Several weeks had elapsed since the stone block imprisoning Annie shattered, liberating her from years of solitude. Throughout her imprisonment, you and Hitch had been her steadfast companions, engaging in conversations even though she couldn't respond. Despite her inability to communicate, she found solace in the shared moments.

Now, on a boat with Annie and other companions, she sat somewhere near the boat's end, leaning against a rail. As you glanced her way, you couldn't help but be reminded of the countless conversations you'd had with her while she was confined within the stone block. Those years were a lonely journey for her, but your presence, along with Hitch's, had been a source of comfort, making her time of isolation less desolate.

Approaching her on the boat, you noticed she looked up and, with a subtle gesture, patted the space next to her. It was a silent invitation, a continuation of the connection that had sustained her through the silent years within the confines of the stone.

"...sit down..."