"How was the trip?" I heard Diane asking.

"Cold. And I'm not sure it was worth it. Those Martians drive a hard bargain." He coughed. "Diane, you're not too set on going out tonight, are you?"

"Why?" she asked.

"I thought how nice it would be if we spent the evening at home."

"Just as you say, Roger."

"You don't care?"

"Of course not."

She was so calm, so damn calm. There would never be another like Diane.

"You won't regret it," Roger promised.

"My, but this boulevard is deserted," she said. "Not a soul in sight."

That was for my benefit. It was my cue.

I sat up silently.

He saw me then in the rear-view mirror. "What the hell?" He started to turn.

My arm sprang alive. The wrench thudded against his skull. A half cry spilled from his lips. Then his head fell forward on his chest.

"Hit him again," Diane urged.

"But—"

"Do as I say."

I hit him again, hard.

It was done. I settled back. The wrench was still in my hand. I looked at it, then let it fall.

"Are you all right?" Diane asked.

 Prev. P 3/4 next