Surrogate

I heard them coming before I saw them fly overhead, more serene in their calls than other flocks’ usual.

I was astonished to see a smaller goose flying amidst their v-stream, keeping a moderate pace with them – though it seemed its wiings were more quick-capable.

Perhaps the flock was less distressed, having taken on this extra traveler.

Or maybe its presence fit something they had been missing and needed.