The little girl's feet swung in tiny circles off the edge of the bench, how she could see her feet from beneath the golden fabric was anyone's guess. She was waiting patiently for the fireworks to take off and the celebration to begin, although, being only five, she could not comprehend the occasion.
The demon sitting next to her smiled and peeled off a small section of a pomegranate, exposing the arils and handing the fruit to her, "Your favorite?"
Her eyes widened, “Yes, very much, Casper.” He smiled as she ate the first and second aril, then remembering her manners, “Thank you.”
“You’re very welcome, Artemis.” He stretched his dark wings behind him, as if they had begun to cramp.
She ate two more arils before she looked back to the man to question him, “Why are there fireworks tonight?”
“Today is special.” He replied.
“Why is today special?”
“Well, it is your birthday.” He said with a sincere smile, drawing a look of glee from Artemis, "Today your Grandmother made a decision that made a lot of people happy."
Artemis ate two more arils as she tried to comprehend what he had just told her, and set the pomegranate aside, “Are you happy?”
“Of course. I get to spend more time with you.”
“Why?” She looked more confused now, she greatly enjoyed Casper's company, but was curious as to what might have happened to allow her more time with him.
“Because I like you.” Casper's words were simple, he had aimed to make Artemis smile, and his objective had been met.
Her voice was sweet and lilting, something that would not change in the years to come as she tossed a red curl over her shoulder, “I like you too, Casper. What did Nonna do?”
“You have been betrothed.” The fireworks began and Artemis’ attention was drawn to the sky, “To me.”