[ John waves over the bartender, who procures a glass tumbler for his drinking partner. Spike may notice John wears a wedding ring. ]

I'd rather have a good drink in bad company, than a bad drink in bad company. Figured I was cutting my losses. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.

Thanks, Boris.

[ John makes a point to learn peoples names. Committing someone to memory is a small act, but it goes a ways in making people feel important, and respected. That's why they're drinking this bottle, instead of the cheap stuff Boris slaps a private-reserve label on and sells for the same price. ]

Spike, is it? Pleased to meet you.