When I was fourteen, cornered by a gang of thugs in an alley, Cheryl had stood in front of me just like this, clutching a box cutter. Her eyes had been fierce and unwavering. "Anyone who touches him answers to me!"
Now those same eyes burned with the same fire.
But this time, she was protecting another man.
I stared at the bead of blood welling on her neck.
Slowly, I pulled out my phone and dialed Uncle Rufus.
"Uncle Rufus, it's me... Yeah, about the partnership..."
The moment I hung up, Douglas was helped down from the ledge.
He threw himself into Cheryl's arms, sobbing.
She let out a long breath of relief and turned to me with a smile.
"See? Isn't this so much better when everyone gets along?"
I said nothing. I picked up my box and walked away.
She froze, about to chase after me, when Douglas let out a pained groan behind her.
She stopped immediately.
"Douglas, what's wrong?"
"I think... I think my leg cramped up..."
The sunlight hit me like a blade when I stepped outside the building.
My phone buzzed. A message from Uncle Rufus.
"Kid, that phone call was an act for their benefit, wasn't it?"
"Don't worry. The partnership can pick back up anytime, but I only work with you."