Sand in My Shoe

By Walter Frederick

After his battle with former KGB agents seeking to generate a coup in Britain, it took Richard Mastin a long time to come to terms with the sudden death of the woman whom he married hours before she died from the wound she received in saving him. Richard went to the solitude of the Spanish villa Julia left to him to take the time he needed to recover.
It wasn’t long however before he found himself caught up in a conspiracy to rob The Vatican of some of its gold reserves, and he needed to call on friends and family to help him in the quest to thwart the plans of those who plotted to fulfill the conspiracy.
Richard went through a long period of not knowing why he was coming under sustained attack, and step by step he fought back.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Walter Frederick
• Release date: Nov 1, 2021
• ISBN: 9781005205782

Walter Frederick

Roger Boaden (aka Walter Frederick) was born in Newark, Nottinghamshire, England. He spent thirty years working for the Conservative Party, and during that time managed three election campaign tours for Sir Edward Heath, followed by three for Baroness Thatcher (Margaret Thatcher). He also held a number of key posts in the party's organisation. In 1988 he left to lead the successful campaign, widely supported by the general public, to modernise England's outdated and restrictive Sunday trading laws. He has two daughters from his first marriage, Vicki and Fiona, and five grandchildren. In 2002 after serious ill-health he moved with his second wife to France to live in rural Haute Vienne, to the south of Limoges. It is there he finished this book, and he is now working on the follow-up for his central hero Richard Mastin, entitled 'Sand in my Shoe'.

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Sand in my Shoe

by

Walter Frederick

Copyright © 2021 through 2023 Walter Frederick

All rights reserved

Sand in My Shoe

by

Walter Frederick

All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, stored or introduced into any retrieval system, posted on any website, or transmitted in any form or by any means (digital, electronic, scanning, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book.

This is a work of fiction. The persons and events portrayed in this work of fiction are the creations of the author, and any resemblance to persons living or dead is purely coincidental. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademark status and the trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorised, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners.

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Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1 First Shots

Chapter 2 Mike Metcalf

Chapter 3 Another Incident

Chapter 4 Beach and Villa

Chapter 5 Bullets

Chapter 6 Left Luggage

Chapter 7 Return to the Villa

Chapter 8 Rent Boys

Chapter 9 Irish Cell

Chapter 10 Strange Call

Chapter 11 Accusations

Chapter 12 Making Up

Chapter 13 Political Intrigue

Chapter 14 Strasbourg

Chapter 15 Dieter

Chapter 16 Inspector Dassault

Chapter 17 Daughters

Chapter 18 Zaragosa

Chapter 19 Metcalf Place

Chapter 20 The Marquesa

Chapter 21 One Russian One Arab

Chapter 22 Mallon

Chapter 23 Jelena

Chapter 24 Plans Revealed

Chapter 25 Angela Brady

Chapter 26 Hidden Room

Chapter 27 Trap Baiting

Chapter 28 Abduction

Chapter 29 Sister to Brother

Chapter 30 Rome Moves

Chapter 31 Mastin Returns

Chapter 32 All Change

Chapter 33 A Real Shock

Chapter 34 Anxious Moments

Chapter 35 Confrontation

Chapter 36 The Next Move

Chapter 37 Rome here we come

Chapter 38 A New Home

Chapter 39 A Rethink

Chapter 40 The Cardinal

Chapter 41 Preemptive Actions

Chapter 42 Planning

Chapter 43 A Disturbed Night

Chapter 44 Wedding Day

Chapter 45 New Moves

Chapter 46 Dealing with Angela

Chapter 47 Change of Plan

Chapter 48 Spain Again

Chapter 49 A New Shock

Chapter 50 Return to Rome

Chapter 51 Getting the Gold

Chapter 52 Going for Gold

Chapter 53 The Waiting Game

Chapter 54 Things get lively

Chapter 55 The End Game

Chapter 56 Epilogue

Prologue

When he was widowed for the second time, Richard Mastin knew he was facing a hard road ahead.

Fortunately, a general election had been, in a way, a saviour for him. He had had no choice but to get on with his job, do his duty, and work hard.

