Joseph seemed to be considering something. His hairy face broke into a smile. "I think I can help you," he said.
"You can?"
"Sure. Come with me back home and-"
"No! I can't go back there. Your father could be there with my friends. I can't let them find me."
"Don't worry, they won't. I'll keep you safe. Come on, I promise you'll feel better and nobody will ever be able to laugh at you again. Trust me."
She looked into his eyes and then held out a hand. He pulled her from the snow, taking her into his arms. Against his body she felt warmer and safer than she ever had before.