Heal me, baby

Rhythm hated denying her sweet niece what she asked so sincerely, but she belonged with Valentine. She couldn't imagine the old man settling in the pack her brother had formed. He would miss his tractor too much to ever consider the offer. She chuckled at the thought internally, trying to cheer herself up slightly. Maybe one day she would return to live in Abaven, though the circumstances surrounding such a move were hard to think about. She had been without Valentine for so long, her bones had ached for him. 

Shaye was an adult now though, she could handle the harsh realities Rhythm has to offer. However difficult they were to deliver. Rhythm tried to smile, but denying Shaye hurt, and it was obvious in both of them. "I'm sorry, Shaye. I love you too, and I'll be here if you need me." She wished she could say she would always be here for her, but time stopped for no one and she would not be here forever. 

She chuckled softly at Shaye's last words. "Thank you Shaye, I will remember your offer and pass it along to my grumpy old man."