The Rise of Tommy Boy

By Breanna Cone

For eighteen years, it had been just Tommy Murphy and his mother. His father was out of the picture. When his mother died, she left two letters; one telling him the name of his father and another explaining the son to his father. The young man travels to New York City to meet his father, the famed heavy-weight boxer, "Bruiser" Hunter, but an unforeseen accident prevented that meeting. The boxer's brother disappeared without a trace and was presumed dead. Overcome by grief, Bruiser dropped out of sight without telling anyone.

Paddy O'Shay, his great-uncle, took the young man under his wing and began training him to be a boxer like his father. He knew Bruiser would contact him eventually. Six months later, they were still waiting when fate stepped in and the whole family was reunited in the small town of Spencer City, Connecticut.

Can two strangers have a normal father and son relationship?

Breanna Cone credits her Irish ancestry with the gift of gab that helps her spin this tale of the special relationship between a father and child. Regardless of your age, the love of a parent is a priceless gift indeed.

Coming in Fall 2006: Romancing Delilah

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Apr 18, 2006
• ISBN: 9780595837090

Breanna Cone

Breanna Cone has been writing since 2001. Her Spencer City Series characters are portrayed as small town citizens who live life to the fullest and truly care about the rest of the townspeople.

Book preview

PROLOGUE

Charlie Hunter stared at the bulging envelope in his hand like it was filled with Anthrax powder instead of the last words from a woman who spent her short adult life all alone raising his child. By refusing to name the person responsible, she had even protected him from the wrath of her father who hadn’t shown any compassion for his daughter when she found herself pregnant due to a teenage boy’s carelessness. My complete disregard for proper birth control caused undue hardship on a slip of a girl.

Katie Murphy must have felt completely abandoned by everyone who professed to love her. If she cursed the day she met me, I wouldn’t have blamed her at all.

His hesitation in opening this envelope baffled him. As an ex-heavyweight boxer, he’d taken many hard blows to his body. Hell, the last one to his head caused him to abandon his fighting career for an apron and a soup ladle. It shamed him to admit it, but his reluctance was simply fear. He was afraid her words would be so painful they might rip his heart right out of his chest.

Come on, Hunter, it’s time to face up to your past like a man. The proof is asleep in the next room.

Charlie placed the tip of the letter opener under the edge of the envelope flap and very carefully sliced the top edge. A faint fragrance of lavender brought back more memories. As he unfolded the sheaves of stationery, a much-dog-eared photo slipped from its pages. The man recognized the ivy-covered archway and the couple posing for the camera.

The face of the young man with the top-of-the-world look in his eyes still stared back at him from his shaving mirror each morning. He wasn’t as handsome as his brother—boxing had left a few scars and a crooked nose—but nobody ran away in fright when they looked at him.

Now, the girl was something else. Mary Katherine Murphy had gotten more than one amazed look from all the guys at the dance that night. The tomboy who climbed trees and played baseball with the neighborhood boys shed her grubby sweats for make-up and a strapless gown that wasn’t in any danger of falling off for lack of support. He hadn’t minded their looks too much because Katie had walked in on his arm. It did a man’s ego good to know his date was the most beautiful girl in the banquet hall.

My darling,

First, I’ll be asking for your forgiveness in keeping Tommy a secret all these years, but Da would have made everyone’s life a living hell if he knew it was your child and I couldn’t be sure Paddy would keep quiet if I told him after you left for the Navy. I just accepted my banishment to Aunt Fiona’s as God’s will. So, don’t feel guilty that you weren’t there to be helping with diaper changing or middle of the night feedings. I made sure Tommy grew up knowing his father was a good man, only circumstances kept him from being a part of our lives and that one day he would meet you.

When I found out about my breast cancer, I gave him Paddy O’Shay’s address with instructions to give you the scrapbooks filled with those special events from his childhood. I tried to keep a record of all the little ordinary things Tommy did so you would know the wonderful child he was and the pride I felt as I raised our son.

That was as far as Charlie got before the words began to blur.

CHAPTER 1

Tommy Murphy lay in bed thinking about all the changes to his life this past month. He had finally met his father, who in turn found a missing brother. They helped foil a crime and celebrated two weddings.

Everybody in Spencer City treated him like he had lived here all his life. Just like one of their own. This vacation was a far cry from his normal routine of a welterweight boxer in training but he loved the feeling of belonging to a big, boisterous family.

