“Freeze!” The baritone was familiar. Jessica turned and saw Detective Cormier in the doorway flanked by several uniformed officers. When she sensed a breeze behind her, she turned to see Jack slipping out of the back door to the room.
“Everyone! Hands in the air. Now!” The detective moved into the room, g*n first, heading straight for the Pope. Two uniformed officers followed him into the room, holding their pistols in both hands, surveying the room.
“Why if it isn’t our city’s finest?” the Pope remarked. “What’s wrong, Detective? This is just a friendly game of poker. A family game really.” He stared at Lolita.
“It’s an illegal game,” Detective Cormier said. “Everyone move away from the table with your hands in the air. Stand up slowly, and put your hands up. Now!”
“You’ve got nothing
