"I won't take your money. I'm just -- not really an outing. Just a m-meeting of-of-of two people. Friends. Two good friends. I mean, well, one friend but I'm there so two in that sense." He was clearly flustered at the very concept of explaining it and his face went red because of course it did. It was always his greatest tell when he was embarrassed or sheepish. "You can drop me off nearby and I'll just walk it. I really don't want to put you out."

Barty had a boyfriend so who cared if he found out? Why did it worry him? He felt so sure that Barty would tell but who would he tell? Who would care what he said anyway? And yet. He couldn't even begin to acknowledge it. He looked out of the window and swallowed nervously. "I'm glad you're well. We miss you." He missed him. He doubted the others did. "You and Bill don't attend the church either, do you?" He noticed that too.