"Sometimes looking for something else, something that those not in the know or who don't understand would considered inconsequential, brings other things into focus. By looking away we see." Charlie nodded slightly as if that had settled an issue. "You could start a service. I don't know if people know how to manage their money; you could. Or you could look for the person you used to work for."
Charlie put one more slice of mango into his mouth as he put away the last dish. He stepped closer to Ted and rested his hand on the accountant's shoulder, giving it a squeeze.
"It was good to know that I wasn't alone." His smile was sad in a way, as if he were fighting through emotions he couldn't name and wouldn't face, not yet. He squeezed Ted's shoulder again. "You're a good friend, Ted." Charlie meant it. There were silly things he said all the time, but he meant this. It was short and simple, and there was no way to get around it.