"You really came!" Emmeline exclaimed in a cheerful tone, genuinely surprised her friend had followed through on her word despite her doubts. A small part of her had hoped Minnie might cancel and spare her the need to pretend everything was fine. Minnie gave her an amused look. "Of course I came, you goof.” sarcasm dripping from her voice. “I may be a total motormouth who never stops yakking, but unlike some people, I actually keep my promises." She let out a spontaneous peal of laughter at her own teasing jab. Emmeline gave her a playful nudge with her elbow, careful to maintain her balance on her good foot. "Hey, that's not fair! You know how it is...life just always seems to get in the way. Things keep happening, one thing after another." She tried to keep her tone light but co