George smashed his cigarette into the ash tray, grinding it out. He pulled out a new one from the pack, lit it, and took a long drag. The red end glowed bright in the room before the flame settled. Smoke curled up around his face.
The door creaked open. Lokie stepped in and strode across the room. Her face stayed blank, every emotion locked down tight.
George didn't turn to look at her. He kept smoking, blowing smoke toward the sunny sky visible through the big glass window.
"Rick's down," Lokie said. She tossed a black bag at him. It thudded hard against the floor. She turned to leave without waiting for any response.
"Not so fast," George's heavy voice filled the room, cutting through the quiet.
He finally turned around and met her eyes. "Got another mission for you." The words came
