Chapter 1383

Matthew saw Gabriel's desperation and turned to Brody. "Why not give him a chance? If you don't let him pay up, he'd rather die. It's still a life we're talking about—you can't just stand by and watch him go to waste." Brody gave Matthew a strange look. Somehow, Matthew had twisted what was clearly an act of violent coercion into something that sounded noble and unavoidable. It was actually a clever way to make accepting the money seem not only justified but also safe—Brody would not have to worry about being accused of extortion. Matthew pressed on when Brody did not respond. "Come on, Brody, show some mercy. Take the compensation and save his life." Brody's expression was complicated as he considered the situation. He knew Matthew had set everything up for him, paving the way for him to accept the money without any guilt. Still, he hesitated. The thought of 100 thousand dollars solving so many of his problems was tempting, but taking money he had not earned felt wrong. But a