Machiavellian treat 

Something that seems to be a gift on the surface, though you're not actually getting anything, and are at risk of losing everything and being put out on the street (if you never fight).

Holding your breath won't do much good with a slow knife going further and further in between your ribs. The extensions of restrictions are just a Machiavellian treat for business owners to make them think they're getting something good by staying open instead of being shut down. Really, the governor is the one getting the treat.

Machiavellian treat by Solid Mantis January 8, 2021