This is just gorgeous. It felt like the very best noir film. I could see, vividly, Gerard standing in the alley, with the coiffed hair and the bright red lips, in the dress with the gun taking out the mobster assaulting her man. And there's a close up at her tear filled (or, maybe, determined?) eyes as she pulls the trigger. It was a scene I swear Ive seen in a dozen black and whites and it was all just so perfect! What wonderful atmosphere! This was a great read.