[ She quails, but doesn't crumple, which is nice. Very steady of her, and also less awkward. It feels like an absurdly long time since he's been in this position, since anything has been so reassuringly simple as a kid scared shitless to meet God.

And so maybe they're calling her by old lyrics they've never known the tune to, and it's embarrassing all around. He can let that slide. It's never been so easy to simply not give a damn.

He touches a hand to her shoulder, and gives it a steadying squeeze. ]

I absolutely believe how garbage the food is.

[ He releases her, and exhales a slow sigh as though considering the situation before them. ]

Well, that's some context, I guess. Hell. Now that I've led with John, it feels a little silly to take a my Lord. If you want a title, call me Teacher.

[ It feels like decades since he's said that to anyone. It doesn't come as easy as it used to. ]