The anti-climax which hit him when the campaign had finished, became his first major hurdle to climb. He was prone to fits of deep depression when matters around him weighed heavily on his shoulders. This continued for many months.

In some ways, his daughters, Claire and Annie were also his saviours. They insisted he paid more attention to them, and in doing so to work harder on turning his life around.

The first key decision he made was to sell his PR Company to his partners. They regretted his decision, but the opportunity to take over a highly successful PR company was impossible for them to resist. When completed, he turned his attention to his now, considerable fortune.

Maurice Simons, the Weston family solicitor, had given Richard a stunning shock when he had explained the extent of the substantial inheritance which was to be his following Julia’s death, and with the addition of the considerable sum from the sale of his company, important decisions needed to be made.

He thought long and hard, but Richard found it was not difficult to decide to give the Weston stately home on the Nottinghamshire Yorkshire borders to the National Trust, or to dispose of his home in Tunbridge Wells, and his apartment in Dolphin Square. By contrast, it was an easy decision to live permanently in the Eaton Square house, and then to wait before deciding about the villa in Spain, at least until he had experienced some opportunities to stay there.

He saw very little of his daughters as they were in the middle of exams. Claire was in her first year at St Andrews University; and Annie was in her GCSE year.

Meantime, Richard’s old secretary and PA from his former company, Janet Wheatley, became his PA for a venture he had chosen for himself as an International consultant. She was installed in a newly created office in the Eaton Square house.

When he had completed these arrangements, Richard decided to re-charge his batteries with a long stay in Spain. Janet moved in to one of the spare rooms in Eaton Square to look after the girls, when they were home during vacation breaks, and Richard travelled South to Spain.

Chapter 1 First Shots

The two crabs moved slowly through the seaweed and stones in the bottom of the crystal-clear pool. Each time the larger crab stopped; its smaller companion did the same.

Suddenly the water was disturbed with ripples spreading across the surface of the pool as an incoming wave broke the calm in the pool. The movement of the water prompted the crabs to seek shelter by scuttling under a large rock.

Richard Mastin had watched the two creatures for several minutes, going about their daily chores. He was absorbed by their movements; and he conjectured what the relationship was between them. Could they be father and son, could they be mother and daughter? He couldn’t decide which was which.

The unexpected movement of the waves also alerted him; as it signalled the fact it was time for him to move. The wave was the first indicator of the turn of the tide back to the shore. The rocks on which he was sitting were five hundred metres from the pathway winding up the cliff across the bay, to where his driver and companion, Bill Brewster, was waiting.

Over the past month, Richard had learnt when the tide turned, it reached the far headland quickly once it began its journey to the shoreline.

The movement prompting the crabs to seek shelter, was a signal to him to start his return walk across the sand.

He got up and waved to warn Bill that he was on the move.

Since arriving in Spain, Richard had spent several days allowing the solitude offered by the quiet bay on this stretch of coast to help heal and improve his state of mind.

There were no buildings, no people; it was off the beaten track and away from the normal tourist beaches.

It had a rugged beauty which he found comforting as he worked on his recovery from the events which dominated his life in the months of more than two years before.

Richard stretched as he stood up, beginning his walk across the bay. He pressed the timer on his watch, to check how long he would take to walk to the outcrop of distinctive coloured rocks, which marked the location of the pathway up the cliff. He counted the number of paces, as he had done each day since he first visited this bay.

He was at fifty paces, when the solitude around him shattered.

A heavy sound, which could only be a gunshot, echoed around the cliffs, and a flock of seagulls fluttered frantically into the sky screaming their warning cries, sounds which also echoed off the cliffs.

He stopped and turned, sensing the shot had come from somewhere behind him. He immediately began to wonder about the possible target.

Richard turned back towards his destination, and as he did, sand spurted from the beach, a few metres ahead of him, as a second shot echoed around the bay.

Then it struck him - someone was shooting at him!

He began to run fast for the rocks, adopting a zigzag pattern across the sand to present a more difficult target. There was a third shot. This time, he heard the whistle of the bullet. A fourth shot ricocheted off a rock, to be followed by a fifth.

