224 Rub his skin raw

Ivo's stomach coiled with phantom hunger pangs. He remembered how disinterested he'd been in food during those days -- now he knew why.

The memories from the days he'd spent in a haze of obsequiousness threatened to swallow him like a great wave. 

On the screen, Rodrigo dismissed Ivo and kept addressing his invisible audience.

"As you can see, the Opsys implantation was a success, he is obedient, doesn't question orders, and shows no sign of rebellion. This is ideal for personal domestic work, as well as maintenance or service industry activities to be carried out across the station."

Ivo became aware of Davi's harsh breathing to his left. He chanced a look at him and saw the sweat beading his forehead, along with the fists clenched at his side.

He wanted to comfort him somehow, but he didn't have the words. Part of him felt guilty -- as if it was his fault they were all watching it.