Book Excerpt # 5

Simmons, who was now very near to Bobby's face, said in a low and convincing voice, "Mr. Hunter, there may be a day very soon when you will find yourself walking a long and dark corridor leading nowhere. You will find yourself alone, wandering in an endless, drunken state as you do now. At that time you will feel the consuming grip of regret for not doing what was right. Search deep within yourself to remedy this tragic flaw, Mr. Hunter." He lowered his voice even more. "After you have passed from this life, I will remind you of our conversation." Alan noticed a white hot gleam of blazing light in Simmons's eyes. "Do you understand, Mr. Hunter?"

Bobby Hunter looked pale and frozen, unable to move, as if he were looking into the eyes of a beast rather than a man. Simmons said, "Excellent. Well then, good day."