"Let him go. Whoever contacted him will likely do so again," Debra said, turning to Robert. "You''re still in touch, right? Next time they reach out, I want to know the time and ce of your meeting. If it''s online, I want a recording. Any objections?"


    Robert nced up at Debra, realizing that she intended to use him as bait. She was smart enough to figure out their contact mode.


    "Alright, I''ll do it, but I have one condition."


    "You have no leverage here. Your lives are in my hands."


    Debra never went easy on her enemies. If she did, it was only because they were still useful.


    Robert struggled to his feet and knelt before her. "Mrs. Houston, please grant my wish. In return, I''ll do anything for you."


    The room fell silent. Everyone was stunned.


    The scene reminded Debra of her capture by Drake. He had asked her if she wanted dignity or life. She had chosen dignity.


    Butter, she realized that for people like Drake and Robert, dignity was a luxury. They only sought it when survival was guaranteed.


    They were all children from slums. They used just to


    to abandon their dignity


    have a meal. Yearstet


    finally could protect themselves.


    they


    But when life and death were at stake, the only choice they could make was to give up their dignity.


    "Alright," she said. "Let''s hear your condition. If it''s reasonable, I''ll agree."


    "Promise to protect Theda, no matter what. Then I''ll help you lure them out," Robert replied.


    Theda interrupted, "Don''t be so full


    of


    pro don''t need anyone''s


    ét


    protection. Even if you die for me, I won''t appreciate it."


    "I don''t need your appreciation," Robert


    Said, looking up


    Debra


    "This is my only request. If agree, my life is yours."


    Debra was unimpressed. "Your life means so little to you."


    "Life is cheap," Robert said, bowing again.


    Suddenly, another voice came. "Life is cheap, indeed."