‘We’ve checked everywhere, Sam, it ain’t here,’ said Ruth.

I dropped the sledgehammer. ‘Alright Gutman, where is it?’

‘I told you. Ask Cairo. He knows, not me.’

‘Cairo’s dead. So’s Archer. You’re responsible. Now cough up the statue.’

‘Poor Mr. Spade. You’re nothing but a clueless gumshoe.’

‘The Falcon, where is it?’ I aimed the pistol at Gutman’s heart, if there was a heart beating in that emotionless cavern.

The only thing I knew for sure was it wasn’t behind the wall I’d just busted through.

Gutman gave a rumbling laugh,’It’s not as simple as that, Mr. Spade.’

It never is, I thought.

Copyright Mikhael Sublett

Written for Friday Fictioneers hosted by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields (more details HERE). The idea is to write a short story of 100 words based on the photo prompt (above).

It’s that time of year – the decorations are up, it’s cold outside, and it’s perfect weather to sit on the sofa and watch old movies. A lot go for Christmas films, but nothing says Christmas to me like the old classics, especially with Humphrey Bogart – Casablanca, Key Largo and The Maltese Falcon. This scene is my little tribute to that last of these, a classic noir novel and film.

To read stories of 100 words based on this week’s prompt, visit HERE.

2 weeks until Christmas, still time to order either of my novels for the reader in your life! Perfect if you’re looking to discover a new action thriller book!

A JUSTIFIED STATE: U.S.A. – AMAZON.COM  UNITEDKINGDOM  AUSTRALIA  CANADA INDIA BRAZIL MEXICO GERMANY FRANCE SPAIN ITALY NETHERLANDS JAPAN

STATE OF DENIAL: U.S.A. – AMAZON.COM UNITED KINGDOM  AUSTRALIA CANADA INDIA BRAZIL MEXICO GERMANY FRANCE SPAIN ITALY NETHERLANDS JAPAN