A calculated glint flickered in Franklin's eyes. "I feel sorry for you, Mr. Dawn," he said with a calculative tone. "A man with a kind heart like myself can't bear to see another suffer. Consider this a stroke of luck. I'm willing to help you with those of your financial burdens."
Lionel's face lit up like a Christmas tree. "Really? You'd give me money?"
Franklin nodded. "Yes. You'll need to work for it."
"Anything, sir! Absolutely anything!" Gratitude dripped from Lionel's every word.
Franklin reached into his pocket and pulled out a wad of cash, slapping it into Lionel's eager hand. "Consider this a token of good faith. I'll be in touch with you and let you know what you have to do, alright?"
Lionel's eyes sparkled with greed. He had not seen so much cash together. Perhaps, he thought, his financial woes were finally over.
"I can do anything for you, sir!" he declared enthusiastically. "Just give the word!"
