We reach Karl’s building before it occurs to me that I should let him know that I’m bringing Ezra with me. When I reach for our connection, he responds immediately. The anxiety I feel coming from him makes me stumble. I feel guilty for not reaching out to him sooner. I didn’t tell him where I was going when I left the cafe. I’m sure that he was expecting me to return right after. Of course he’s been worried.

“I’m on my way up,” I tell him. “I’ve got Ezra ...