Brushes with Life- the Journey Continues

By Boyd Russell

Mr. Russel allows the reader to walk next to walk next to Shaun Mckenzie as he continues his journey. That journey is distinguished by candor and unswerving purpose. His boyhood training in the ancient martial art of Bando continually sideswipes contemporary behavior and values. In "Brushes With Life- The Journey Continues" Shaun's unique approach to problem solving is tested when:

He intercedes between a crime boss that befriended him years before and a crooked U.S Attorney trying to convict him of a crime he didn't commit. The "hornests nest" he stirs up brings friends and enemies from unexpected places.

He comes to the aid of the daughter of a college sweetheart. Jean is in jeopardy of losing the company her Mother founded to a devious and abusive competitor. Shaun's closest friend John agrees to intercede in place of Shaun. John's unconventional approach to business hardball produces interesting results for Jean and a business spanking for the outclassed competitor.

The tragic death of his wife, Mickey, at the hands of a drunk driver causes his face to face encounter with the "injustice" in the "justice" system. Her loss, Shaun's fundamental respect for all life, and this encounter force him to question his basic foundation. The outcome brings devastating results.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Dec 29, 2012
• ISBN: 9781477146507

Book preview

Untitled-1.jpg

Chapter One

Andrea rounded the corner—stopped. There, unfolding before her was one of contemporary life’s most secret rites. It shared a mystical reverence with the likes of Big Foot and the Loch Ness Monster. It was whispered about, with giggles and frowns, in book clubs and coffee clutches across the land. Some swearing they had caught a glimpse of this mythical being while others argued strongly against the logic of its existence. The importance of this find was monumental. It could well be the center of anthropological discussion for decades to come. It would most certainly be a source of veiled amusement for women well into the future. She paused; discovery would terminate the sighting, backed away stealthily, and maintained her position of concealment. Andrea smiled as she glanced back over each shoulder. Where was the National Geographic Camera Crew? A find of this magnitude wanted a documentary—an archive for science and generations to come. She grinned . . . a wispy thought indeed. She refocused on her quarry.

Standing, in full view, was one of nature’s most unique creations . . . the hairy chested, pot bellied, sagging bottomed Swede! This particular one was a very adult male and, by the way, her husband John.

She watched, vacillating between fascination and guilt. He was naked . . . well, almost . . . . He looked like an elastic Zebra, braces everywhere. With few exceptions each joint and major bending point of his body was surrounded by spandex. He stood before his dressing mirror surveying his sagging physique, rationalizing his graying chest hair and aging paunch. He turned sideways and pushed his stomach out, exaggerating its natural distention.

He smiled at his image and thought, It’s taken a lot of years to cultivate this belly. A lot of great food and drinks have resided there.

He continued turning, shaking his head as he moved, and speaking out loud to his reflection, Do you think you’ve got enough braces and supports? Hell, you’re being held together with spit and baling wire. All you need now is some of that glue they use to cement bridges together. Between gravity and pain, they’re right . . . getting old is definitely not for sissies.

As he looked down at his drooping penis and dangling testicles he chuckled and continued, Well, partner, the rest of my body has some sort of orthopedic device, where am I going to find one for you? What’s going to hold you up?

Andrea was compelled to interrupt. She needed to stem her deepening guilt and save John from a much worse embarrassment.

She stepped forward playfully and teased, I don’t know, it’s held up pretty well so far.

His head snapped back. He sputtered with surprise, What the hell, how long have you been standing there?

She winked and replied, Long enough to know you’d better be nice to me if you want this display removed from my memory banks.

He stared at her with mock anger as his cheeks reddened with uneasiness.

She opened her arms to soften the moment. As he came to her he spoke, You know of course, this is blackmail.

She smiled and replied, I prefer to think of it as collaborative persuasion.

He nodded as he said, And just what will your silence cost me?

Andrea squeezed the cheeks of his bare bottom and kissed the tip of his nose as she offered, Oh . . . I’ll think of something.

I just bet you will.

He kissed her tenderly.

As their lips parted Andrea cooed, That’s a nice down payment.

