Fortunately for his new companion, Eliot was an expert at the avoidance of unpleasant thought. He looped an arm around James' shoulders, turning to direct them toward the arcade tent.

"Oh, you need much more than a smoke," was all he'd say on that particular matter, the words muffled by the cigarette as his free hand reached into his jacket. He drew out a flask, passed it over. Inside was top-shelf bourbon... a lot more than James would expect.

"Feel free," Eliot said. "It never empties."