"Go inside," I tell Mrs. Young quietly, not taking my eyes off the approaching men. "Both of you."
"Aiden, no." Mr. Young grabs my arm. "You don't understand. These people are dangerous."
"I understand perfectly."
The three men reach our section of the street. The leader is a stocky man with gold teeth and arms covered in crude tattoos. His companions flank him like trained attack dogs. They move with the casual arrogance of people who've never faced real resistance.
"Well, well." The leader's voice drips false friendliness. "Old Man Young, still serving slop to the dregs, I see."
Mrs. Young emerges from behind the serving window despite my warning. Her hands tremble as she bows slightly.
"Master Hu. We told you yesterday. We're closing tomorrow. The money will be ready then."
"Tomorrow?" Master Hu laughs, a sound like grinding metal. "Did I say tomorrow? I said tonight."
"Please, we just need one more day. The bank transfer takes time."