John smirked and answered, Is it blackmail if the one being blackmailed is a willing accomplice?

I don’t know, but I’m willing to test it if you are?

He hugged her gently.

As they broke their clench she grinned and challenged him, By the way, what are you preparing for? All you need is a helmet and a shield and you could be a gladiator.

He offered a sheepish reply, I’ve got a tee time with Shaun in two hours.

She laughed and poked fun, I thought golf was a non-contact sport.

Tell that to my body.

They both chuckled.

She gave him a playful slap on his bottom and said, You continue dressing that boyish figure and I’ll fix you a quick lunch.

He came to attention and snapped off a proper salute, Yes, Sarge.

She bantered back, I wouldn’t be getting too smart with me considering the information I could make public. Besides, I might decide to stop helping you hold up your ‘partner’.

He offered his own wink and an impish retort, My partner and I wouldn’t like that.

*     *     *

As Andrea prepared lunch for John she was warmed by thoughts of her life then, and now.

It had been three years since she had surrendered the title of Mrs. Shaun McKenzie and taken on her current title of Mrs. John Ericson. She still loved Shaun and she always would. After all, he was her first real love and there can only be one first. They had had more than thirty wonderful years together. The flame that had started as a bonfire had finally flickered and died, but the warmth was stronger now than it had ever been. He and John were so much alike it scared her at times. John had come along and filled that hole in her life—that hole that had grown through the years. It hadn’t been anyone’s fault. They had grown so much alike it was like living with yourself, talking to yourself and being unchallenged by their comfort with each other. John was the spark she needed to rekindle her spontaneity.

While she put the finishing touches on John’s sandwich she pondered her admission, I love two men.

She had been raised to dismiss such an idea. It was illicit . . . sinful. Andrea smirked at the thought, then countered, Well then, I guess I’m illicit and sinful, because I do love these two men.

A tear leaked from the corner of her eye as she announced for the world to hear, Damn, I’m blessed to have known them.

John walked in as she completed her announcement. He looked around as though her address was meant for someone else. Finding no one he said, Who have you been blessed to have known?

Surprised, she recovered herself and replied, Oh, I was just thinking about Shaun’s Mother and his Aunt Margaret.

He looked back sadly and spoke, I wish you could have known my Mother.

I’m sure she was a wonderful woman. I owe her for the great job she did with you.

He smiled and offered, I’ll bet you say that to all the guys.

She smiled back and answered, I do to all the guys I love.

The moment had become too soft for him so he diverted it, Is that a tear? Have you been crying?

She scolded, "No, I’ve been slicing onions for your dinner."

In that case, a few tears are okay.

Oh, as long as my tears have something to do with you they’re okay.

Something like that.

She picked up a carving knife and threatened with a smile, You are skating on thin ice. I suggest you sit down and eat your lunch. From what I understand Shaun has been cleaning your clock lately. You’d better gather all the strength you can.

Sore spot struck, John mumbled a return.

Andrea leaned toward him and asked, What did you say?

He grunted, Nothing.

Smugly she closed, It’s a little different when the shoe is on my foot.

All right, you got me. Besides, you can stop worrying about dinner. Mickey is picking you up later and the four of us are having dinner at the club.

And when were you going to tell me?

I just did.

What time?

We’ll call when we’re close to done. You and Mickey can meet us in the bar for a drink before dinner.

All right, take your sandwich and get out of here.

As he rose to leave he grabbed his sandwich and winked.

She blew him a kiss and said, Try and bring home the bacon. I’m tired of buying my ex husband dinner because you can’t beat him at golf.

John shook his head, smiled and replied, That’s a low blow. You’re supposed to be supporting me as I wage war for the household.

If you win, we’ll talk about me supporting you . . . and your ‘partner’.

As John opened the door to the garage he threw a parting remark over his shoulder, I’ll hold you to it.

Her answer bounced off his back as he closed the door, You’d better.

Untitled-1.jpg

Chapter Two

Andrea and Mickey pulled under the porte-cochere and exited the car. The valet offered his greetings to the ladies with a particular hello to Mrs. Ericson. Rank has its privileges and the recognition afforded the club owner’s wife is one of them. Entry portico behind them, they made their way to the main dining room and lounge.

