The closeness settled something in Billy's chest, something that he hadn't realized was piqued. Henry was discrete in being around them, seemed a smart boy; Goodnight was comfortable with him, and so Billy let himself relax.

He slid his hand on the counter, behind Goodnight's back. He could see the answer in Henry's eyes even before he asked the question, so he didn't phrase it as a question, "He's your first companion, this--Virginian."

Henry looked puzzled a moment, then flushed, and nodded.