Down at the Docks

Night time down at the docks. The fog rolled in like a blanket over the lapping water. I crept out on the pier as the groans of the boards signaled my approach. A small furry creature scurried away in surprise. I could see a lit cigarette in the mist. He came after all.

“Hello, Rocco,” I called out. I could see the cigarette fall to his waist.
“Matt.” Came the reply as the cigarette rose and became brighter as he took a drag.

“What caused you to change your mind?” I kept approaching, cautiously. I could smell the cigarette smoke now. His face came in to view.

His eyes squinted as if examining my face. “I got a call from the boss. He’s looking for you, Matt.”

I tried to remain calm. By Rocco’s expression, I wasn’t doing a good job of it. “Really. Why?” I could feel the lump in my throat bobbing.

“He thinks you knocked up his daughter. Any truth to that?”

“No,” a chill shot through me, “It’s why I had you meet me here. You are the only one I thought I could trust.”

“I’m listening.”

“We slept together, but I’ve done the math. It isn’t mine, but I know whose it is.”

“I do too.” Rocco stepped forward and nodded. He tossed the cigarette down and ground it out. “It’s mine and I can see it in your eyes that you know. I’d kill you right now and the boss would believe anything I said, but I’m going to do you a solid. Just get out of town. I’ll tell him the truth.” Then Rocco turned and disappeared down the pier.

Huh. I thought it was Alonzo's. I even have pictures. Looks like blackmail might be a good business. I smiled. What a slut.

300 Words
Flash Story must contain: surprise, furry, smoke