[ Simple is good. Being around her is heady after going so long without her. ]

Quiet. [ He keeps in touch with Ryan and Esposito but he doesn't see them nearly as much as he once did. He's trying desperately to write, but he hasn't gotten much done. His editor isn't happy about that, but then there's little that can be done about it.] Alexis is good. She's settling into college.

[ He clears his throat. ]

So how are you? Good? DC is...great, I'm sure. Better for having you there.