The Tenuous Alliance

Ming Fa plopped the plate of spaghetti onto the table, wearing a grimace as he settled in across from Christine, his face radiating quiet curses at her, leaving Christine utterly speechless.

"Is it really necessary to get so mad just because I stole some money?" Christine inquired.

"I think someone who steals and feels no guilt deserves my anger," Ming Fa retorted.

"Well, I feel honored then."

"Is that something to be proud of?" Ming Fa rolled his eyes.

"Can I sit next to you guys?" Peter's voice came from behind Christine, holding a beef burger with just a beef patty and lettuce.

"Get lost," Ming Fa gestured for him to leave, his eyes seeking help from Christine. But all he got was her continuing to enjoy her sausage sandwich.

"We're all soldiers who've braved the edge of life and death together. Can't we just eat together?" Peter paid no mind to Ming Fa's protests, pulling him down to sit, leaving Robert standing alone.

"Hey, this is my final warning to you," Ming Fa glared at Peter, his patience wearing thin.

Peter was smart. He enjoyed teasing Ming Fa, but he needed Ming Fa's help for his plan. If Ming Fa didn't want to play along now, what would happen to his plan?

"Alright, alright," Peter switched from his playful face to a serious leader expression, "Do you know the most classic element of science fiction novels?"

Ming Fa paused for a moment, then whispered, "Robots."

"Then what do we have among our soldiers here?" Peter's lips curled up, satisfied with Ming Fa's response.

"Spies," Ming Fa responded quickly.

"Very good." Peter was even more satisfied, extending his right hand. "Looks like we have great chemistry, huh?"

Ming Fa furrowed his brows, his expression reluctant because he despised this man. But there was no other way to root out the spy.

So they shook hands.