This one hit the heel of the trainer on his right foot with the force of a hammer blow, knocking him completely off-balance.

Richard fell heavily, rolling over several times on the sand, as his headlong flight pitched him forward with this sudden loss of balance.

Another bullet produced a spurt of sand, some distance behind him as his momentum following his fall took him substantially beyond the line of fire up to that moment.

He scrambled to his feet. Seeing only a small gap between himself and safety, he threw himself over the rocks. Another bullet ricocheted off the rocks, as he disappeared behind them. He crouched down in the shelter afforded by the rocks and waited.

There was now only a short stretch of open sand between the rocks and the bottom of the cliff for him to negotiate. Richard inched forward slowly to look back to the area from where he thought the shots were fired at him.

A voice called out, Mr. M, you OK?

Bill was at the foot of the cliff, using the protection of the rocks to keep out of sight, and his stentorian tones echoed against the cliff.

I don’t know what the ‘ell’s going on but keep your ‘ead down. I’ll go up the top and see if I can get sight of the bastard what’s doing this.

Be careful Bill. called Richard.

It’s OK Mr. M. I got my shooter in case.

All right, I’ll move to the cliff when I think it’s safe. Can’t wait too long, the tide is almost reaching the rocks here.

OK guv’. Don’t touch the Rover though. There might be more than one of them. They could’ve paid us a visit whilst I came down ‘ere to check on you.

Bill turned and climbed the path.

He was halfway up before Richard saw him again, due to the way in which the outcrop of rocks at the bottom of the cliff obscured the rest of the pathway.

Richard felt water on his ankle. The first waves of the tide had reached him. He decided to make a dash for safety. He crawled to the highest point of the rocks, until he could stand without being seen. Bending down, as if pushing off from starting blocks for a quick sprint, he launched himself towards the bottom of the cliff. He dived the last two metres into the shelter of the limestone and granite, and lay there recovering his breath, relieved there were no more shots.

Richard climbed the path, following the route taken by Bill. He was nearing the top when he heard a motorbike, followed by Bill’s shouts.

Come back ‘ere you bastard.

There was another shot - but this time a different sound to the earlier shots.

Richard realised Bill must be shooting at the fleeing assailant.

Clambering over the last of the cliff, he ran towards the Rover, flopping down in its shade.

Bill ran up, and he too dropped down alongside Richard.

‘E was too fast for me Mr. M. I got one shot off, but ‘e sure knows ‘ow to ‘andle that bike. I reckon ‘e’s ‘ad some practice.

Did you get a look at him Bill?

No, not enough for me to recognise ‘im in the street; but ‘e did ‘ave a lot of blonde hair; I reckon ‘e sussed me coming well before I reached where ‘e was. Found these though.

Bill dropped an oily rag, three shell casings, and a corner torn from a photograph.

That looks like part of a picture of you Mr. M. Wonder where ‘e got it from? I’d better call the fuzz. I don’t like what’s ‘appended ‘ere today. First, I’ll do a scan of the Rover.

Bill got up, picked up his rucksack, and scanned the vehicle with an electronic detection device, like those used for body searches at airports.

She’s clean Mr. M. Looks as if there was only one of them. I’ll get on the bone to your Spanish friend.

Richard walked back to the edge of the cliff, as Bill made the call.

He looked down at the beach below, restored to the solitude which had earlier given him so much comfort. Suddenly he shuddered, as he felt the depths of despair return to him once again.

He looked out to sea, and said out loud, Oh God, please tell me it’s not starting again. I’m not sure I want to handle more.

He lowered his head, looking down the cliff face.

He took a step forward.

Strong arms grabbed him, lifted him and carried him back to the shelter of the vehicle.

My old man said I was to watch out for signs like that. Not saying you was going over, but I wasn’t about to chance it.

Richard rubbed his arms, where Bill had gripped him. OK young Bill, you can tell your old Dad, I’m alright. True, I started to wonder, but the shadow’s gone now. Thanks for caring, and thanks for being there.

