The reflection of the bird twists into the reflection of the woman he knows so well. She smirks at him from the narrow strip of glass that serves as a portal here, leaning against the edge as if she did this sort of thing all the time.

The tickle at his ear becomes a warm breath passing down the side of his throat, and he can feel a palpable touch, warm hands resting on his shoulders, as if she were standing just behind him.

You make me think I should steal you away from this life, Lyonya.