The Clancy Files

By leigh edbre

The Clancy Files are now a compilation of Clancy Security, The Quest for Jenny, The Take Down and The Choice, all in one book. It will take you on the adventures of Bailey Muldoon and the Clancy Firm from the beginning to the end. These books are full of actin, suspense, love, humor and hard choices. It will keep your interest from the first book to the last.

• Language: English
• Publisher: leigh edbre
• Release date: Jan 16, 2015
• ISBN: 9781310696145

Book preview

Part 1

Clancy’s Security

Clancy’s Security

By Leigh Edbre

Cover artwork by Leigh Edbre

Editing by Leigh Edbre and Mckensey Gonyea

Smashwords Edition Copyright 2014

By Leigh Edbre

Dedicated to Bill

This is a work of fiction. Names, places and events are the author’s imagination and

are used fictitiously Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or locations are entirely coincidental

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This eBook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this eBook with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your favorite eBook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Chapter 1

My name is Bailey Muldoon. This is about as Irish as one can get. My family lives in Syracuse, right in the middle of the state of New York. My Mom and Dad own a pub four blocks down from the family home, on Avery Ave. The west side of the city. They serve corn beef and green beer on St. Patty’s Day. My Mom works in the kitchen, while my Dad works behind the bar, shooting the bull with all his friends and family

Our family’s pub is where the whole Muldoon clan would come on holidays and special

occasions. I graduated from the police academy two years ago. I didn’t work long as a law enforcement officer. They had me writing parking tickets and directing traffic. I decided right from the get-go, that I did NOT become a cop to do such meaningless jobs. At least that is what it meant to me. I wanted to see some action. I didn’t find out until I started working at Tom Clancy’s Security Group, as an assistant Private Investigator, that I really wasn’t that brave. At five foot five inches, one hundred twenty eight pounds, I really don’t have a lot of force behind my punch. Tom is a very good friend of the family. He served in the Military with my brother Patrick, who is stationed in an unknown location. We have not seen or heard from Patrick for a couple of years. When Tom left the service he opened his own security group. Clancy’s Security’, motto is we catch bad guys. Tom is six foot two inches tall and around one hundred eighty pounds. His hair is wavy brown and kept short like a military cut. He has a full mustache, which is kept neatly trimmed. At fifty two years of age; he has kept himself in very, very good shape. Tom runs a tight ship at Clancy’s Security. He employs fourteen people. Most of them are ex-cops, with the exception of Robin. It is rumored around the office that she is his love interest. Tom was married once. His wife left him when he was in the service. I think it’ was because he wasn't around long enough to really establish a trusting relationship.

Robin is divorced. She has one son, who is in his second year of college. She is in her late forties, five foot six, one hundred thirty six pounds. She has short blond hair, brown eyes, and a very raspy voice. She is either an ex-smoker, or just has a very sexy voice. Robin idealizes Tom. She would do anything that he would ask her to do. I heard her ask Tom, Is that legal? Tom always gives her a smile, but never really answers the question.

Well here it is, Monday morning. My alarm went off at seven AM. I have to set the alarm on the opposite side of my bedroom, or I am likely to knock it on the floor and roll back over for an extra hour of sleep. I made myself get out of bed. Jump in the shower. I put on a little bit of makeup, blush, lipstick and a light touch of liner. It’s easy to do my hair. I have dark brown hair,

Naturally pin straight. Like every morning, its bend over dry and flip. "Done. Standard jeans, sweater and heeled boots, grab a Pop Tart and off to work.

When I walked into the office, Robin was at her desk sipping on her coffee, eating a bagel. Tom was on the phone. He walked out, to ask me if I had anything urgent on my desk. Not much, I have to monitor some fleets escorting a money exchange from St. Joe’s Hospital to the bank vault.Tom rubbed his eye and said, Good, I would like you and Mick to be in my office at eleven today. I just received a call from a Mr. Austin. He is the Auditor for St. Michael’s Parish. He has a problem he would like us to look into. Something that he does not want to go public with. I looked up from the cup of coffee I stole off Robin’s desk, Did he say what it was about? He said he did not want to discuss it over the phone. Tom than winked at Robin and walked into his office. What was that about? Robin fluffed her hair and went on typing, not saying a word. The smile on her face told me, Oh yeah, there is something going on there. Mick came through the door with his usual smart ass grin on his face. What’s up Pop Tart? He walked by me taking the coffee out of my hand. Tom wants to meet with us at eleven today, do you have anything going on? I always have something going on Pop Tart. What’s the meeting for? He didn’t say something to do with the church. Have you been to one lately? Mick looked at me and handed me back my coffee. Forgive me, I stole your coffee. I will be there at eleven."

