The Pussycat Ball

By Kev Pickering and Jennifer Jay

As the Pussycat Gang start to prepare for the upcoming year, many things are on their minds. Supporting Abigail de Ros, her friends and fellow debs... What to get the Sweet Sixteens for presents... Choosing colleges... Preparing to rob a secure storeroom full of furs or a very full bank vault... and helping a friend facing a deadly threat.

And underlying all of this is growing rumours of a second gang using their name, leading to a far more deadly dance.


Other books by Kev Pickering and Jennifer Jay: -
The Pussycat Gang
The Walrus and the Pussycats
The Pussycat and the Prince
Pussycats at Play
Pussycats at War

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Jun 2, 2017
• ISBN: 9780244911485

Book preview

The Pussycat Ball

The Pussycat Ball

By Kev Pickering and Jennifer Jay

Copyright (C) 2017 Kev Pickering, Jennifer Jay

All rights reserved

ISBN: 978-0-244-61146-0

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Sisters, Sisters, words and music by Irving Berlin, 1954

As Tears Go By, words and music by Jagger, Richards and Oldham, 1964

You Were On My Mind, words and music by Syliva Fricker, 1962

The Leader of the Pack, words and music by Morton, Barry and Greenwich, 1964

River Deep, Mountain High, words and music by Ike and Tina Turner, 1966

Dream a Little Dream of Me, music by Andre and Schwandt, lyrics by Kahn, 1931

Moonshadow, music and lyrics by Cat Stevens, 1970

You’re Sixteen (You’re Beautiful, and You’re Mine), music and Lyrics by Sherman and Sherman, 1960

Yellow Submarine, music and lyrics by Lennon and McCartney, 1966

Sinnerz

From the pages of the New York Post

Tonight the Saints and Sinners social coterie will celebrate its first full year of existence with a monumental Halloween Party at an undisclosed location.

In the year of television shows like ‘Odd Mom Out’, and books like ‘Primates of Park Avenue’, the group that prides itself on its anti exclusiveness will arguably host the most exclusive party of the year.

While both fiction and so called reality has focused on the snobbery of so-called Upper East Side socialites, in reality thousands of well-manicured nails have been worn down by those scratching for an invite to join this little group. To paraphrase a review that appeared in this publication some weeks ago, it doesn’t matter among ‘Sinners’ that you are a brunette rather then a blonde, that one is married to a lawyer, rather then a hedge-fund manager, or that one doesn’t necessarily have a nanny to look after the children. Nannies in fact can actually be welcomed as ‘Sinners’.

So why, to ask a question, does a group that seemingly breaks every rule in the upper-class handbook evoke such envy? The simple answer might just be that they are having such a damn good time breaking those rules.

Yesterday’s victory for the colt ‘Saintz and Sinnerz’ owned by a syndicate of group members, in the Breeders Cup Juvenile Sprint, triggered a celebration that truly rocked the stands at Keeneland, with champagne flowing like a waterfall, amid scenes of unabashed joy. You weren’t there? You weren’t invited? Well from all accounts Mrs. Hedge-Fund you missed one whale of a party.

Of course it doesn’t disqualify you from membership that hubby is making a pile on Wall Street, some so-called ‘Saints’ in fact do just that, but you can’t simply buy your way in. Membership can be as simple as who you have coffee with on Friday afternoons after the school run.

So let’s get to the nitty gritty, who is in and who is out? Well a true cross-section of New Yorkers it turns out. I have attempted to draw up a list of members as near as I can calculate as of today, and those of you who workout on those front row bicycles at chic spin classes may be astonished by who is in whilst you are out.

So shall we start?  How about…

Prince Klaus von Furstenheim

Miss Juliette Huntingdown

Princess Carina von Furstenheim

Princess Ingrid von Furstenheim

And little Princess Judith von Furstenheim

Pretty impressive eh? Royal, rich, and three beautiful top models. They hit most of the important social buttons right?

Alright in contrast.

Miss Wilhelmina Tennant

Mrs. Grace Brand

Mrs. Harriet Craig

Mrs. Ingrid Mueller

Miss Sarah Nightingale

Miss Annie Kelly

No clue? Well unless one is an insider, or knows of St Angela’s Academy, the names may mean nothing, though if one says that Mrs. Brand is the married name of Grace Gresham the model, who in her other life is the Dean of St Angela’s, she at least might ring a bell, whilst the others are all teachers at the school. Schoolteachers? I thought this was an exclusive group? Well they were all invited to tonight’s shindig…Were you? Frustrating isn’t it?

Mrs. Vanessa Richmond

Father Alexander Richmond

Miss Alexandra Richmond

Mr. George Richmond

Miss Alexandra Richmond (Junior)

Mr. George Graham

Miss Jennifer Graham

Miss Heather Smith

Miss Joanne Smith

Doctor Curtis Richardson

Miss Orlanda Flaherty

Well we all know who the Richmond’s are? Don’t we? Mr. Graham is Wall Street third generation, as well as Alexandra Richmond’s ex, but who are those others? Well Heather Smith and Orlanda Flaherty are nannies…I told you they could be members…didn’t I?

Am I teasing and tormenting you Mrs. Hedge-Fund? I’m sorry but I can’t resist it.

Mr. Augustus van Roon IV

Mrs. Pauline van Roon

Mr. Samuel Lodge

Mrs. Elizabeth Lodge

Mr. Peter Lodge

Mr. Simon Lodge

Doctor Patricia van Roon

Doctor Frieda van Roon

Mr. Augustus van Roon V

Mrs. Tracey van Roon

Mr. Chet van Roon

Miss Blair van Roon

Mr. Henry Pratt

Miss Sarah Rogers

Whoa van Roon’s - now we are talking New York aristocracy, but the bottom two? Just ring your Chicago friends…old Midwestern money I can assure you.

Well is that a bit more like it then? Less envious now? I have further lists for you to get angry about dear Mrs. Hedge-Fund if you think that though.

Prince Henri de Aucigny

Princess Jeanne de Aucigny

Guy Duc du Grechy

Duke Guilleme du Grechy

Duchess Natasha du Grechy

Countess Valeria de Ros

Countess Diana de Ros

Countess Abigail de Ros

Baron Wilhelm Buchenwald

Baroness Natalya Buchenwald

Baron Dieter von Manschen

Baroness Sigrid von Manschen

I caught you off guard didn’t I? That’s actually a nice cross section of the European aristocracy isn’t it? Imagine rubbing shoulders with them tonight? Then again standing next to Abigail de Ros might make you look rather ordinary and plain Mrs. Hedge-Fund. Safer to stay away from top models, safer to keep hubby’s wandering eyes away from them as well, he’s getting to that trophy-wife stage isn’t he?

