"You don't have to do this, y'know. I've walked this road before - I do know me way."
"I know," Tom responded. "But you are the first soul that I'm saving. I'm getting some practice in." A wry smile played on Gene's lips.
"You'll be fine."
They walked the next part of the way in silence. Then:
"Gene?"
"Mm?"
"How long did it take you to forget?" No question needed - Gene knew exactly what Tom was referring to.
"Truth?" Tom nodded. "I don't know," Gene admitted. "But, you will. You will forget. 'Course that means it feels like you've gone ten rounds with Muhammad Ali when you do get the memories back... but that's the price you pay, I suppose."
A few moments later, they were stood in front of The Railway Arms. Gene looked up at the facade, and then drew his eyes down to the door - remembering when he'd lost his friends to what lay inside... remembering as the door closed behind her...
"... Gene?"
Shaking his head slightly, Gene turned to face Tom.
"Thank you," he offered - although it sounded as if those words didn't come easily to him.
"You're welcome," Tom responded. "Are you ready?"
"I never realised it, but I think I've been ready for a while." Tom nodded. "Anyway..." he cleared his throat. "It's all yours now."
"Yeah - what's the one piece of advice you could give me?"
Gene thought for a moment. "Don't let the bastards get you down," he decided. "Oh - and know when it's time to leave. I had a bit of bother with that last one," he added - almost wistfully. Suddenly, he offered his hand to Tom. "All the best."
"Same to you," Tom responded, shaking Gene's hand firmly. "See you again, maybe?"
"Who knows?" shrugged Gene - and with a smile, pulled away towards the pub door.