Private Finished Not Her Mother

Colten closed his eyes for a moment and lifted a hand up to massage at the base of one of his horns. He typically didnt like to admit when he had something less stellar ti say about himself or his work. But there was no use lying about it.

"Sadly we end up seeing things like this more often than I would like. Not everyone is capable of living safely here, despite whatever good intentions there may be. There are inherent biases here on the island that we have to work against of course, but even putting that aside we do have a not-insignificant number of visitors that we have to offer what we can and then just send on their way. Cutting ties if they cause enough if a problem."

The topic was not the most enjoyable so Colten uncrossed his legs and slowly stood up. Not to go anywhere though, just to stand instead of sitting. "I'm a very proud man," he said without a trace of irony in his tone. "But I'm not infallible and neither is my staff here. You included. Managing failure is the most difficult part of doing our work here."

Colten's tail flicked slightly and he nodded, letting a little bit of the tension out of his stance. Though he decided to remain on his feet rather than sit back down. "We do have a very reasonably low rate of incomplete successes. You are correct. And of course, you've personally met many of our success stories through the events we tend to host."

It was true. It seemed like a significant portion of those who Grovefire helped tended to remain in contact for support or donations or the proliferation of favors. A network keeping demonkind connected for their own wellbeing. But that wasn't super relevant to this current question.

He reached out a hand, offering to help Violet back to her feet. "Maybe you had the right idea- we should walk a little. Really the only answer i've found is to have other people to talk to and other activities that bring me fulfillment when I need to focus on something more productive. Your work helping them cannot be the only purpose and focus you have. Otherwise you crumble when something doesn't go as well as you hoped."

Colten smiled and let go of her hand as they started to slowly walk again. "I can tell you're quite proud of him. I havent seen his progress directly but I do know you've spent a significant amount of time working with the child. It's very good work you've done with him."

Colten's tail relaxed into a gentle swishing motion as they walked. Glad that there were some pleasant topics too, not just the Ida mess. "I would offer for you to invite him to dinner but I fear not all of our guests would be as friendly as needed for his sake."

Colten smiled but shook his head. "I would not want to interrupt you while working with the child. That time is precious for both of you. I would imagine we can arrange something else though. Perhaps I can set up a reading and meet and greet for their class. That way it doesn't interfere with things."

He paused with the last sentiment though and put his hand lightly on her shoulder. "I think it is fair to accept some credit for them. They have done excellently on their own merits of course, but you have helped shape them and let them grow. I know this is very hard for you. You are as much a mother figure to them as anyone else is. Even if they don't always know it."