The two cousins ran in silence born of long familiarity, finishing the last leg of their usual route as the sunrise glinted across the lake.  Neither spoke until they were back in Peter’s car.  Sifa leaned back against the headrest with her eyes closed as Peter started the car.  After a moment, she looked over at her cousin in the driver’s seat.

“Thanks.”

“No problem.” He paused with one hand on the keys in the ignition.  “What for?”

“I’m just really glad you’re you.”

Peter ducked his head in a short nod, then he whirled a hand in the air with a flourish as he said, “Well, I’m awesome. See, I put up with you.”

Sifa punched him lightly in the upper arm.

“Ow! No hitting the driver.”

“The car hasn’t even started yet, you doofus,” she laughed.