Mr. John Bowden

Mrs. Barbara Brewster

Miss Jeannie Brewster

Mr. Winston Brewster IV

Ouch, another supermodel, but at least that one uses a wheelchair.  And then there’s The House – rising star of College Football.

Mr. Stephen Stone

Mrs. Eve Stone

Mr. Richard Delaney

Mrs. Cassandra Delaney

Mr. Steven Delaney

Miss Capricorn Delaney

Miss Leonora Delaney

Mmmm an Irish/Hollywood family grouping…interesting.

Mr. Jack Linklater

Mr. Luke Heller

Mr. Antonio Bell

Mr. Adam Cabot

Mr. Jerry Levin

Miss Prudence Stratton

Photographers, currency dealer, top model. Acceptable?  Well, how about British aristocrats?

Thomas Duke of Lardarn

Paula Duchess of Lardarn

William Marquess of Ordford

Amanda Marchioness of Ordford

John Viscount Millingham

Lord David Fitzstuart

Lord William Fitzstuart

Lady Angelica Fitzstuart

Damn, more supermodels, but still all those titles? Well we have our own titles of distinction in America don’t we?

Congressman Tom Morse

Mrs. Claire Morse

Miss Roberta Morse

Miss Rebecca Morse

Judge Brooke Hatton

Miss Lotta Page

The Judiciary and the Legislative branch, but you notice the president didn’t get an invite?

Mr. Roy Razinski

Mrs. Tonia Razinski.

Did you hear how much Roy made last year? Irrelevant Mrs. Hedge-Fund.

Major John Hammond

Miss Shirley Xavier

Miss Maisha Abonoyu

Isn’t he the famous photographer I hear you asking? Well yes, and she owns a large Insurance company. Miss Abonoyu is one of those poor African girls who were enslaved. Why look so shame faced Mrs Hedge-Fund, do you know something about that? Well?

Mr. Clint Walker

Mrs. Susan Walker

Miss April Walker

Mrs. Rose Smith

Miss Maeve O’Leary

The old time actor? No - but Mrs. Walker manages Xavier International’s New York operation, and besides is a cousin of the Huntingdown’s.  But the reach goes beyond our jeweled shores.  For example…

Miss Catherine Lu

Miss Helen York

Miss Marina Sokowski

Miss Kylie Mitchell

Yes, the group is truly international, this might be called its Hong Kong branch members.

Miss Caroline Jameson

Miss Ama Jameson

Mr. George Sanders

Miss Lily Harmon

Miss Penelope Harker

Oh another supermodel, and another one of those unfortunate African girls.  More Brits as well – but let’s go further…

Miss Charlotte Gordon

Mr. Piet van der Byl

Mrs Madeline Moore

Mrs Emma Cromwell

Another Xavier International executive and an award-winning journalist. Who knew we scribes could be socialites?  And look – the head of Xavier International’s West Coast Branch, and her wife, the lead singer from the band Ladydown.   You would almost think Xavier International sponsored this group – how does that make you feel…

Miss Anna Mitchell

Miss Mary Thomas

Miss Fiona McKenzie

The Triumvirate at the head of Complete Style Magazine - no real surprise there, given the position of Juliette Huntingdown, but an American, a woman from the Welsh Valleys and a Scot?  Mind you, in case there is trouble, they have that covered too…

Mr. Tom Callaghan

Mrs. Gale Callaghan

Mr. Adam Ball

Miss Janice Carter

Mrs. Katherine Carter

Miss Katherine Carter

FBI protection guaranteed – and then there are the representatives from the wider modelling world.  People like…

Doctor Kenneth Boyd

Doctor Karen Boyd

Mr. Duncan MacKinnon

Mrs. Alice Mackinnon

A radiologist, a gynecologist, and the CEO of APCO design.  Also lifelong friends.

But remember what I said about the school run and the Friday coffee?  That’s where the genesis of this group really lies, in the friendships formed there.  People like

Miss Denice Burton

Miss Erica Burton

Mr. Steven Carlton

Mrs. Emma Carlton

Miss Anna Carlton

Erica and Anna are the Jamie Kirkham scholars, recipients of a fund that remembers a girl taken far too young, to live her dream of being a doctor.   A sure sign that money is not the prime requirement for membership, Mrs Hedge-Fund – personality, and brains, count far more.

Miss Philippa Ashley

Miss Poppy Ashley

Mr. Grant Broadhurst

Mrs. April Broadhurst

Miss Nicola Broadhurst.

Mrs. Mercy Kinman

Miss Letitia Kinman

Three more different families you could not get – Poppy comes from the world of fashion magazines, Nicola – Pepsi to her friends – lives in the village where her mother has a florist’s store, and Letitia lives on the South Side and is a head girl.  Yet all are sinners, Miss Hedge-Fund – is that a wail of despair I hear?

Mr. Bradley Colman

Mrs. Elaine Colman

Miss Nicola Colman

Mr. Thomas Boyton

Miss. Holly Berryman

Another pupil, and two Sophomore New York students – but they are part of the mix.  So you see, I was telling the truth – and that’s before you even begin to get into the children, the friends from school…

But there are two families I forgot – I hope they forgive me for the social faux pas.

Mr. Daniel Rochermann

Mrs. Kelly Rochermann

Miss Allyson Rochermann

Miss Eleanor Rochermann

Mr. George McNally

Mrs. Rachel McNally

Miss Judith McNally

Mr. Kevin McNally

Mr. Anthony McNally

Everyone in New York society knows the good work done by Kelly and Rachel – and they are in this group too.

So how do you get in?  What is the password to give when you knock on the door, the combination to the safe, the golden key?  Well, I know – but I’m not telling.  Maybe we’ll talk about you tonight, Miss Hedge-Fund, maybe not.

Because I’m a Sinner too….

O Canada!

Monday 9th November

The de Ros Mansion

4 pm

Katy Carter had been nervous before, but this was a whole new level of apprehension as she rang the doorbell, wondering what was going to happen next.  As she stood there, in her green jacket, white blouse and grey skirt, she was beginning to wonder what she had started.

