For what it's worth, she appreciates the small talk, offering him a smile in reply as he makes himself comfortable. They're both full aware of the elephant in the room -- several of them, in fact -- but for now, small talk is easier. There's a lot to be said between them. None if it is going to make for a particularly pleasant conversation.

"Yep. Came out pretty good. Already been tested, strong but not enough to make you blind." Thank God. She doesn't know how long she would have been able to hold out if this batch hadn't come out decently. She's not a heavy drinker, really, but this place kind of drove you to it.

"I figured you were probably due for a break. I've been here awhile now. We haven't really gotten the chance to just sit down and talk, have we? Catch up." Things kept coming up and getting in the way -- things or other people.