he who hesitates is toast

The corner of his mouth quirks just a little, rueful. "To the end of the line."

He can see Steve's beaten face under his fist if he closes his eyes. He can see the bruise at Sharon's temple, the tears in her eyes, the way she'd hung from the ropes he'd tied her with. He should keep resisting, keep pushing, insist that he leave. He's just not sure how, since he's not sure enough now that it'd be to their benefit--

(it'll hurt so much more)

--rather than for his.

Maybe in a day or two they'll change their minds, once they realize the full extent of the problem he represents. For now--

"Okay." Soft, but clear. "If you're sure. If you're both sure."