With a light sigh, she held out the food.  The dragon just hadn't been showing the same warmth since the accident.  Even so, Audrey had hoped he'd at least be pleased to see her, considering she brought some of his favorite snack.  Either way, she still needed to say her goodbye.<br/><br/>Reaching out her other hand she placed it on his massive neck, just behind the jawbone.  She rubs her thumb lightly over the rough scales.  "Hey there.... I need to tell you something.  Remember when you were little... how you were at the school with other dragons.  When you got to meet...."  She stops, not wanting to mention her father.  Who knows how Sampson might react.  "Well, I'm going to go there now.  I'm leaving today, and I won't be back for a while.  I promise I'll be back for the holidays, but until then you just need to be brave and good... ok?  And stay out of the garden or Mrs. Stone will have a fit."<br/><br/>Smiling a sad smile, she pats him gently once more, then gives in and wraps her arms around his neck.  Hugging him tight for a moment, she fights back the tears.  Then she lets go and waves goodbye as she starts back towards the house.