“No!”
Ken wanted to run, but he knew he had to stick with Johnny. Adams had said he wanted Johnny, and Ken was determined he should have Johnny.
He pulled Johnny back against the wall. Nearby was a door, leading to a tall, shabby house. Suddenly the door jerked open and a shadowy figure of a girl appeared in the doorway.
“Hey! Come inside quick!” she said in an urgent whisper.
Ken could hear the thud of running feet coming from the end of the alley. He didn’t hesitate. Dragging Johnny over to the door, he bundled him into the darkness beyond and heard the girl hurriedly shut and lock the door. Almost immediately he heard someone run by.
“Is he hurt?” the girl asked.
“He’s shot in the arm.”
“Stay here. I’ll get a light.”
“Aren’t women wonderful?” Johnny muttered. “Everytime I get into a jam there’s a woman to help me out.” He leaned more heavily against Ken. “I feel like hell. I think I’m going to pass out…”
He slumped suddenly nearly pulling Ken over, then he slid to the ground.