Richard rubbed his forehead and frowned, Time to snap out of it, and begin again. I can’t hide from the real world for ever. So, tell me, what’s happening?

The Commandante’s on ‘is way. ‘E wants us to stay put until ‘e gets ‘ere, Bill sounded positive, ‘ow about a drink?

Richard smiled, and held out his hand, Bloody good idea, it’s a long time since I had the last one. Yes, a nice cold scotch would be good.

Bill opened the cool box, and pulled out the flask, which had travelled with them from England. He poured a measure into a cup and handed it to Richard.

You have one too? he laughed at his younger companion.

Thanks Mr. M, but no thanks, at least, not for the moment. Don’t want these Spanish cops thinking I’m drinking on the job. I’ll take a rain-check.

Richard smiled, OK. When the fuss’s over, why don’t we go to that village in the hills? You know, where they do the wonderful duck casserole with the garlic and the white beans, and we’ll have a bottle of the local plonk. I think I could be up for that.

Richard walked back to the cliff edge and sat down to sip his whisky. He took off his trainers, emptied out the sand which had collected during his dash for safety, and looked at the hole in the heel of the right-hand shoe.

The bullet had gone through the rubber of the heel, without entering the shoe itself. It was large enough for him to poke his finger through. He pulled off the sock, and examined the painful red patch on his heel, which looked as if it would quickly develop into a bruise.

Studying the trainer and the pile of sand which came from it made him appreciate his luck at getting away with only a hole in a shoe, and a bruise on his heel.

Looking at the pile of sand from his trainers, Richard contemplated scooping it up, to save it as a memento of the day someone tried to kill him. He laughed to himself and dismissed the idea as being silly, and said to himself, ‘sand in my shoe …. well, well.’

He looked across the sea towards the far horizon, reflecting on the events in his life since the fateful day of the visit of his friend Spencer Boyd.

This was Richard’s first complete break since the tumultuous end to the attempted coup which had dominated his life for many months. Julia’s death, in the final struggle with the former KGB agent, Ikanov, had left a void which still ached inside him.

The events of change which followed the conflict in Tuscany had prevented him from mourning her fully.

After the removal of the Soviet moles, there had been the new election campaign. The contractual commitments of the company Richard owned and ran, had forced him into a long period of unrelenting activity. At the time, he wished he could have walked away from it all then, but it proved to be exactly the distraction he needed. When everything was over, he felt the urge to get away from it all. He stuck it out for as long as he could, but the inevitable end slowly crept up on him.

First, Richard sold his company.

Being part of the political scene had taken up most of his working life. He needed time to mourn Julia properly on his own and begin the cathartic process of recovery.

He knew he could be alone in the Spanish villa. It appealed to him, since the beautifully converted and restored hacienda had been in the Weston family for many years. Julia had bequeathed it to him in her will, and he knew he could be close to her there.

Bill, providing support and protective cover, which gave him the space he needed.

His lifelong friend, Peter Richardson, promoted to Assistant Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police as a reward for the part he played in bringing the coup culprits to justice, recommended he should keep the armoured Range Rover he had been issued with, and the attempt on his life, and take Jack Brewster’s son into his employment to continue as his driver.

Peter had argued the danger could remain for a long time, even though Ikanov was dead. He feared that those of Ikanov’s comrades, who remained undetected, might try to avenge Ikanov’s death.

Mikhail Limonov had returned to Moscow, and like Peter, he too was promoted to a key position at the head of the FSB, the Federal Russian Security Service.

Mikhail agreed with Peter’s assessment they should continue to take precautions to protect Richard for years ahead.

The villa, nestling not far from the foothills of the Pyrenees, was located a few kilometres inside the Spanish border from France, and commanded a breath-taking view out towards the Mediterranean.

On clear days it was possible to see the different colours and shades of the sea.

The warmth of the hot sun, the clean air, and the solitude contributed to the healing process for Richard, and once he had made the decision to spend time in Spain, Peter had contacted his colleague in Madrid, and arranged for Richard to liaise with his Catalan equivalent, Commandante Antonio Faragas.