At the entrance a professionally dressed attractive woman greeted them. She spoke first, Mrs. Ericson, how nice to see you; and Mrs. McKenzie, what a pleasure to have you with us this evening.

Andrea smiled as she replied, Enough of the pleasantries Sally, what kind of mood are they in?

As Sally led Andrea and Mickey into the dining room and toward their table she returned the smile warmly. She liked and enjoyed the Ericson’s and the McKenzie’s and was appreciative of their respectful and friendly treatment of her. Her reply was filled with the comfort she felt, If you’re asking me who won at golf, I don’t know. We can usually tell, but today we couldn’t. Based on their demeanor I would guess it was a tie.

Who was the smart money on before the round started?

The consensus had Mr. Ericson winning. He’s had a rough time lately so we thought he was due.

I hope you were right. Of course, we’ll know soon enough. Unfortunately, Mrs. McKenzie or I will have to go home with the loser.

They all laughed.

Their laughter coincided with their arrival at the table.

Shaun and John rose, seated the ladies and then reseated themselves.

John said, All right, what’s so funny?

Andrea raised her hand to postpone that question and looked pointedly at John, I thought you told me we were meeting you in the bar?

John cringed and then replied, I did. I’m sorry; we finished later than expected so I asked Sally to bring you straight to our table.

Andrea countered with, Okay just don’t let it happen again.

John finished, I wouldn’t dare . . . dear.

Andrea returned to the original question, We were laughing about one of us having to go home with a loser.

Shaun chimed in, Hell, that could be true of both of you.

John began to laugh and then announced with a grin, You know better than that. We’re as good as it gets, we’re both winners.

Mickey, conspicuously quiet until now, decided to enter the conversation, How much have the two of you had to drink?

Andrea grinned and supplied the answer, Enough to overestimate their net worth.

Using the term net worth, to two businessmen, in this context was a loving stake through both their hearts. Shaun placed his hands before his face as though praying, bowed his head respectfully and said, I bow to the greater intellect.

John raised his glass in a toast and offered, I heartily concur.

The ladies looked at each other with a smile and Mickey said, Maybe we should get our own table? They seem to be having plenty of fun without us.

Andrea replied, I think you’re right, let’s do that.

They both began to rise in unison.

Shaun and John came out of their chairs and Shaun said, Come on now. We were just having fun with our two favorite people.

Andrea glanced at Mickey and countered, Shall we stay here with these gentlemen?

Mickey responded smugly, I suppose so. At least until we get a better offer.

They nodded to each other and then reseated themselves.

John and Shaun did the same.

They had all resettled when the server arrived with a bottle of champagne, four appropriate glasses, a stand and an ice bucket. He placed a glass before each of them, opened the bottle, and then filled each fluted receptacle half full with the sparkling elixir. Show complete, he immersed the magnum in the ice and exited the table.

John and Shaun sat politely, but slightly confused, through the proceedings.

John broke the silence, I know we’re important, but are you sure Shaun and I deserve champagne?

Everyone ignored John’s remark as Shaun stared at Mickey and said pointedly, Does this mean what I think it means?

Mickey beamed and answered, It certainly does.

Shaun shot from his seat and moved to Mickey. They nearly collided as she rose to meet him.

As they embraced he whispered in her ear, I love you.

As her lips brushed his cheek she whispered back, Not as much as I love you.

As they hugged each other John made a shrugging motion toward Andrea as if to say, What the hell is going on?

She raised her hands, palms out, as if to reply, Just wait, you’ll find out.

Finally, John could contain himself no longer and he said, If the two of you need a room, I can arrange it.

Andrea scolded, John! Just cool your jets.

Shaun and Mickey released each other. He returned to his chair and tried inconspicuously to wipe a tear from his eye.

John’s head and stare bounced from one to the other, and back, waiting for an explanation. They seem to revel in his torture.

His voice filled with frustration and impatience as he spoke, Well, is anyone going to tell me what’s going on?

Mickey looked to Shaun for direction. He motioned her to speak.

