There's not a lot that's bad, honestly. And I've got a pretty unlimited tab, so go crazy. Well, not literally. Wouldn't want to put the Pthumerians out of a job. [is that how they see it he wonders. as a job?] There's the easy shit [a nod to his own drink] and then there's some stuff that'll really put you on your ass.

[is he smug about that tab? well, a little. it'd be hard for him not to be, and it leaks through to almost be immediately replaced by an incredulous look at the asshole comment, because he's not really coming off like an asshole, just a bit high strung, bothered, stressed. all things that mike can relate to.]

No harm done. I know my way around an asshole. [if that came out wrong he doesn't acknowledge, just shrugs.] Been around way too many of them for my own good, and what do you know, it rubbed off, because I've done my time as one, too. And you didn't really come off like that. So if you're assholing, it's the unintentional kind, which I can overlook.

[another shrug.]

I've got no reason to flap my gums about it, but you've got nothing to be ashamed of. This is a judgement free zone.

[he can say that with 75% certainty - for himself, 100% - and the place isn't full. so he indicates the zone with a little wave of his hand.]