Emberwood you always were

a small gap grew between them after ibis took pause. bhediya turned to face her, concern writ on her expression. it was justifiable to have concerns before entering motherhood; every parent wanted to be perfect. learning that this was impossible, well, it had to happen on its own.

so, bhe let that comment slide. kids had never been a part of her plan, either. it just so happened that pregnancy befell her (and twice over!), leaving her to deal with the consequences. both times, she'd left before having to fully accept that responsibility.

it doesn't matter what anyone expects of you, bhediya explained, all that matters is that you're ready. if you're not, and she didn't think that she was, then we can wait. next spring, the spring after, hopefully i'm around for the spring after that... getting old sucked.

still, even with her doubts, bhediya could sense the maternality (maternal mentality?) of the girl. ibis was mature for her age; much more mature than the elder had been during her first pregnancy. she thought that ibis would make for a good, albeit unconvential mother. are you thinking about it? bhe asked, suddenly realizing the implications of their conversation.