It's in the eyes. Always the eyes.

Chapter Five| Hearts in Harmony

       Penny sat beneath the shade of a large tree, her brows furrowed in frustration as she tried to concentrate on the embroidery hoop in her hands. The needle, attached to a light-colored thread, weaved clumsily through the white fabric, her attempt to make a simple flower turning into a tangled mess. Aku-Aku had suggested she try a hobby during the rare calm moments at the Bandicoot home, and embroidery seemed like an easy enough choice at first. She'd thought it would be fun, creating something beautiful from just thread and fabric, but it turned out to be much harder than she'd expected.

"Ugh, why is this so difficult?" she grumbled, wincing as the needle pricked her finger yet again. She stuck the sore finger into her mouth, the small sting of pain adding to her mounting frustration. The hobby required far more precision and patience than she had imagined, and she was gripping the hoop so tightly that her fingers were cramping.

Crash, passing by, noticed Penny's clear frustration. He paused, watching as she tried to refocus on the embroidery, her movements growing more rigid with each passing moment. Penny was usually so full of energy, but today, it was obvious she was on edge, her shoulders tight and her lips pressed into a thin line.

Without making a sound, Crash approached her from behind. Penny was too absorbed in her struggle with the needle to notice him, muttering something under her breath as she tugged at the stubborn thread. Crash tilted his head, recognizing that familiar look of someone who needed a break, and with a mischievous glint in his eyes, he decided to intervene in his own playful way.

Just as she was about to give up, she felt a light tap on her shoulder.

Startled, Penny jumped and, of course, pricked her finger once more. "Mother—!" She hissed, wincing before turning to see Crash standing there, looking amused. His chuckle was soft, and his eyes sparkled with mischief as he gestured for her to follow him.

"What's up?" Penny asked, still nursing her sore finger. When Crash gestured again, his expression excited but still mysterious, she sighed with a smile. "You want me to follow you?" she confirmed, and Crash nodded eagerly. Relieved for the distraction, she set the embroidery hoop aside with zero intention of picking it up anytime soon. "Alright, I definitely need a break from that."

Following Crash through the dense jungle, Penny's curiosity grew with each step. She dodged low-hanging vines and brushed aside the large leaves in her path, calling out to him every so often, "Crash! Where are you taking me?" But he would only look back with that playful grin of his, refusing to give her any clues.

As they walked, their usual lighthearted banter filled the air. Crash would occasionally leap up into the trees, grabbing a piece of fruit and offering it to her with a proud smile, like a child showing off. Penny laughed, accepting the gifts, her heart warmed by the silly yet sweet gestures. There was something special about the way they communicated—without words, just through shared laughter and glances. It was as if they understood each other on a deeper level, their bond clear in every little interaction.

Crash would disappear ahead for a moment, only to reappear again, his eyes twinkling with excitement. Penny could see how much fun he was having, and it made her smile every time. His wild, carefree energy was infectious, making the walk through the jungle feel like an adventure, even if she had no idea where they were going. But wherever it was, she knew she could trust him.

No matter how fast or far he dashed ahead, Crash always made sure Penny wasn't far behind, slowing his pace whenever he saw her lagging. And Penny, despite her earlier frustrations, felt completely at ease. She wasn't sure what he had planned, but with Crash by her side, the journey was as enjoyable as any destination could be.