Oh – it’s Katherine Carter isn’t it, Edith said as she opened the door, what can I do for you?

My mother asked me to come and see Countess de Ros before I went home tonight, she said quietly as she twisted round, to collect some things?

Of course – come away in, Edith said as she opened the door, I will let her know you are here.

As Katy walked in, she looked round the large hallway, taking in the decor as Edith disappeared through a door.

If you will come this way, Edith said as she returned, indicating the door she had come back through.  Katy nodded as she saw Diana sitting in a chair, wearing a roll neck sweater and grey pants.

Hey Aunt Diana, she said as she followed the maid into the drawing room.

Hello Katy, come sit down please.  Diana indicated the other end of the long chair she was in, while watching the young girl sit down.  Would you like a coke?

Oh please.

Edith...for Miss Katherine please?

Yes, Madame, Edith said as she went out of the room, closing the door behind her.

She doesn't...

No she doesn't, Diana said quietly, and that is the one of the things I'm assessing tonight, how well I think you can keep a secret.

Thank you. Katy smiled as Edith brought her drink in.  Taking a sip, she watched as Diana sat back.

Ah my other guest, Diana looked up as the doorbell rang, can you please go let her in Edith.

Certainly Madame.  Katy watched as she left the room, and then held it open again.

Hey Katy, Hi Diana, Anna Carlton spoke as she came in.

Doc? Katy's jaw dropped.

A coke for Miss Anna please, Diana said, and then you may return to your duties.

As Edith left the room again, Anna sat down and smiled at Katy.  I hear you had a big day yesterday?  Winning the race and all that?

Yes – we didn’t get back until late last night, Katy said, I really struggled to get out of bed this morning.

How did the calendar shoot go, Anna?

Very well, Doc said as Edith brought her the drink.  Thank you Edith – I believe Abby is meeting with Luke today for an hour or two?

Yes – she will join us for dinner.  Diana waited until Edith had left and closed the door, before Katy said you have to be kidding me - you?

Me, Doc said seriously, Heather wants me to be a big sister to you, so I will be with you every step of this journey.

I know Juliette and the others talked to you yesterday, Diana said, but understand Katy – if I do not think tonight you are capable of doing what we need, you go no further.  Is that clear?

Katy slowly nodded as she sipped her drink.

Hey, Anna said, trust me – I felt just as you did when I found out, even if I found out in a slightly different way.

But...  Who else...

If I believe you have what is required, you find out tomorrow, Diana said as she watched them finishing their drinks, for now, will you follow me please?

She stood up and led them back into the hallway, and out to the kitchen, where Edith was preparing a casserole.

Edith, Diana said as she selected a key from a rack, I will be taking the girls down to the gun range, can you please buzz me when dinner is ready?

Yes Madame.

A gun range?

I had it built in the summer Anna, Diana said as they walked down the garden, it's totally sound proofed, and while it may not be my farm, I think we can do some teaching here.

Wow! Katy exhaled as Diana unlocked the huge door and opened it wide, the trio walking in to see a firing range inside, and various weapons in locked cabinets.

Let us be honest, Katy, Diana said, We cannot teach you to shoot to the same standards as the others in a short time.  What is more, your mother wishes to take on that role if you progress.  What we have to do is see how you handle a weapon, and at least give you a chance to use one.

Katy nodded slowly as Doc unlocked a cabinet, and took out a .45.  Right – shall we begin?

5 pm

Xavier International, New York

So are you happy to do this for us, Juliette Huntingdown said as she sat in Penny Harker’s office.

Well I’m happy to do it, but explain to me why I'm the one taking her out tomorrow night please Juliette.

It's simple Penny, Juliette said as she put her coffee cup down.  You barely know Katy, I don't think you have any pre-conceived notions, you yourself got into the life very young and had to grow up early and can hopefully assess her readiness. But above all I trust your judgment of character.

Well that's nice, but I'd have thought her mother?

Jan is far too close, we need unbiased opinions.

Okay - then why Doc?

Protection shall we say, Anna is totally cool and she will watch Katy's back and make sure no harm comes to her.  Also she is the closest in age – if any of us can support her, its Doc.

Alright that makes sense.  I’ll scope out a suitable target tonight.

Good – now what of Susan’s problem?

She and Clint are having a coffee with Denice now over at Columbia, to talk about some things for the race team.  We’re looking at the photos and report from Tracy yesterday – this Rochelle was throwing her weight around.  Penny smiled as she said If I was honest, giving her ten minutes in the same room as me and Susan may teach her a thing or two.

If it were possible I agree, Juliette said, but this is one of those situations where we cannot be seen to be involved.  If we are going to help, it must be quietly unless our hand is forced.

5 pm

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, near Columbia U

I still can’t believe you’re asking me to help out, Denice Burton said as she sat with Susan and Clint Walker.  Denice was wearing a grey jumper and skirt, while Susan was in her office outfit of jacket, skirt and blouse, and Clint was wearing his chauffer’s uniform.

Can I get you anything, Tracy, the waitress, said as she came over.

Two coffees please, and an English tea, Susan said, Tracy nodding before she went back to the counter.

It makes sense to me, Clint said, Heather is amazing, but two pairs of eyes are better than one, and given Jeanne may have to take a back seat at some point next year for a few weeks,

Jeanne?  Why?

She’s pregnant, Susan said, she told us after the race yesterday.  So as I say, the more the merrier.

So when is the Florida race?

We’ll have the dates in due course, Clint said, but we’re getting together in our place on Saturday for a proper celebration.  Hopefully you and Erica can join us?

I think we can – we’re not spending a lot of time at home at the moment anyway...

5 pm

The Richmond Mansion

Do you have Katy's documents processed Lover? Sandy Richmond asked as she poured herself a coffee.

Yes, Heather Smith said as she looked up from her laptop, I've established a new identity for her, the passport should be here first thing Wednesday and is genuine, I did her a New York State driving license, and also booked her into the hotel.

You were busy.

Who me? Heather laughed.

The kids do know now they are going to their father's for a couple of days?

They do, Sandy said she wished she could come with us, but when I explained we were going shopping for antiques she quickly changed her mind.

Well, maybe next time, Sandy said with a smile.  I wonder how Katy is feeling right now?

