55Th St. Taxi

By Jon E. Blair

Abby knew that Pettigrad had them all under his control. What started so innocently a few years ago was now a life of secrets and lies.
Rick had been pushed into a world he had never known existed, or for that matter, never would have, never would have experienced if not for the events of one night.
His new found companions were having a profound effect on his life, taking the past, present and future and making him a new one.
Then there was Rosie, that contagious smile and bright eyes, was she the one keeping him in this place?
Years of work all on hold because of a simple taxi ride to 55th St. Could all these new players pull through and break Pettigrad's hold?
Time would tell......it always does!

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: May 17, 2013
• ISBN: 9781481747295

Jon E. Blair

Jon Blair grew up in Eastern Oregon spending most of his time outdoors. He loves fishing, camping and attempting to garden. He spends most of his time traveling all over the country writing books and stories of his travels. In addition to books and short stories he is a song writer and occasionally performs when he gets a chance. He has 3 children and 3 grandchildren who have helped inspire his writing and keep his life interesting.

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

December 11th was a very cold night. The dark grey clouds threatened more snow, even though there was already 16 inches. At 11:05 with only an overcoat to keep one warm and a mile or more away from the nearest pub was not the place to be. How could this have happened? Only three days ago he had it all, a great girlfriend, or so it seemed, a killer apartment, and well a job that people would die for. How could it all be gone so fast? There were no tale tell signs; no fights, problems at work, nothing, not even his best friend had given him a hint as to what was just over the hill, so to speak. Friend, what a joke, lying thieving bastard is more like it.

The gust of cold wind blows Rick’s hat from his head, Damn it, he yells, what in the hell did I do to deserve this? Frantically he chases after it. Scooping it up he beats the hat against his leg, after knocking loose the clinging snow, he pulls it tight down on his head. He continues to run until his lungs burn with the cold night air. He pulls his coat up over his head and breathes in warm air. His nose dripping, his feet as cold as ice, his stomach aching from lack of food, coupled with the anxiety of no bright future has all taken its toll. The glow of flashing neon gives him a little relief, as he nears the joint the smell of fried food makes his stomach churn. Not exactly what he is use to, but in this part of town what could one expect.

As he walks in the door the warmth of the bar draws him in. He stomps the excess snow from his shoes and wipes them on the mat. As he looks around the room, he is pleasantly surprised, Not bad, he thinks to himself, this will do for a port in the storm. He finds himself a seat next to a radiator and pulls off his coat. Before he can even set down the barmaid is making her way over to his table. Hey honey, what will it be? she asks.

Make it a Mexican coffee to start and a menu. Rick answers. He looks around the room and locates the restrooms. Once inside he heads straight for the basin and turns on the water. Just as quickly as he puts his hands under the water he pulls them back out again. His fingers burn from the warm temperature of the water. Adjusting the faucet he tries again. Slowly the feeling starts to return to his fingers, burning at first and then slowly warming up.

As he finishes he turns to an air dry machine as a man walks in. How’s it goin’ bud he asks.

Cold as hell. comes Ricks short reply.

And bound to get worse. the stranger comments. Are you new in town? he continues.

Just to this part. Rick answers, thinking that this guy will be a pain in my neck tonight. Excuse me. Rick says, motioning to the bathroom stall, I have to get in there.

The fellow chuckles, Most people I know wash after they have finished, but hey, whatever floats your boat.

Not knowing why Rick offers an explanation, I had to warm up my hands from the cold walk over here.

Gottcha, the stranger laughs again, don’t want the twins headed south when they got work to do. Halfway disgusted Rick opens the stall door. Looks like someone killed a gopher in there, huh?

If it wasn’t for the fact that he did not want to spend the night in agony Rick would have never used these facilities, let alone set down to eat after seeing the sorry condition of the bathroom. Are you sure this is even legal?

Ah hell man, it is just bad water in this part of town, turns everything that color. You got better water in your part of town? the stranger questions sarcastically.

I would have to say I do, or did. Rick instantly corrects himself.

The name is Jep. I didn’t mean anything by that, the man returns, when you are done in here I will buy you a drink. Before Rick can decline the offer he hears the door close. What an odd character, doesn’t know me from Adam and acts like we are old friends or something.

