[ Ah. John is catching on. That makes sense; their relationship has changed, but John has always been frightfully observant, and he's always cast it particularly in Harold's direction. It's just become more benign and tacitly understanding over time.

There's an awkward too-long silence where he should reply. He sets his fork down and says something totally different. Harold doesn't want to talk about it, but he can at least say something. He's trying, however futile it may be, to be less avoidant. The consequences can be dire. ]

I'm sorry, Mr. Reese, it's been very difficult for me lately. [ It feels like he shouldn't be here, in more ways than one. John shouldn't be here, either-- ] I couldn't prevent us from falling into a covert war. [ An immense failure on his part. ]

I didn't imagine I'd ever end up having a casual dinner with you again.