Broken Antler Fen Please allow me to have ONE cathartic experience in my life -

Oh, oh!! Oh wow, she'd really missed her! Maia was a little overwhelmed with emotion as Lilitu hugged her with a gusto and she returned the gesture with just as much feeling. She couldn't get choked up yet, she hadn't even gotten to the worst part. And Maia knew she couldn't draw it out - it wasnt fair.

We do! Two girls, Sylvia and Hymnal. Maia smiled but didn't move away. Her expression dropped some, and she took a breath. It was time.

And three more. You have a few sisters and a brother here, now. But your mom... she got sick. And she didn't make it. I'm so, so sorry. The words came out a little halting and a little rough. It was still raw for all of them.

Maia was committed to staying where she was and letting Lilitu do what she needed to absorb that news. She was here to hold her if that was what she wanted, but if she needed space... that was okay too. If there was one thing she could offer right now it was that they were, and always would be, family. None of them would ever be alone, not while Maia was here.