Emily’s already walking back into the crowd when L.L looks back. He’s surprised by the shots but takes one anyway.

“Let me try.” At least if it’s poison he’ll recover in a minute.

He throws it back elegantly, grimacing at the sickly apple flavour. It’s strong… it’s burning his throat, but that’s nothing more than alcohol…

When he sets his glass down he’s flushed.

“It’s not poisonous.” He can tell that much. “Too sweet - I won’t have another.”

He bites his lip hard, resetting himself to sobriety. For a moment there he felt warm.