"I'm hopin' that changes when it's in front of your face," he said. He kissed Billy tenderly, cradling his face. "You'll do fine, cher." He knew it would give Billy no comfort to hear that failing a first attempt was not a major set back so he kept it to himself. "C'mon, smoke with me until dinner gets here."

He moved away from the counter and tugged Billy across the living room to their small balcony. Maybe the night air would help settle Billy a bit more.