"No, thank you," Moon said, seizing the opportunity Tom had created. "I've heard that memory extraction procedures can be dangerous to the subject. I decline the offer."
"Mr. Outlaw, the procedure is actually completely saf—" Tara began, attempting to salvage their position.
"Did you not hear what the young man said?" Tom interrupted with arctic coldness that made the temperature in the room seem to drop several degrees. "He stated clearly that he doesn't want to undergo your procedure. That should be the end of this discussion."
Tara nodded rapidly, her head bobbing like a frightened bird as she met Tom's pitiless stare. "Yes, sir. Absolutely. We understand completely."
Recognizing that the situation was escalating beyond their ability to control, Rock immediately moved to de-escalate before Tom's displeasure could turn into something more dangerous for their careers.
