Locke didn't react. He stood still, composed—but not rigid. He was done posturing. Now, he was negotiating.
Ava folded her arms, watching the shift between them. "You have classified information."
Locke nodded once. "And you have resources I need."
Lucas exhaled, hands in his pockets, stepping closer like a shark scenting blood. "Alright, Captain. Let's play. What are we talking? Names? Locations? Or something a little more…" He tilted his head. "Explosive?"
Locke's expression didn't shift. "You want leverage? I can give it to you. But if I do, I'm done. I need out."
Lucas chuckled. "And you expect me to just hand you an exit?"
Locke met his gaze without hesitation. "I expect a fair trade."
Ava's system pulsed in the background, running rapid calculations, probabilities shifting as the pieces fell into place.
This wasn't just Locke betraying Angel.
This was him burning the bridge completely.
Ava exhaled, voice measured. "What's the price?"
