Juniper turned to see Sophia approaching, her silken honey-blonde waves catching the light. “Sophia! Fancy seeing you here,” Juniper exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with genuine delight.

“Early birds, aren’t we?” Sophia replied, her vibrant, ocean-hued eyes crinkling as she smiled.

“Yeah, I figured I’d beat the crowds for once,” Juniper said, falling into step beside her. “Thought I’d enjoy the morning while it’s still relatively peaceful.”

“It’s a good habit to get into,” Sophia nodded thoughtfully. “Walking and being early, I mean.”

“Walking or being early?” Juniper asked.

Sophia smiled. “Both, actually. Clears the mind and sets the tone for the day.”

They walked in comfortable silence for a moment before Juniper asked, “Where did you park?”

“Over at the elementary school’s array,” Sophia replied.

“Oh, I parked underneath,” Juniper said, a hint of curiosity in her tone.