Hushed Willows I wish I understood.

ibby is silent after that, and while oke can't tell if she is comforted or not, he assumes she must feel a little bit better. pride swells in him that he can offer his sister a little reassurance -- more than the adults can, apparently. oke does not blame his mamas for the chaos but some of his babyish idolization of them has worn down. after all, it is adults that have caused so much uncertainty in his young life, and even if he thinks they are trying their best, it is clear their best may not be good enough.

it's an unsettling thought for the boy, and he turns a little to hide his nose against ibis' cheek. he doesn't speak aloud, afraid of disturbing her even as his own eyelids grow heavy, but he thinks to himself i wish i could 'member what papa said 'bout the stars...

it's his last thought before sleep overtakes him, resting noiselessly against his sister.