The rap on my skull barely registers now. It’s a normal part of my existence and in any case Manual holds back because he doesn’t own me…and despite his claim likely never will.

There’s no way he could afford me.

The fact I feel even a little superior over that makes me more than a little sick to my stomach. Just a little…though enough to distract me a bit in the car as I ponder just what Cruz might want with me so soon after I disappointed him. It’s good I just showed my continuing value to the bastard. As much as I hate him, I know a new owner could be much, much worse…

Now if only I could roast Manuel’s wandering hands and feed them to him. Someday…