"I'll try," Lex says evenly, making no promises. He keeps his hand extended and doesn't waver from his father's show. Their song and dance is familiar by now, and though he's far from happy with it, Lex understands how it works.

At the pat on the back a spark of hope cuts through Lex's stoic features. He recognizes the the show of physical contact is awkward. Maybe they're finally moving forward. The city has a way of bringing out certain attributes one didn't know existed.

"If you don't mind taking care of the bill."

So that was that. Lex nods once before releasing his hand, turning away from Lionel to find the cashier.