From where she stood, Alina noticed instantly. Her smile softened as she watched Sable run toward her and tug uncertainly at the hem of her white dress. She crouched down so their eyes met, her voice gentle and warm. "What happened, Sable?" she asked, brushing a soft hand over his hair.
Sable's lip quivered. "I… I don't know how to make friends," he whispered, his small voice trembling like a bubble about to pop. His big eyes glistened as he looked at the others laughing together, and Alina's heart ached.
"Oh, sweetheart," she said softly, rubbing his head in slow, comforting circles. "Don't be scared. Making friends starts with just one little word—'hi.' That's all you need to say. The rest will happen naturally."
He blinked up at her, hope flickering in his expression. "Just… hi?"
"Just hi," Alina confirmed with a smile.
