[ There's really no denying that Tim's a bit cheekier than most kids his age, but more than that, he's incredibly genuine and John's not entirely sure whether he's impressed or worried for the guy in light of all of this. Being tough and smart and active goes a long way, but caring so much really does a number on a person, if Bruce is any real indication.

John smiles in return, and while he still feels like shit about this strange turn of events, still expects to wake up from this dream, he's relieved to see that life hasn't become so ridiculous and different that it's become unrecognizable: A kid can still be a kid (assuming they want to). ]

Yeah, that counts. Good for you, Tim.

[ He won't say he's proud because that would be very weird considering they've only just met, but truthfully, given the circumstances (and also given how Blake chose to spend his teenage years), he is proud to see Drake's at least making an attempt at creating a balance between helping others and helping himself; for John, it always seems like people like them — the Bruces and Tims and Johns of the world — have to suspend one for the other. ]

Look, uh... Feels like we could do this all night, but I'm thinkin' we prob'ly shouldn't. You wanna get together later, compare a few more notes? Maybe in a coupla days.