Alpine Lake Tokyo night train.

When Rodyn materialized in front of her, a surprised smile crossed her face. It slipped a little when she remembered their last conversation. She felt her cheeks warm with slight shame as she remembered not only her terrible state at the time but all the things she’d said to him… right before she’d just left.

Hey, she said quietly, how are you, Rodyn? And the boys? She exhaled a long sigh. I’m sorry I haven’t visited.

She’d been sick, of course, but Towhee didn’t want to make excuses. Besides, she ought to let him get a word in edgewise. Towhee took a seat, looking to him patiently for a response.