You see Rick was used to only a tight circle of close friends and working colleagues; they went out only to very private clubs and spent the rest of the time working or at home. Now as he sets there on the toilet he starts to wonder what in the hell he is going to do. He can rent a hotel for a while, but without a job his money will go fast, and then what, end up homeless on the street? Damn it, he yells as he hits the side of the bathroom stall, this just isn’t right!

A few minutes later he returns to his table and sets down. The barmaid makes her way to his table, Great body. Rick thinks out loud.

Ya I know, she says as she tosses her dark hair back and forth.

I am sorry, I didn’t mean to…

Interrupting she jokingly says, Oh, so you don’t think I have a great body then.

No I do. It is just that I should not have blurted it out like that. I mean I don’t even know your name, and that is, well, something that you just don’t say to a stranger. Rick tries to explain. Not the sign of good manners.

Rick can tell she does get that a lot by her answer. The name is Abby. she says as she sets his Mexican coffee on the table. The special tonight is fish and chips, Halibut of course, or an eight ounce petite sirloin steak dinner. Each 8.95, unless you want to order off of the menu.

Rick looks up at the young woman and instantly notices her beautiful soft hazel eyes, surrounded by nearly perfect skin. Her lips a brilliant red and glossy, leading to her slender neck circled by a simple gold chain. Her perfume reminded him of a warm summer day, and for a moment made him feel relaxed. He wanted to close his eyes and drink it all in when the feeling is smothered as Jep yells from across the room, There you is, thought you had fallen in, or worse.

Abby raises her eye brows, You know him?

No, Rick rolls his eyes, I just bumped into him in the men’s room a minute ago. I think he has decided that we are best friends now.

Oh you will like him, Abby offers, He is really very harmless. He will only try to talk your leg off and keep you here all night.

Abby turns and smiles as Jep puts his arm around her. Hey fellow, I can see that you are trying to keep our favorite girl all to yourself.

Don’t worry killer, there is enough to go around. Abby fires back. Just give me a wave when you are ready to order, she looks at Rick with a flirtatious grin, alright dear?

Jep slaps her on the behind as she turns to go, I think our new found friend has a crush on you, Abby. He adds as he slides uninvited into the booth at Rick’s table, I’ll keep you company.

Sure, make yourself at home. Rick states with defeat in his voice.

Let’s get to know you. Jep insists, Judging by that coat hanging off of that chair, you must be lost. he puts his drink up to his lips and empties half of its contents. When you are ready I will get you whatever you are having.

It is going to be awhile, Rick states, haven’t had a chance to take a sip yet.

Well, don’t be bashful, I doubt that you are going to hurt the liquor supply any. What is that? Coffee? Jep questions with a turned up lip.

Mexican coffee, I needed something to warm me up!

Abby, Jep hollers to the busy barmaid, bring this boy a real drink! He says he’s freezin’!

No I am just fine with what I’ve got. Rick objects.

Are you even old enough to be in here? Jep growls, I am getting you a drink. Rick was old enough, but his young looking face caused many people to question his age. If you don’t drink and you ain’t from ‘THIS PART OF TOWN’ why did you even come in here? Jep snarls, Lookin’ to get lucky?

Rick could feel his pulse beginning to beat in his neck, this buffoon was really starting to crowd his space, Listen here mister, I don’t know you, and I’m in no way required to answer your question; but it is like I said, I came in here to get warm and have something to eat. If you don’t mind, I would like to do that in peace!

What, now you own the place? Too good to set at the bar so you take up four chairs to yourself! You spoiled rich…

Hey Jep! Abby demands as she makes her way across the room, That is enough! You are ruining everyone’s evening, so knock it off!

Fine, I’ll get my own drink. he says as he stands.

I will be there in a second, so just settle down. she says as she pats him on the shoulder. When he is gone she turns to Rick, What did you do to set him off?

Rick shrugs his shoulders, Guess he doesn’t like me drinking Mexican coffee. And as for that drink that he ordered for me…

Don’t worry honey, I won’t force it down your throat, but if you make up, he is good for four or five drinks; if you are so inclined. Abby gives him a wink and a smile, So what will it be?

