:<i>Why not?</i>: The thought question escaped her before she could stop it. She quieted, listening closely to what he had to say while more questions bubbled inside her. His voice was soothing in a way she couldn't explain, but then, it could have been the smell of maple syrup on his breath. She might be full, but she had a weakness for sweets.<br/><br/>This time, careful to speak aloud, she answered his question. "I'm looking for my father. He went on one of his trips, and he hasn't returned. I wasn't sure what else to do except to come look for him." Looking at him curiously, she posed one of her own questions. "Why... why doesn't it bother you? Or, why does it bother other people? I don't understand, I thought everyone spoke that way."