[ It's a good thing for Jet that it's too dark for Lalo to see the tension in Jet's face, to register the relaxation a second later. If it was lighter out, it's the kind of thing Lalo would have certainly noticed and taken an interest in for all the wrong reasons. But as it is, it's too dark for Lalo to see any of that, and so the only thing he does is momentarily release his hold on the cooler's handle so he can accept Jet's one-handed greeting with a broad swing. Lalo's grip, and his pump, are firm. He grins when asked about the island bug. ]

Trust me, you don't want that story. But maybe try the fish jerky first before you let the kid have any. [ A soft "whoo!" ] Think I walked more'n a day straight, man! Shit was crazy.

[ He sounds so proud of himself! Lalo waves off Jet's apology. ] Don't worry about it! You came when you could. That's all that matters. Right?

[ He picks up the cooler handle again and starts to walk back with Jet. Even in the dark, he can tell Jet is limping, especially from the staggered sounds of each step. Well, that makes two of them. Lalo is limping a little too. He'll make some effort to let Jet lean against him, if that'll help at all, but then again, it... might not... ]

So... About this theory of yours...