Clink, clink, clink, went his thumbnail against the metal bracelet. It was nice to have a reminder of what he was doing, even here.

The fact of the matter was he didn't need John to change for his plan to succeed. And he didn't even particular want John to change (though him leaving Effie was a desirable outcome, all things considered, it wasn't really the point). He said nothing for a moment before offering John a tight and obviously completely falsified smile.

"... Nothing. Something that it has become all too apparent I can't have. But it was worth the attempt."