*** 

 For all his apparent fragility, Harlan could hold his liquor amazingly well. He didn't insist, maybe to save them both the embarrassment, but Jonny and the others obediently matched him glass by glass until Harlan finally drank them all under the table. Then he sat there, wearing a smug expression. 

 - The useless basterd. - he said with a huff of mock contempt. - Never learns.  

 - Is he going to be alright? 

 - Oh, absolutely. Don't worry, Diane, dear, he'll be good as new in the morning. 

 - Doubt that. - McKinney chuckled.