Meanwhile, Jay continues to be the worst known liar in the history of the universe, every universe, because what the hell is that accent. The dark line of bruises encircling the other man's neck immediately draw his eyes, and his stomach tightens again. He shouldn't be surprised. Jay must have gone after him as soon as he knew. And with no plan at all, because he never has a plan.

He wrenches out of the grip around his arm as soon as they're a fair distance away, shooting Jay an incredulous look.

"That was worse than Alex," he hisses in vehement undertone. "Try a little louder - maybe there was someone the next block over who didn't hear how completely obvious that was."