26Felicia“I want to talk to you about your new best friend, Lance,” Mr. Black says, his smile that of a snake’s, gums flashing. “I would offer you a seat but . . .” He waves a hand over the alleyway. “This isn’t exactly five-star accommodation.”
“You’re Lance’s employer,” I say. “I’ve heard your name. If you’re Lance’s employer, then why would you—”
“Oh silly, sweet princess.” He giggles again. I feel like wormy hands have just trailed over my body. He rubs his hands together as a man does before beginning a fine meal. His black eyes move up and down my body. He licks his lips. He is repulsive, I think, as the twins snigger behind me.
“Let me first tell you who I am.” He looks at me with a quick snap of the head. It’s a teacher’s gaze, trained on a student, a gaze that says:Don’t you da
