Maryanne’s friend appeared and proceeded to physically overpower me. Before I knew it, my chair was up-ended and my head was spinning.

I heard him barking at her to get her coat and leave with him. Jefferson was over the bar in seconds and by my side helping me up. He knelt down, the double-barrel in one hand and my throbbing melon in the other.

“Boss? Boss, are you OK?” He turned me slightly to view the retreating man as Maryanne scampered to the coat check. “What should I do” Stop her?"

This was my out!

My brain was jarred by the meeting with the marble floor, but somehow clarity returned to me.

“Let them go, Jefferson,” I put my hand instinctively to the back of my head, I touched damp, sticky hair, “enough blood for now.”

“You’re just going to let him walk outta here? He pulled a gun, everyone is spooked!”

I only cared about one person’s reaction. I saw Maryanne and her Knight-in-gray-armor descend out of sight. With a wince I turned my head toward Mr. D’s booth. I struggled to my feet.