I waited, frozen, for the knife or gun. The one sudden moment of pain before a sudden and unpleasant death.

Instead, all I heard was a mocking chuckle.

“I haven’t come to kill you, Murray, old chap. I’m merely here to offer you a deal. A deal of a lifetime.”

“What kind of deal?” I asked. Stalling, I slipped my hand slowly onto the door handle. If I was quick enough I’d be away before he could struggle out of the back seat and follow.

“A lucrative deal.”

I looked in the rear view mirror. He gave a casual wave of his hand and a bright searing light ran along the outside edges of the door. The car filled with the scent of hot metal and seared furnishings. I pulled at the door handle and pushed the door. It was shut firm-welded shut.

“Who are you?” I stammered. “How did you do that?”

“It’s a child’s trick, nothing compared to what you’ll be able to do. Once I’ve taught you.”

“Taught me? What? Why?”

“Enough chat! We’re needed at Powell Street MUNI station, your first customer awaits.”