Work Text:
Plain, smooth bark hidden by lichen, stunted by shadows; Carson has waited for years.
A cardinal lands, light on her highest branch. Finally. Their souls know. Greta hops closer, settles into a forked branch. The Cardinal stays, shielded by Carson's lush leaves, warm hundled against her thin bark. Greta nests alone; she's safe.
Years pass, a storm brews. Lightning, wind, rain. Carson opens her chest, grants Greta refuge. Lightning strikes. Burns, wood splintered. Time moves on, the Beech now a tomb.
Coffee waves peek around the dry trunk, "Hi..."
"I'm Greta." The tiny redhead chirpily replies. Their souls reunited, again.