"Is that the way one gets into your favor then? Gifts of adorable pets, trips to exotic destinations, and a shopping trip?" Ash asked, obviously kidding around. It was interesting to hear the dynamics of her relationship with her father though. Ash's father wasn't known for being a very loving man. He let Ash do what he wanted for the most part, but it wasn't done out of the kindness of his own heart or even from neglect. It was the expectation. The unspoken exchange. Ash got his freedom to do as he wished so long as he didn't do anything particularly damaging to the family name.
It was interesting to know that it wasn't like that for everyone. That some people who came from wealthy families could have an actual relationship with their parents. Not many had that luxury, but Ash wasn't really looking to get buddy-buddy with his dad.
The car came to a stop and Lyra was out of it fast. She was ready to go. It was interesting to see that as well. She looked almost giddy at the idea. All for animals. The engine quieted when he removed the key and Ash was climbing out as well. He had his own backpack with a couple of bottles of water and some snacks. No reason the two of them had to go hiking in the middle of night in order to return dehydrated and starving. Lyra obviously wasn't going out there in search of killing one to cook over a campfire.
"Lead the way," Ash said, motioning in any direction for her to take the lead. Right now it was her show and he was playing along. Who knows? Maybe he'd actually enjoy all of this.