Without fear he wondered if this might be his final flight in an aircraft – the finality of everything. It was likely that Spiro was into gambling, ...rugs, prostitution and keeping on top of competitors using the age-old tried and proven methods. Without fear? There was nothing in Merrick’s background to support such a he-man image. Nothing in the genes – his father was a school principal and his paternal grandfather had been a radio officer on merchant ships, these days called freighters, his. Nikki’s water bowl was only about half fullso she got the small hose from the wall and started tofill the bowl through the bars. For some reason Nikkidecided to do some spraying of her own, surprising Leahby backing against the cage bars and spraying the poorgirl with urine. Leah almost turned the hose on Nikki,but quickly realized that wasn’t a good idea. Instead,she got out of the room.In the small hallway Leah was furious. She reeked ofcat pee and she still wanted to go to the. ”“May I stay, watch and listen?”I nodded. “Of course. Have a seat.” The usual organised chaos ensued. Some of the kids, including Tina, sat and listened attentively. Others charged about but still somehow paid attention. There was laughter at the jokes, shrieks when it got scary, and sighs of relief when all turned out to be well. It lasted half an hour but felt far more like hours. At the end, Torven spoke to a few of the children and their parents.Over a cup of egregious coffee, we spoke. “I. It means that you don't have to feel any pressure to do it with me." I'd never ask her for that. I wouldn't want her to know if we did do it." Then we won't ever do it. I told her that we might do other things, but never that, unless she says it's okay." Did you tell her what other things?" I told her anything else but that." She said it was okay?" No, she said she wanted me to keep my end of the bargain about not doing it with you. She said she'd never give you permission to do it with me.".