Being a part of this Hunter family was going to take some getting used to. They were a tight-knit, loving group who enjoyed voicing their opinions, regardless of whether or not they were appreciated. Maybe it was a gender thing. His mom had been a calm lady. She explained things in a firm but quiet manner. She never let him have loud tantrums because she felt the home should be a safe haven, not a battlefield. She only listened if he made a request, not a demand.

When he felt his stomach rumble, he realized it was closer to lunchtime than breakfast. There was just enough time for his daily run. Then he’d take a quick shower and drop by Joe’s Diner to eat and see his dad.

"My dad." I love the sound of those words.

* * * *

Charlie was amazed at the capabilities of the human brain to function on two completely separate levels. This morning one part went about the business of cooking and baking for the lunch crowd while the other part kept remembering snippets of Katie’s letter. Every word was etched into his brain.

Tommy was a serious little boy who spent most of his time studying but

every once in a while I would catch him grinning, for no apparent reason, with this mischievous twinkle in his eye. The Hunter Twinkle. It was at those times I’d doubt the wisdom of my decision to go to Florida. It felt like I was only taking the coward’s way out but then I’d remember the pleasure Da would have had if he could get you arrested.

Recalling those particular words filled Charlie with a wish that Ryan Murphy was still alive so he could exact some punishment for Katie and all the lost years when he could have given them a proper home. Unfortunately, the bastard died a year before Katie.

The bell jingling on the diner door jolted him back to his kitchen duties. He glanced over the bat-wing doors to see the best part of himself stuff gloves and hat in his jacket pocket. He felt a swelling of pride and love for this son he had known for such a short time.

Tommy boy, Joe called out, you have perfect timing. Charlie just pulled dessert out of the oven.

Good morning, sir, the young man replied. I hope he has something cooked that will stick to these skinny ribs of mine.

The cook pushed through the doorway with portions of apple pie for the turntable. He sat the tray down and placed them on display shelves.

I think a couple of big bowls of my beef stew and half-dozen rolls should help with that weight problem.

Is that what smells so good? Tommy sniffed the air then blushed as his stomach loudly acknowledged the rich aroma coming from the kitchen.

Drag up a stool, son. I’ll go dish up a big helping and be right back before those strange noises scare the other customers.

Tommy looked around but the diner was empty except for him and Joe.

My dad is certainly a character. Paddy would say he ‘kissed the Blarney Stone’ one time too many.

He only got this carefree and happy since you and your Uncle Martin came to town. You brought a lot of joy into his life.

I’m kind of glad to be here with him, too. I sure wish I didn’t have to go back to New York City but I need to train for my qualifying fights.

Joe nodded his head in agreement as wheels began to spin in his head. It would be a shame for Charlie and Tommy to be separated so soon after finding

each other. But he didn’t want to lose the best cook he ever had either. I’ll call Amanda Rogers. She always has good ideas to help in these kinds of situations.

Tommy, I’ve got some calls to make in the office. Tell Charlie to give me a shout if he gets busy.

Yes, sir.

When Charlie came back through the kitchen door, the tray held a steaming bowl filled to the brim with savory stew, a covered dish of rolls and a pitcher of milk.

Dig in while it’s hot, kid. Guaranteed to fatten you up.

Tommy didn’t need to be told twice. He placed a spoonful of the mouth-watering mixture in his mouth and closed his eyes in ecstasy. He managed to compliment his father between bites.

Man, this is wonderful. Is this a family recipe?

Well, sort of. I learned how to cook when I was in Uncle Sam’s Navy. I suppose my fellow sailors might qualify as relatives of a peculiar type.

I thought Paddy said you learned how to box in the Navy.

I did. Once I was through with KP duty, I’d go down to the exercise room and work out with weights and pound the punching bag. One of the guys dared me to be a sparring partner for the intra-service champ. I wasn’t in the mood to fight so I declined.

Wait a minute. I’m confused. Tommy looked at his father with a furrowed brow. If you declined the challenge, how did you end up boxing for the Navy team?

Charlie looked at the puzzled expression on his son’s face. Why are you so interested in ancient history?

I was there for most of Mom’s life. I guess I just want to fill in the blanks about the missing years of yours. Tommy’s serious eyes took on that Hunter look his mother referred to. How can I be a chip off the old block if I don’t know a few facts?

