[He nods at the whisper (although the whisper itself is strange, in a way, a closeness he wasn't expecting) and, once Nigel is nearly out of sight, also turns to Alex.]

Sharing your luck with others, yes. And putting on a smile and, um, buying things you probably don't need, and inane television specials, and going to parties of people you either don't know or don't like. [It's obvious he means it as a joke. He grins, fidgeting nervously with the end of his sleeve.]

But I do think I'll like it. [He hesitates, and then, questioning, adds:] It's an interesting topic?