Emotions...

I watched as Dahlia swiped my black card to make yet another purchase. I could hardly believe how much she was enjoying this shopping spree. Her usual routine—home to school and back—had been broken, and she seemed to be relishing every moment of this newfound freedom.

We wandered through the bustling market, Dahlia flitting from one stall to another with a lightness I hadn't seen in her before. She was actually smiling, her face alight with excitement.

"Look at these," Dahlia said, holding up a pair of earrings. "Aren't they pretty?"

I nodded. "They're nice."

She laughed and added them to the growing pile of purchases. "I've never had so much fun shopping before."

"I can tell," I replied, watching her with a mix of curiosity and amusement.

We continued through the market, Dahlia eagerly tasting various street foods and occasionally offering me a bite.

"Here, try this," she said, holding out a skewer of grilled meat.

I shook my head. "I'm fine, thanks."

"You don't know what you're mis