Point Off The Edge
Issue 42

Wylie Times receives a visit from Agent Graves. The offer is made and the attaché delivered. Wylie has no idea who might have ruined his life, unless it's his landlord or his boss. Norm the landlord has given him a hard time already today, and his boss at the garage, the landlord's brother, has similar in store for him.

Arn berates Wylie and forces him to work a double shift. As the men argue, a couple walk into the kiosk. The woman is quiet, and sporting a black eye, she asks to use the toilet. The man gets involved in the argument, telling Arn that he treats Wylie like shit, but that Wylie is an asshole for taking it. The woman soon returns and asks Wylie to fix the toilet for her. As Wylie enters the toilet he sees a message written on the mirror in lipstick, "He's going to kill me."

Returning to the kiosk, Wylie acknowledges receipt of the message, "That's a nice colour lipstick you're wearing, Ma'am." He goes outside, seemingly to fill up the car. In fact Wylie lets down the tyres. He walks back into the kiosk just as the man shoots Arn in the stomach. The man robs the till, all the while insulting Wylie for being a loser. The insults turn to assault as he beats Wylie then puts the gun to his head.

Before the shot can be fired, the woman breaks a coffee jug on the man's head, takes the gun and kills him. Arn pleads with Wylie, promising to treat him better and give him more money. Wylie says it is too late, picks up the money and leaves.

Outside, Graves is waiting. The two get into Graves' car and Wylie is once again offered the attaché. This time Wylie looks at the picture inside. He recognises the man, but can't name him. Graves offers some help...his name is Shepherd.

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