It’s not up to you, he said. You don’t make these decisions. I think you’d be far better off if you would just keep your mouth shut, he told him. He lit a cigarette and fooled around with the lock some more.

Who put you in charge? Jr. asked him. What makes you the boss?

I’m the one with the gun, he told him. In case something goes wrong, I’m the one with the gun.

What could go wrong? Jr. asked.

Lots of things. Just point the flashlight.

It’s cold out here, the kid said. Too cold.

Quit your bitching. I can’t see. Put the light right in there. Point it. Do it. Not much time.

Some locksmith you are, Jr. said. This should’ve been done a half hour ago. That’s stretching it. We’re going to get caught. I’m out of here, he told him.

A gun was pointed at Jr. You’re not going anywhere, he said. You move one step, and I’ll kill you. Dead on the spot. Now shut up and point the flashlight.

The door opened. No alarm sounded. No lights came on. In the dark, a gunshot went off. Jr. fell to the floor. Blood ran from his head.The money was collected from the safe. Walking out in the dark, he tip-toed around Jr. He shook his head. Whispered, I told you to shut up.