Forces Gather: Part Eight

Showdown

“I would prefer to do this without resorting to force,” Richter says. “I have no desire or need to kill you. It is wasteful.”

Jenny says nothing. She keeps staring at the gun.

“Do not, however, mistake reluctance for unwillingness.” Richter’s voice is calm, almost soothing. “I will do what I must. I will reflect, very briefly, on the unfortunate waste of your life, and then I will continue living mine.”

She doesn’t believe for a second that he’s going to let her live. As soon as she no l...