The front steps creaked under Rowan’s boots as he shifted his weekend bag higher on his shoulder. Harry, perched on his other arm like a smug loaf, flicked his tail with excitement.

Rowan exhaled long and slow. Trip successful. Social battery questionable. Cat extremely happy.

He raised his knuckles and knocked on the door with just enough force to be heard but not enough to wake any cursed entities that may or may not be inside.

“Orchid? It’s me.” His voice was tired in the familiar way—quiet, dry, warm beneath the exhaustion. “I brought your favorite nephew.”

Harry meowed loudly, stretching forward like he was trying to headbutt the door open himself.

Rowan sighed. “He gets more excited to see you than I do. If he starts purring before you even open the door, I’m leaving him here permanently.”

Another soft thump from Harry’s paws as the cat shifted eagerly.

“…Also, please tell me nothing weird is happening today. I drove nine hours and I’d really like not to get mauled by anything.”