I am sorry, but I haven’t even had a chance to…

That’s ok, take your time. The cafe is open all night. She gestures down at his cup, Should I bring you another one of those when I come back?

Yes please, Rick nods, give me five or ten minutes, I am slowly thawing out. Wow what a difference in personalities, warm and smooth verses, well, psycho-man. As he set there, hands wrapped around his warm coffee cup, the radiant heat soaking in to his body, he began to feel comfortable. The lounge area was small but nice. It was a rustic decor, large dark beams in the ceiling, with numerous uniquely shaped metal light fixtures hanging throughout the room. They supplied adequate light, but were turned down low, he guessed for atmosphere. The area may seat 35 to 40 people at the tables with ten oversized bar chairs running the length of the bar; no wonder Jep called him out for taking up an entire table to himself.

Rick’s mind began to drift back to his problems, minor? On the contrary, life changing. The anger like molten lava started to rise up in him, man if I get my hands on Charlie, I will ring his neck! After 14 years and wham, stabs me right in the back. Rick is staring down at his still half-full coffee cup, shaking his head, when Abby returns, Are you feeling alright? her voice brings him back around, you look like someone just hit you in the stomach. Abby’s voice a bit concerned.

No I’m fine, just spaced off for a moment. Personal problems.

I’d say you have a problem, she ribs him, I just brought you another drink and you haven’t even finished the first one. I may have to cut you off.

Yes. Yes indeed. Risk says, I am ready to order the surf and turf, if that will gain me a little time.

Sure thing dear. Abby flashes him her pearly whites,

Just walk through those doors and up the stairs, there is a food bar with everything you need. For a moment there is silence. Unless you want me to get it for you, I won’t charge much, I promise. Abby offers.

That would be great, thank you.

She gets the pertinent information, OK, medium on the turf, crab legs and scallops on the surf and 1,000 Island for your salad. Seconds on soup and salad are on the house; and you get your choice of desert, if you still have room when you finish with all of this. With that she is gone.

Rick is on his second coffee when Jep mossies’ back over, Conversation is getting stale at the bar, mind if I park it here?

The man knows how to be semi-polite, Rick thinks to himself, Sure, there is room.

I apologize for my rude remarks, it is just that I cannot stand greedy people. If it weren’t for the small row house my old man left me I would be on the streets right now. Greedy corporate bastards. Twenty years I was loyal to the company and overnight they kicked me to the curb. Rob my retirement, down turn in the economy, bullshit, thievin’ jerks. I didn’t see their mansions up for sale. Jep pauses to finish his drink. Ready for a stiff one yet?

No, but after I eat I may take you up on that. Rick concedes. For some reason he now feels sorry for the crude obnoxious man. It may be that he has only put in two and a half years of effort and this man twenty years, just to be shafted.

Abby, Jep roars, I need another drink.

A couple minutes later she appears with a double in her hand, You had better slow it down or you will not make it to day light. And you sweetie, about fifteen more minutes and your dinner will be here, but your soup and salad is on the way. They are pretty busy upstairs. Abby explains. She places her hand on his shoulder and slides it down his back a little ways before pulling it away, Is there anything else that I can get you while you wait?

Get him one of these, Jep butts in, It el take ta edge off while he waits.

What do you think stranger?

Rick realizes that he has not given her his name, Oh I am sorry, the name is Rick. I don’t think one will hurt anything. He holds out his hand and Abby grasps it with both of hers. Her hands are warm and soft and he is a bit taken back by the feeling that steals through him.

Glad to meet you Rick, comes the bubbly reply, hope you enjoy your evening. Rick is struck by the notion that he has met her before but before he can inquire Jep butts in.

Don’t just stand there Abby, bring him his food and drink. The party is on! Jep commands.

Before long spread out before him is a large salad bowl, a pan of clam chowder, a loaf of bread, butters and jams; Abby lights two candles and sets them on the table, Enjoy.

That looks so good, you had better bring me a soup bowl as well. Jep instructs, his mouth-watering.

Rick is in the middle of his first bowl of chowder when Jep suggests, Well Rick, you haven’t told me what brings you down to this part of the city, never know when help could be just around the corner.