She smiled and deferred to him, No, you go.

Well, all right.

He glanced first at Andrea and said, You obviously already know.

A warm smile was her reply.

He then turned to John and said softly, You’re going to be an uncle, John.

He became pensive, introspective. He was silent for a moment and then he turned his gaze at Mickey and said, You mean . . . ?

Mickey finished the thought for him, Yes John, I’m pregnant.

He jumped out of his chair, ran around the table and met her as she stood. He embraced her firmly and then suddenly released her as though realizing he may be crushing her and the baby. He sputtered, I’m sorry, did I hurt you?

Mickey laughed and bantered back, I’m pregnant John. I’m not made of crystal.

I’m so happy. This is wonderful news. Continuing the thought, he turned, pulled Shaun from his seat and hugged him. Lifting him off the ground he announced, Congratulations, you old sack of shit.

Andrea clutched Mickey’s hand as she scolded John, John, keep your voice down. There are other people in the dining room.

He released Shaun and said, Screw ’em, my best friend doesn’t have a baby every day. He caught himself and corrected, I mean, my best friend’s wife doesn’t have a baby everyday.

Andrea continued scolding, John, calm down. Have some respect for the other people here.

By now the other diners had all turned toward the excitement.

John turned to the gathering and announced, I apologize for the disturbance. As you can tell we’ve had some rather exciting news here.

With that he bowed to the room, waved to their server and said, Frank, give everyone a drink on me.

Everyone applauded John and the news that had fostered his generosity. After which, they returned to their dinners. With that, John took a deep breath and settled back in his seat.

He opened his arms, palms up and said to Andrea, There, how’s that?

She shook her head at him and replied, You’re incorrigible, but I love you anyway.

She rose and moved around the table to the still standing Shaun. She took him in her arms, kissed him on the cheek, and whispered to him, I guess your guys can still swim.

He exhaled his reply, Thank you dear. I love you.

And I you, always.

John teased his interjection, Hey. Hey, that’s enough of that. He’s not the only virile guy here.

Andrea freed Shaun and said to John, Believe me dear, I know. You’re much more than I can handle.

John chuckled and poked back, And don’t you forget it.

Andrea shrugged, I’m sure you won’t let me.

As Andrea and Shaun were reseated they all laughed. It was a laughter that only friends can share—for they were sharing each other and the special warmth that emanates from these moments.

John raised his glass. Andrea, Mickey and Shaun followed his lead. He spoke tenderly, To the Mother and the new arrival.

They all touched glasses.

As they drank John chastised Mickey, You can only have a swallow. And you’d better enjoy it because it’s going to be nine months before you have another one.

Mickey said to Andrea, Is he going to be like this until the baby comes?

Andrea replied, Probably, so get used to it.

More laughter.

Frank arrived to replenish everyone’s drink and Mickey’s water. He passed the menus around and left them to make their selections.

Five minutes later he returned and the orders were taken.

Alone again, Andrea broke the silence by visiting the next most important issue of the evening, Okay, who won the golf game today?

That got everyone’s attention.

John looked at Shaun and back to Andrea before speaking. Let’s just say that the McKenzie’s are buying us dinner next week at their club.

Shaun countered, Well, eventually everyone wins.

John accepted the challenge, Yea, well the worm has turned. You’ll play hell beating me now.

Shaun jumped in with a mock schoolboy challenge, Well, my dad was bigger than yours.

John continued the joust, That’s only because he took growth hormones.

Shaun started to rebut, but before he could Mickey calmly inserted the stopper, The real test is who has the larger penis?

That froze the conversation!

Mickey continued to bury the stake, The only person here that can answer that question is Andrea.

Three heads turned to confront her.

She shook her head before saying, When are the children going to learn to play together?

Shaun burst out laughing. The three heads turned to question him. He continued laughing as he said to John, Do we really want the answer to that question?

John began to laugh out loud too.

Andrea terminated the debate, It’s a tie. Now, are you childish misfits satisfied?

Mickey leaned toward Andrea and whispered, Sorry, but I had to do something to stop them. They’re like a couple of school boys.

Andrea leaned closer still and whispered back, That’s why we love them.

