"You too, Micah—you will resume your job. You know what you always do when you're here... We need more allies, and only you can bring them to us. Remember, we are paying your mother's medical bills," Ken added, his tone leaving no room for negotiation.

I didn't object. I simply offered him a silent, understanding look, masking the rage boiling beneath my skin.

"That should be all for today," Ken said, rising to his feet. "Shedrack, we need to be somewhere."

"I hope the two of you won't go against us," Shedrack added, echoing his brother's implicit threat as he stood up. "Remember what there is to lose if you...