The Bruiser (21 page)

Hot and Cold Daily could be heard telephoning his story.

“I'll still go with you, won't I, Champ?” asked Blinky Miller.

“Sure thing, Blinky,” said Shane.

Turning from the telephone, Daily took Berniece's arm, “Let's all go to the Tavern—that story'll knock 'em dead.”

“All right,” agreed Shane, “let's go.” Humming,

Daily, still holding Berniece's arm, followed the crowd slowly.

“Brace up, Berniece, it's all in the game. If you win, you lose.”

“I know,” responded Berniece.