Drugstore takes down the chains

"You okay, Fonz?"

"Never better."

(No Rich. No Red.)

Not surprising to hear. Not in the least. He was a deflector, through and through, though he'd never wear one. What was surprising, though, was how immediately Richie felt himself doubt the claim. How quickly and solidly he reasoned through what he'd say, or do, in response, without the usual second-guessing of backfiring implications.

"You'll be better tomorrow, though, right?"

"Huh? What're you talkin' about?"

"Well, because I figure the Fonz has to be getting better all the time. I mean, I think so, anyway."

"Yeah? You do? ...how 'bout that."