Seeing Tommy was shocked and didn't know what to say, Benjamin nodded, like whatsoever was in his head had been accomplished.
He was very sure Tommy wouldn't just support a girl, right? So he asked again, "How about you start working for me, kid? You'll get paid, you'll get protected, but don't expect any heart-to-hearts, that's not part of the deal?"
Hearing this, 'eerr… no heart-to-heart?' Tommy realized this… was more than just about serving drinks and tobacco.
"What's the real story of all these, man?" he summoned the courage to ask.
Benjamin raised his voice, rubbing his forehead lazily. "Don't get cute with me, kid. Just give me a straight answer, no lip!"
Tommy, gathering his courage yet again, retorted, "Ain't I got the right to speak my mind too, man? I'm a part of this too a.."