CHAPTER SEVEN – FOR YOUR COURTESY

Cassie swallowed hard, forcing herself to stand tall. "Tony, I told you I need more time. I'm working double shifts, I'm doing everything I can—" "Time's up, sweetheart," Tony interrupted, his voice low and dangerous. "I've been more than patient, but my generosity has limits. It's time to pay up." One of Tony's goons cracked his knuckles menacingly, the sound echoing off the alley walls. Cassie felt a flash of anger cut through her fear. "Or what, Tony? You'll rough me up? Break my legs? I've got nothing for you to take. You can't squeeze blood from a stone." Tony's eyes narrowed. "Oh, I think you'd be surprised what I can squeeze, darling. Maybe I can't get money from you directly, but I bet that nice little restaurant you work in has a decent cash flow. It'd be a shame if something were to... happen to it." Cassie's blood ran cold. "Leave Cheesy Fingers out of this. This is between you and me." Tony stepped closer, invading Cassie's personal space. She could smell his expensiv