"Why, my girl, the sky's the very limit for what you can accomplish," Belli said, and his voice sounded sure of that. "Especially in this era. Women are more powerful than ever. That is, of course, if we manage to sever all of Ms. Parry's ties. Once we've made sure of that, then you can go off and do whatever you like, there's nothing to stop you. And if you decide you aren't as fond of that body as you should be, or if things get too... complicated..."
He waved his hand in a dismissive circular gesture to indicate surroundings. Complications did have a tendency to crop up, usually manifesting by way of men in uniforms. "Well, I'll always have your pictures with me. Just in case. You can always come back and we'll try again next time. I promised I wouldn't give up until things were perfect for you, and I'll keep that promise. I won't abandon you, Adelaide, but you know I'd never cage you, either." His blue eyes flashed for just an instant. A flicker of silver light. "That's them. Now, then. I see this young lady has pierced ears. How splendid! Why don't you pick out a pair of earrings to go with that new haircut you gave yourself?"