The ConfrontationAs a peace offering, I helped clean the kitchen, then we each retreated, me to my bedroom, Mary and Blitz to theirs. I’m sure they were afraid, but they never showed it.
I loaded my gun and put my calf holster on. Then I turned off my lamp and peered out into the darkness. Not so much as a cat yowled outside. I locked the window, then drew the curtains.
The kitchen bell rang; Blitz and Mary’s footsteps hurried through the hall. The kitchen door to the alley opened. Men’s voices, then footsteps into the parlor.
A soft knock. “He’s here, mum,” Mary said.
“Call a messenger, but keep it quiet. Tell my husband to gather every man he has around him and come here at once.” Joe might be out for blood. “Then get your shotgun. Don’t let him past you.”
Her eyes widened. “Yes, mu
