[Something about Matt’s response brings a faint smile to Liem’s face. He’d said something similar back then, too, on the day Liem had appeared in Horos. Even if this version of Matt has none of that other man’s experiences from Horos, it’s nostalgic to see that they are still, in at least some ways, the same.]

I know. Things are better for me, here. I have my faith, and people to rely on. I hope you find that, also.

Organically, I mean. [For a moment, his expression turns wry and he seems perhaps a little bashful.] I hope it’s not unwelcome that I have a liking for you when you barely know me, [says local area’s most reserved man. Five minutes ago he was trying to ditch Matt because he didn’t want to fraternize with the enemy.]