Killers of a Certain Age

A brief author’s note tells the reader not to expect strict factual accuracy from the text, which involves important secrets and the revelation of moral treachery.

The work opens in 1979, with Billie Webster and Helen Randolph, contract killers with an organization called the Museum, preparing for their first job. They are dressed as stewardesses as the target will soon board the aircraft they are on. Billie listens to fellow agents Vance and Sweeney, who are posing as the plane’s pilots. They trade pop culture references, and Billie ignores their attempt to flirt with her. Vance returns to the task at hand, assuring Billie she will succeed at the work ahead.

Sweeney expresses an interest in Billie’s colleague Natalie Schuyler, referring to her only by her hair color, leading an exasperated Billie to note, “the little brunette has a name” (6).

Billie checks in with her colleague Mary Alice Tuttle, and the two commiserate about the inevitable harassment and condescension from Sweeney and Vance. Helen and Natalie are both discomfited when they watch the Bulgarians board the plane as they cannot imagine murdering the small dog their target has brought with him.