5.15 pm

The de Ros Mansion

Katy looked at Diana as Anna laid out some weapons, before saying what was this place?

It was built as a nuclear fallout shelter Katy, as you can tell it stretches back under the house. I'd always intended doing something with it but never got round to it till this year.

Well it's amazing - you have your own firing range here in the city. Katy shook her head.

Now Katy, Diana said quietly, did you ever handle your mother's gun?

Well, she let me hold it a few times – she said it was important I wasn’t scared to see it – but she keeps it locked away, and I never handled it with actual bullets in it.

All right, Diana said as she handed Katy the handgun, show me how you held it.

Slowly, Katy picked up the gun in both hands, one under the barrel and the other under the handle.  She then took it in one hand and aimed it down the range.

Diana and Doc exchanged a look, before the younger girl said, Well, that looks good in films, but in real life I have to tell you Katy – you’d hurt yourself more than anyone else without training and practice.

None of which we have time for, Diana said as she looked at Doc.  Show her please Anna.

Here, Doc said as she helped Katy to hold the gun in both hands, are you left or right handed?

Right handed.

Okay, put the first finger of your right hand over the trigger, and just point it down the range, get used to the way it feels in your hand.

Katy held the gun as she had been told, and looked down the range, her feet apart as she weighed the gun in her hand.  Diana looked at her, before saying straighter back, Katy, and feet slightly further apart.

As Katy adjusted her stance, Diana put a pair of ear protectors over her head, handing one to Doc before donning a third pair herself.  Very well Katy, I want you to slowly pull the trigger towards yourself, and keep as still as you can,

Nodding, Katy slowly pulled the trigger back, wondering what was going to happen.  She heard the bang, and struggled to keep her arms from shooting up as she wondered what had just happened.

Well, you just fired your first shot, Diana said as she removed her protectors, and pressed a button, bringing a white sheet forward.

You...  You didn’t tell me it had ammo in it, Katy whispered as she looked at Doc.

First lesson I can teach you Katy – we are deadly serious in what we do, and we don’t practice with blanks.

Hmm, Diana said as she looked at the target.  For a first shot, it’s good – a little off target, a seven or eight, but pretty good.  For this week, however, we need to be sure you can use something else – wait here.

As Diana turned, Doc looked at Katy and smiled.  Not bad kiddo, not bad at all.

Thanks, Katy said as she put the gun down and shook her arms, but god that hurt.  How does Mom manage it?

Practice and strength, Anna said with a smile.

Doc, Katy said as she turned round, what does it feel like?

What armed robbery?

Yes, but also sex. Since I guessed about Mom I have been having the most incredible orgasms dreaming about crime.

Been there, done that, have the tee shirt. Anna laughed. I was like that before and at first.

You were?

Yeah I had some mind-blowing orgasms as I dreamed and fantasized, but honestly it's not like the real thing.

Robbery or sex?

Both. Doc giggled.

WOW!

Anna looked at the teenager, and said How close did you actually get yet, if you don't mind me asking?

I was stroking that boy’s cock the night of Pepsi's party, Katy whispered, and I've let George feel one of my beasts and suck on my tit.

Was that before or since the party?

Since... Katy looked at the expression on Anna's face. Hey I promised no sex, I didn't say I wouldn't fool around a bit.

KATY! Anna shook her head.

Well what's the purpose of having breasts like these, she glanced down at them, if I don't let them weave their magic on men.

You are just 13.

And you were a prostitute at 15, personally I don't see much difference.

Doc stared at Katy, before she whispered Who blabbed?

Peps told me...but I've never told anyone...PROMISE!

Shaking her head, Anna said Your sister has a big mouth.

Now how the hell...is she one too?

No she isn't, and I know because she asked me to hack her adoption records.

FUCK! How many other secrets are out there?

Maybe you will find out, Diana said as she came back, holding a sawn off shotgun in her hand.  Have you seen one of these before, Katy?

Only in films, she said quietly. 

All right – put those gloves on, she said as she handed the young girl a pair, and the lesson can begin.

This, Doc said as Anna put her gloves on, is our weapon of choice, for a very good reason – this will do damage to anything it is fired at.  Your mom will have told you guns are not toys, right?

Katy nodded as Diana said Well, we never treat them lightly, or use them without a reason.  These are lethal weapons, Katy – never forget that.

Just... Just how much damage can they do?

Doc?

As Diana set up a straw bale a distance away, Doc loaded a set of shot into the gun and closed it. 

Ear protectors on Katy.

As she slipped them on, she watched as Doc stood with her legs apart, the gun butt resting at her hip as she held it in both hands.  She looked over and smiled at Katy before she pulled the trigger, the bale exploding as the shot hit it.

Oh my...

Now, Diana said as she put her hand on Katy’s shoulder, do you understand why your mother may have concerns?

As she slowly nodded, Doc said Good – I will set up a second bale, and you can fire the second bullet at it.

Are you sure?

Katy, if you are going to join us, Diana said, you need to do this.

Hey, look on the bright side – you haven’t spent the weekend at...

Anna?

Sorry, Doc said as Diana looked at her, and then handed the gun to Anna.

Now, Diana said, normally we ask the others to shoot this the way they think you should, but you need to project that you do know.  So, feet slightly apart, one in front of the other, cradle the barrel in your left hand and your right on the trigger, and support the butt on your hip.

As Katy did as she was told, Doc said, Right – I want you to imagine that bale is someone you hate.  I don’t want names, I don’t want to know who it is – I just want you to imagine it.

Nodding, Katy suddenly hardened her face, as she stared at the bale.

Now, Diana said, pull the trigger.

Katy’s eyes widened as the recoil hit her, and then she saw the straw flying into the air, the dust settling as she removed her ear protectors.

Diana and Doc looked at each other, before she nodded slowly and said Good – now we do this again.

6.30 pm

Diana, Doc said as she tapped her on the shoulder and looked at the wall.

Ah – dinner is ready, she said as she took the ear protectors off, and surveyed the range.  Let’s go and eat – Abby should be home by now.  I have some questions to ask you Katy, and I expect honest answers...

7 pm

The Huntingdown Apartment

Now who could that be, Juliette said as she went from the kitchen to the apartment door.

Hi Ju, her visitor said as she checked and opened the door.

Hey Annie darling I wasn’t expecting you. Juliette kissed her daughter’s lover.