Chapter 2

I was half way through checking my GPS fleets. A tall young man with sandy brown hair and a full beard arrived at Robin’s desk. She buzzed Tom. He popped his head out of his office to wave the gentleman in. He was in Tom’s office for half an hour before he shook Tom’s hand and walked out the door.

Tom called Mick and me into the office. I need you to do some surveillance. It has to be very discreet. That was Mr. Austin. He has noticed in the last few months the revenue from St. Michael’s Parish has been lower than in the past. Ever since Father O’Neil retired and Father Hearly took over the parish. He is fairly new to the priesthood. He came here from Nevada, straight out of the Seminary, his first assignment. He wants us to make sure that there is nothing going on. You know, like maybe one of the street gangs bothering the new Father. Big smile on my face, Well Mick looks like we’re going to church. You can still be saved. Mick put his hands on my face, Pop Tart it’s going to take a lot more than church to save me. There’s a seven o’clock service tonight. Do you two think you could find religion by tonight, "Tom asked as he sat at his desk?

I have to get over to St. Joe’s to escort money to the vault at the bank. Mom is cooking ham and potatoes for dinner tonight. She has invited me over. Do you want to come for dinner or just pick me up at the house? Mick looked up at me, winked, I never pass up a home cooked meal. Be there at six. We’ll have to eat and run", I said as I walked out the door.

Chapter 3

I arrived at home early so I could let Mom know Mick would be coming for dinner, but we would have to leave right after. We had to be in church by seven. Her face lit up like a light bulb exploded in her head. Bailey, this must be serious. You have never gone to church with anyone before. But Mick? I didn’t know you were even seeing each other out side of work. I knew I had to keep this assignment quiet. Well I don’t know how serious this is. I just thought it would be a nice idea to welcome the new priest to the community. I could feel my forehead start to sweat. I was not used to lying to my mother. Mom smiled That’s very nice of both of you. You can bet Rick would never do that. The church would crumble to the ground. It was the best thing you ever did, breaking it off with that man. He’s Crazy.

Rick is my ex-boyfriend. Every time I see him, I go weak in the knees. I met Rick when I was on the force. He was so cute. Sky blue eyes, wavy chestnut hair that hung down the back of his neck. Medium height and weight, but all muscle. He made me laugh every day. I would get up in the morning all fuzzy inside knowing I was going to see him when I went to work. We went out for two years. We broke it off a couple of months ago. I am not quite sure how I feel about Rick now. Sometimes I hate him and would like to smack him. Other times I miss him so much I can barely keep myself from calling him and telling him how much I need him.

I just finished setting the table when there was a knock on the door. Mick opened the door and just walked in the house like he came over every day. What smells so good? Hi there Mrs. Muldoon, you look lovely as ever. Mom blushed, so nice to see you again. Bailey tells me you two are going to church tonight. That’s so nice.

My dad walked into the dining room, How’s the love of my life? He kisses mom on the cheek and gently slaps her on her back side. How are you Mick? It’s been awhile. Did you give up drinking? Mom jumped in Mick and Bailey are going to church. Dad looked up smiling, sounds serious. What are your intentions with my daughter? Mick looked at me and said only the best sir, only the best.

We finished dinner; it was kind of nice talking with my parents without a lot of people around. When we eat at the pub, there is always someone pulling their chair up, and joining in. Mick stood up, thanked my parents. He took my hand and announced we had to leave. He held my hand all the way to the truck, while my parents watched from the door.

Chapter 4

Mick and I walked into the church. We took a seat in the back. We sat though the service and waited for the church to empty. Mick took my hand and whispered in my ear. No matter what I say, just go with my lead. We walked up in front of the church where the Fathers quarters were located. He knocked. Father Hearly opened the door asking how can I help you? Mick smiled. He shook Father Hearly’s hand. My name is Mick. This is my fiancé, Bailey. We would like to welcome you to our community. We also would like to know if Father O’Neil had made any arrangements about our wedding counseling. We only have eight more weeks. We were supposed to meet tomorrow night. I was wondering if that was still the case.Father Hearly looked a little puzzled. Then thanked Mick for welcoming him. I don’t remember him saying anything, but I would be happy to meet with you and Bailey tomorrow. Would Four PM be okay? Mick agreed. Would that fit your schedule honey? That’s fine, I don’t see a problem. Mick thanked him, then took my hand and walked out the door.

