Be honest.

Playtime was over, as indicated by her use of my name, not my title. “I had a bit of trouble at work. It’s under control, I promise.”

“You don’t need that job any more. We’ve got Andre by the balls, he can pay for everything you need.”

“I don’t like the idea of being your cuck’s pet bull,” I countered, pushing.

“I’m doing well with this influencer thing. I could do even better with your help. We don’t need more.”

I smiled down at her, and she flinched.

“Why not?”

I looked at her seriously…”Because Gotham is dying. Slowly, but steadily.”

“Then let’s go somewhere else.”

“I can’t. I love this city. Almost as much as I love you. I love you more than anything. And you love me more than anything?”

“Of course,” she softened for a moment, then gave me a flat look. “How does working at Arkham help the city?”

“I’ve got a plan. A bad plan, but a plan. Trust me, I'll be fine.”

“I…you got hurt…”

“Trust me.”

“But…how?”

“Trust me.”

She shuddered against me. “How can I help?” +6 SP (Asa: 100).

Holy shit…letting go of her concern for me was that big a jump at this moment? She…loved me. I instantly did my concealed protections to prevent me from changing her, and then recommended we get dinner, outside the bugged apartment.

Two pop-ups appeared, but I pushed ‘em aside, focusing on her and us and the moment. After a few minutes, she agreed and suggested we invite Diamond. That seemed like a good idea and Diamond said her kids were out and husband was working late, so we all headed over. On the way, I did have an awkward conversation with Asa, where I made it clear that though we were back, we certainly weren’t exclusive anymore. She was understanding, but wanted to hear about my conquests…I said I’d think about it. Diamond was one thing, but Frannie? Kat? Jesus, Kianna? Maybe in time…

Once we’d arrived, Diamond and Asa were a bit awkward around one another, but Diamond showed us Andre’s laptop, where finding the recordings was…easy.

After that, the two women were on much the same page regarding Andre.

When Asa sold me down the river about the cuts, they were also on much the same page about me and my safety, but I eventually managed to get them to relax. Or, at least calm down. I did have to promise to tell them immediately about any future injuries, but honestly, after being alone after it happened, that felt…nice.

Then Asa spilled the beans about my having a plan. Which got us back to the question of what it was, obviously.