The comment catches him off guard, how does he know that I’m in need of help, or for that matter anything. Excuse me, I didn’t say I was in trouble.

Believe me boy, my 56 years of living has taught me a thing or two about reading people, you need help. No one here is going to take advantage of you, so just relax. For the first time since he walked in an eerie feeling comes over Rick, besides Abby and Jep, there are only three people setting at the bar, and they are all looking at him.

Abby appears from around the corner of the stairwell, Here is your drink, she says softly, and your bowl Jep. Sorry it took so long, it is just a mad house up there. After she leaves Rick questions Jep, What’s upstairs?

"It’s an all-night restaurant. It is connected to a small truck stop. Depending on how you got here, you may not have noticed it. We are two stories below the restaurant, kind-of-unique how this is designed. They call it Abby’s Cave."

She owns the place?

No. Jep laughs, Just a coincidence, she just works here. You like her don’t you. he doesn’t even miss a beat, She is single, if you were wondering.

I wasn’t. Rick lies.

So what are your plans for tonight? Jep pries.

I don’t really have any. I have to think this thing through.

So you do got problems, I knew it! Jep gloats, Tell you what, over dinner you spill the beans and old Jep will see if he can work some magic, come up with a solution. What do you say? Rick hated people getting personal with him, he liked the private life that he had been living, but what choice did he have? It was obvious, either stone this guy or let him in on his dilemma. Jep could see that he was reluctant, Come on, it doesn’t hurt to talk; unless you got somethin’ to hide.

No, it’s not like that. I just have never trusted people much, and now with what has taken place I have no use for anyone, especially a stranger. Rick explains. Nothing personal. He quickly adds.

Well it is up to you. I do know a thing or two, and if conditions are right Abby might even be able to lend a hand.

The comment caught him off guard, I wouldn’t mind staying the night with her, might be the start of something good. OK, but I am only giving you a brief summary, you don’t get all of the details.

Sounds fair, Jep smiles, try that drink. Abby only makes it for me, we came up with it together, I only drink it here.

So I guess I can’t ask what is in it. Rick states rhetorically.

You can, but it won’t do you any good. Jep assures.

Rick nods his head as he takes a sip, not bad, surprisingly smooth. Rick finishes another helping of soup and slides his plate and bowl to the side. I had better slow down or I won’t have room for dinner. he thinks out loud.

You don’t go away from here hungry. Not bad for the price, unless you just had to have the surf and turf, the soup and salad comes with the dinner special as well. Hell, all-you-can-eat chowder and salad is only $4.95. Jep voices, that aggravated tone back again.

Hold on there, it is still a free country, isn’t it? A man can order what he wants from a restaurant, if you don’t eat it all you can take it with you, right? Rick fires back.

You are 100% correct. I just don’t see why people throw all that money away on food when there is an ample supply of Premium liquor available! Getting the hint Rick picks up the drink that Jep had bought for him, Cheers! The two clink glasses, Bottoms up! Jep exclaims, happiness back in his voice. Before his glass hits the table he orders another round.

The liquor rolls down Ricks throat and into his stomach, a warm sensation courses through his veins, Whoa, what a punch!

I knew you would like it! Jep was in. So now give me the story, let’s get to know you, like I said more than an hour ago.

Two days ago, Rick begins, I received a notice that I was to vacate my office, basically my laptop, pictures and coat.

That’s all you own boy? Jep is shocked to hear that bit of news, I figured you for a snot nosed brat.

Do you want me to explain or not? Rick hammers Jep.

Go for it, I am all ears.

I grab my few things and I get escorted to the front entrance of the building. When I protest to the guards, they inform me that my girlfriend, Debbie, had picked up my car. ‘Get a cab and don’t look back pal.’ Rick stops in disgust.

I feel you, go on. About that time Abby shows up with the drinks, Rick do you mind just having the steak dinner special, they are out of crab legs, it will be on me? I apologize for the long wait.

I guess that will be just fine, your soup and salad has tremendously cut down on my appetite. Rick declares to her, I’ll pay for it though.

Not at all, I insist you let me make it up to you.

Beautiful and generous, what a great combination. he compliments her.

My pleasure, Abby plays her words as she turns to head back to the bar, my three all-nighters need me.