I’m not sure it would be the best thing for you to follow in my footsteps, the concerned father in him answered. Besides, my boxing career is long forgotten history.

Then how come you remember every little detail about that first fight? Charlie’s inner voice quipped.

Mom had an article from Stars and Stripes in her scrapbook about the famous Hunter right hook. When I asked her why, she said it was because you were one of the boys from her old neighborhood and she was proud of your success.

Charlie clenched his jaw to keep his emotions in check as he heard the frank tone in Tommy’s voice. The boy may have gotten my twinkling eye but he got that no nonsense attitude from Katie.

Okay, let me get you another bowl of stew and I’ll tell you all about it.

CHAPTER 2

Sheriff Greg Rogers paused in the doorway to watch the woman stirring the pot on the stove-top. This kitchen had been his favorite room when he was growing up. His fondest memories were of doing his homework while his mother prepared the evening meal. Mom always took the time to explain any difficult assignment even though it meant the meal might be later than planned.

Observing Amanda made the old familiar feeling return and the sheriff realized he was very lucky to have found that one special woman who filled his life with such joy. They’d only been married a month but already Amanda had put her own stamp on the décor of the rooms while her children, Sam and Sara, added the necessary sound effects. There was nothing quite like hearing the laughter of children to bring a smile to your face. This old house finally felt like a home again.

Greg walked into the kitchen, slipped his arms around his wife’s waist and placed his lips to that special spot behind her ear. Honey, I’m home.

I can see you are, my love. Amanda snuggled her shoulders against the hard muscles of her husband’s chest. Lunch will be ready in two minutes.

I’ll wash my hands and be right back.

Amanda watched him as he walked away and offered up a little prayer of thanksgiving that her world was so peaceful and calm. Greg was a big bear of a man but as gentle as a lamb. The only time you saw the hardnosed lawman side come out was when he was dealing with a low-life like her ex-husband, Bradley Michaels. But Brad was going to prison. She could put that part of her past behind her at last. Life had taken a complete turnaround. She was married to a man who adored her and her children.

When Greg came back into the kitchen, the table in the alcove overlooking the flower gardens was set with two mugs of hot tomato soup along with grilled cheese and tomato sandwiches.

Has your morning been busy?

No, just the usual paperwork, the sheriff assured her between bites. What have you been up to today?

Nothing much. Just thinking now that the theatre is completely renovated, we need to start looking for someone to be the manager.

Do you have anybody in particular in mind?

Not really. I thought I’d give Julie a call. She may know someone in the business we can call for a list of candidates.

Amanda stacked her mug on her plate, crossed to the sink and placed it in the soapy water.

She poured two cups of coffee, returned to the table to place one by Greg’s plate.

I think you need a little clean-up help, his wife told him as she picked up his napkin. She wiped the tomato juice off his moustache then replaced it with a kiss.

I think I’d like dessert now. Greg pulled the lady onto his lap. Can I interest you in a quick trip upstairs?

With a dramatic sigh, she winked at him. I thought you’d never ask.

The sheriff laid his sidearm on the table, unclipped his radio and informed his dispatcher that he was taking an extended lunch hour. Swinging Amanda up into his arms, the sheriff strode into the hallway and took the stairs two at a time while his wife whispered in his ear.

Any crime wave in Spencer City would have to wait another thirty minutes to be thwarted. He had more pressing matters to attend to.

* * * *

Joe Bosley sat behind his desk intently reading the information on the PC monitor. He smiled and nodded his head in satisfaction. Now, all I have to do is check the town ordinances before I call Paddy O’Shay and Amanda. He dialed the courthouse. When Sue answered, he asked for Greg.

The sheriff is out to lunch, Joe. Can Deputy Miller help you?

Yes, Brian will do. Joe tapped his fingers on the arm of his chair while he waited for the dispatcher to transfer the call.

Hi, Joe. What can I do for you?

I’m thinking of opening a coed fitness center across the street. Are there any ordinances restricting the type of businesses that can operate on the square?

Not that I’m aware of, Brian told him. Wait a minute. I’ll check the town statutory laws.

Joe listened to the deputy mumble to himself as he scanned the town statutes.

Ah, here we are.

‘Hereby prohibit the establishment of any house of ill-repute to promote las

civious behavior between male and female sexes within the city limits of Spen

cer City.’