We hopped in the car. I looked at Mick, What the hell was that about? Mick smiled, did I forget to tell you we were getting married? My face was turning red. Don’t you think you should clue me in before you pull something like that? I could have said something stupid. As it was I think my mouth must have dropped down to my chin. I have to tell you Mick, Father Hearly looks familiar. I know I have seen him before. I just can’t remember where. Mick took a deep breath. I know I felt the same way when I first laid eyes on him. That’s why I had to come up with a way to see him again. That my dear is why we are getting married. So Pop Tart, are you up for becoming my wife? I looked him straight in the eyes, remember, no hanky panky until we say I do."

Chapter 5

I walked into the office at the normal time. Robin was at her desk with coffee as usual. I grabbed a cup for myself and asked her if she could run a background check on Father Hearly. Mick asked me that when he comes in this morning. It should be done in thirty minutes or so. Robin pointed at Mick sitting at his desk. I looked, a little surprised. Isn’t this a little early for him? I strolled over to his desk are you trying to score brownie points with the boss, or is your apartment being fumigated? Mick looked at me like; you’re such a smart ass. Ever since I saw that priest last night, something is not sitting right with me. I’ve seen him and can’t put my finger on it. I asked Robin to do a check for me. Robin how’s that check coming? Robin looked disgusted. It's going to be awhile. The Net went down. Nothing can come through. Mick rolled his eyes, listen, and let me do all the talking this afternoon. You just go with the flow. I could feel the blood rushing to my head. You mean like a good submissive wife? Have you forgotten I’m Irish?

Mick knocked on the door. Father Hearly answered. He asked us to come in. What day is your wedding planned for? I haven’t been able to find Father O’Neil’s notes or folder on you and Bailey. Would you fill me in? I am so sorry the Father seems to have left in a hurry. It’s not like him to forget. Is this the first parish you have been assigned to Father? I heard you came directly from the Monastery, Mick asked.

Father Hearly looked at us and asked, What was the date? Let me get it booked and we can go on from there. Let me ask you. How long have you and Bailey known each other? Why do you want to be married? Bailey why don’t you go first. I looked a little startled, well we have known each other for a number of years. It’s about time he makes an honest woman out of me. Don’t you think so darling? Mick rolled his eyes, Yes, that’s it. After living together for so long, it’s time to make it legal. It took a lot of talking to make her say yes, Mick kissed me on the forehead. You know how crazy I am about you. We gave the wedding date for two months from next Saturday. Mick shook the Fathers hand; he said we would see him again in two weeks with all the details.

As we walked out the door, Rick Turley was strolling up the walkway. Rick and I had just broken up a couple of months ago. We were still not on friendly terms. He passed us without saying a word. We watched him go into the rectory. I wonder what that’s all about. Mick squeezed my hand, He’s probably here to confess all his sins. We might not see him until next week. He was crazy to let you go. What happened between you two? I didn’t really want to go into it with Mick. I shrugged my shoulders It doesn’t really matter, I’m getting married."

Chapter 6

Mick and I returned to the office. Robin was waiting at her desk. Got the report back on Father Hearly. I think you might want to read this. Mick took the report from Robin. This says that Father Hearly never left the monastery. He is down sick with Mono and will not be able to come for another month. It also says that Father O’Neil will be staying on until then. Look. Here is a photo of Father Hearly. I grabbed the report out of Mick’s hand. Who do you think this guy is and what happened to Father O’Neil?"

Tom had been listening with the door of his office open. He popped his head out. I think you should follow him for a couple of days. Bailey, I want you to talk to Rick and see if you can find out why he was talking to our perp AKA Father Hearly. My voice went up an octave You're kidding me. That has to be a joke. Why can’t Mick do that? Tom put his hands on Robin’s shoulders, looked at me and said He is still in love with you. I don’t think he really cares for Mick. Use your feminine charm and get everything you can out of him. I took a deep breath and looked at Robin, But Mick and I are getting married, It’s just not right."

I called Rick’s cell. He picked up right away. I knew my name would come up on his contact list. What the hell are you doing? Rick shouted into the phone. I was taken back a little. I need to talk to you. Can we meet for coffee or something? Still in an outraged voice, so you can tell me that you and that dick wad of a PI are tying the knot? No! I don’t care if I ever see you again. He hung up.

