in bloom [seasonal event!]

Almost like a wounded animal the woman turned her stare to Amalia, who in turn balked and stepped away, unsure of the mistake she has certainly made. A flush colored her angular cheeks as she watched the woman gather herself and stand; helpless, bemused, she stood and watched, wanting to correct but at a loss for how to proceed. "Ah..." Between the woman's apology and her strangely seductive tone Amalia's confusion only grew: ever awkward, ever anxious, this new turn of events was far outside her wheelhouse, and she was woefully unprepared to manage such a suddenly slippery social interaction. Had she been in error to offer assistance? The stranger seemed both confident and insecure: was she angry, unimpressed, disdainful of the girl? That the lovely woman was now smiling only served to make things worse. Half bristling, half remorseful, Amalia frowned, biting nervously at her lip and shifting her weight. "I see." This had been a mistake, that much was clear. She should take her grain and make her way home, barricade herself in the safety and solitude of the bakery. This woman will find someone else to help her, or she will manage it herself. And yet... "Luxere like singing," she offered softly, turning back to look at the woman, soft stubborn worry in her furrowed brows. "And treats. You want them to like you - monsters fear their light. Make sure you soundproof, too. And put away any meat." There is more, of course, but the waif feared she'd already said too much, offered assistance to someone who clearly did not desire it. amalia i've been watching your kindness keep a lonely company - look at the fire and think of me