Oh I'm so glad!!! No worries, life definitely happens. I think it could be cute as well c:

That sounds like a good idea to me! I think it's safe to handwave a little familiarity beforehand (especially thanks to associations with those people), if that'll help prompt his stepping in! She notably doesn't defend herself against the locals' nastiness, as much as she'd rather continue going about her business. Just about any setting works for that.