[ Every feather on his body puffs up. His beady black eyes lock with her hand. If he could press himself further into the corner, he would. Instead he shakes his head and buries it under the bedding. He uses the mild-privacy to compose himself and find something to say to her, reciting some of it to himself first to make sure it sounds legit.

It takes another moment for him to peek out and find her eyes. His voice very small, muffled under the blanket. ]

I think it's best if I, er, stay under here from now on, you know? Or maybe just flew the coop?

[ He chokes on the words. Of course it isn't what he wants to say, but he can't deny it either. ]

You just really don't... want a bird like me around, doll.