Unfeeling — J.D. Brink

The man they call Shovel is a neutral instrument. He's buried more than his fair share of men. And built his boss, August Alexander, a criminal empire.

But when August suddenly becomes obsessed with a tiny wooden doll, even Shovel can't remain neutral for long. Or escape the doll's spell.

A crime-noir tale with a horror twist.

This short story is also featured in the collection A Long Walk Down a Dark Alley.