Mother Knows

*Raven*

I have an Aunt.

Nola takes me to her home, and together we begin to bake a traditional dessert that is eaten during celebrations. She tells me all about how the dish is prepared and why it means so much to our people.

I am listening the best I can, but I am distracted. I keep thinking about my mother–I actually have one that loves me–and how she asked to speak to Kieran. I’m nervous that he will say something he shouldn’t say, but I have to trust him. He is my mate, after all.

As we bake, Nola asks me all sorts of questions about my life. I am slicing apples, something I’ve never done before, and am slightly afraid I’ll cut off my finger if I don’t pay attention. I tell her the truth. “I was raised in the castle, mostly cared for by nursemaids. It’s not been too interesting, honestly. Your life here seems far more intriguing. I’d love to know how you have apples underground.”

Nola, who looks a lot like my mother, laughs and wipes the back of her hand across her face. “We grow