Ah, I forgot, I was supposed to be an arsehole all the time, [ Eames replies easy enough, immediately challenging the irritation that mildly frustrates him. Step forward, two steps back, rinse and repeat.

There is a little bit of whiplash that follows, though, and he sighs when Arthur's back is turned to him.

The scar is new - don't think he didn't notice that - and it thrusts a bang of anger through Eames. Suppressed, it still lingers on his brows as a frown a moment later when they walk into the bar. ]

How about we get drinks and you'll tell me what's happened since I disappeared? [ he suggests instead of answering Arthur's question. ]