Sun Mote Copse Cartoons in progress.

It’s the least I could do, she said when Reyson indicated Meadow might need a listening ear (or eyes, in her case). And unless it upsets her to spend time with him, I’d love for you two to babysit Bushtit sometimes. I can do it on my own but I’ve always really leaned into that whole ‘it takes a village’ thing.

Towhee fell silent as Reyson explained their departure from the vale, save for the occasional hiccup. Tamar and Arsenio had abandoned the place only after their children had disappeared. Towhee’s insides clenched. Why was that always the way of it? It was no surprise at all that they had subsequently disappeared themselves, one after the other.

Fuck, Towhee said softly. I really hope you guys are able to find a fresh start here and that it’s a better fit than Raventhorpe. You know, your timing is crazy for reasons besides that’un, she said, gesturing at Bushtit. This was—is—Meerkat’s and Njord’s home. They just left to travel for a bit. But for literally the past year, they’ve been dying to find another couple to join and raise kids here. Well, I guess they’re gonna be thrilled to find you here when they get back.