"It's technically a job," the vampire managed tightly. He tried to swallow the lump of emotion in his throat, with little success. Of all the times for the doctor to arrive in Aifaran, why did it have to be now?

The stranger pushed off the shelf and approached Devin, his posture relaxed and smile firmly affixed. The Dreaming-projection of Sam halted close enough to Devin to indicate more than just acquaintance with each other. "I think it suits you better than hunting. I think this whole city suits you better, actually."

"...How long have you been here?" Devin asked cautiously.

The apparition shrugged. "Not long. Promise I haven't been stalking you." He flashed a grin. "And I'm not here to stir anything up, so maybe you can try relaxing just a little. It's just me."

Devin grimaced and looked away. "You know you're not 'just' anything," he muttered, barely audible.