His hug was returned just as tightly, barely able to express how pleased she was that he was safe and sound. The problem with most of these little Bellum surprises was that they all usually ended up worse in the aftermath. She was glad to see this trend was finally bucked. When they pulled apart Helena didn’t step too far away, her hands brushing her hair out of her face as she laughed. “No plans yet? We just... I don’t know.” Despite his question about what she was doing, she couldn’t help but speak in a plural term. No matter what she did end up doing, she wasn’t going to be alone.
“We’ll think of something! We’ve always wanted to travel. What better time than now?” Another soft laugh bubbled up from her, both at herself and the ridiculousness of it all. Whereas most people she had passed had been solemn or sad, Helena was giggling like a schoolgirl. Perhaps it had been a longer night than she thought but she couldn’t help but feel hopeful. There was a whole world of opportunity open to them now. She knew that the sadness might settle upon her sooner rather than later, but right now everyone was safe and sound. That was something they could take comfort in.
“What about you? What are you going to do now?” She paused and looked around for a moment, almost afraid to ask but needing to know. “Is Joanie okay? What are you two going to do?” So many questions! She could hardly contain herself.