Family is a very specific word to Ari. It doesn't include people not related to you by blood or contract, it doesn't include animals, and it certainly doesn't include trees.

She can't hide the skeptical look this time.

'That's-' she begins to say, but she realises it isn't worth it. She doesn't want to hurt Elsie. 'It's good you have somewhere special.' She peers at the hollow. 'Do you keep anything inside?'