"I need this pain to keep me sharp."
Leo looked back at Alina.
The anger in the young woman's eyes faltered at Leo's utter candor.
Her tense body relaxed slightly, and her grip on the microphone loosened.
She had expected to be thrown out, mocked, or even ignored.
She was prepared to face the arrogance of power.
But she hadn't expected to be acknowledged and respected.
Leo placed the check in Alina's hand.
"Take the check. You've earned it. It's a testament to your abilities, not hush money."
"But, Alina, money alone won't solve the problem."
Leo looked her in the eye.
"You can curse me out, vent your frustration, and walk away with the money. But next month, your landlord might just raise the rent again. Those dishwashers will still have no security."
"Do you want to change all that?"
"Not just for yourself, but for the tenants' union you represent, and for everyone else just like you."
"I…" Alina was stunned. Her mouth fell open. "Of course I do."
"Then don't go."
