Ruth looked at him, hesitating. The question was not unexpected. What was she getting out of it? She had asked herself that question time and time again. Why bother with a brother she didn't need anymore? Why was she here? Why was she offering help? Eugene was of no use to her.

She was quiet, trying to come up with some witty reply that excused her from answering the question. No quip came to her, but the excuse entered dressed in uniform. "Time's up!" he shouted.

Ruth rose to her feet and was happy to turn away from her brother to face the guard. "I know some powerful people with good lawyers. If I hear of you lot beating my brother one more time, I swear to God, I will bring the full strength of the law down on you, and you can experience what its like to be on the other side."