Deadly Bargain: A Colors In Darkness Anthology – on sale Feb 14th
An Excerpt from my story: No Exchanges – No Returns
Victor stood off to the side as Sabrina approached the strange man and his table of curiosities. The dealer swept his dreadlocks to the side and turned on the full force of his freckles and wide smile. “Good afternoon, miss. My name is Henri.” He waved his hands over the goods. “See anything you like?”
A phony French accent and olive skin, Victor thought as he picked at his nails. That’s all it takes to impress college girls.
“What do you have?” Sabrina asked.
Henri pointed to a trio of thick red candles with gold symbols carved into them. “These are from Marrakesh. You light one as you meditate, and it will help you focus your energy on healing.” He drew her attention to a gold chalice. “I acquired this in Madrid. It’s rumored to be from the treasures hoarded by the Knights Templar. And this,” he picked up a crystal spray bottle full of amber fluid, “is perfume from Cairo.”
She picked up a faceless ragdoll. “Let me guess. From Berlin? Or a nomadic tribe on the outskirts of Algeria?”
“No.” Henri’s coal black eyes sparkled. “That’s from Pennsylvania Dutch Country.” They shared a laugh. “I’m a traveling man who picks up things here and there. No one can give you a better deal.”
Victor tuned out the conversation. Passing off dollar store junk as valuable trinkets. Got to give him credit though, he’s obviously wearing every stitch of clothing he owns and isn’t breaking a sweat. Dude is wearing three or four layers.
In the middle of a story about Stonehenge, Henri raised his arms and a brief flash of gold came from inside of his coat. Now, Victor was interested.
Sabrina stepped back and wagged a finger at the dealer. “Oh no, I don’t mess with anything from Stonehenge; I’ve seen Halloween III.” Her gaze shifted back to the red candles. “I have a friend who I think will be interested in these. Is it okay if I take a picture?”
“Sure, but understand I don’t put items on hold. If someone else comes to me with cash in hand…”
“Do you have a card? If my friend is interested, I’d want to call to make sure the item was still available.”
Victor was dumbfounded. She’s getting his phone number? She’s seriously making a play for this dude, this wannabe pirate?
“What’s your name, miss?”
“I’m Sabrina.”
Henri snapped his fingers and appeared to pluck a business card from the air. When he held it out to her, she caught a glimpse of his tattoos. “Sabrina, feel free to call about the candles or anything else you may be interested in.” He smiled slyly and winked at her.
Blushing, Sabrina turned to Victor. “I’ve got to get back. Are you coming?”
Victor shook his head. “No, I’ll be along in a few minutes.” He waited until she rounded the corner to take her place in front of the table.
What will Victor buy? How will it change his life?
Get your copy of Deadly Bargain to find out!
Tawanna Sullivan 