Re: The Cat: Before 2
The lack of smile didn't bother Steve. He'd spent enough time around soldiers and men of that (stereotypical) make, that it didn't even seem particularly noteworthy that Kratos wasn't the sort. The handshake was firm, and Steve's palm was a little rough, but mostly warm and dry. He let his hand fall back to his side as Kratos' gaze moved behind him. He watched the other man, all calm waters but open interest, and he leaned his hip against the counter.
"I do need help." No accent from Steve, except maybe a slight slant of New York. He had no trouble with understanding accents, in any case. The New York he came up in was brimming with immigrants, regardless of the narrow views on that kind of thing now. He'd spent a helluva lot of years abroad, too. "I just lost two people who help behind the bar. But, if that's not interesting to you, I could probably turn over the upkeep to you, that kind of thing, if that's more up your alley." A smile stayed close to the surface of pink lips, but it never manifested fully. Steve was a relatively serious kind of guy—or he seemed to be, to most people—, even if he could be affable. "We're open two to two most days. It's a lot of regulars. It's not a big place, so it doesn't ever get too crazy. But, it can be a lot for one person, especially when you have to close up or open up." He paused thoughtfully. "What is it you're looking for? Maybe that's a good place to start. What did you used to do elsewhere?"