[ There is a bit of Lews in him, she thinks, as much as there can be when he's still somewhat in denial about his destiny, but that doesn't mean there aren't pieces that are completely, uniquely Rand, and she has to remember that, especially when he approaches her with that gentle set of his shoulders, hands clasped behind his back in a way that could certainly indicate innocence but hint otherwise now that she's caught the glimpse of that smile first. ]

Of course. The hospital doesn't always pay on time, either.

[ She says it with a note of understanding, but also with some feigned reluctance — just because his employer is late with handing him his coin doesn't mean she needs to wait to be paid.

Never mind the fact that she's already been charging him less than she should be — something which they're both more than aware of, since this thing began between them. ]

I haven't decided yet. [ She runs her gaze over him appraisingly, now that he's standing in front of her. ] I could accept something else as collateral. A stand-in, to satisfy me until I get what I'm owed.