"Your... parents?" Lazarus asks, sounding surprised, even though he realizes afterward that he probably shouldn't. Many people whose parents are still alive have good relationships with them, after all. "Well, it depends. What do they know? What are you afraid of them finding out? What do you think you could use your help with? You can always omit certain things... for example, if you think it would be a problem that he's a guy, just say that someone dumped you and you're in pain. If you think the kind of guy he is is a problem... you put your trust in someone who didn't deserve it. It's not your fault he turned out to be the opposite of what he presented. I know him; he can't keep up an act indefinitely, but he can keep it rolling for long enough to do some serious damage. I think they'll be more supportive than you think."

He pauses thoughtfully after Blaise's rationalization. "Perhaps," he says carefully. "As for tonight... do you think you're going to be OK? Most of the Numbered are extremely nice. You should try to strike up a few conversations while you're here."