The Business Card

Then with one breathtakingly fast and fluid movement, he produced a business card. It was so graceful, like watching a magician performing. It took Ranell a moment to notice a small red stain along the edge of the ivory-colored paper card. In the next moment, he realized there was also a stinging sensation on his neck. He reached up his fingers to discover the tiniest of scratches, right across his carotid artery.

“If you change your mind, Dr. Ranell, please give me a call.”

With trembling hands, Ranell took the card. It was blank except for a single phone number.

“I must warn you, however,” Hétóng turned to leave, “that if you discuss this meeting with anyone, you forfeit any chance of making good on our offer.”