After a moment, he shook his head. “Quickly and mercifully…
““After a moment, he shook his head. “Quickly and mercifully is best. Clay? Go out and ask her into the alley.” Clay looked at Jeremy as if he’d just been told to dance the rumba on a public thoroughfare. I bit back a laugh. “Just walk over to her and point at the alley. Maybe say…I don’t know…something like ‘fifty bucks.’ ” I looked at Jeremy. “Does that sound right? Fifty?” His brows shot up. “Why are you asking me?” “I wasn’t—I just meant, as a general…” I threw up my hands. “How am I supposed to know how much a hooker costs?” “Your guess is as good as mine.” I sighed. “Fine, fifty bucks sounds good. It’s not like she knows what the going rate is anyway. Just say that and nod at the alley. She’ll follow.” Clay continued to stare at us in silent horror. “Oh, for God’s sake, you’re ready to break her neck but you can’t—” “I’ll do it,” Jeremy said, then shot a look my way. “Not that I have any more experience soliciting prostitutes than Clay does.” “Never crossed my mind.” A mock glare, then he headed out.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A character seeks a quick, risky solution to a problem, highlighting moral ambiguity and desperation for a simple answer.
In simple terms: People look for easy fixes even when they’re unethical.
Key Takeaway
Consider the consequences before acting.
Themes
morality
desperation
decision making
risk
ethics
Mood
tense
conflicted
dark
Type
narrative
dialogue
ethical
When to use this quote
- street negotiation
- prostitution
- peer pressure
- ethical dilemmas
- quick fixes
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
consequentialism
human behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the hidden costs of taking the easy route?
- How does desperation cloud moral judgment?
A Different Perspective
The plan ignores legal and personal safety risks.