Well with Klaus out of town I thought you might appreciate some company.

I must admit I hated seeing him off at the airport this morning. Juliette beckoned Annie Kelly into the drawing room. So how did the weekend go? How did Judith react?

I’m not sure she understands really, but she thinks definitely she will have a little sister.

Oh dear, she’ll probably be so disappointed if it’s a boy. Juliette went over to one of the tables. So what is going to be your soft drink of choice?

Oh what horrible words…soft drinks…YUCK! Annie sighed, but I guess it’s going to be diet coke.

Alright I have a couple in the fridge, and I’ll remember to lay in a supply.

Thanks Juliette.

So what is this I hear that Ama had a surprise when she visited Los Angeles?

Indeed, Annie said, remember last summer, when I said I thought Cohen had the girl who came with Ama as one of his servants?

I vaguely...  Oh goddess, do you mean she met her?

Apparently – she was adopted by a couple in the LA area, and volunteered to help at the shelter Maddie set up.  When Ama and Maisha visited on Saturday, they recognised each other instantly.

Juliette smiled.  That is an amazing and touching story – I hope they will be keeping in touch?

Dom’s already invited them to spend Thanksgiving – and she’s invited her grandfather over as well.  I guess we’re cooking in the Village this year, Annie said as she sipped her drink.  So did you enjoy the race?

We did – have you spoken to any of the others yet?

No – but I know about Jeanne if that’s what you’re talking about.  We met at Helen’s clinic last week.

Actually, Juliette said as she poured herself a glass, I was thinking of Katy.

Yeah – Cari told me, Annie said quietly.  What are you going to do?

Well, provided Diana and Penny approve, Juliette said, I’m going to assign Jan, Katy and you to the Humphries home.  Controlling a twelve year old should be easier, and less chance of her realising Miss Lynx’s more – extreme actions on the first pass.

Annie nodded as she sipped her drink.  So have you heard from Diana yet?

Not yet – Katy is eating there, but as they say, no news is good news in that respect.  So what else is going on?

Was Erica all right today?

Fine – she seemed to really enjoy herself yesterday, Juliette said, but a friend of Susan and Penny has come over to watch them.

Good – I can keep an eye on her in school, and I imagine Abby and Ama will do so as well.

7.30 pm

The de Ros Mansion

This is delicious, Katy said as she chewed on the casserole.

Indeed – an excellent meal, Edith, Diana said as she sat opposite Abby, Katy and Doc on each side.

Thank you, Madame – if there is nothing else, I have dessert waiting in the icebox.

Of course – you are visiting your sister this evening, are you not Edith?

Indeed, Madame – if you will excuse me?

Diana nodded as Edith left and closed the door, before she sipped her wine.  Now then Katy, she said as she looked at her, I think you need to hear what I think from my own lips.

Katy glanced over at Abby, who wiped her chin and said well, you’ll find out soon enough Katy – I’m one as well.

Oh my...

Oh trust me, Doc said, if you make it through this week, this is just the beginning of the surprises.

As I was saying, Diana continued as she sipped her wine, I think you have potential, Katy, but we have no time to teach you more than how to hold and fire the weapon – which you have a talent for, I grant you.  The question in my mind, therefore, is can you keep a secret like this.

Well, she hasn’t told anyone about her sister, Doc said, although I will be having words with Pepsi on a similar matter.

Good, Diana said quietly, "and you have not told others of what your mother is.  So let me ask you a very direct question.

Yesterday you saw Caroline, Susan and Susan’s colleague Penny – what did you deduce?

Enough to know I can’t say anything about them either.

Diana nodded as she looked at Abby.  Would you bring the dessert through darling?

8.30 pm

The Huntingdown Apartment

Here, Juliette said as she handed Annie a coffee, ready?

Let’s do this, Annie said as she watched Juliette open her laptop, and hold her eye to her keyfob.

Hey mom, Carina Huntingdown said as she appeared in a window, how’s the homestead?

Very quiet, Juliette said as Jo Smith appeared in a second screen, and Sandy and Heather appeared in a third.

So when do we know if stage 2 is a go, Jo said as she sipped her drink.

Any second now - Well? Juliette asked as she looked at her computer screen.

Jan just came and collected her and Anna.

So opinions please, and fill the rest of us in can you?

Well, Diana said as she sat with Abby, she reminds me a lot of Jo when we first brought her in.

Well that’s a comforting thought, Jo said.  What does it mean practically?

Well, we tried her with a handgun and the sawn off – she’s a natural, but needs practice to perfect it.

But could she look as if she knows what she’s doing?

Jan will kill me for saying this, Diana said quietly, but yes, I think she could.  I think we proceed to stage two.

So the litmus test?

Diana nodded.  Is Penny prepared?

Penny?  You turned it over to her?

I did love, Juliette said to Carina, I need an unbiased opinion of her capability.  Doc will be there as well.

And if she passes that?

Then Jan and I need a long chat with her – we meet at nine tomorrow for briefing.  Jo, can you dial in?

Gotcha, Jo said, Cari?

I’ll have to dial in as well – but I take it Katy and I would be on different teams?

Oh yes, Juliette said, she’s not ready for that yet, whatever happens...

So we decide tomorrow?

We do – until then ladies...

Tuesday 10th November

8.15 am

Washington Heights

Hey, Erica Burton said as she saw Tracy get into the lift, another day at the coal face?

Where did you hear the expression, Tracy said as the lift door closed.

Mary Thomas used it sometimes – so working again today?

Yup – later shift yesterday, morning shift today.  Off to school?

I am, Erica said, my lift just arrived downstairs.

You don’t go to school around here?

No she doesn’t – do you homegirl?

Tracy looked at Rochelle, the girl she had seen before in the area, and her two cronies as the lift doors opened.  Friends of yours, she said as she looked at Erica with a raised eyebrow.

Not really, no, Erica said as she and Tracy walked past them, the three girls whispering insults as they went outside.

In you go, Tracy said as Caroline held the door open, nodding as she got behind the wheel and drove off.

And where do you get off helping her, Rochelle sneered as Tracy turned round.

A little human compassion – you should try it sometime, Tracy said quietly as she walked towards the EL, the three girls watching her as she walked off.

Noon

New Mode

Miss Ashley?

Yes, Pippa Ashley said as she turned to look at her assistant, who was standing at the office door.

