Just like the first time that Saoirse ever put his hand in his, Magnus felt a warm fondness spread through him. He loved the trust of children, treated it like a sacred thing, and cherished the moments when it was given to him. Unsure where the leash came from, and not liking the looks of it anyway, he waved his hand to make it disappear. It went back to his apartment, just in case Saoirse had some strange attachment to it.

His phone buzzed and Magnus was unsurprised to see that Baz was being obtuse. He punched out another reply -- an order -- and slipped his phone back into his pocket.

He gave her hand a little squeeze and they started on their way, Magnus taking short steps so she didn't have to run too much to keep up. He chatted with her along the way, not needing to fill the silence so much as keep her relaxed and content. And besides, Magnus liked to talk. He told her about his cats and pointed out his favorite shops. He told her about his friend Baz who she would be meeting soon, and how he liked to grumble but that he was a very nice man underneath it all.

Before long, they were at the apartment. And, lo, there was someone waiting for them. "Hello, Baz," he said cheerfully.