Mick looks back, white eyed and looking rather surprised to be met with such obvious approval and interest.

"Sure," he says with a smile that's only slightly strained. "I don't look it, but I read a lot."

One quick glance at the blood - just a little bit more. Don't get greedy, but just a little bit more and he'll be fine.

He turns away again, listening to the steady beat of Long's heart and using it as an aural measuring cup.

"I don't know. It's one of the most accepting places I've ever been. I must've done something right to get to experience that."