I have a Miss Margaret Harker here – I know you said you were not to be disturbed, but...

It’s all right - send her in, Pippa said as Maggie appeared in the doorway, dressed in a long coat and with black boots on her legs.

Aunt Maggie – I wasn’t expecting you to visit so soon, Pippa said as she kissed her relative.

Ay well – I think you might need the moral support, she said as she sat down.  You heard he’d been released?

I had – but no sign of him so far.

Well, he’s here.

But he’s a convicted criminal – how did he get into the US?

No bloody idea, Pip – but he’s here.  We need to collect Poppy from school today – together.

Nodding, Pippa picked up the phone.  "Can you get me Grace Brand at St Angela’s please?

Grace – Pippa.  I have Maggie here – can you meet us at the school entrance at 3?  I’ll explain when we meet.

6 pm

Xavier International

Why have you brought me here mom, Katy said as she and her mother Janice walked into the lobby of the office building.

Well, given Diana has approved your progression, we’re meeting Penny and Anna here for the next part, Jan said as she nodded to the receptionist.

Miss Carter – you’re expected, she said as she opened the gate, allowing both of them to walk to the lift and go to the executive floor.

Hello Katy, Penny said as they walked into a conference room, Doc smiling as she sat at the table.  Jan, she’ll be safe with us now – we’ll see you later.

Do exactly what they tell you, Jan said as she hugged Katy, and then left the three of them alone.

So what happens now, Katy said as she looked at Anna.

Now we get changed, Penny said, there’s a liquor store in the Heights that we’re going to rob.  I have a car ready, we go in, empty the till and the safe, and get out.  The job of you two will be to make sure nobody gives us any trouble.  After that, I will make a decision about you, Miss Carter.

Come on, Doc said as she took Katy’s hand, time to make you look older.

Oh my, Katy said as she looked at herself, I like this.  She was wearing a pair of skin tight black pants, the legs tucked into over the knee black leather boots with four inch heels, a black biker’s leather jacket over her body.

Well, it’s important you look both taller and older, Doc said, now come over here. 

As she applied some dark eye shadow to Katy’s eyes, Penny came in, dressed in the same way as she pulled a pair of black leather gloves on.

Well, you certainly look the part, she said as Doc then used a dark red lipstick on Katy, before she said there – now, put the gloves on.

Katy slipped the soft black leather gloves on, as Penny opened a cupboard and took out three guns.

Magnums – clean, loaded.  Goddess willing, we will not need to do more than intimidate with them, but you never know.

Nodding, Katy took one of the guns, holding it for a moment before she slipped it into the bag Penny was holding.

We have balaclavas here as well, so make sure your hair is up, Penny said as she looked at them.  As Doc helped Katy, she watched the young girl controlling her excitement.

Now remember – we go in, we do the job, we go out.  Gather anyone in there into one place and cover them – let me do the talking as much as possible.  Ready?

The two girls nodded as Penny opened the door.  Right – let’s do this then.

7.30 pm

Washington Heights

Well, Penny said as she looked at the door, this is the place.  Last chance to back out Katy.

The young girl shook her head as she felt the excitement growing in several places.  Anna looked at her and said we need to do this now.

Agreed – balaclavas down, Penny said, watching as the other two pulled the masks down, only showing their eyes and red lips before Penny pulled her own down.  Taking the guns in their hands, they quickly left the dark sedan and walked into the door of the liquor store.

NOBODY MOVE, Penny called out as Doc closed the door, THIS IS A FUCKING ROBBERY.  IF ANYONE MOVES, THEY DIE.

You heard my friend, Katy called out in as deep a voice as she could, aiming her gun at the three customers at the counter, face down on the fucking floor, hands where we can fucking see them, and nobody needs to get fucking hurt.

That includes you, Doc said as she aimed her gun at a seventeen year old girl who was standing by a side cabinet, over there, now!

The young girl slowly walked over as Penny went to the counter.  Don’t even fucking think of it, she said as she saw the young man reach under the counter, I’d drop you before you got your hand to it.  Open the till, open the fucking safe, and then get round here.

As Penny stood at the counter, Katy stood over the other customers with Doc, trying not to smile.  The middle aged couple had dropped to their knees almost immediately, and she had noted the damp patch on the front of the woman’s skirt as she had pissed herself.

The third customer was a young boy, barely older than Katy herself, who looked up at her as she walked past.

Do you like what you see, big boy, she whispered in a sultry voice as she stood over him.

His loss, Doc said as she looked at Katy, you’re too old for him, and too much.

Get over there, you little prick, Penny barked as she pushed the young man over to the others, before pushing the contents of the till and safe into her bag.

You have no idea who you’re messing with, the teenage girl said as she looked up.

No, you have no fucking idea, Doc said as Katy watched her move over.  Penny glanced up – she was certainly calm enough, and seemed to be acting the part well, keeping control of the others.

Okay, she said as she closed her bag and looked at Doc, check we’re clear outside.

Katy watched as Doc went towards the doorway, and then turned to watch Penny as she retrieved the security recordings.  It was the motion she saw out of the corner of her eye that alerted her, as she turned and saw the teenage girl stand up, and draw a gun from her jacket pocket, aiming it at Doc.

Penny watched as Katy raised her own gun and pulled the trigger, the teenager gasping and then falling forward onto the ground, Doc turning and taking in the scene with one look.

We told you fuckers not to move, Penny shouted as she took Katy by the arm, see what happens if you fuck around with us?  We clear?

We clear, Doc said as Katy pointed her gun at the others.

Nobody move for ten minutes, Penny said as she looked at Katy.  Let’s go.

Nodding, Katy walked with Penny, trying to understand the turmoil of feelings inside her as Doc opened the door, and they got quickly into the car, Penny driving off.

Slow, deep breaths, Doc whispered to Katy, remain calm.

It...  It’s not that, Katy said, it was her eyes, the way she looked...

It’s all right Katy, Penny said quietly, we’re going to go and join your mom and the others now...

8.15 pm

The de Ros Mansion

They’re here, Clint said as he looked at Susan, I’ll see you at the apartment later.

Thanks, Clint, Susan said as the door opened and Penny came in, followed by Doc and Katy.

Any trouble getting here?

No – why?

We’ve been monitoring the police wavebands – who did it?

Katy looked up at Susan, who nodded and said right – you come with me Katy.  You two need to join the others – tell Jan to come in as well, will you?

