...The quality of his voice finally registered. Her eyes snapped open, and she half-hopped forward to grab onto his arm. Wondering, for a moment, whether he needed steadying. On a good day, she barely liked to touch him -- let alone share his personal space. But right now? She was content to anchor one hand on his elbow.

She lowered the tequila bottle onto the floor, feeling as though she didn't so much need it. Not now.

"And you've looked better."