Just then Nate could have cared less about an apology. What he wanted was an ice pack or alcohol. Or both. Still, having that white-haired guy back him up wasn't that bad at all. Nate cracked a grin -- on the side of his face Eli hadn't punched. "Thanks, man," he said, wanting to laugh at the ridiculousness of it all more than anything. That was enough. He wasn't going to hold his breath for an apology from Eli.