Susan – she did it to protect me, Doc said, Susan nodding as she took Katy’s hand and led her to where Juliette and Caroline Jameson were waiting in a small room.

Thank the goddess, Juliette said as Katy came in, come and sit down, tell us what happened.

Well, Katy said, we went in, did what Penny told us to do, kept the customers and the clerk on the floor – but there was this girl, a teenager, who looked like she might cause trouble.  Penny told Doc to make sure the way out was clear, she went to the door, I saw her rise, and...

Katy looked at the two women, her hands wrapped round the bottle of cola, as she said I ...

It’s all right, Katy, Caroline said quietly, we had hoped this time would not have come so soon.

You realise now you are a bad girl, Juliette said, a criminal Katy, and if the law catches you they will try you as an adult and throw away the key.

Yes. she gulped for a second. But I don't think I was born to be good.

And the killing?

The stupid bitch was going to shoot Doc, I didn't even think Aunt Ju, I just dropped her.

Well we are all killers as well, Juliette said, and there is now no way we can exclude you from the Pussycats.

Katy, I always ask this after a first killing, Caroline looked deep in the young girls yes. Do you have any regrets?

Yes...No...Yes...Look I am sorry that girl is dead, but I did what I needed to do to protect myself and the others....Is that wrong?

In this line of work? No...It's just how you should feel.

Hang on, Katy said, first killing?  How...

The room to the door opened and Jan came in, followed by Abby.

Katy, she said as she knelt in front of her, are you all right?

Yeah – better than that Mom, Katy said with a weak smile.

How do you feel darling? Jan hugged her daughter.

Katy looked round the room, before saying would it sound wrong if I said I felt like I need George to come over and fuck my brains out?

KATY!

Well you asked how it feels…

I know...but?

I am excited, I feel so happy, I feel sad for that girl, but above all I have this incredible sexual feeling inside.

We all get that Katy. Abby smiled tenderly at the young girl.

Well, there’s no turning back now, is there, Jan said quietly.  I’ve no idea what I’m going to tell your gran about Thursday and Friday, but...

Mom, Susan said you’re monitoring police bands.  What happened?

I think it’s time you came and met everyone else, Jan said as she took her daughter’s hand.  This way.

Katy took her mother’s hand as they went into the drawing room.

Hello Katy, Diana said as she came in, welcome.  Penny and I have just had a brief chat, and even if what happened tonight had not occurred, we were going to welcome you in anyway.

Katy looked round the room, before staring at someone standing with Sandy and Heather.

I don’t believe it, she whispered as she sat with Abby and her mother.  Cassandra Stone?

Well, let’s get this out of the way first, Susan said.  Tonight’s takings will be added to something we’re setting up for you Katy, but the girl you killed tonight has been identified as one Lafonda Hooper.

Who was she?

She was a junior member of a street gang – and the raid is being blamed on a rival gang.  Jan?

Well, Los Malos Bellezas are a Latina girl gang and the big enemies of the Pack-Wolves. They had been keeping a very uneasy peace, but now the Pack are blaming Los Malos for killing their bosses little sister, and that little shindig in the bar was just likely to be the opening shots of a bloody conflict.

"But how did they jump to that conclusion Janice?’ asked Sandy.

I guess the makeup did it. Los Malos girls wear lots of makeup and cultivate this sexy image,

Ah that would explain it then. Penny reflected. They jumped to a wrong conclusion.

Well at least everyone is looking in completely the wrong direction, and not for my daughter. Janice looked a little happier. The Pack are convinced the stickup was merely a ruse to cover up Lafonda’s murder according to what the NYPD Gang Unit is saying.

Her big sister leads these Pack-Wolves?

She does, Katy – so...

Sorry, Susan said as she took her phone out.

So we’re going to get away with this?

We plan to ensure we do, Juliette said as Susan ended the call.

That was Tracy, she heard gunshots and looked out to see what had happened. She could see two bodies on the sidewalk and the Police arriving in force.

More retaliation already Susan?

Well from what she could tell Ju, the girls were black and with her equipment she could see neck tattoos on the corpses.

My Goddess, instant retaliation for the instant retaliation.

Looks like it. Janice looked up from her phone. My NYPD source is telling me that.

Instant Retaliation?

Oh – sorry, while you were getting here, there was a report that three black women walked into a bar frequented by the lieutenants of Los Malos, and shot dead two of them before running off.

Oh dear God what have I started? Katy trembled for a second.

Nothing that probably wouldn’t have happened anyway, her Mom hugged her.

But who’s Tracy?  Why is she doing something for you Susan?

Katy darling, Diana said, we will tell you everything soon, but right now...

Hey everyone, Jo said from the laptop, are we ready to go?

Just about – where’s Carina?

Here, Cari said on a second screen.  Hi Katy – prepare to have your eyes opened.

Too late, darling, Juliette said, she had her first kill tonight?

Oh – we have things to talk about Friday, Cari said with a smile. But welcome to the family, Katy.

Thanks I think, Katy said.

Alright as interesting as all this is ladies, we have our own actions to plan out. Juliette said as she called the meeting to order.

Yes we do. Cassie smiled as she sat down.

First – welcome to you as well, Cassie.  She will be known for this work as Miss SIdhe.

And, if it be all the same to you, I’ll talk like this, Cassie said in her Irish accent.

So the target as you know are millions upon millions worth of furs being held in a cold storage in suburban Toronto.  To be precise, it is off Algreen Road on Mississauga

Oh? Katy’s eyebrow lifted, not cash.

No, but equally as valuable. IF we do this successfully ladies it will be the biggest armed robbery in history, beating our own record in the Logan Airport and Providence bank jobs.

What will we get Ju? asked Heather.

About 60 cents on the dollar. So 250 million dollars worth of furs we probably divide up 150 million dollars between us.

FUCK! the word escaped Katy’s mouth.

Well you’ll still be on pocket money young lady, Janice smiled, that money will go into a trust fund for you to access some day when the heat is a lot cooler and you have some way of legally explaining your expenditure…

Unlike you darling. Diana spoke.

Yes unlike stupid me. Jan joined in the laughter.

It’s the same deal Jo, Abby, Carina and I have, Doc said to Katy.  Next lesson for tonight – we can do what we can because we hide in plain sight.

How is it that much? If I can ask a question.