Mickey’s nod concurred.

As dinner was delivered the conversation moved to the day’s events, names for the baby, what store was having the best sale, and all the other topics that host most dinner tables.

Somewhere between the main course and the purchase of the appropriate vehicle for his new family Shaun leaned back and looked warmly at his co-conspirators.

As the conversation rattled on without him he scanned the table and thought, I’ve only had three real lovers in my life and I married two of them. I’ve only had one male best friend and he’s sitting beside me. My other two best friends are sitting across from me. How many blessings is one life entitled too?

He raised his glass to hide the tear winding its way down his cheek. As he stared over the rim of the glass he finished the thought, My cup does truly runneth over . . . .

Untitled-1.jpg

Chapter Three

Shaun walked to the chiming house phone and lifted the receiver.

Hello.

Mr. McKenzie?

Yes.

I don’t know if you remember me, but my name is Michael Formisano.

It had been several years, but he definitely remembered Michael Formisano. Michael’s Father, Joseph Formisano, a noted crime boss, had been disturbed by Shaun’s accidental interference with the negotiations Joseph was carrying on to buy John Ericson’s Company. In a meeting with Joseph Formisano, Michael had exposed Shaun as the skinny teenager, nicknamed the Cat, and the famed instructor of martial arts to the Special Operations Branch of the military some decades before. This was not only a surprise, but a major distraction, since Shaun, in the intervening years, had made a considerable effort to create and maintain his anonymity. Fortunately, for all parties, the negotiations had concluded amicably and John was able to maintain ownership of his vast holdings. It was during this meeting that Shaun and Joseph Formisano had forged a bond of mutual respect based on reciprocal, but respective Codes of Honor. During the several years that had passed, Formisano and Shaun had enjoyed numerous golf games and dinners together. Shaun, however, had not spoken to Michael since that eventful day.

Of course I remember you Michael. How are you?

I’m well Mr. McKenzie.

And please call me Shaun.

There was a moment of hesitation. It was difficult to call a piece of folklore by his first name, but Michael’s own military experience required honoring the request of a superior.

His reply was almost apologetic, Very well . . . Shaun.

Thank you. Now, how’s your Father? We haven’t spoken for a while.

He’s fine.

Michael paused to regroup, and then continued, His health is fine, but there are other issues that frankly have me concerned.

Sensing something in Michael’s tone that went beyond a son’s love for a Father Shaun inquired, What is it Michael? Is there something I can do?

I don’t know Mr. McKen-

He stopped himself. Habits die hard. He restarted, I’m sorry . . . Shaun.

That’s fine Michael, please continue.

Well, my Father has said since he got to know you, that if I ever needed a sounding board and he was not around, I could talk to you. Due to the nature of our business, and the nature of this particular issue, there’s no one I can speak to without giving the appearance of weakness.

I understand. In all business endeavors there are certain protocols that must be maintained.

Michael chuckled before replying, Protocols . . . I like that. My Father would like that too.

You said your Father was well so I assume it must be a situation that you are not comfortable discussing with him?

Yes.

You just tell me how I can help.

I’m sorry, but I can’t speak about this on the phone.

I understand that protocol too.

Michael chuckled again and then said, Those damn protocols again. Would you mind meeting with me?

Just name the time and the place.

Is tomorrow evening too soon?

Not at all, but if I may, I’ll check with my wife and call you tomorrow?

That’ll be fine. You have my number?

I assume you and your Father are in the same office.

Yes, sir, just ask for Cynthia, she’s my personal assistant.

Until tomorrow then.

Goodnight, Shaun.

And to you Michael.

*     *     *

Back in the family room Shaun made himself a drink, eased himself into his favorite chair, took a sip from his glass of wine and replayed the conversation with Michael Formisano.

Midway, Mickey entered and sat down across from him and said, Dinner will be ready in about twenty minutes.

Would you like me to finish fixing it?

You’re getting as bad as John. No, I’ll be fine.

I don’t mind.

I appreciate your concern, but I haven’t been nauseous for several days. I think the morning sickness thing is about over.

