Broken Antler Fen It's the awful, lonely secret of the dead-boy's heart.

Yes, that was what Reyes thought. To have it confirmed by his trusted friend only added fuel to the fire; he could not trust Towhee any longer, not if she played such games with him and used their children in such a baiting way.

The offer was surprising too. That Teya would share a piece of her home so that Reyes could have his visits, even as a small option, so that he would not go back and be disgraced - it meant the world to him.

You are sure? That is very kind Teya. Reyes could not help the exasperation the girl felt, it exuded from her with every breath. It was a difficult situation but she was trying to be a friend to him, and he appreciated it.

I will tell Towhee that this is an option, and maybe we can find a middle ground. Somehow he doubted his stubborn-to-a-fault ex-wife would so easily acquiesce.