The tall man’s smile faded a fraction of an inch.

“Do not waste our time, Vincenzo,” the tall man said.

Romano moved with a speed I did not think he still possessed.

He did not shoot Marcus.

Instead, he lunged sideways, grabbing Vincenzo by the collar of his wet coat.

With his other hand, Romano pulled a heavy, black automatic pistol from his waistband.

He shoved the barrel hard into the soft flesh beneath Vincenzo’s jaw.

The armed men raised their weapons instantly.

I reached for my own hidden holster, my fingers wrapping around the grip of my compact nine-millimeter.

“Nobody move,” Romano said.

His voice was not loud, but it had a weight that made everyone pause.

“You shoot me,” Romano said to the tall man, “and Vincenzo dies first. Then we see how many of your boys Marcus can take before he goes down.”

Marcus looked confused, his gun still raised, but his aim drifting between Romano and the tall man.

“Marcus,” Romano said, keeping his eyes on Vincenzo. “Listen to me.”

“Why should I?” Marcus growled.