The doctor tilted his head back against the seat, his head still turned to face Malachi.  Relief was obvious only if you squinted, that they would not be separated.  Malachi needed his opium, and Arthur needed Malachi.  A wonderful little arrangement for the both of them.

The slap was loud and just on this side of too hard, and still Arthur almost asked Malachi to do it again harder.  He knew all too well the power behind those hands.

For a moment, Arthur's hand was on top of Malachi's on his thigh.  Just as soon as it was there, it was gone again.

"Don't hold back," he said, just low enough so as not to be overheard.  "Make it hurt.  I want all of you."

Even if, or maybe especially if Arthur was just a means for Malachi to express his anger.  Whatever he needed, Arthur would do his best to provide.  Drugs, an alibi, an accomplice, a kiss.  He was willing to give it all to Malachi, as long as Malachi was by his side.