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“Pen?”
Penelope turned around abruptly, almost falling backwards off the swing she was sitting on.
“Colin,” she sighed relieved when he stepped into the light of the terrace lamp. “Sorry, El told me I could come over and use the swings anytime, but I—”
“It’s fine, I just couldn’t sleep and saw someone sitting out here.” He sat down on the other swing. “So... Come here often?”
Pen huffed a laugh. “We’ve moved here barely three months ago, I’m hardly a regular already.”
“At our house you are. Just not sure if also on our swings,” he smirked, gently swinging back and forth. “How are you adjusting to everything?”
“Fine enough, I suppose? I’m glad I met Eloise, I wouldn’t know what to do without her.”
He nodded. “Prudence is in my grade. She’s— You’re very different, aren’t you?”
“So are you and all of your siblings.” Her defense wouldn’t even convince herself.
“Yes, but all of my siblings are at least—” he visibly stopped himself, making Pen sigh in defeat.
“I believe the word you were looking for is kind.”
“Eloise is my sister, so assure you I wasn’t.” The look of being caught betrayed his lighthearted tone.
They sat in awkward silence for a minute before Penelope stood to leave. “I think I should go to sleep now. Good night, Colin.”
“Night. And Pen? I’m very glad you met Eloise too.”