Page 100 of Brick's Retribution

Stage lights illuminate the space where women will be displayed.

Sorry, sold.

"Welcome, esteemed guests," a man in an expensive tuxedo addresses the room from the platform. "Today we present an exceptional selection of merchandise. As always, all lots come with health certificates and documentation. Delivery can be arranged to any location globally."

Bile rises in my throat.

"Bidding will be conducted in US dollars," he continues. "Payment is expected within twenty-four hours of purchase. And now, let us begin."

The first woman brought out is in her early twenties, trembling despite the drugs clearly in her system.

The auctioneer describes her like a car—age, measurements, "special skills."

The bidding is brisk, businesslike.

She's sold for three hundred thousand to a man who looks like someone's grandfather.

The second is younger, maybe sixteen.

I feel Imani's hand clench in her lap, but her face remains impassive.

This girl fights despite her restraints, earning appreciative murmurs from the audience.

"Spirited," the auctioneer notes. "Perfect for those who enjoy... training."

She sells for half a million.

The third woman is in her thirties, described as "experienced domestic staff."

The mundane evil of it—reducing a human being to her utility—makes it somehow worse.

Then they bring out the children.

Two girls, neither older than thirteen, clutching each other on the platform.

Sisters, the auctioneer notes, available as a set or separately.

"No," Imani breathes beside me, so quiet only I can hear.

Then louder, with perfect cartel princess authority: "Five hundred thousand for both."

Heads turn our way.

The auctioneer smiles. "We have five hundred thousand. Do I hear six?"

"Six hundred," someone counters.

"Seven," Imani says immediately.

"Eight hundred," another bidder jumps in.

"One million," Imani states flatly. "For both. Together."

The room goes quiet.

It's an aggressive bid, high enough to warn off casual interest.

"One million going once... twice... sold to Ms. Torres."

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