It's strange, the way he can simultaneously feel safer than he has in a long time (how does he know, why is that true) and like a wrong step will have things twist into a tailspin.

The new stranger chuckles quietly. "Oh, he's not a victim. I'm familiar with this one."

Neal shifts toward Zerxus, almost purposefully leaning against him now. Neal doesn't know his appearance has changed, doesn't consider that an altered face, instinctive or otherwise, doesn't do much good if the person trying to hide is still wearing a distinctive three-piece suit.

"You have the advantage then," Neal says. "I don't know you."