It was later than Thomas had planned when he finally showed up at Krem's door. He'd worked late and then he'd stuck around to help clean up before he'd run home to shower because he'd smelled like grease and meat.

But, he was here now, hair damp and wearing comfortable clothes with a bag over one shoulder. He knocked even though Krem had said to come in just to give him some forewarning that he was there and so he wouldn't be mistaken for someone trying to break in.

He opened the door and said, "Hey, it's me. You here? Awake?"