In Advance [Fiction]

“He's gone,” I drawled, taking a long drag from my cigarette.

The redhead froze for a moment when she saw me. Her eyes, cold and calculating, swept the quiet street again as if searching for someone. Then she smiled, her expression softening. “Excuse me…I don't know what you mean.”

I stepped closer, puffing smoke into the night air. She tucked some hair behind her ear, straightening and pushing out her chest. I smirked, studying her.

“You didn't waste any time spiking his drink. Who are you working for?”

Her smile faltered, her eyes narrowing. “I have no idea what you're talking about. I'm on the clock and should get back inside.”

Just as she turned towards the divebar, I flicked the cigarette to the ground and lunged, grabbing the back of her neck firmly and pinning her against the wall next to the swinging door.

A rush of breath escaped her mouth. She struggled, driving her hips backwards to throw me off balance. I tightened my hold and she shrieked, breathing fast and uneven.

The silence stretched between us as the music from inside the divebar grew louder. I put my lips close to her ears. “Tell me who paid you to poison his drink and I might spare you.”

She scoffed. “I know your type. All lies. I mean Rick no harm. It’s just a sedative.”

“For what?” I shot back, anxious to get answers before anyone came out and saw us. She shuddered against me, her eyes shutting for a moment.

“I don't know. I don't ask such questions. I was paid in advance…”

“I'm still waiting for the name or names.”

She gulped. “I can't say…. he'll kill me.”

“And what do you think I will do to you if you don't give me what I want?”

She had started to tremble badly, her hands shaking. “I have a son…please.”

“Then start talking!”

“Okay! Ros Carrillo—”

“Rugged Bars gang?” I cut in incredulously.

“Yes,” she said. “I needed the money….”

I'd tuned her out at this point. The punk had crossed me years ago but I spared him on the condition to take him out if I ever laid eyes on him again. This situation just got more interesting.

I eased my hand off the redhead's neck.

I hope you enjoyed reading this short piece. It's inspired by the Freewrite #dailyprompt phrase @daily.prompt/6-april-2026-freewriters-community-daily-writing-prompt-day-3065-in-advance" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">"in advance".

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