Crichton's got a few inches on Parker, but the investigator's still bigger than Arthur, built on a slightly broader scale all around, and the grip turns into a light shake before Parker releases. He's never let an awkward or sullen silence stop him yet, or he'd be fucking terrible at his job.

"So, what are a couple of wet smacks supposed to do for fun round here?" he offers brightly. "I know hooch is the real American pastime but there's gotta be more happening, right?"