"Bodyguard, singular," Neal says, not feeling at all bad about admitting that. Cable has provided a level of protection that's been somewhat unparalleled in Neal's life and he has absolutely no question as to whether that will continue. Their particular arrangement works.

"My alter egos are never lame," Neal boasts without further explanation offered. That much he can be certain about: From Nicholas Holden to Steve Tabernacle, they've all been particularly exceptional personas, each perfectly tailored to his needs at the time.

"Did you—? You didn't think I meant I was Superman or something, did you?" Although he could fit the part...