"I wouldn't dream of mentioning it," Kavinsky said. He knew discretion well. He knew lies and truths lived too close together in everyone's chest.

He rose from the bed and went to a closet set on the side wall. There were costumes there, things he didn't care for. Finally, he came up with an eyemask. He held it up with one finger, and stepped back over.

"You'll be more comfortable on the bed." And, with that, Kavinsky slipped the blindfold onto Poison and supposed they were finally beginning.