Does this place stay open all night? Rick asks Jep. Nope, just until three a.m., but those three jokers will head upstairs for an early breakfast before they cash out. Now back to you.

Well I couldn’t figure out what had changed, I had known everyone in our small company for over two years and overnight they were treating me like some off the street asshole. Rick takes another sip of his drink, Damn that is good.

Go on kid, let’s hear it. Jep pushes.

Well I take a cab back to my apartment, when I walk in I find Charlie, my friend from childhood, all over my girlfriend. He’s got her shirt half unbuttoned, and from what I could tell, she’s not interested in stopping him. It was classic, she played it to the hilt, she breaks down and cries telling me she wanted to let me know sooner but just couldn’t find the words.

OUCH BROTHER, job and girlfriend in the same day, that’s bad! Jep consoles him.

Oh there is more. Rick guarantees him.

Hit that drink and continue, this is better than the cinema. the gruff old man begs him. The concoction slides down Rick’s throat as smooth as silk, he turns his head back and forth feeling the tension leaving his body. The room seems to brighten up somewhat, Rick rubs his eyes, Are you ok boy? Jep questions.

Yes, just finally warm and relaxed. I had better go easy on those drinks; I still got a long night ahead of me.

Don’t you worry, you’re in good company tonight.

Anyways, Charlie informs me that the apartment lease is up, and unless I wanted to pay $3,500 a month, I had four days to get my things moved out. He graciously gave me my month’s salary in cash, along with a name for a storage unit and a rental truck, and then walks out the door. They even drove away in my car, I guess it wasn’t mine, the company provided it for me. Rick sighs, I am a fool.

So you got nowhere to live. Why don’t you call your folks? Jep suggests.

Not that easy. Ever since I dropped out of college my father won’t have anything to do with me. My mother, well, she travels a lot and is in her own world. She won’t cross my father or he will cut her fun off. Rick further explains.

So you have lost everything? Jep eagerly questions, wanting further information.

Well, not exactly. Charlie and I set everything up legally, I own a 20% share in the company and have equal control over how we manufacture and market our software. The problem is we’re not ready for production quiet yet. So until we get on line or another company picks up our idea, I’m basically broke.

While he was talking Jep had motioned for Abby, she approaches and sets two more drinks down, You two seem to be getting along great. Glad to see it.

Hey Abby, we might have to put Rick up for tonight, he seems to have hit a rough spot in the road. Jep says, reveling in the uneasiness it causes Rick.

Don’t worry. I’m not down and out, I just need some time to think about my next move.

Abby’s face shows discontent, Jep get up, I need to talk to you now. she points towards a small back room behind the bar. Now! she demands.

Perplexed Rick watches as the two disappear behind a close door. He takes his time as he makes his way to the restroom, he is feeling a bit lightheaded. Wow I’ve got to go slow on those specials he tells himself.

Inside the office Abby verbally assaults Jep, You leave him alone, do you hear me?

What is your problem Abby, he is a prime target. He is nothing to you, so you get ready to move on this. Jep slams back.

No I don’t like it. It won’t be worth it.

You let me decided what is and what isn’t worth it. You got it girl! Now put that smile back on and see to it that our guest is happy. Jep’s glare tells her the conversation is over.

Fine, but if something goes wrong…

Jep cuts her off, Now Abby.

Jep is setting down at the table when Rick comes back from the bathroom, You like to take your chances, don’t you? he jokes.

No kidding, but I made it back alive. Rick says as he sets heavily in his chair.

So tell me why it is you say you’ve lost your job, if in actuality your part owner of the company?

Owner of the software. I’m the idea man. I was a troubleshooter at the company, working out kinks you could say. From what I gather my position was outsourced, I threw a big stink and they threw me out. Charlie doesn’t care; he is that rich brat you referred to. Rick clarifies.

So what happened to Charlie? Jep delves further.

We kind of split the position, so I guess he is out to.

But you aren’t sure, are you?

Not totally. I mean this just happened two days ago. First I had to move out of my office, then my apartment, and Debbie and Charlie disappear in my car. Rick finishes.

Jep takes a drink, So how did you come to be here? He insists.

"I