A Rocky Scheme: Faces of International Intrigue

By Rose Freitas Buck

Cutter Boutique Classics, a Fifth Avenue garment boutique owned by a group of wealthy Dutch citizens, needs help seeking American management. They enlist a prestigious New York law firm, and reluctantly Philip Bartlett becomes a principal in the contract. Philip is young and somewhat inexperienced, and this is not the dream assignment hes been waiting for.

Due to his involvement with the boutique, his sister, Theresa, has a fleeting interlude with Chet Doyle, one of the boutiques Dutch owners. Neither Philip nor Theresa knows, however, that Chet is in charge of Cutters shady dealings. To make matters worse, Theresa makes the acquaintance of the boutiques other owners and soon finds herself in the crosshairs of one of the two womensisters from Amsterdam.

Cutters cash flow is massive, which draws the notice of the FBI. Investigations abound, and Philip is afraid for his career and his sister. Relationships are at times tender and yet tentative. Its sometimes hard to tell who comes out on topespecially when so many lives are involved.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Dec 13, 2013
• ISBN: 9781491714416

Rose Freitas Buck

Rose Freitas Buck has been a drama coach and nurse. She currently lives in her hometown, south of Boston, with her husband of fifty-six years.

Book preview

1

As she sat on a comfortable stool facing a tour group, her arms commanded gestures of embrace and adventure. She spoke of the visits to be made to buildings of unusual architectural interest and of the colorful historical figures who commissioned such structures. Welcoming them to the college of her hometown, she brought her arms forward to gently include them in her embrace, then with her arm coming up she indicated the pleasures of what was to come in their explorations.

The room, a small crescent-shaped amphitheater, was a simple space with media capabilities off the main entrance corridor of the college’s research library. Wide doors on either end in the back were very often left open, and people passing by could stop to listen to various presentations.

A gentleman stood leaning against the wall between the doors, listening. The subdued plaid brown sports jacket over his open-necked shirt complimented his light brown shag cut hair—a natural look in this environment. Ed had recently arrived from London to develop a curriculum in foreign policy with his American colleagues; he was enjoying the freedom of a slack day to explore the campus and town. He had seen her earlier walking on campus but had never seen her perform. It shouldn’t be difficult to learn more of this charming lady.

Theresa finished her presentation and stood. Thank you for coming. I have a little more time if you have any questions or concerns.

Several of the participants came forward and stood around her with questions, enjoying her company. They were not about to leave. Ed reluctantly left to attend his first meeting with his colleagues.

Two years ago, Theresa Bartlett had returned home after having lived abroad for eight years. Touring, doing graduate studies and working in Europe after graduation from college satisfied her eagerness to explore new situations. More than once it had been necessary to backtrack and reassess her situation, but her joie de vivre held. Her fascination with the literature, history and languages of European countries was very much alive. She visited her villa in Southern Portugal often, as did her family and chosen friends.

Settling back in with her parents was uncomplicated and quite pleasant. With teaching two scheduled classes and coordinating community lectures at the college, she’d found a balance between structure and the freedom to develop her own domain. After the lecture, as she drove the twenty-minute route from the college to home, she contemplated how quiet it would be the next two weeks. Her parents would be leaving for Europe in the morning.

Coming in the kitchen door, she called out, Hi, Mum. I’m home.

Ho, baby. I’ll be right up. Joyce had renovated a portion of the walk-out basement to accommodate her hobby in photography. For years she had efficiently managed the demands of her career as a psychologist, the care of hearth and family, community obligations and social activities. Now, limiting her clinical work to one day a week, she devoted attention to her newest pursuit. Here I am. All the photo equipment is packed. Suitcases won’t take long. How was your day?

I always enjoy the tour introductions. I’m also happy it’s Friday.

We’re having an early dinner. The troops are coming.

Good.

We have a car coming early to take us to the airport. After a couple of days in London, we’ll find our way to the Algarve. We’ll be at your villa the third week of April. Our itinerary is on the refrigerator.

I have a favor to ask. My summer project will be writing on the villages along the Guadiana River. You and Dad might like to check out the Roman ruins along with the villages. And yes, I expect some photos.

Sounds like something we’d both enjoy.

Liz arrived with the children. She was a slim, pretty woman, capable and confident, a photographers’ model when she and Philip lived in the city. Her long brown hair was usually swept back into a ponytail. They played tennis often. When a house with a tennis court came up for sale a mile from Philip’s parents’ house, they jumped at it. The commute into the city was less than an hour. With the boys, now ages three and six, the freedom to enjoy playing outdoors was another plus.

Philip will be along soon. He’s getting a ride home from Peter.

Joyce commented, Nice of you to give up your Friday afternoon tennis.

We’ll be playing doubles tomorrow if we can get Theresa to join us. She looked at Theresa. A new client is in town from Lisbon and Philip invited him up for the weekend.

