A few days had passed since Ray's "disgrace." Now Amy sat in a café on a date with Gary.
The man was clearly happy: after all, she had been the one to take the initiative. He had taken a liking to her right away and had tried more than once to ask her out — but before, it had always ended in polite refusals. Today, however, was different.
"Let's be honest," Amy began. "I know you like me. Maybe I'm not the best judge of people, but I want to believe you're a good man. However, there is no man in this world who could heal my wounds. So nothing can happen between us."
"I can only offer you friendship. I don't believe in friendship between a man and a woman — usually one loves the other, and sooner or later it ends in bed. But if you're ready to be my friend, I'm certain: our case will be the exception."
"I believe you," said Gary, smiling bitterly, "but it doesn't make me happy. Though, I confess, I suspected the evening might end exactly like this."
"I truly think you're a decent person," Amy continued. "But I'm not the woman you need. Honestly, I'm here for two reasons. First, my son has always been far too persistent about finding me a partner, and lately, he's become especially stubborn. He even agreed to go to a bar just so I would end up here. And secondly… I have a favor to ask of you."
"Your words wound my pride deeply," Gary replied, "but I'm ready to accept this defeat. At least the consolation will be spending the evening in good company. As for your request — I'll do everything in my power, provided it doesn't break the law."
"I don't think it will be a problem for you. I understand: too much time has passed, and the chances of finding anything are nearly zero. But if you ever come across any leads — pass them on to my son. I know the only things keeping him in this world right now are me… and hatred. It's not normal, but if hatred allows him to live — I'm ready to feed it."
Gary looked into her eyes and clearly understood: she was telling the truth. She really would go to any lengths for her son.
"Alright. I understand you perfectly."
Having received his agreement, Amy smiled tenderly. Even though Gary knew he had no chance, he still had a lovely evening in the company of a woman who was not only beautiful but also intelligent.
When Amy returned home, Ray asked:
"How did your date go?"
"I found myself a good friend… but nothing more."
"That's sad. Have you thought about Jill and Frank's offer yet?"
"No, but I still have time. Honestly, it feels like you're trying to send me away. I don't know what you're planning, but whatever it is — I'll always be on your side. I believe you won't do anything bad to a good person. Whatever you do — I'm with you. Just take care of yourself, alright?"
Hearing these sincere words, Ray paused for a moment — wondering whether to tell her about his plans. But he immediately suppressed that desire and simply said:
"Alright. I promise I'll be careful."
After spending a little more time with his mother, Ray set off on business. Following a training session with Mikie, he headed to the office of the company "World of Technology."
Entering the general director's office, he saw an old man in a wheelchair.
"Hey there, Old Man! How are you?"
"Everything's good, kid. Glad to see you."
"How are our plans progressing?"
"Everything's ready. We've found several targets. To avoid raising questions, you'll have to get closer to your father."
"I'll do it this week. I have an interview to boost his reputation. It'll be a great opportunity for us."
"We have several pedophiles in development, but others are already working on them, so don't worry."
"Sorry for leaving this on you."
"Don't worry about it, kid. I understand why you don't want to be in the spotlight. Besides, you didn't just give me a chance for revenge — you gave me a reason to live again. I still think your scheme is complete madness… but you're stubborn, and I'm curious to see how it all ends. Don't worry about me. Everyone does their job."