Allison's eyes softened. Although she wasn't sure how to feel about missing 6 years of her daughter's life, it was hard not to believe the words and sincerity. Allison poked Bridgette gently in the ribs, "Miss Ariel?" she said with a teasing smile. "Why don't I believe that to be completely true?" She enjoyed teasing rather than facing the vast loneliness that surrounded them. "At least we've got each other," Allison said.