"It took me about three months before I made my way here," Marcus answers, lifting his voice over the music as they descend the stairs that takes them into the basement bar. Given that it's literally underground, a tiny hole in the wall sort of place, it should seem dark and sullen, but instead it feels alive to Marcus. There are lights and music, people laughing and talking, and on the stage is Viv and her band.

She wails away on her guitar, fingers dancing over the fretboard in movements so quick Marcus can barely even see them. The music is lively and people are dancing, but Marcus nods toward the bar instead, leading Vanya toward it.

"Just a glass of water for me tonight," he calls to the bartender, then looks at Vanya. "Would you like something?"