Redsand Canyon And I used to fly like Peter Pan, all the children flew when I touched their hands.

she was young. the youngest until these new ones arrived. he wondered if they ever felt...displaced, when the newest children came along. maxim had not had younger siblings by the time he left home, he would likely never know if he did have them.

these thoughts he held tightly as he sought to groom her clear of the rain.

eventually the silence would have to be broken, but perhaps for now he could take pleasure in the quiet company of each other. eyes drifting to her sides as he groomed, wondering when the arrival of their children would be.

perhaps he could ask if towhee had clearly done this before.

perhaps he could take some comfort in the mystery, not knowing when someone would seriously call him dad.