He flicked the wheel on his Zippo, ignited the orange flame, and got her cigarette going. "I should quit, but even my doctor says I'm as healthy as a horse. Maybe I'll manage it in a few years."

In a far corner of the alley, something skittered, and he directed a sharp stare into the shadows, but it was only a rat. It would have been going too far to say his posture relaxed, but he didn't arm up either.

"My interested party is worried about you."