Waiting for the cat to return…

Tabby knows, tabby must get it, tabby must be fast… nobody else can know.

Stoke the fire; make the blaze stand up bright and tall. Watch the flames hiss and snap, a thousand tiny snakes bonding together. Feel the heat pressing against the skin, faster, like a dance. Little one asleep on the bed, hand upon his head. Waiting…

Doesn't like the memories…

"Witch…"

Pushing them out of her mind… stroking his hair…

"Rest your head, my little one,

Bring down the moon and the stars,

Let the light clothe you, child,

And know that you are always mine."

"Goody Marish will be the death of us all!"

No more… why do they speak of her?

"Feel the smile, my darling,

Feel the cloak of protection,

Let the light of my love hold you,

And know that you are always mine."

"So be it."

Scratching at the door… he has returned. Prize clasped in his teeth. Taking the flower, smelling the scent. The whirling scent of the blooms. Pure… fresh…

Stirring in the flowers, sensing the steeping infusion…

Lifting her baby's head, helping him sip the brew. Tears rolling down her cheeks…

They don't understand…