PEARL’S POV
“But-but, just a minute ago you said that-”
Mel reaches behind the counter. His eyes look like he is going wild. Before I realize what he is doing, his body jolts up, showing youth in his small framed body. “I know what I said, and I changed my mind.”
“M-Mr.,” I try to say the words yet somehow nothing comes out, but stammering and stuttering all over a nickel-plated pistol now aiming right at my forehead.
“Now, do yourself a favor and never come here again,” he warns before c*****g the hammer.
I throw my hands up in the air, letting him know I mean no harm. Step by step, I back away, inch by inch, he follows me. Never blinking- never cracking a smile or frown. His usual trembling hands are as calm and steady as can be. I continue moving backward until I am three feet awa
