Thomas paused, watching George for a few moments. With a flush, he sputtered out, "Of-of course you are." His tone was an attempt at being reassuring, but he was awkward as ever. Of course Waterford was still the same person. But it would still take him some time to get over the shock of it all.

"No," he stated firmly, "You shouldn't have to pretend with me." Around others, though, pretending would have to be what they did.