Apologize to Hétóng Rén

Hétóng remained utterly impassive.

“I’m sorry,” Ranell stuttered again. “I… I’ve just been under so much pressure. Please trust me when I say that I am very interested in any… um… proposal you have. I've never done anything like this. I just don't know what to do."

Hétóng’s eyes narrowed slightly, and then after a long, uncomfortable moment, he suddenly smiled again. It was not a kind smile, it was tight, and the exposed teeth were crooked. But it was the dead eyes that made Ranell's blood run cold. He imagined this was what a crocodile looks like before it eats its prey.

“Ah, very good, Dr. Ranell,” Hétóng purred. "I will give you a few simple instructions now, and then I will contact you shortly to explain the many ways our benefactor has planned to make your life so much easier and more profitable. I’m sure you will be pleased with our generosity. You have made a wise decision to work with us.”