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"Based on what evidence?" "Based on . . ."

"Prior complaints, this says," the director says, leafing through Ricardo Navato's file.

"Yes, sir, and . . ." "Circumstantial evidence."

Lastimosa closes the file, then pushes it away from him. "In other words—nothing."

"That's right," Mapa says, slapping the director's desk for emphasis, then turning to him. "Sir, we should file an administrative case against him immediately—"

"Shut up, Philip." "Excuse me, sir?"

"You heard me. Shut up."

Mapa is dense enough to feel offended. "But I—"

"Whatever negligence and stupidity Ben here got up to, he got up to under your watch. It's command responsibility, Philip. You might have heard of the concept; if not, I suggest you look it up. It means that if any administrative cases are going to be filed, your name will be right on top of the list."

"My name?" Mapa's voice rises