[ IP ] Mob Connections

One of her companions hid his face behind a full mask. The other was a gigantic monster, clutching a shotgun longer than my torso. 
 
 Somehow, despite her company, *she* was still the most threatening. It was the demure look of expectation through the hollo-visor, the soft glow of the cigarette in the dim alley, and the way she clutched the briefcase like it was the most important thing in the world, yet disposable at a moment's notice. 
 
 We were locked in an interesting tableau for a moment. One that almost certainly worked in her favor. I had to break the silence. 
 
 “ Alright, fine, I'll bite. Why did you guys drag me out here? ” I already had a sneaking suspicion, but I hoped that I was wrong about this - 
 
 “ We know why we want you. ” Well, straight to the punch. Why was I always right when it came to bad news? 
 
 “ Look, the hack job was a one-time thing. You know it, I know it, the corps know it. I've got enough to cover my bar tab for the rest of my days, I do n't care what you- ” 
 
 She moved, and I stopped as she handed the case to her faceless male partner. With a series of clicks, the case was opened. 
 
 “... You're serious. ” 
 
 “ Deadly. ” Her tone matched the word. “ You know I do n't joke about this. ” 
 
 She was right. I *knew* she was right. For a few seconds I simply stood there in shock, before setting my jaw. 
 
 “ Give me a day. ” 
 
 “ You have two hours. ” 
 
 With that, she gestured with her cigarette. The briefcase was closed as man, woman and beast walked out into the crowded under-city streets. 
 
 Well, damn.