The Commandante was waiting to greet them when Richard and Bill had first arrived at the villa. He supplied them with police GPS mobile phones to contact him at short notice.

Also, he arranged for one of his men to stay on a nearby farm with the couple who looked after the villa, as added protection.

Nearly four months had passed without incident from their arrival - until today.

They could hear the police sirens, long before the two cars pulled alongside.

When they first met Antonio Faragas, Richard had quickly appreciated he was the kind of man who had been an officer of the law for a long time. He was tall, thin, and had a slight stoop, with a mass of greying hair, and a warm smile.

Bill decided Antonio was, as he put it ‘a dead ringer’ for Arsène Wenger, who had been the long-time manager of the Arsenal football team, Bill’s footballing love.

Antonio rushed over to them. Señor Mastin, please accept our apologies for this attack. I did not think we had any local bandidos who would trouble you here.

Excuse me, sir, Bill intervened, I think you should ‘ave a look at these cartridge cases señor Faragas. Don’t think your local villains will use the latest Israeli Uzi. I’ve ‘ad firearms training and know these shell casings. They’re larger than the standard NATO rounds, and the markings on the base are in ‘Ebrew. I’m certain they came from an Uzi.

I’m grateful to you señor Brewster for those observations. Please let me take the casings. We will send them to our ballistics Department in Girona.

Antonio held out his hand and took the casings. He instructed his officers to search the area from where the shots were fired.

Richard and Bill returned the villa to prepare for their evening out.

They drove twenty minutes into the foothills to the small village.

It consisted of a dried-up river bed, a collection of houses surrounding the local church, two bars and a restaurant in an old barn.

The village was remote; the streets were of reddish-brown soil, with no sign of tar macadam paving; it was almost like something from the past.

They had eaten at this restaurant several times since their arrival. The menu offered some of the most delicious dishes either of them had tasted.

On this night, the barn was nearly full, and most tables were occupied.

Nearly all the diners were Spanish, but Richard noted there were several well-versed tourists.

As the waiter uncorked a second bottle of the local wine, Richard heard something which sounded like a child sobbing.

The lighting in the barn came from the candles on the tables and an ineffective overhead group of lights in the centre of the high roof.

He looked around in the gloom in the barn, checking on the other diners. Then he heard the sobbing sound again. He continued looking around, until he spotted a woman sitting alone at a table near the wall, holding her head. Her blonde hair stood out, as did her blue dress.

Richard got up, walked over, sitting down in the vacant chair at her table.

Excuse me señora; can I do anything to help you? You sound distressed.

The woman, who had not seen him approach her table, jumped nervously.

Oh, I’m sorry. she replied, her voice revealing a strong American accent, stupid of me to blubber like this, but I’ve lost my husband, he’s disappeared, and I don’t know what to do.

She wiped away the tears.

My name is Richard Mastin, they shook hands over the table, my villa’s near here. We have some contacts with the Catalonian security services, so I was wondering if there is any way in which we could help you. Look, for starters, why don’t you join me and my colleague at our table over there, and you can tell us your story?

The woman got up and bent down to collect her bag from the floor. Richard looked away as the dress gaped open revealing her breasts.

She saw him look away and smiled, Hope you didn’t find that offensive. Please accept my apologies.

Richard stuttered, Er, don’t apologise. Er, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have been looking.

She smiled at him again, By the way I’m Alison, known as Ally, A, double L, Y, Metcalf. Thank you for recognising my misery. You have made me feel better already.

They walked to Richard’s table.

Ally, meet my colleague Bill Brewster. Bill, meet Ally Metcalf. She thinks she has lost her husband.

Bill stood up and smiled at the attractive blonde as Richard made the introductions.

The pleasure’s all mine Miss. Don’t you believe a word of whatever Mr. M’s been telling you about me. I’m just ‘is driver and not ‘is bodyguard.

She sat down. Richard called the waiter for clean glasses, and more water.

Tell us, how did you lose your husband?

