Swiftcurrent Creek there's something in the static

“Mae—“ she began, but the rest of the sentence went unsaid.

“She’s with Arric,” she wanted to say. “She’s safe now—protected and in the care of her favorite (and only) uncle.” But she didn’t—no, she couldn’t.

Wren erupted, and then succumbed to every ounce of anxiety, anger, and fear she carried. It was all too strong; her body trembled and a shaky paw reached out.

“Wren,” she said softly, pressing her face against the other woman’s outstretched arm.“Wren, I’m here,” and she wasn’t going anywhere, “and everything is going to be okay.” There was a confidence to her voice, despite how she felt after the day they had.

Eshe lifted her own arm, hoping to draw Wren into a hug—but only if she allowed it. She looked into her eyes, searching. “Stay with me, Wren,” she said. “I’m here—I’m not going anywhere.”