he shows us to our room. As soon as he opens the door, I see Piccola's father stand up from the table.
I feel her hesitate for just a second before she takes a deep breath and we wa