Ally giggled slightly, showing she was recovering her composure, Well ..., you’re going to think I sound real stupid. More than an hour ago, he went off to the men’s’ room. He’d had a helluva lot to drink. I was sure he would be sick.

She took a long drink of water.

I didn’t worry over much for the first half hour. He’s been drinking too much all round lately, and I wasn’t surprised he was taking time. When he didn’t return after that, I got concerned. I asked a waiter to look for me. He came back after ten minutes or so to report nothing. Ally paused again and drank more water.

So, I went and looked myself. A coupla stupid Spaniards took exception to me being in the men’s rest room, and they called the manager. When I explained the situation to him, he had a further look for me, and went outside, to see if Mike had wandered into the street for air. A few moments ago, he came back to report no sign of him. That’s when panic set in, and that’s when you spotted me blubbing like a baby.

Bill got up from the table and walked slowly in the direction of the toilets.

Ally also got up and went to her table, collecting her salad before it was cleared away.

Whilst she was at her own table, Bill returned.

Don’t like the look of this Mr. M. I might’ve found this geezer’s wallet at the back of one of the kazies. It’s bristling with security passes. This bloke’s some sort of undersea weapons expert attached to NATO. This’s a job for Tony’s mob.

He passed the wallet to Richard, who, on seeing Ally returning slipped it into his back pocket.

Bill moved away again saying, I’ll go and ‘ave a look outside.

Ally returned with her salad, and the waiter hurried over and gave her fresh cutlery and bread. The manager followed and expressed concern at the signs of what could be trouble. He asked if all was well.

She thanked him and began eating her salad.

Richard smiled at her, Are you on vacation here?

Ally smiled, No, we’ve got a villa also not far from here. Mike’s work is with NATO in the Barcelona Naval Base on an underwater surveillance system. He’s with the US Navy, on a civilian attachment. We’ve been here eight months, and we have another four to go. Ally ate more of her salad.

We often come to this restaurant. Several of the Spaniards Mike works with recommended it, and well, we like the food here. Anyway, tell me about you.

Richard smiled, You could say I’m on a kind of extended sick leave. I haven’t been well for some time, and I had an injury which needed to heal. Also I suffered the loss of someone very close, and so I decided to get away. Whilst here I’ve had a good long rest.

Why did Bill..., that was his name wasn’t it? Richard nodded.

Why did Bill say he’s not your bodyguard?

He smiled, That’s Bill’s way of disarming strangers, he thinks it will prevent tough questions. He’s my driver, and yes, he does take care of me, but I wouldn’t use the term bodyguard, more of a close companion. Richard paused.

By the way, hope you don’t mind, but Bill’s gone to call the Spanish equivalent of the FBI. We’ve been in contact with them since arriving at my villa. The local chief is a colleague of an old friend of mine.

Bill re-joined them at the table, ‘E’s on ‘is way Mr. M. Begging your pardon Miss, Mr. M. probably told you I’ve been to call the local fuzz.

Ally laughed, I take it fuzz means the cops.

That’s right Miss, me and Mr. M are in touch with this man Commandante Antonio Faragas, and I think of them as more like your FBI.

Richard smiled and looked at her. Now he could see her in a better light, he guessed her age as mid-thirties. She had an oval face, finely proportioned, giving her a striking appearance. Her hair was naturally blonde, and her deep green eyes were strong and appealing.

Although of medium height and slim, she was by no means skinny. The blue flowered dress clung to her body, revealing perfectly rounded proportions.

Bill watched Richard taking in this detail. He kicked him under the table, smiled and put his thumb up. Richard tried to kick back, but kicked a table leg, spilling water from his glass.

Sorry, I apologise for my clumsiness.

Ally smiled at them, It’s me who should be apologising. I’ve kinda taken over your evening, and no doubt I’ve ruined it completely. I appreciate you taking the time and the interest. Even though Mike and I have been here for a while, we don’t know anyone much.

She shrugged her shoulders, Sure there are the Spaniards Mike works with, but then we don’t really know them; if you know what I mean? It’s an unpleasant feeling to realise you’re alone. With Mike at work through the day, I spend lengthy periods on my own, but I always had the comfort of knowing he’d come back each day.

