For each one of Big Joe's bites, James scarfed down three spoon fulls. Big Joe would chew at least twenty times. James would basically inhale the food.

By the time James plate was empty, he was amazed that Big Joe's was empty as well. It was like those horror films, where the villain followed you slow. While you ran as fast you could. And still they'd catch you.

James said nothing. He offered to pay using the cash they'd gotten from Butch's. Big Joe said nothing. Put down a credit card. Shook his head.

After the waitress took the card away, Big Joe said low. "burn it."

"What?"

"You never should've taken that."

"But--"

"If you need money I'll give it to you, damn it."

The two men shut up as the waitress came back. Thanked them for coming in and wished them a good rest of the day.