The sound of the bar patrons is muffled and distant from where you stand in front of your bookshop, tucked into a tiny square just around the corner. You're leaning against the wall, enjoying the relative silence and solitude of the night. That is, until someone knocks against your door. Your heart thuds hard in your chest. Your hands shake when you recognize his voice. It's him, isn't it? You've known each other for six thousand years, but your relationship has been strained as of late. You take a deep breath and prepare yourself.