‘But, Kellan, don’t forget: you came to me because no bank would lend your failing business any more money. You were running your construction company into the ground by not moving with the times, and you wanted money and muscle, and didn’t care where either came from. Don’t come bleating to me because you couldn’t be arsed to read the small print.’

‘I had some cash-flow problems and some union-activity snags. You took advantage—’

‘I took advantage?’ OK, now I was triggered. I stood up. ‘You had some … stains in your life and I took care of them as requested. You’re the one who reneged on our contract to pay back what you owed and you want the whole world to feel sorry for you. Why don’t you try owning your shit instead of dumping it at my front door?’

‘Dan, I’m warning you. Give me back what’s mine while you still have the chance,’ said Kellan.

‘Or what?’

‘Or suffer the consequences.’

‘Oh, do be brief! Is that all you’ve got, Bruemann? What will you do? Give me a sideways look? Stick pins in a straw effigy? Damn, but you’re pathetic. Listen closely because I’m only going to say this once more. I have no intention of selling my shares or anything else back to you. It’s called business, Kellan. Just business. Close the door on your way out.’

‘You don’t want to test me, Dan,’ said Kellan quietly. ‘You don’t want me to get drastic.’

I burst out laughing. ‘You? Get drastic? Oops, did I blink and miss it? Go away, you pitiful parasite. Go drown yourself in a drink or five.’

I sat back down and bent my head to peruse the paperwork on my desk. I didn’t look up again until I heard the study door click shut.

Loser!

NOW

six. Libby

My hand went to Troy’s chest over his heart and then I felt for a pulse in his neck. Still nothing. I closed my eyes and inhaled slowly before trying his wrist again. When at last I detected a pulse throbbing against my fingers, I could’ve cried with relief. Troy’s eyes were still closed. He must’ve knocked himself out.

What should I do?

Turn him onto his back? No. If he’d injured his spine or his neck, that could make things worse. Plus turning him over might result in him swallowing his tongue and not being able to breathe.

Think. Think.