...That might be a good thing, [Cliff said in a contemplative tone, idly scratching his chin.] I've got a hunch that a doctor would make me wear glasses, and those'll be pain too.

[He sighed.]

It's a no-win. You and I will both need to adjust.

[Because, as loathe as he was to admit it, he was going to need someone at his back now more than ever before.]