Chekhov's Gun Lost Patience

"Foreshadowing must be subtle," editor wrote.

Chapter 1: gun on mantlepiece. Subtle. Elegant.

Chapter 5: gun still there. Waiting. Professionally.

Chapter 9: gun cleared its throat.

Chapter 14: gun tapping barrel on wood. Getting looks.

Chapter 18: "We doing this or not?" gun asked protagonist directly.

Protagonist shrugged. "Act 3."

"I have PLANS, Derek. I have a LIFE."