More Spit and No Teeth

Because of his presence, the atmosphere in the bar had shifted greatly.

Neither of them had expected to see Darren appearing in such a manner. At this point, they could recognize him, but comparing him to how he looked back in college, the difference was mind shattering.

Conversation became short and careful.

What had started as an idle gathering of old acquaintances had become something else entirely: a silent evaluation.

Everyone at the table was looking at him differently now. Some with surprise, some with curiosity, and one with growing resentment.

After they had all ordered, Sophie, still looking at him as if seeing a ghost, was the first to ask him a direct question.

"Excuse me," she began.

Darren lifted his head. "Mmm?"

"Are you… really Darren Steele?" She asked gently.

Darren gave her a short smile. "You mean Death Wish Darren?"

Sophie's eyes flickered with surprise.