MEIKO, there you are.

Oh, Honami, welcome!

Congratulations on your reading event.

I'm glad it ended up going so well.

Thank you very much.

I'm also glad that the children enjoyed the story so much.

Although, when I heard your voice, I became a bit startled...

Hehe. I couldn't help it.

I mean, it was such a wonderful event.

Anyway, you were looking for me?

Is something the matter?

Oh, that's right...!

I brought over the books you asked for the other day.

...!

Thank you! I've been waiting for these.

“The Star-Chasing Dog” was so good that I wanted to see what other picture books you recommend.

Hehe. I'm glad you're saying that.

Oh, this book...

The lion on the cover is so cute.

Ah, that's “My Friend Is A Lion”.

It's about a lion who is very kind but is feared by those around him.

He's a considerate creature who thinks about everyone else more than himself...

I love this story because it fills my heart with so much warmth after I read it.

Oh, that sounds really nice!

Wait, what about this book?

That's “The Bell Of Bravery Rings In Your Heart”. It's about a boy who is afraid of many things.

He always ran from the things he feared, but he finds the courage to protect something he cares deeply about...

I remember being so excited by this story when I was little.

I see. This also sounds like a good one.

Still... Hehe.

...?

Is something the matter?

Just a thought.

These books remind me of you, Honami.

Huh? M-Me...?

Yes. The way this lion thinks about the well-being of those around him reminded me of you, Honami.

And this boy working up the courage to protect something he cares about is no different.

R-Really?

Yes. You're an incredibly kind person, Honami, so it makes sense that your favorite picture books would be filled with so much warmth.

They're a nice reflection of who you are as a person.

I'm feeling a little embarrassed hearing you say that...

Hi, Hona! When did you get here?!

What were you two talking about just now? It sounded like a fun conversation...

Hehe. Honami brought over some picture books for me.

Picture books?

Haha! That's all MEIKO's been talking about lately. She keeps going on and on about how amazing the story you read was, Hona!

Really? Now I'm starting to get curious.

I brought quite a few, so I hope you'll read any that catch your eye.

Oh, that's right.

I was thinking...

I'd like to read any books that catch their interest to them.

Huh?

After seeing you read that story, I feel like doing the same thing now.

Wait, MEIKO, you can do what she did?!

I hope you're both ready.

Alright, you two, let's pick a book.

You're more than welcome to stay and listen, Honami. I'd also appreciate any tips regarding storytelling.

Yes, of course...!

I can't wait to see how you present these stories, MEIKO!