Cedar Sweep ambience

Not knowing who she was or what to expect, Reki watched her owlishly at first, then sparingly, with his eyes glancing to the trees around them as if he was surrounded. He wasn't sure if she was alone, if he was in trouble, or if he even had the energy to get up and run; plus, where could he go? This place was a maze of trees and shadows. If he ran there was a chance she would chase him. Maybe someone was waiting for that exact moment...?

When she introduced herself Reki was perplexed again. He hadn't spoken to anyone since home. Even there at the Rise, there was a comfort in silence. His expression gave the impression he didn't understand - or that he wasn't about to answer.

His legs tucked in close to his body like a cat consolidating their space.

Reki. Came his answer, finally. A frantic lick of his lips came next. He eyed the femur for a second then feigned disinterest, presuming Meerkat hadn't seen it, to protect what was worthwhile to himself.

The quiet that spread between them was short-lived, but felt endless to the boy. What're you doing ta the tree? Distract, distract, keep her focus away from his food.