Collateral A นิยาย & เรื่องราว

“The kind that involves money and loyalty.” “That does not answer anything.” Adrian’s gaze held his. “They want to remind me that stepping away has consequences.” “And I am the reminder.” “Yes.” The honesty knocked the air from Jamie’s lungs. He stepped back slightly. “You said I was not collateral.” “You are not,” Adrian said firmly. “Collateral implies expendable.”

He was **Physical**. "Elara," he said, his voice trembling with a mixture of pride and terror. "I told you to stay in the simulation. I told you the 'Real' was too expensive." "You're alive?" I gasped, stepping toward him. "I'm not 'Alive,' Elara," he said, gesturing to the golden ribcage around the heart. "I’m the **Collateral.** I’ve been the one paying the 'Interest' for the last thirty years. And now that you’ve 'Defaulted'... the Division is going to take the 'Principal.'"

A chuckle accompanied his words. “Collateral?” What exactly are you on about?” “Evidence of our transaction, you know…just in case you decide to go back on your words and it's not that I don't trust you, I really do, but just not at the moment. Elizabeth.” “What did you just call me?”