#studyofsix

Five hours of torrential rain did nothing to wash the streets clean, nor to deter the small crowd that his sleight of hand managed to draw. They’re all watching, some eager, some skeptical, waiting for the big finale that’ll have them emptying their wallets; it’s a fine display of showmanship, but the ace up his sleeve is more figurative than literal. What’s the expression -- ? A magician never reveals his tricks -- ?

Thing is, he’s not a magician.

Exploitation couldn’t be easier. Keep their attention, create a diversion within a diversion, hold them enthralled before he sweeps the rug from beneath their feet. It isn’t a scam if they’re entertained; it isn’t his fault if they choose the illusory over the tangible.

King of spades. That would be the woman’s card. An infinitesimal smile upturns the corners of his mouth.

His pockets are full of misappropriated cash when he hears the sirens.

      ❛ And for my next trick, ladies and gentlemen, ❜ a rakish grin, cards tucked away, ❛ I’m gonna demonstrate how to engage in a high-speed foot-chase with the LAPD. ❜

Somebody shouts out a belated realization, their pockets empty, but he’s already halfway down the block as the first police car slams on its brakes next to the curb. Times are tough. He’ll shake the pursuit after two, maybe three minutes -- he always does.

Or he would, if he hadn’t whipped around a corner and collided with someone.