"Understandable," Archie said. "There are a lot of people out there who don't just fake needing help but offering it."

His parents' "Elf Tonic" came to mind.

Without thinking, he reached into his pocket to pull out a quarter which he started rolling over his knuckles. It was a trick his father had taught him when he'd been incredibly young. He hated that skill among others he'd learned from the man, but it helped keep his hands busy when he was reminded of the "good" old days.