0-9-1-5-6-8-2

‘Do you have Hope?’ Hesitation—the slightest slimmer of it, so faint most wouldn’t notice—but hesitation nevertheless. ‘I—yes, I do.’ If it weren’t for the falter perhaps I, too, wouldn’t have noticed. But I have. ‘Leashed,’I announced, only a hint of glee in my voice. I saw the eyes widen; the previously composed face turn to panic. I could feel the thoughts rushing through the brain—hundreds, thousands, all in under a second. ‘0-9-1-5-6-8-2, may logic guide you on your path,’I echoed, composing my face as I smiled sincerely.