"He is a fool," She replies viciously. But her expression softens, and breaks into a genuine smile.
"'Ponine, Evie. At least, to my friends." Not that she has many. Evie doesn't need to know that, though.
"D'you think he'll let me stay then, Monsieur Jean-Claude? I can do as I'm told, when I want to. I can make myself useful and that. It ain't like with them back in Paris. I swear." Her attention wanders as she mentally tries to anticipate Evie's answer. If she says no, what will she do? Run? Will she even be able to run? Or will that make him come over here? The last thing she wants is for Montparnasse to realise that his punishment might actually benefit her. He might send her somewhere worse next time.

"So these people" - she gestures at the people propped against the bar - "They all want to be bled?"