Noah's about to disappear - why is he walking? - when he hears Al calling his name. He turns at the voice and the hand on his arm, and automatically tries to smile in greeting. "Hi," he says, apologetic, even though he isn't sure for what. Maybe for the mess he feels like right now. Maybe because he doesn't think he stopped by Al's last night, it's hard to remember what time has passed. Al is a welcome sight, though, if Noah has to see anyone. He's kind and caring and completely detached from the situation.

He touches his cheek to make sure he hasn't been crying, and tries to make his voice sounder normal. "How are you?"