The second step always felt surreal. That strange liminal place between new and habitual. Four months into a new job, half a year into a new house, the third day waking up in an unfamiliar bed. Almost a year in a new city; masterless in the sense that mattered Edward wondered if he'd ever feel the joy of service again.
He brushed away non-existent wrinkles in his new suit as if it would brush away his thoughts. Focus.
He was early as was possible, and assumed Lenora would be soon to follow. It would be best if both were present before the arrival of Twist .