“You couldn’t leave well enough alone, could you, compadre?” the man said, water dripping from the brim of his hat. “I convinced them to give you a warning. A chance to walk away.” He spit onto the dirt, but kept his eyes on Rick. Rick pushed Lani partially behind him. “Leave her out of this.” His voice was as hard and cold as steel. “You and I can talk.” “Too late. The man wants the both of you taken to him.” Sal pulled Rick’s cell phone out of his back pocket. “You’re going to visit El Torero now.” Lani’s gaze darted from Sal to Rick and back, her heart pounding. What could she do to help Rick? To help them both? “Hands up, palms facing me.” Sal stepped closer. Pushed his gun into Rick’s belly. “Don’t move while I make this call, or you’re dead.” His cold gaze cut to Lani. “You run off and I’ll shoot him.” Rick raised his hands, his movements slow and easy. Raw terror filled Lani while Sal punched buttons on the weatherproof phone, the electronic sound surreal in the pouring rain.
