Lyla was already searching around in the side pocket of her handbag and pulled out a little sealed packet of Kleenex to hand to Puck as they walked across the street to the diner. "Don't do that. Trust me, I have seen way, way too many people in my time do that when they're miserable and it never ends well for them. Most of the time, they just end up feeling worse, which probably doesn't seem possible, but alcohol will do that to you. It might even make you do stuff you regret. I've learnt over the years the best way to face pain is head on, as awful as it feels at the time."

She pushed the diner door open and held it for him. "I know I don't have to, Puck, but I want to. I've also learnt that there is nothing more priceless than a friend for company when you're down. I nearly lost too many friends over the years. It's not worth it. Is there anyone else I can call if you don't want a stranger for company? I'm not trying to fob you off, you just remind me a little of my friend, Tim, and getting him to talk is like trying to cut your own arm off with a toothpick. Maybe you're more comfortable with someone familiar."