[ johnny sees him properly now. a smart kid, not in a book-smart way but the streetside way. likely quick on his feet, with strong self-preservation instincts. worse, he has morals, a vague shape that's getting hewed to something much sharper as time goes on.

poor kid. he likely has a lot of suffering ahead of him. ]

You're smarter than Rick. I see why he chose you.

If I were to propose an arrangement with you directly, would you consider it?