Broken Antler Fen We don't need to be related to relate.

She might not have heard her friend’s tone, though her reply was so unexpectedly curt, it certainly captured Towhee’s notice. She blinked at the abrupt change in Wraen, puzzled by the cagey phrasing. It was not only strange in the context of their conversation, it was unusual for Wraen, period.

She wanted to ask if something was amiss to explain the sudden drop in temperature between them. But if Wraen was already feeling pressed by her playful query, Towhee didn’t want to push it. Maybe her friend was simply tired, which was fair considering the exchange so far.

Well, I should probably be heading back, she said, feeling a little awkward but mostly just grateful to her friend for putting up with her today and always. Wraen definitely deserved the benefit of the doubt as she added sincerely, Thanks for the pep talk. It really helped.