Jake knew Lyra was outside the door before she knocked. He had never been so attuned to another person before. It was strange, the way his eyes shifted to the door a few seconds before the first knock came.
Russ was already close by, and he reached the door before Jake could even stand. He pulled it open and swept Lyra into a big hug.
“There she is!” Russ said with theatrical flair. “The future Luna. Unless Jake screws it up.”
Jake growled softly.
“Nice to see you too, Russ,” Lyra said dryly, though a small smile tugged at her lips as Russ let her go.
Jake walked around the desk, his legs suddenly feeling wooden. “Hey,” he said, voice a little hoarse.
Lyra gave him a quick glance and a half-smile, then stepped fully into the room. Russ motioned toward the couch.
“Come in, sit. Don’t
