Gallardo

Originally Aired: March 20, 1956

In Suspense #642, "Gallardo," Rudy Gallardo narrates a dark tale of obsession and murder within a circus aerial act. Rudy works as the catcher for Nikki, his adopted brother and the troupe's brilliant flyer, but their lifelong bond shatters when a new performer named Feather joins the act. From the moment she arrives, the beautiful and mysterious aerialist captivates both men. Rudy becomes consumed by his love for Feather, despite sensing something dangerous and unreachable behind her cat-like yellow eyes. As the weeks pass, jealousy poisons Rudy's relationship with Nikki, who has clearly won Feather's affections.

The episode opens with Rudy's chilling admission that he has decided he must kill Nikki. As the three performers prepare for their act, Rudy watches Nikki whisper to Feather and realizes that tonight is the night. Through flashbacks, listeners learn how Feather's arrival transformed their "mutual admiration society" into bitter rivalry, and how Rudy's obsession grew as he watched the woman he loves choose his brother. Now, positioned in the catch trap high above the ring, Rudy prepares to let Nikki fall during his dangerous triple somersault.