"I never pegged you as a dinner host," Ayako chuckled, a glass of red wine in her hand. Noll shrugged. Ayako slouched on Noll's sofa while Monk examined the small shrine Noll had left in place for Gene.
"I didn't think this was a Western tradition."
"It isn't," Noll said, offering the monk a glass of wine. The red liquid swirled as Monk took it from his grasp "Hara-san assisted me in putting it together."
They were all silent for a moment.
Hesitantly, John spoke, "That was very kind of her… Lord, I do hope she is alright…" He rubbed the back of his head.
When John was offered a glass he shook his head, "Ah, I appreciate the offer, but I don't drink, Naru."
"Then can I get you something else?" Noll kept a level tone.
"Water would be fine," replied John.
Nodding, Noll sauntered into the kitchen. He could see into the living room from around the corner. The trio had begun some other conversation, paying him no attention.
Noll poured the tainted beverage down the sink before reaching into the cabinet for a clean glass. Once he had filled it with water he slipped his hand into his pocket to retrieve a small vial of clear liquid. A thin label, which read GHB, stretched around the vial.
Noll checked to be sure no one was looking his way before pouring a trace amount of the vial's contents into the glass.
Pocketing the vial, Noll swiftly exited his kitchen.
Upon his return to the living room, Noll handed John his drink. John, in turn, thanked Noll and took a sip from the glass without a second thought.
Noll smirked.
"So, when are Lin and Mai getting here?" Ayako asked.
Turning, Noll lied smoothly, "Oh, they'll be here soon."