The sky was a ruddy mix of ochers fading to umbers when Odogo sat down next to Uyo under the willow tree. Odogo said nothing. And Uyo said nothing. They sat together under that tree until the umbers faded to a black marked by uncountable white pinpricks.
“It’s just so — hard,” Uyo said, breaking the silence.
Odogo said nothing but looked at Uyo with a face that said, I can see that you’re struggling right now.
“And I know that I’m not the first to experience the sedra.”
Odogo nodded.
“And you’re here. And so is Tival. And Ventis.”
Odogo waited.
“But I’m — ” Uyo began but then stopped when Odogo cocked their head. Odogo sat unblinking, eyes fixed on Uyo, waiting for them — challenging them — to continue. Meeting Odogo’s gaze, Uyo couldn’t help but laugh, their body slowly relaxing. Without saying a word, the gentle reproach of Odogo’s head tilt was unmistakable — wallowing would not be tolerated.
Seeming to draw confidence from Odogo, Uyo continued, “And. And I’m — I’m going to be patient with myself. I’m doing the best I can right now.”
Odogo and Uyo watched each other for a few more moments before Odogo tackled Uyo, knocking them onto their back, leaves scattering. Once pinned, Odogo began a thorough washing of Uyo’s face with their tongue.
“Hey! Ugh! Stop that! Get off! What is Tival feeding you? Your breath smells terrible.”
After a few more licks, Odogo relented and released Uyo, who stood by leaning on the korhi staff. Odogo walked a few paces away and turned back to look at Uyo.
“Yes, let’s go home.”
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