He said it like a dare, clearly expecting Finn to react with the same hotheaded boldness he'd displayed so far.
But Finn was already walking deeper into the shed, looking around for a workspace and tools. "Why should I do that?" he called back over his shoulder. "I have nothing to prove. If you want me out of here, you'll have to try harder than that."
Old Dog Mendoza seemed slightly taken aback. He paused, reassessing. Maybe he'd misjudged this young man after all. Maybe beneath that casual arrogance was someone who actually knew how to pick his battles.
But then Finn said something that completely threw off Old Dog Mendoza's new assessment.
"I'll only do it if the offer is at least quadrupled." Finn turned back to face him, that lazy smile still in place. "And not just pay for one day. For five days."
Old Dog Mendoza stilled. His frown became something darker, more serious. He stared at Finn like he was trying to see through layers of deception to whatever truth lay beneath.