She looked close to tears again, Like a flash something like this happens and I’ve no idea what the hell’s going on, and that’s scary. I mean I know Mike’s work is highly classified. Thanks, you guys for helping. Hope I can repay you.

Richard reached across the table, took her hand and squeezed it.

No need for you to apologise. We’re delighted to help. We were getting bored with nothing new happening. I’ve spent a lot of time walking and re-charging my batteries. I’m glad to be involved with someone again.

Richard smiled at her again, By the way, I was wondering if there’s anyone else staying at your villa. If not, would you like to come and stay with us? We’ve an elderly couple who look after us, and we’ve got lots of spare rooms, so much so you could stay there in as much, or as little isolation, as you need right now.

Thanks Richard, that’s a nice idea, I appreciate the offer. However, I’d better get back after I’ve spoken to your Commandante, you know, in case there’s any word from Mike. You could always come and stay with me though. The villa we’ve rented is huge. We’ve got six bedrooms, so sleeping arrangements needn’t be a problem.

OK, said Richard. Let’s see what Antonio has to say. He’s just arrived.

He had spotted Antonio arriving and talking to the manager. He came striding over.

Commandante Antonio Faragas, please meet Mrs Alison Metcalf.

Señora, it is my pleasure. Because of your husband’s work and security clearances, we knew of your presence in our region. My officers will carry out a check of everything here at the restaurant. Richard, would you mind accommodating the señora in your villa?

Excuse me, Ally frowned and demanded, why would that be necessary?

Señora, I regret to advise you your villa is now being examined by my officers.

Antonio paused, looking awkward.

After señor Brewster called to my office, we first checked your villa. Someone has made what you might call a mess. It has been searched thoroughly. I did not think you would like to see it in that condition.

He smiled, My sister, who is in the local municipal police force, helped, picking out a few changes of clothes for you, which she placed in a small bag and which I have in my car. She will stay in your villa to monitor the telephone, until we finish our searches.

Ally slumped back in her chair and again looked close to tears.

She looked up towards the ceiling, Jesus in Heaven, what have we done to you, to cause you to punish us in this way?

An hour later they arrived at Richard’s villa.

Built around three sides of a large swimming pool, it was more like a small hotel. The fourth side open to the countryside, looking towards the distant Mediterranean. Many of the original features of the old hacienda had been retained and lovingly modernised.

There were ten bedrooms, each with en suite bathrooms.

Richard put Ally in the room next to him. He pointed out Bill had a room on the opposite side of the pool.

He guided her round the villa, to show her where everything was located.

Ally unpacked the bag which Antonio’s sister had brought. Richard went to the lounge and poured drinks.

She joined him and took a long draft from the drink he had ready.

Hope the room’s OK, she nodded with a smile, Our housekeeper, señora Aznar will be here first thing in the morning, and she’ll supply anything which you don’t have with you. Feel free to ask for whatever you need. And please make yourself at home. Señora Aznar, we have no idea what her Christian name is by the way, lays breakfast by the side of the pool, when she’s sure we’re on the move.

Richard turned to hand a drink to Ally.

Bill’s an early riser. He likes a swim, followed by a jog, and another swim. I’m slower, but we manage to have breakfast together. Have a swim if you want when you wake up. If you haven’t got a costume, you’ll find new ones in original wrappings in the changing rooms.

Richard paused for a moment, My wife left me this villa. She often entertained here and kept everything well stocked to meet the needs of her guests. There are sure to be costumes of several shapes and sizes.

Ally smiled, Does that mean I’m barred from skinny dipping?

Richard laughed, You can if you wish, but watch out for young Bill, he’s partial to shapely bodies, particularly naked ones.

And you are not? I didn’t notice you objecting when you looked down the front of my dress. She laughed at his discomfort.

Ally touched his arm.

Sorry for teasing, you know I liked the way you looked at me. It’s nice to think I’m still interesting enough to embarrass a guy.

She paused and turned away quickly.

He stopped her and at once saw tears in her eyes, What’s wrong?

