It took Big Ed an eternity to answer the doorbell. Matt stood on the front porch, waiting for the invitation to step inside. None was offered.

“Hey,” he said.

“What do you need?”

“The morphine.”

Big Ed grunted. “You have the money, then? The price we agreed on?”

“Not all of it.” Matt cleared his throat. “But I can pay you back. With interest.”

Big Ed slowly folded his arms across his chest and remained silent. Matt spoke to the welcome mat, unable to look the man in the eyes. The words came out too quickly, no confidence behind them. “I have it all figured so it works for both of us—fifty percent of my profits for the next two months. That should make it worth your while.” Matt hated the desperation in his own voice. “You know I’m good for it.”

Big Ed shook his head. “Business doesn’t work that way, Matt. At least not a good business. You know this.”

Matt clenched his fingers into fists, grinding his teeth together and willing himself to make the necessary mental shift. The words stuck in his throat.

Big Ed placed one hand on the doorknob and started to ease the door shut. “If that’s all, then I’ll see you in a couple of weeks. For your normal appointment.”

“Wait,” Matt said. He put one palm flat on the door. He could feel the seconds, minutes, rushing past.

“Yes?”

Matt spoke in a low voice, through clenched teeth. “Is that transport job still available?”

Big Ed smiled. “That’s better.” He pushed the door wide open. “There’s always a transport job available.” He swept his hand toward the living room. “Come on in, I’ll give you all the details. And we’ll get that morphine for you.”

Matt lowered his head and walked through the door.