The Taifa's jaw kind of moves a little as he soaks in the awkwardness as Zach takes the advice of the Vala and the Deputy... and says nothing. He gave shifty eyes from Chris to Ricardo. And back.
The silence drew on until his coteriemate broke it -- thank God -- and James chuckled to ease the tension, giving Chris a nod of agreement. "Yes, Vala Wooding, it is about that time, isn't it? It has been interesting to get to know you a bit better, Mr. Griffiths." Chris and Ricardo knew him well enough to draw the proper inferences from his word choice. Turning to Ricardo, he said, "Deputy Rodriguez, I'd love a chance to catch up again soon, when the night is younger. May we arrange a time at your convenience, sir?" He smiled genuinely to his friend.
Maybe then he and Ricardo could catch up. Wouldn't that be something.