Sensing a connection between Wendy and the ensuing fight, he said, "Cause fights? An aspiring political talk show host, are you?" He took a large swallow of his club soda and extricated himself from her grip.

He strode nonchalantly toward the downed girl and the big guy, as if ready to take on the latter ... but then took a quick turn and crossed to the jukebox in the corner, withdrawing some coins from his pocket.