Phoenix Maplewood I was sleeping in the garden

mictec did not move at first, only watched as the girl pressed into her shadow, seeking refuge in the space between them. she was so young, so full of fear—mictec could feel it in the way her breath hitched, in the way she trembled like a leaf caught in an unforgiving wind. 

she did not ask what had happened. some wounds were not meant to be picked apart with words. instead, she lowered her head slightly, her voice gentle but firm. hush now, niña. you are safe here.

slowly, carefully, she shifted, allowing the girl to feel the warmth of her presence, a steady anchor against the storm she carried within. you do not have to know what comes next, not yet. right now, just breathe.

a pause. the wind whispered around them, carrying away the silence, the weight of what had been left unsaid.