The street outside was dark, illuminated only by a single flickering yellow streetlamp.

Bishop walked right beside me, his nose catching the damp wind.

“Bishop, heel,” Lucian commanded again, louder this time.

The dog ignored him completely, stepping out onto the wet asphalt next to me.

Lucian followed us out of the courtyard.

He stood under the awning of the Black Orchid, his hands in his pockets.

“You cannot walk home with my dog,” he said.

“Then tell him to stay,” I said over my shoulder.

I started walking down the sidewalk, the cold rain stinging my face.

Bishop stayed half a step ahead of me, his eyes scanning the shadows of the doorways.

I heard Lucian’s heavy footsteps behind us.

He was not running, but his stride was long and purposeful.

He caught up to us within seconds, blocking my path.

“This is ridiculous,” Lucian said.

“I agree,” I said, trying to step around him.

He moved to block me again.

“He will not leave you, and I cannot let him wander the streets,” Lucian said.

“Then what do you propose?” I asked.