Posted on Sun, Dec. 23, 2007
"They were just going to dump Gino and take the car? On Christmas Eve?"
"Yeah, pardner, they were. Sometimes you can be too trusting. Well, back to the phones."
Inside, Tony's phone beeped. Colleen had sent a frosty text message: "U R SO L8! IM TO ST. A. MEET. NOW!"
Tony glanced at the clock: 5:15. If he left now, he might make it. But he couldn't leave Gino here. If you start something, finish it. That rule was sunk deep in Tony's bones.
Gino leaned back on the old love seat in the front office, with Ziti at his feet. Tony smiled at the two of them: I'll get this old guy to where he belongs, if it takes all night.
The final part of the Christmas story will appear tomorrow, Christmas Eve. To comment, e-mail csatullo@phillynews.com or call 215-854-5943.