Now Liz! You know you don’t need to worry about me. You and Philip have interesting friends, but I’m okay. Any year now, I may get the urge to settle down.

I know. Speak to your brother.

Theresa looked down and smiled to her nephews, Okay, Sports. Let’s go outside. Nice day for the monkey bars.

Peter and Philip arrived, stood outside at the car and continued their conversation. Both were lawyers in Manhattan, but worked at different venues. Peter was easing his case load as a partner at a firm dealing with family law. He enjoyed listening about his son’s work. Philip had attended law school at Northwestern in Chicago. He had enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of the Midwest, and stayed in Chicago after graduation to work. On one of his visits home, Peter introduced him to Skip Brown, a close friend and partner of a law firm specializing in corporate law. Philip’s area of expertise, writing international contracts, was a good match for the Stuart and Brown law firm. The job agreed with his calm temperament and ability to sort through complicated demands. The elder of the two Bartlett siblings was ready for the change and the comfort that came with socializing with old friends who knew you well. Even better, when he met a college friend’s sister living in New York, who enjoyed his active lifestyle and adventurous spirit, Philip knew his decision had been a good one.

How are things going at Stuart and Brown? Is Skip treating you all right?

He does. The latest case is a new client from Holland who wants to set up an American management company. They have a garment boutique on Fifth Avenue that imports clothing from Morocco.

Sounds interesting.

It is and it isn’t. The start-up money is coming from a diamond firm in Amsterdam, which makes sense since the principals are related to the diamond company, but the boutique set up their organization in Lisbon. To make things even more interesting, Skip tells me the retainer check to Stuart and Brown came today from a bank in London.

We’ll be in London for a few days. Is there any information I can get for you? I’ll be happy to ask my sources if they are known. What’s the name of the boutique?

Cutter Boutique Classics. They appear to be off to a good six-month start. They have a bank here in New York for deposits. That’s how we got the referral to write the contract. It’s the same bank Stuart and Brown use. I’ve invited one of the principals up to Eastham for the weekend. I feel I can get a firmer grip on their needs in a relaxed setting.

The men went out to the back yard to see the children and Theresa. Philip explained his circumstances to Theresa and asked her to join them the next morning for tennis and lunch. After a short conversation, Theresa came in through the kitchen door with the boys to get cleaned up for dinner. She said to Liz as they passed through, Okay, Liz. Philip says I’ll be doing him a favor. I’ll be at your house at 11 tomorrow.

The next morning Theresa arrived at her brother’s house in her tennis clothes, a short skirt and tennis sweater. She took a small bag and racket out of the car. Philip’s guest was at his car in the driveway taking a package out of the back seat. He also looked ready to start the game. He certainly appeared acceptable to Theresa. As she drew closer she noticed his crew neck shirt matched his blue-grey eyes. He smiled as Theresa walked over to his car, put her bag down and held out her hand.

Hi. I’m Philip’s sister, Theresa.

He gently continued to hold her hand as he responded, I’m Chet Doyle.

From Lisbon?

No, not really. Our firm is based in Portugal and I live in Amsterdam. Got there in a roundabout way. My mother was French and she married a man from England but moved to Holland, where I grew up.

Got it!

Theresa continued to look directly at him as she withdrew her hand, then turned to her nephews as Eric and young Phil ran out to greet their aunt. Hi Sports, let’s check out the swings!

Would you like me to take your bag in?

Yes, thanks, Chet. I’ll be on the court, ready to go. Unless you’re really, really good, I’d prefer Philip to be my double.

That’s how it will be, then.

A pleasurable day ensued: tennis, then a late lunch while the children napped. Theresa and Philip managed to squeak out wins in three sets, a topic much discussed as promises of a rematch would result in a different outcome. After lunch Theresa and Liz took the boys to the park while Chet and Philip worked on the contract. By late afternoon Theresa was about to leave.

Chet stood to walk her to the car, carried her bag and opened the door for her. Philip and I should be done with our talks in the morning. I’d like to see you again. I understand you live in the area. Could I see you on my way back to the city?

That would be nice, but I’ll put you to work. I have new equipment to set up for a 9 a.m. lecture on Monday morning, and I really don’t like fooling around as my audience is arriving. Come by the college research library at 3. You can help me and I’ll reward you with a tour of the village and a cup of coffee.

Chet was waiting when Theresa arrived. As they cleared an area and set up the projector and sound equipment, Chet stayed very close to her, speaking in almost whispering tones and often touching her, not inappropriately, but gently brushing her arm or placing a hand on her shoulder. He was about four inches taller than Theresa’s five foot seven. A sense of pleasure built up with Theresa. No question she was enjoying his presence. After finishing the project, Theresa suggested a walk to a local coffee shop.

Chet responded, Couldn’t we find a nice bar instead of a coffee shop?

After a pause, she answered, How about a restaurant? I have a favorite. They import a white port from Portugal that they know I like. We can order an antipasto and relax.

