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fairy tales about how the old witch delivered the goods and made good on her promise. You say it's time to settle up for services rendered. I like my version better. Prove what you say is true, and the lady gets her money. No proof, no payment. It s that simple. How's that for getting straight to the point?" |
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Armond's eyes drifted shut. He continued to sit, motionless and silent. "Very well," he finally whispered in his flat, measured, lifeless voice. "You shall have your proof." |
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Raymond Armond stood up and headed for the door where he paused. "Within the span of the sunset and the dawn of the new day, you shall have what you seek. Then you will know." |
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After the door closed, Charlie refilled his drink and walked back out on the balcony. He was laughing. He had called their bluff. He looked down and saw Kristen still sitting on the warm white sand. Like Raymond, the attentive young man had moved on. He was nowhere in sight. Only then was Charlie aware that, despite the superficial laugh, there was a growing feeling of uneasiness stirring inside him. |
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They had worked hard at having fun. They spent most of the early part of the afternoon exploring a near deserted stretch of beach near Calling Point. They shared a cup of |
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