Lost Creek Hollow walkerworld 2.0

He could’ve cried when he went to find @Soto and found his mother instead. Actually, he did cry. Bushtit gently punched Towhee’s shoulder, then tucked his face against her neck. The tears just sort of leaked out of him as he clutched at her in abject relief.

Once he recovered somewhat, he sniffed and sat back to look at her. She looked so old, especially compared to Towhee Jr. It frightened him a little, though Bushtit hid his fear. It helped when she informed him she wouldn’t be going much of anywhere for a little while; her leg was long overdue for some rest.

You’re staying here? he asked, incredulous but happy—and distracted—by this news. I mean, we’re staying here, Bushtit immediately amended, only to suck in a breath when his mom touched his leg and shook her head.

“I know how much you like traveling… and want to be independent. Don’t let me hold you back, kiddo. It’s a waste of all that youthful energy. Just come visit whenever you c—whenever you want,” Towhee told him. Then, before he could get a word in edgewise, she added, “While we’re on the subject, you said you ran into Jr and her dude? Can you do me a gigantic favor and send them my regrets? Tell them I’ll visit them when I can.”

By the guarded look in her eye, Bushtit could tell Towhee didn’t know when that would be. But he didn’t press her for a timeline. He merely nodded, then threw his forelegs around her neck and held onto her for a little while (read: most of an entire day).

First thing the following morning, he set out to pass the message to @Towhee Jr and @Tvar. After apologizing for causing a stir, the young man then decided to take Towhee’s words to heart. Safe in the knowledge of where to find her whenever he wanted, Bushtit moved away from the valley and began drifting into the unknown.