#daphnedemir

he's going stir crazy with the search as it continues to lead him nowhere. all he can do is hope that the first seventy-two hours being crucial doesn't apply to this mass missing person's case. the hours are passing and he hasn't found a damn thing. while he's been texting his kids throughout the day to check up on them, the avery patriarch is far from ready to face them without their mom in tow. his lead earlier had turned out to be a dud and when he started his treck back toward his assigned location a large stick had caught his eye. not any large stick, either, the perfect length and bulk to serve as a walking stick... or a makeshift weapon since he's seen evidence of a wolf or a coyote in this area. not that he needs one with his bag full of hunting supplies, but he's taking the stick nonetheless.

as he hoists the stick behind his back to rest on his neck, he feels the sure signs of aging as the stretch pops various structures in his broad shoulders. he groans and mumbles a string of curses under his breath before starting his treck once more with his new accessory. what he didn't prepare for is the increase in wingspan as he tries to navigate through the dense trees in the area. his stick collides with a branch, the proceeding thwack echoing in the quiet air and sending a few squirrels scattering further up the trees. unsure if his antics alarm another searcher out of the side path nearby, he gives a sheepish smile. ❝ unfortunately i'm not a clue or a lead. only an overgrown child in apparent dire need of a chiropractor. ❞