• Chapter 33: Then-Sharp Dressed Man
    Oct 11 2025

    In this chapter, Notch and Gabriella visit a high-end men's clothing store to buy a linen suit, dress shirt, and shoes. Gabriella takes charge, referring to Notch as her husband, which surprises him but also makes him feel admired by the store's salesmen. The salesmen treat Gabriella with great respect and cater to her every request, even when she insists on buying expensive Italian loafers for Notch.

    Notch is measured for his suit, and although he feels it fits perfectly, Gabriella is not satisfied and insists on further adjustments. The salesmen are clearly captivated by Gabriella's beauty and charm, and they go out of their way to accommodate her. Eventually, Gabriella manages to persuade the store's tailor to have the suit ready by the evening for their anniversary dinner, despite the tailor's initial refusal.

    Throughout the chapter, there is a playful and flirtatious dynamic between Notch and Gabriella, with both of them engaging in a game of one-upmanship. The chapter ends with Notch feeling a mix of admiration and discomfort as he contemplates the lengths Gabriella goes to ensure he looks his best.

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    10 mins
  • 32. THEN: THE QUARTER
    Oct 4 2025

    In this chapter, the Notch is awoken by Gabriella, who urges him to get ready for a day out in New Orleans. They plan to catch the 9:30 ferry and have breakfast at Café Du Monde. The protagonist is struck by Gabriella's beauty and her choice of a silky sundress. As they leave her house, they encounter Miss Kelly, Gabriella's neighbor, who makes some playful comments about their relationship.

    During their ferry ride across the Mississippi, Notch is captivated by the magical scenery and Gabriella's radiant appearance. They enjoy beignets at Jackson Square, where Gabriella teases Notch about his powdered sugar-covered shirt. She also hints at buying him a new suit for an evening out at a fine restaurant.

    Their day continues with a visit to Rubenstein's, a high-end men's shop, where Gabriella insists on buying Notch a linen suit. The chapter captures Notch’s admiration for Gabriella and the vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans, blending moments of humor, romance, and reflection.

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    12 mins
  • CHAPTER 31: THEN-THE GOOD BOOK
    Sep 27 2025

    In this chapter, Notch finds himself in an intimate and reflective moment with Gabi, who presents him with a gift: a book of poetry by Francesco Petrarca, also known as Petrarch. The Gabi reads a sonnet in Italian, which deeply moves him, even though he doesn't understand the language. The sonnet speaks of love, desire, and inner conflict, resonating with Notch’s own feelings. He reads the English translation aloud, feeling a profound connection to the words and the emotions they convey. The chapter ends with the Notch and Gabi sharing a tender moment, as he contemplates the impact of the ancient poet's words on his soul.

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    7 mins
  • Chapter 30: Then-Happiness is Hard to Take
    Sep 20 2025

    Chapter 30: Then-Happiness is Hard to Take

    In this emotionally charged episode, Notch wakes up disoriented and reflects on the strange turns his life has taken. As he lies in bed, he recalls a night over ten years ago when he was alone in the Continental, waiting to be shipped back to the States, and wondering about Gabriella. The chapter delves into his deep connection with Gabriella, who emerges from the shower and shares a tender moment with him. Their playful banter and intimate encounter reveal the complexities of their relationship, filled with love, desire, and a shared painful past. The Notch's memories of their time together, the challenges they faced, and the bond they share are vividly portrayed, making this episode a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the search for happiness.

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    14 mins
  • Chapter 29: Then-Tangled Up in Blue
    Sep 14 2025

    In this thrilling episode, we follow the journey of Notch as he navigates the complexities of his past and present. After killing Ashby, he decided he needs a vacation and this leads him to explore New Orleans, leading him to a series of unexpected events. From a creepy nighttime walk to a strip club, to an encounter with a mesmerizing dancer named Pocahontas Blue, the protagonist's night takes a turn he never anticipated. The dancer, who turns out to be his foster sister Gabriella, brings back a flood of memories and emotions. As they reconnect, Notch is faced with the realization that he might have to kill her to protect his secrets. Tune in to hear the full story of this suspenseful, emotional and erotic reunion.

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    31 mins
  • Chapter 28: Then-For Matilda
    Sep 6 2025

    Chapter 28: Then-For Matilda

    In this gripping episode, Notch, shares a poignant and chilling story about a special request from a dying woman. Missus Ashby, battling cancer, hires our hitman to avenge her daughter's tragic death caused by her ex-husband. With a promise to wait six months after her passing, the hitman embarks on a mission filled with tension, honor, and a chilling confrontation. Tune in to hear the full story of how he fulfills this emotional contract with the haunting words, "This is for Matilda."

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    10 mins
  • Chapter 27: THEN: LOSING IT
    Aug 30 2025

    Chapter 27: THEN: LOSING IT

    In this chapter, Notch faces a significant challenge when tasked with eliminating Osborne Whyte, an author whose writings have drawn the ire of powerful individuals. Despite the lucrative contract, Notch finds himself intrigued by Whyte's work and humor, which reminds him of Mark Twain. This curiosity leads him to attend Whyte's lecture and even accept an invitation to dinner with Whyte's family. The evening is filled with intellectual discussions and reflections on philosophy, politics, and religion. Notch is torn between his professional duty and the personal connection he feels with Whyte, ultimately leading to a moment of introspection and doubt about his chosen path. The chapter explores themes of morality, duty, and the impact of personal relationships on professional decisions

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    18 mins
  • Chapter 26: THEN: HIT LADY
    Aug 23 2025

    Chapter 26: THEN: HIT LADY

    In this chapter, Notch, Sec, and Walter watch a TV movie called "Hit Lady," featuring a beautiful actress, Yvette Mimieux, playing a hitwoman. They find the movie amusing and unrealistic, as the Mimieux's attractiveness and attention-grabbing outfits make her an unlikely assassin. They joke about the movie's portrayal of a hitwoman and discuss the importance of blending in and not being noticeable in their line of work. The chapter ends with Notch reflecting on his future and the challenges of being a gun for hire.

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    6 mins