EXTRACT : Americano

“Do you know what it means?” asked the Nazi. “Do you?” His eyes were wider now.“Do you?”

Ravi folded the paper and slipped it back into its envelope. He looked up at Kurt and nodded. “Yes.” 

“Can you tell me?” Kurt asked. 

Ravi chuckled. He stared at the fear behind the scarred eye – transfixed. It was fear long-lived. 

“Please tell me ...” pleaded Kurt. “I have to know … what does it say? 

“No,” said Ravi gently. “It's not for you.” He smiled. 

Kurt begged. “No … Please … No … I have to know … Please …” 

Eytan spoke again. “Ravi?” 

This time Ravi nodded. A single silenced dull shot thudded. No echo. When the end comes, it comes quickly. Torment unravelled. Torment obstructed. Torment silenced.