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I sit up straighter.

“You for real?”

“No.”

“Kev.”

“That was not legal advice.”

“But is it illegal advice?”

He breathes heavily into the phone.

“It was a stupid fuckin’ thing to say.”

“Kev. Legality. Could I do this?”

I stand, suddenly unable to stay on the bed.

“What happens if someone’s occupying it?” I ask.

Kev groans. “Do not make me regret speaking.”

“I’m just asking.”

“I don’t know yet. That’s the problem. There are too many questions. A lot of calls need to be made, and I’m not even sure to who. I am telling you there may be leverage, not handing you a treasure map.”

“But if I’m there—”

“Clint.”

“If I’m physically there, it’s harder to ignore me.”

I start pacing. Three steps to the cam corner. Three steps back. The room is too small for a decision this big.

“Is that offer still on the table?” I ask.

“The ‘fuck you, here’s ten grand’ offer? As far as I know, yes.”

“Any strings?”

“Shocker, but not really. Dude just wants to give you some money.”

Paul just wants to give you some money.

Right.

“Does taking it kill Mexico?”

“No. Separate issue. I’d make sure anything you sign keeps the property question open.”

“Could I use it?”

“For what?”

“For travel.”

Kev goes quiet.