Spencer was, as he often was, a little earlier than they had agreed upon, but that too was something Hild had anticipated, just like with his coffee. It was nicer to know the habits of friends now, here in Darrow, and not try to use them in some way to make herself appear more knowledgeable, more in control. It was simply knowing a friend, a small way to make them more comfortable. Even if it wasn't necessary -- Spencer would have been comfortable enough as is, and happy to join her -- it felt nice.

She greeted him with a smile, his cheerfulness calling to her own. "It's mostly just the paperwork," she admitted. As much as she wanted to take care of things all by herself, as it was her project, it was nice to know she had a friend to rely upon. A friend she could admit that small weakness to.

"How are you though, first?" She pushed the little plate of pastries toward him and stole one for herself as she took her hand back. "I feel like I see you every day and at the same time don't."