She flinches like I’d clip a dame of her size, mouth slumping under its own weight. “He’s out. He’s working at the brickworks.” I glide my tongue along the back of my teeth, counting each stump before I start again. “Where?” Silence. A lick of chapped, bloodless lips. “Sister, here’s some free advice. Whatever mess you’re in, you should clean it up and get out.” “Excuse me? I—” I cock a bored stare. “You got a mug like a boxer. You want the same for your boys?” Her fingers twitch to her face. I’m lying, of course. The thing wearing her sweetheart was careful. If there are teeth marks, they’re
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