Gerard exhaled sharply, raising his eyebrows as he did. An expression of empathy. "Felt that," he agreed. "Can't tell you how many times I tried to get away from it all. I never did, but eventually I think I found a way to exist with it on my own terms."

He paused, then gave a nod toward the Oak & Iron. "I think we both deserve a pint," he said. "On me."