Mickey didn’t do well with too much attention so she changed the subject, Who called?

It was no one.

For ten minutes?

No, really, it was nothing.

Well I guess the honeymoon is over.

What?

You’re starting with secrets?

No dear. It wasn’t anything.

Shaun.

His name sounded like an impatient order.

Oh, all right, it was Michael Formisano.

That’s better. Is he related to Joseph Formisano?

Michael is his son.

What does he want?

I don’t know. He just asked if we could get together.

She scolded, Shaun.

He knew she was pregnant, but this was beginning to wear. He responded firmly, Mickey, I don’t know what he wants, that’s why I’m getting together with him.

You know I don’t like those people.

And just who are ‘those’ people?

You know what I mean. I don’t think you should be meeting with that kind of person.

His frustration leaked through his reply, First, Michael and Joseph Formisano are business people. They are not lepers, and they will not give me, or us, some incurable medical or social disease. They are friends. Out of friendship, Michael has asked for my help. And, out of friendship, he will get whatever help I can provide.

Mickey had pursed her lips and was burning holes in him with her eyes as he finished, Now, if you don’t mind, I’m going to have dinner with him tomorrow evening. I won’t be late.

She stood, glared down at him and unleashed a barrage. No, I don’t mind. Why should I mind? I don’t care either. Go ahead; get yourself killed. Leave me without a husband and the baby without a father. It’s obvious you don’t care what I think. Have dinner with those criminals. Next, you’ll come home with a firearm and a shoulder holster.

By now, her hands were on her hips and the decibel rating of her oration had reached the glass shattering range.

As she continued to berate him with his lack of judgment and his poor life choices Shaun slowly lifted himself from his chair. He moved to her and took her in his arms. She was having none of his distractions. She struggled against his embrace. He held her more firmly. Knowing she was out manned she slowly submitted.

He pulled her to him, put his lips next to her ear and whispered, I love you.

No you don’t. If you did, you’d pay attention.

I don’t care how angry you get, or what you say, I still love you.

She pulled her head back and stared at him angrily.

He kissed the tip of her nose.

One tear escaped from the corner of her eye and raced down her cheek.

He kissed the tip of her nose again.

The damn broke. She began to cry. She hugged him tightly. Through her sobs she blubbered, Shaun, I love you so much. I don’t want anything to happen to you. Please be careful.

I’m safer with the Formisanos than I would be walking down the street. Nothing’s going to happen to me. I’ve got two very important reasons to stick around.

Mickey pulled back looked at him and then kissed him. As her tongue surveyed the inside of his mouth she tweaked his butt with each hand.

He broke their kiss and said, Whoa, dinner is cooking.

She smiled seductively and replied, That’s not all.

Take it easy. You’re dealing with an old guy.

She sniffled, grabbed his arm, wiped her nose on his sleeve and then cooed, You weren’t too old to get me in this condition.

I take no responsibility for your condition. Your smile and beautiful bottom overcame my age.

She winked and bantered, Speaking of coming?

He pushed her away and said, That’s it. The pregnant lady is getting out of control.

He turned her around smacked her playfully on her butt, gave her a nudge toward the kitchen and issued, See if you can give the same amount of enthusiasm to the food.

She pouted over her shoulder, It won’t be easy, but I’ll try.

*     *     *

The next evening at precisely seven thirty, the doorbell rang. Shaun had called Michael’s office and made the arrangements with Cynthia for dinner at eight. Mickey beat him to the door. It was her way of passing judgment on Shaun’s chauffer and protector.

She pulled the door open slowly. Standing before her was a handsome young man well over six feet tall and dressed impeccably in suit and tie. She braced herself to keep her mouth from falling open.

He spoke softly, Mrs. McKenzie?

As she stared up at him she managed a forced, Yes.

My name is Paul. I’m here to accompany Mr. McKenzie to dinner.

Please come in Paul. I’ll see that Mr. McKenzie knows you’re here.

Paul stepped through the opening and closed the door behind him.

Thank you Mrs. McKenzie.

She turned the corner to the den and nearly collided with Shaun. He was on his way to the foyer and only missed her with a quick sidestep.

