Chapter 21: The Thing In The Hall

"Lead on warrior," Wolf said to Mark. The young man unconsciously straightened under the compliment. Mark led him to a staircase. He nodded at the two men who lounged on the steps playing cards. Wolf noted that their guns weren't far from their hands. They went up three floors before Mark pushed through to lead him down a dingy hall. There was no power here. They stopped in front of a door. Mark pushed it open.

"The locks don't work, but there's a bolt for when you're sleeping," Mark said. "I sleep across the hall if you need something." He stood glaring at Wolf like he regretted not shooting him while he had the chance. Wolf sighed and dropped his gear on the bed.

"I have no interest in Cherry,"

"Don't tell her that," Mark said bitterly, "that'll just encourage her."

Wolf laughed and nodded.

"I'll keep that in mind," Wolf said, "Tell me about the trouble."

Mark turned away, but not before Wolf saw him go pale. Wolf waited for the young man to compose himself.