Fine. As long as we can find a cozier place afterward.

Not a chance around here, besides I have a book club gathering this evening. A very serious endeavor; we’re the Fluff Sisters Readers. The name tells it all. We all work during the week. It’s great to be off the wall the second Sunday of every month.

Chet was obviously disappointed. Would you consider coming in town for dinner soon?

I could do that. It’s always nice to have a focus for tripping into the city.

2

Joyce and Peter Bartlett landed at Heathrow, tired but ready for the shuttle trip to the city where they were to visit for three days before heading to the continent. At the hotel, they had a light supper and planned the next day’s activities. Included was a follow-up call to former neighbors from New York to go together to the theater the next evening.

With a comfortable feeling of familiarity with London, Joyce and Peter began the next day. The weather was overcast with an occasional drizzle, which delighted Joyce. She had discovered she enjoyed photographing outdoor scenes, and the dull light was the perfect atmosphere to get fuzzy street pictures. Peter suggested going to Soho where they could combine photography and lunch at a café with Indian cuisine. The day was a good one. Joyce got some excellent shots from cooperative subjects and shops.

After lunch Peter took a call. Hi John, good to hear from you. Joyce and I are just about to leave Soho to return to the hotel… . Terrific. We’ll see you there. He hung up. John and Ann are joining us for tea at the hotel.

Joyce was delighted. She and Peter were both from upstate New York where they met and married after college. When Peter finished law school, an opportunity was available for him in Manhattan. They moved, both worked, continued studies, reconciled differences, and with occasional helping visits from Joyce’s parents when the children were born, kept going. Considerate of each other’s needs, they continued to maintain their energy levels and maintained a relationship in their comfort zone.

Good. We’ll get some catch-up time. What a nice tradition, tea. We must ask how they managed joining together all the American traditions with the English ones when they were first here. Breakfast, coffee break, lunch, tea, cocktails, dinner and I’m sure a few snacks in between.

At tea, after catching up on all the family members, Peter explained some of the frustration Philip was having getting basic business information on his new client that imported clothing from Tangier, Morocco to their Fifth Avenue store. Start-up funding had come from a diamond company in Amsterdam, but Philip’s firm had been paid with a retainer from Atlantic Financial in London.

John reassured Peter that that was not surprising. Amsterdam banking connections are common in London. Atlantic Financial is an important international bank. Have a suspicious nature. If there is a burp of questionable activity, they look carefully at it. As for now, we’ll scurry home to change and meet you at the theater at 7:30.

In unison, Peter and Joyce said, Sounds like a plan. They looked at one another and smiled.

As they toured London the next day Peter suggested, There’s a high-speed hydrofoil ferry to Amsterdam. I’d like to check out a diamond factory.

Joyce was pleased with the idea. A change of plans would be interesting. I’ve never been to Amsterdam.

Good morning, Philip. We were not successful with our inquiries about your company in London nor the name ‘Cutter’. We’re about to enter Amsterdam. Perhaps we’ll have more success here. For some reason we have never been here. It came to mind to do so when you indicated your client was Dutch.

Hi Dad. The formal name of the import company is Cutter Boutique Classics. I understand the diamond firm in Amsterdam is a highly regarded decades-old firm. I’m not sure why Boutique Classics is using Cutter in its name.

After checking into the hotel Peter perused the Internet for companies in Holland dealing with minerals. No likely names appeared to have any connection. But then, there were listings of diamond factories giving tours. Checking dates of factory foundings, Peter called the one that claimed to be the oldest.

Amsterdam diamond cutters are the envy of the world, and as Joyce and Peter toured they could understand why. The tour included the analysis of a rough stone and emphasized the knowledge and talent needed to cut and polish a diamond for the best possible outcome. The information was standard, and the situation was not suitable for Peter to ask pointed questions. But he was able to ask, Where is the source of the raw diamonds, and are you planning to expand in any other countries?

We have been asked that often in our ninety years. It is of no interest to us to expand. We do very well here and especially want to control our product.

The excitement of the experience led masterfully to gentle pressure upon being shown the exquisite cuts of available diamonds at the end of the tour. They were exceptionally well presented. Joyce gracefully declined a purchase, commenting quietly to Peter, I have to admit the rose-cut diamond ring with its twenty-four facets would turn a few heads, but it absolutely is not my style. Photography works for me.

Outside, Joyce said, Peter, as I was signing the guest book, I noticed a list posted on the wall of designers and other artisans that work at the factory. I saw the name Josh Cutter. Do you think there could be a connection?

I’ll certainly mention it to Philip.

Joyce took a number of street scenes, including a few of two men standing next the factory wall. They made good scale comparisons to the street and the building. The Bartletts were both happy they had made this visit, but they also were ready to head to the Algarve and Theresa’s villa. Peter booked the next day’s flight to Faro, Portugal. He also