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Where it goes

• The supplier, who sets the price and changes the terms when it suits them.
• The debt. Street lenders copy the pay-advance apps: fees by the hour, tips that are not optional, a loan stacked on

a loan. A debt can be called in at any hour, and the lender's patience is a clock someone else holds.

• The cut. Dealers keep a share; a dealer who owes money elsewhere skims.
• Protection. Gangs tax corners; private security sells safety to whoever pays; a cop on the take sells it to whoever

pays more.

• Upkeep. The stash flat, burner rotation, battery packs, a chip reflash for a dealer, bail, the doctor's odd-numbered

bills.