[background] [Part 1] [Part 2] [Part 3]
[Part 4] [Part 5] [Part 6]
Chicago – South Side – Liberty Motel
Big Jim Bradley sounded like he was in a piss poor mood, but
then again I can’t recall a time when he wasn’t. Maybe it was only when he was
around me. Either way, I wasn’t going to stick around and find out.
I quickly threw on my
trench, pocketed my shooter and wallet, slipped on my streetwalkers, and headed
for the window.
"This is your last warning! Open up or we're coming
in," a muffled shout came through the door as I worked the latches on the
window. I pushed up with all my might, but it wouldn't budge. Years of neglect
and far too many coats of cheep white lead paint kept it sealed tight. Good for
keeping the heat in, but not so good for letting me the hell out.
Time seemed to slow to a crawl. I could feel the adrenaline racing
through my veins. The shouts of the police behind me were subdued and muted by
the sound of my own heart beating in my ears. No matter how hard I tried, the
window would not budge. Soon the pounding in my ears was replaced by the sound
of pounding on the door behind me.
Bang! Bang! Bang!