Mickey managed a blustering, Excuse me. There’s a Paul here to drive you to dinner.

Shaun took her by the shoulders and asked, Are you okay?

Of course, why wouldn’t I be?

I don’t know, you seem disconcerted.

I guess I wasn’t expecting someone so polished . . . so professional.

Shaun smiled.

Flustered by her admission Mickey regrouped, All right, you don’t need to be cute. I didn’t know what to expect.

Does Paul have all his teeth? Did you check to see if his nose was crooked?

Okay, you don’t need to rub it in. I apologize to you and the Formisano’s.

You’re sure it’s okay for me to ride with Paul to dinner?

She put her hands on her hips and barked, I think you’d better ride with Paul because you’re treading on thin ice here.

Shaun laughed, kissed her on the cheek and offered, I won’t be late. If you need me I’ll have my cell phone with me.

She led him to the front door.

Shaun looked up, extended his hand and said, Good evening Paul, I’m Shaun McKenzie.

Paul hesitated, then offered his hand tentatively, Yes, sir, a pleasure Mr. McKenzie. Shall we go, sir?

Paul opened the door and ushered Shaun through. Before closing the door behind him he bowed his head and said, A pleasure meeting you Mrs. McKenzie.

A pleasure meeting you Paul.

Using the closed door as an anchor she turned and leaned back against it. She closed her eyes, shook her head, and said aloud, You are a very silly woman Mickey McKenzie. What did you expect, a man carrying a sub-machine gun? If I could drink this would be a good time to have one.

*     *     *

Paul ushered Shaun into the stretch limousine, closed the door behind him, walked around the back and entered the driver’s compartment. Once seated, he turned back and spoke to Shaun through the opening, I’m sorry Mr. McKenzie but the window curtains are all drawn for your safety. I must ask that you not open them.

Shaun knew the drill. The curtains were drawn partly for his safety and partly so he wouldn’t know where they were going.

He smiled and replied, I understand Paul. Thank you.

There’s a radio or television directly in front of you. There’s also a fully stocked bar to you right. If there is anything else you require my call button is on the center console to your left. The ride will take us approximately twenty minutes.

With that a black panel slid across the opening between the front seat and the rear compartment.

Shaun turned on the radio, tuned to his favorite classical station and reached to make himself a drink. Drink in hand, he closed his eyes, rested his head against the seat and took a sip of J.D. He knew he was on a very closed circuit TV. This was to allow Paul to monitor his needs, but mostly to insure the no curtain tampering policy.

*     *     *

The car came to a halt. Shortly thereafter his door opened and Paul ushered him out with a courteous, We’re here Mr. McKenzie.

Shaun exited the vehicle. They were in a darkened alley. Paul closed the car door and said, If you would be so kind as to follow me Mr. McKenzie. Please watch your step, it’s not well lit here.

Some situations required comment, Shaun was not one to let those opportunities pass, Caves are not well lit. This is light deprivation.

Paul’s comment was, a head turned over his shoulder and a broad smile.

They walked five or six steps before being confronted with a black door.

Shaun grinned and thought to himself sarcastically, Gee, a black door. I wonder where that came from?

Paul knocked on the barrier. A peephole slid open. Paul knocked again three times and the passage opened.

Paul directed Shaun through the opening and said, This is Anthony Mr. McKenzie he’ll take you to Mr. Formisano. When you’re meeting is over I’ll be here to drive you home.

Thank you, Paul.

Anthony, a larger version of Paul, smiled and said, Would you please spread your feet and raise your arms Mr. Mckenzie?

Shaun nodded and complied.

After a thorough pat down Anthony spoke, Thank you Mr. McKenzie. It’s nothing personal.

Shaun chuckled and replied, I understand Anthony. It’s just business.

Anthony grinned at Shaun’s quip and said, That’s good Mr. McKenzie. Now, if you’ll follow me I’ll direct you to Mr. Formisano.

Thank you Anthony. Lead the way.

Two hallways later, a short rap on a double door, and Shaun was ushered into a private dining room lounge area.

Shaun turned to thank Anthony only to be met by the double doors being pulled closed behind him.