Robin, I don’t think this is going to work. That priest must have said something to Rick when he was there yesterday, about Mick and me getting married. Robin looked at me. WHAT! You and Mick? Why didn’t you say something? I had no idea. I rolled my eyes. No it’s only the story Mick made up to get a meeting with Father Hearly. Whatever his name is. Now Rick won’t talk to me. Listen; go over to his house after you leave here. Bring a pizza and some beer. Knock on the door. When he opens the door, very calmly say I brought dinner. Can I please come in? We really need to talk. Rick loves pizza and he really loves you. How can he say no? Nervously I said, He sounds really upset. Okay I’ll give it a try. What can it hurt? Mick spoke up from his desk. Would you like me to come with you? I really like pizza, beer and a good brawl scene.

Chapter 7

I went home to put on a fresh set of clothes and fresh my makeup then drove over to Gino and Joe’s to pick up a pizza then off to Ricks. I was really nervous. I hadn’t really talked with Rick since we broke up. Now it’s been only two months and he thinks I am getting married to Mick. What must he be feeling? I’m a little afraid.

I pulled in the driveway, grabbed the pizza and a six pack of beer. Slowly I walked to the door. I knocked instead of walking right in like I would normally do. Rick are you there? Can I come in? Rick came to the door dressed in jeans and no shirt. He took my breath away. I have pizza and beer. Can we please talk? It has to do with a case I’m working on. Rick opened the door wider, took the pizza. He motioned for me come in. He put the pizza down. Placed his hands on the table and bent his head down. What are you doing? We have been broken up two months and you’re getting married? I thought you loved me more than that. I thought we really had something. He turned, grabbed me by the shoulders, pushing me back to the dining room wall. How long? He shouted, Were you cheating on me? Have you been sleeping with him? I don’t get it. I thought you loved me! Rick walked across the room. Put his hands though his hair. You know what? I’m going to kill him. I’m going to get my gun and fucking kill him. Tears in my eyes; I managed to say, Let me explain. I am not getting married. It’s just pretend. Mick and I had to have a reason to keep talking with this new priest. There is something going on. He is not who he says he is. That’s why I’m here. I have to find out why you were there yesterday? I think he did something to Father O’Neil. The monastery said Father Hearly was still there sick. He won’t be here for another month. Father O’Neil was supposed to stay on here until then. Why were you there? Rick looked at me like he was trying to come up with the right words. There has been a missing person report for a Mrs. Riley. She lives at the senior house run by St. Michael perish. He niece Jane Riley came in the other day and filled out a report. She said she hadn’t heard from her aunt in a couple of weeks. She usually calls every other day. Jane goes over to check on her once a week. The last two times she was there, she did not find her at home. We checked her mail. It had been picked up. Her Social Security Check had been cashed. When we went to her room at the senior house all of her belongings were still there. Jane and I knocked on the other doors. There was not one answer from any of the other tenants. So to make a long story short, I went to ask Father Hearly if he had heard anything from Mrs. Riley or any of the other tenants. I asked him if anything unusual was going on that he may have heard. He told me that he hadn’t been over there since he came here. . If he hears anything he would give me a call. He was meaning to go over soon. All of their living expenses had been paid to date. That’s when I asked him about the nice couple I just passed. He told me you were getting married. I looked at Rick, Don’t you think it’s a little funny that he would give you any information about someone he was counseling? Priests are not supposed to do that. Do you think he has anything to do with the missing person? Or maybe it should be missing persons? Can I have the names of the other three people that live in the building? I want Robin to do some searches to see if there is anything unusual about any of them. He grabbed my hand If you come up with anything, I want you to call me. I will do the same. He put his hand up to my face, looked me straight in my eyes. Listen, don’t take any chances. This guy, whoever he may be, could turn out to be very dangerous. Don’t see him alone. He gently kissed me. He whispered, I am so glad you’re not getting married. It would kill me. I could feel my knees going weak. I knew I had to get out of there before I ended up sprawled out in his bed completely helpless. I would be in the same situation I was in two months ago. I ducked under his arm, opened the door and smiled. We will do lunch sometime, call you later. I finally hopped in my car, took a deep breath and drove to the office.

Chapter 8

When I arrived at work, I went directly into Tom’s office. I told him what I had found out from Rick. Tom sat on the corner of his desk. "This is bigger than we may have thought in the beginning. I think we should set up twenty four hour surveillance on this man. I also think