Several months had passed since their last meeting. Now, Ray and Tami were speaking via video link.
The company had its own developments in this area — to avoid data leaks, the channel was fully encrypted.
"The little one has fit very well into the group. She even told us her story, boss. I think you two should meet and talk. I'm sure she's ready," Tami said.
"It's not necessary. Even if she's ready, I'm not. All I need is for her to be able to protect herself if it comes to that. I have no intention of dragging the little one into these games of the 'Devils.'"
"The death of her bodyguards was a heavy blow for her, but we helped her cope. It's good she doesn't know the truth. In any case, the deaths of those bastards became an excellent motivator for her training."
"You're right. I'm very glad they managed to bring at least something good. By the way, ever since I assigned you and your sister, in addition to protecting Violetta, to open self-defense and psychological assistance centers for victims of violence, you've done brilliant work. How would you feel about leaving field work?"
"We can minimize our outings, but for now, we still need them. I know the issue of indispensability concerns you. But my sister and I can be replaced. And if something happens — neither of us will blame you. From the very beginning, we wanted to work in the field. I have to say... we, like many of the Erinyes, were seeking death."
Taking a pause, she added:
"But seeing the first results of our work, we, like many others, understood that we want to dedicate our lives to changing this world. And if we have to die for that — we are ready."
Hearing the sincere words of the girl, who was one of the first "Devils" and knew not only his story but his face, Ray grew pensive. Once, he had only intended to find those who had taken Lily and the little ones from him. But in trying to find them, he had realized just how deeply human society had rotted.
"I understand you. In any case... take care of yourselves. All the Erinyes are like children to me. The death of any of you is a heavy blow for me."
Ray rarely showed his weaknesses. But now, he was willing to do so. He hoped that seeing him like this, Tami might reconsider, or at least become more cautious.
Seeing Ray like this, the girl smiled tenderly:
"Don't worry, daddy. We'll be very careful."
Although she smiled, sparks of sadness flickered in her beautiful eyes. Ray knew that this little one, like her sister, wanted to become something more to him. He was certain they would even be willing to share him. But after losing Lily, he didn't think there was a woman in this world he could let into his heart.
Seeing the sincere love in that girl's eyes, Ray smiled bitterly and said:
"Forgive me. The problem isn't with you. I just don't think there's a girl in this world I could come to love."
Tami nodded and, smiling tenderly, said:
"I know. But I will hope that she appears. And if that happens — I will be sincerely happy for you. I know you're consumed by self-hatred. But in my eyes, you, like no one else, deserve happiness."