EXT. NIGHTCLUB ENTRANCE - NIGHT
The bustling nightclub entrance is alive with colorful lights and a crowd. JOE and TONY stand outside smoking, Joe’s brow furrowed, deep in thought.
TONY
What’s wrong, boss? You’ve been out of it since we were inside.
JOE
It’s nothing, just thinking about some things.
TONY
Is it about the shipment the boss wants you to take over?
JOE
(shaking his head)
No, it’s more complicated than that.
A provocatively dressed woman sways past Joe, bumping into him. She turns back, flashing a seductive smile, but Joe remains unresponsive.
TONY
(whistles)
Looks like something’s really bothering you, boss; not even a pretty face can catch your attention.
JOE
Tony, do you think we’re dancing on a razor's edge right now?
TONY
(pausing)
What do you mean, boss?
JOE
(after a moment's reflection)
Things have been off in the gang lately; I feel like something's about to happen.
TONY
(patting Joe's shoulder)
Boss, you’re overthinking it. We’re the big shots in the gang now; who would dare touch us?
Joe flicks the cigarette butt to the ground, grinding it underfoot.
JOE
Better safe than sorry. These days, there are no permanent friends, only lasting interests.
A black sedan slowly rolls by, stopping across from Joe and Tony. The window rolls down, revealing a stranger’s face.
MAN
Joe?
JOE
(suspicious)
Who are you? What do you want?
MAN
(smirking)
Someone’s paid a lot for your head; you should be careful lately.
The man rolls up the window and the car drives off.
TONY
(pale)
Boss, is… is what he said true?
JOE
(eyes sharp)
Looks like we were right; someone’s out to get us.
TONY
What do we do now?
JOE
(a cold smirk forming)
Since they want to play, we’ll play along. I’ll make sure they know messing with Joe comes at a cost!

