She was like that, excited and delighted by little things, crossing her fingers before any remotely unpredictable event, like tasting a new flavor of ice cream, or dropping a letter in a mailbox. It was a quality he did not understand. It made him feel stupid, as if the world contained hidden wonders he could not anticipate, or see. He looked at her face, which, it occurred to him, had not grown out of its girlhood, the eyes untroubled, the pleasing features unfirm, as if they still had to settle into some sort of permanent expression. Nicknamed after a nursery rhyme, she had yet to shed a childhood endearment.
In the story, the character is captivated by another person's ability to find joy in simple experiences, such as trying new ice cream flavors or sending letters. This enthusiasm contrasts sharply with his own perspective, leading him to feel inadequate and aware of the hidden joys he overlooks. Her excitement suggests a childlike wonder that remains in her demeanor, which he finds perplexing.
Her youthful appearance and innocence highlight this disconnection between them. Despite the passage of time, she embodies a purity that seems untouched by adult concerns. The nickname she bears hints at this enduring childhood charm, showcasing a sense of longing he feels for the spontaneity and delight she embraces, further emphasizing the gulf between their experiences.