Frank: "You been on your own long?"
Philip: "Since I was sixteen."

Frank: "So, what, about a year then?"

There was laughter in Frank's eyes as he spoke, a certain coyness I hadn't seen much of in recent years. It was refreshing, and I found myself relaxing in spite of any misgivings I may have felt earlier.

Philip: "Almost three years now, actually."
Frank: "You're still just a baby."
Philip: "I may look young, but I can promise you I'm no baby. What brings you to these parts Mr. …?"
Frank: "Higgins, Frank Higgins."
Philip: "Philip Gordon, pleased to make your acquaintance. What brings you to these parts Frank Higgins?"

Frank: "What brings anyone anywhere these days? Work dried up out east and I heard there might be something out this way, so here I am."
Philip: "How's that working out for you?"
Frank: "Not as badly as one would expect."

After we spent a few hours talking, I got to thinking he was for sure one of those rich guys who dress down and go out looking for younger boys to pleasure them in back alleyways. You could spot them a mile off after you knew what to look for- frayed at the edges, but not quite enough, and perpetually uneasy. Frank fit the type to a T. I knew this was a chance I couldn't afford to pass up- I didn't plan on being anybody's plaything that night, but I could certainly get something out of it without having to degrade myself.

He seemed an easy target- very small frame, delicate soft hands. In the few years I'd been on my own I'd gotten quite strong, though I looked every bit the frail and effeminate boy-type. I figured I could take him once we'd gotten out of the bar, get his wallet, and get the hell out of there before he even knew what hit him. Turns out, he had other things planned.

Frank: "So, you interested in making a few quick bucks for next to no effort?"

Frank's voice was low and nervous.

Philip: "You making me an offer?"
Frank: "Come with me outside."