“SYSTEM ERROR,” Markie continued. “MAMA. PLEASE HOLD. MAMA.”
I turned slowly and looked at Zoey.
She stared back at me, obviously tired. Neither of us said anything for a second.
“He wants you,” I said.
She closed her eyes and sighed. “He always wants me.”
“MAMA! HELP.”
I glanced toward the bird room, then back at her. “Can I try to get him?”
Her mouth twitched. “That depends. How attached are you to your fingers?”
“They’ve had a good run,” I said.
She snorted despite herself. “That’s a death wish. Go for it.”
I slowly moved toward the enclosure, making sure my steps were even. Markie was perched near one of the enrichmenttrays, body angled forward, feathers tucked tight, eyes sharp. He watched me enter without blinking.
“HELP,” he said again.
“I hear you.” I kept my hands visible. “If you’ll let me, I’ll take you to your mama.”
“FUCK OFF,” Markie replied immediately.
“If that’s what you want,” I said, turning away.
“HELP,” Markie said.
I stopped. “You want your mama. I can take you to her. Or I can leave.”
“FUCK OFF,” he said again. Less certain.
I nodded. “Okay.”
I took another step away.
“HELP,” Markie snapped. Then, quieter. “HELP.”
I turned back slowly, crouching so I wasn’t looming. My knees complained, but I ignored them.
“I can help if you want,” I said. “Your choice.”
He leaned forward. Hesitated. Clicked once.
I opened the door to his cage and held out my hand.
Markie was heavier than I expected, his small form solid and warm. He shifted his weight carefully, claws finding purchase in my skin. Trust given with visible reluctance.
“Okay,” I said. “I’ve got you.”
I moved slowly so as not to startle him, keeping my other hand close to him without touching. I counted my steps without meaning to. Doorframe. Hall. Living room.
Zoey saw us and froze.
Her arms came up without hesitation.
