As terrified as Sam was (and Sam was never terrified of anything), you looked so cute in your little Bridges uniform. He’d had a suit and a backpack specially made for you, because you had been absolutely begging him to join him on a delivery. You’ve been begging him your whole life. And as much as he has always wanted to protect you from anything he can, he thinks you’re at least old enough to see the world beyond the city where you both live.

San kneels in front of you, making sure that any buckle or strap that needs to be fastened is properly attended to. He makes sure your boots are laced, your gloves are on, and your fake BB is attached to the front of your suit. Just a little decoy you made. And the little fan you’re pretending is your Odradek. And… the fake plastic handcuffs painted black that you are also pretending are your cufflinks. Your hair — long like his always has been — is even pulled back in a small ponytail, like his. He smiles at you as he tugs at the straps of your backpack.

“Ready to go, little porter?” He asks you.