Lion Head Mesa Every day like the one before

The non-answer didn't surprise her. Children were ambitious past their bounds; it didn't take much to entice them into the world beyond, and their siblings be damned. Maegi let it slide, focusing on the girl's question instead.

Some, she replied. There will be more when the weather grows warmer. I've seen little gold flowers here and there. And dandelions, of course. The poppy will be coming soon.

And thank Jaes for that. Maegi had planted seeds; she hoped they would sprout wildly.

She canted her head, moving a little nearer to the girl. I don't believe I've ever caught your name, she remarked. I am Maegi. Your father is a good friend of mine.

Perhaps. Friends seemed a stretch, but they had known each other a while, and their connection was undeniably electric.