Since I don’t plan on opening a brothel, I think it will be safe to go forward with my plans. Thanks for the information.

I only hope Paddy will be as eager to help get this project off the drawing board.

After checking his Rolodex of contacts, he dialed the number under Church’s Gym. The phone was picked up on the third ring.

Paddy, here.

Mr. O’Shay, this is Joe Bosley from Spencer City. I own the diner where Charlie cooks.

I remember ye. Are me boys well?

Yes, they’re spending as much time together as possible but Tommy was telling me today that he would have to return to New York soon to resume his training.

Aye, the lad is determined to be a boxer just like his father. I had hopes Charlie would want to be a part of that trainin’ but I couldna convince him to move back home.

Charlie can indeed be stubborn if he thinks his loyalty lies elsewhere. What would you say to a plan to give him and Tommy the best of both worlds?

It would be the answer to me prayers, Paddy declared.

Then I have a business proposal for you. Joe quickly outlined his plans to open a fitness center that would cater to both the casual fitness members and the professional athletes.

Aye, ’tis a grand plan. Is this building big enough to house the equipment for trainin’ a young boxer?

Joe heard the Irishman’s growing enthusiasm. Actually, there are two buildings but we can make arched doorways in the connecting walls to allow access to both areas without going outside.

It sounds like an expensive plan, the trainer told him. Beggin’ ye pardon but will your bank account stand that kind of investment?

Yes, I can swing it—no pun intended—if I had a managing partner who knows the fight business and a silent partner who loves to help her friends.

You’ll be needin’ someone to run the place who can bring in lots of lads eager to learn from a former heavyweight contender—I know the perfect man for the job, O’Shay laughed. I’ll be wantin’ a tour of me new gym this weekend when Marty and I come to Spencer City.

And I know just the lady who can help convince him the idea was his.

If it’s the one I’m thinkin’ of, then the matter is decided already. Charlie thinks the world of that little woman and her bairns.

"Amanda is an incredible person. I guess that’s why the whole town loves her. Especially that husband of hers.

* * * *

That same woman stood on tiptoe to put the finishing touch on the sheriff’s tie and aimed a kiss at his chin.

I think you’re presentable now.

Greg looked down at his wife and felt his heart turn over at the picture she presented. Even though she was swathed in a bathrobe, no make-up on with her hair wrapped in a towel, she was beautiful. The sated look on her face from their lovemaking made her face glow with sensuality. With a little luck, a baby would come along soon to make their family complete. He wanted to hold their child in his arms and tell him what a wonderful mother he had. Or she. A miniature Amanda would be okay, too.

I’d better get back to the office and let Brian go to lunch.

Yes, he might want to have lunch with Molly.

I can testify to it being a nice habit to lunch with your woman.

Help populate the town, as well.

His heart leaped in his chest. Are you trying to tell me something?

No, not yet. But if we keep practicing, it shouldn’t be long. I’ve always been susceptible.

The lawman got a gleam in his eye. He put his arms around her in a hug that lifted her off her feet and started toward the staircase.

Behave now. You have to go to work and keep Spencer City a safe place for that child to grow up in, Amanda reminded him.

Yes, dear. He deposited her on the first stair step. I’ll see you later this evening.

Greg collected his gun belt and radio from the kitchen table and blew her a kiss before leaving.

Amanda pretended to catch it in her hand and press it to her heart. That silly little gesture of his brought a lump to her throat. It scared her sometimes that she was so incredibly happy. She kept expecting to wake up to find it was all a dream. A dream world in which her husband was devoted to her happiness and cherished her children. A world that could be getting another member of the family. She hadn’t been completely honest with her husband. There was a good chance she was pregnant but she didn’t want to get Greg’s hopes up if she was just a little late. She wanted to be certain. I’ll wait another week then go see my gynecologist in New York.

CHAPTER 3

Paddy O’Shay was in his little cubbyhole of an office in Church’s Gym thinking about all the things he would need to take care of before he moved to Connecticut. He pulled out a notepad and started making two lists. One for the new business and one personal. He was so engrossed he didn’t notice when Marty stopped to lean one hip on top of the desk.

From the looks of that list, you’re getting ready to buy a lot of new training equipment.

"I’ve been wantin’ to open me own gym for a while and now I’ve got