EMPTY KINDNESS

The drive back to the hotel was mostly silent, the only sound was the soft hum of the car engine and the sound of the tires on the pavement.

William stole few glances at Dahlia who was resting her head against the window, a small frown on her face. He could tell something was bothering her, but he didn't want to pry.

Dahlia looked down at the stuffed animal in her hands, feeling a mix of emotions.

"We're here." William said, pulling into the hotel's parking lot.

Dahlia unbuckled her seatbelt and climbed out of the car, followed closely by William.

"It's been a fun day, hasn't it?" William added, trying to break the silence. "Too bad we're leaving the island soon."

Dahlia remained silent, her gaze still fixed on the ground.

"Dahlia." William called after her. "Is everything okay?" He asked, his voice gentle and concerned. "You've seemed upset ever since we left the arcade."