Easy Katy, Abby smiled. The cheapest fur coats there will sell for between five and ten thousand dollars, the best ones sell at one hundred thousand dollars though and upwards.

You do the math and it all adds up very quickly. Doc smiled.

Dear Lord, Katy shook her head.

We just take everything, our fences will sort them out and market them, our responsibility ends when we get to the little airport. Juliette added.

Gotcha!

Alright, Juliette said, are you girls confident you can steal the trucks?

Yes, Heather only sounded half confident.

Look everything depends on getting those trucks and the cars. Dominique spoke.

I know…I do know. Heather replied.  That’s why Susan, Sandy and I are on a plane up tomorrow morning.  We meet our gun supplier tomorrow afternoon to collect, and Madame has arranged a safe house for us to use.

Directions?

In the briefing packs.

"Okay – however we get there, we need to be there for six on Thursday night.  That gives us time to be dressed and the first team ready to move out by eight pm.

Our first target, Heather said as the women looked at the pictures.  Claude Villeneuve, forty five years old, married to Yvette for twenty years.  The daughter is Celine, nineteen years old.  Home address is 2235 Greenhurst Avenue.

Villeneuve leaves for work at eight in the evening, Juliette said.   Team one will take control of his house at nine.  Cari, Diana, Abby, you have the honour.

Do I get to play?

For a little while Cari – but hear the whole plan first.  We need you to bring them to the depot later.

Target two, Heather said, Jake Humphries, head of security for the night shift.  Forty six, lives with his second wife Bobbi and his twelve year old daughter Maggie at 221 Gamma Street.

Humphries clocks on at nine – team two take control by nine thirty.  Annie, Jan and Katy – you get that one.

Keep them calm?

"That’s the idea – because at ten thirty, both wives need to call their husbands and tell them what’s happened.

"Eleven pm the rest of us arrive in the trucks.  Dom, Jo – disable security and alarms.  Everyone else round up the workers and get them in the control room.  Secure, silence – kill if necessary.

"Midnight, I want the families brought in – and then we start loading the trucks.  We estimate three hours to do that – so we take turns loading and guarding.

I want us out by three thirty to drive to the airport, where a crew will be waiting.  From there, we retire in the cars to the safe house, change and disperse.

Seems simple enough, Cassie said, if all goes well?

And it will – I expect to be as shocked as everyone else when I arrive at the expo on Friday, Ju said with a smile.

Okay – Katy, it’s time you learned who we will be on the night.  At the Villeneuve home will be Miss Leopard, Miss Lynx and Miss Tigress.  Driving will be Miss Puma, Miss Cheetah and Miss Jaguar.  In the vans with them myself as Miss Panther, Jo is Miss Bobcat, Penny Miss Wildcat, Caroline Miss Civet, Anna as Miss Oncilla and Cassie Miss Sidhe.

Which leaves us, Jan said as Annie sat with them.  I’m Miss Ocelot, Annie Miss Snow Leopard – and you, Katy Darling, will be called Miss Jaguarundi.

What’s that?

A small wildcat – fits quite nicely, Doc said with a smile.

Jo, you and I need to meet Thursday early evening to discuss the security set up, Caroline said.

No problem – I’ll get there on time.

So what do I tell Gran and school Mom?

Well, Katy, Jan said for official consumption you are taking Thursday off to hold my hand while I see a doctor in Rochester darling, and you'll be in school Friday after catching the first flight out of Pearson International Friday morning, so you won't have to take that day off.

Why do I know I'm going to be tired by the end of school.

We all will be Katy. Abby spoke.

What are you seeing the doctor for mom if anyone asks?

I'm looking into having some cosmetic surgery, that's all you need say darling. It's what I've told both Adam and your Gran.

Gotcha.  So who am I travelling as?

Good question.  So what will be her cover Heather? Jan asked.

Oh I have had a little fun and been naughty. Heather giggled.

Why do I know I'm not going to like this? Jan sighed loudly.

She's an 18 year old porno starlet...

HEATHER!

I said I'd been naughty.

You are doing this just to annoy me...aren't you? Jan asked accusingly.

Hey can you imagine a character further from her real identity?

Juliette looked over and said Heather you are pushing it...

She's deliberately pushing my buttons Ju...Heather you are a 100% bitch.

Hey I like the idea of being a porn star...but I don't really have the wardrobe for it.

I'll take you shopping for it tomorrow after school Katy. Then you catch the last flight to Toronto, Katy traveling with Penny and you are both booked into the Royal York.

Gotcha Aunt Ju.

Heather over the weekend you and I are having SERIOUS words. Janice glanced at the computer genius.

I've even faked up some pictures you know...Katy's face on...

I actually have a far better body then that. Katy giggled as she looked over Heather’s shoulder.

Heather Smith I swear I will kill you for this.

Can I ask a question now Caroline? Katy said as she walked to where the model was standing.

Of course, Katy.

Does Ama know?  About you two?

Yes, she does, Annie replied.  When this is done, we’ll sit down with you and tell you the full story.  But she is not one of the pussycats – not in that way anyway.

Wednesday 11th November

8.15 am

Washington Heights

Tracy watched from her window as Caroline held the car door open for Erica to get in, and then walked round, noting the way she kept looking round before getting into the car and driving off.

Smiling, she picked up her coffee mug and took a sip, before she heard the knock on the door.  Picking up the gun, she looked through the spyhole, then relaxed as she pushed the gun into the waistband of her skirt, pulled her top over it and opened the door.

Hey Denice, she said as she stood back, what can I do for you?

Turning round, Denice said did you hear about the shooting last night?

I saw the lights afterwards – any idea what’s going on?

I’m not sure – but I’d feel a lot safer not going into work alone.  She clutched her Jameson bag before saying I know you have the morning off, but...

’s all right, Tracy said with a smile.  I want to go uptown for a little while anyway.  Just let me grab my bag and I’ll come with you.

As they left the apartment block ten minutes later, they could see the police line, the chalk outline, and the groups of girls looking on, Rochelle standing there as well.

I don’t like this, Denice said, but what can you do?

Keep your head down and don’t attract attention, Tracy said as they walked on.

11 am

Complete Style

All right, Janine – I think that covers everything, Juliette said as she looked at her PA.  I will be back Monday, but if you need me, my cell phone should be working.

"Got it boss – we’ll have the notes ready for the Tribute issue on your