Looking down at Nini, who was two heads shorter than her, Shanshan reached out and gently patted her on the head. "I'm not up to anything," she said softly. "I was just feeling down and wanted to hang out with you."
"Okay, okay! The teacher didn't give us any homework today. Where are you taking me?" Nini said happily, grabbing Shanshan's hand.
Just then, a group of boys walked by, arguing loudly. They seemed to still be debating whether Mishel's uncle was really an Explorer.
A red-faced Mishel gesticulated wildly, trying to explain himself and insisting they would understand once they came to his house.
When Shanshan saw a flicker of curiosity in Nini's eyes, she blinked and, taking her hand, followed the boys. "It's okay. If you want to go see, then let's go. We're friends, you don't always have to go along with what I want. Friends should be equals."
Nini looked up at her and smiled brightly. "Thank you, Shanshan! You're my best, best friend!"