Richard, it’s just that ..., well, Mike and I haven’t been on good terms for a long time. It’s hard to take it in when someone shows an interest. Sorry, I’m feeling a bit light-headed after the events of this evening, and I’ve had one too many glasses of wine.

Don’t say any more. It’s late, you should get some sleep.

She threw her arms round his neck and held him close.

Thanks for being so kind. You are a dear, kind man. I appreciate what you’ve done for me. I’ll handle it much better from now on.

Richard was caught by surprise. After a moment’s delay, he put his arms round her and patted her back, as she sobbed into his shoulder.

She flinched from the pressure of his hands on her back.

Sorry, that obviously hurt.

It’s OK; I’ve got some bruises on my back.

They must be bad to make you jump like that. Let me look.

No, she pulled away quickly, please I’ve caused enough trouble; I don’t want to complicate it.

Richard frowned, I don’t understand. I insist you show me. Maybe we could do something to relieve the bruises. Go and put something on like a dressing gown. Señora Aznar should’ve left one laid out on the bed, at least that’s what she normally does.

Ally went to her room, returning moments later wearing the dressing gown. She turned her back to him, and let it slip off her shoulders.

He gasped in astonishment at the vivid bruises across her upper back. t looked as though she had been beaten leaving behind wide bruises across the width of her back.

I think I understand why you’re so reluctant. Who did this to you?

She hesitated and started to sob again.

Don’t get involved Richard. It might be better if you didn’t know.

Point is, I am involved, like it or not.

It was Mike. He’s gay. Given his position he needed a wife. When I married him, I thought he was straight. I found out about his gay affairs six years ago. We’ve not had normal relations since. Not that we had much before. When his gay relationships hit a bad spot, he takes it out on me. I threaten to walk out, and this is what he does.

Ally paused as she struggled to compose herself, It’s not the first time.

Richard frowned, This is terrible. I’ve got a cream which might help. Let me put it on for you. Go and lie on your bed whilst I get it.

When Richard entered her room, Ally was lying face down on her bed.

The cream, given to him when he had tripped on the rocks and bruised his elbow days before, was in a large brown tub. It had a pleasant aroma.

He applied it gently to the bruises. There were other faint scars, suggesting earlier beatings. There were ten deep bruises from her shoulders to her buttocks.

Richard rubbed the cream in gently, taking care not to press too hard.

You’ll be sleeping on your tummy tonight, I guess.

I do every night; it’s too painful to do otherwise.

Ally sat up as he finished. She didn’t pull up the dressing gown. He turned away.

Richard, please don’t think me a hussy! No, you don’t have to answer that. I feel safe with you, as if we’ve known each other all our lives. I don’t mind you seeing what I should call my better side. Please do not let my behaviour upset you.

He turned back and kissed her on the cheek.

Sleep well. See you in the morning.

He returned to his own room.

As he walked back he was conscious that Ally had caused him to feel aroused for the first time in a long time.

Chapter 2 Mike Metcalf

Richard woke.

At first, he could not identify what had woken him, and then he heard the sounds of laughter and water splashing.

He got up, pulled on his swimming shorts and a dressing gown, brushed his hair and opened the veranda door to the side of the pool. He stood for a moment in the shadows.

Ally was sitting at the shallow end, laughing at Bill, who was thrashing furiously through the water towards her.

Richard, saw she was wearing a competition costume, which was a full one-piece outfit, which covered the bruises, hiding them from view.

She shouted at Bill, Come on William you’re a wuss. Thought you said you could easily beat a woman!

Bill reached the wall close to her and collapsed backwards in the water in a display of mock exhaustion.

All right Miss you win. Where the ‘ell did you learn to swim like that?

She laughed, Confession time. I once swam with the US Olympic Squad, and I’ve kept in good shape. Since coming to Spain I swim every day, and I’m close to the qualifying times I used to achieve, which got me to the Olympics all those years ago. So, come on, hand over the hundred Euros you owe me.

Bill spotted Richard watching them, an amused grin on his face.

Mornin’ Mr. M, do you want to ‘ave a go and see if you can beat ‘er? She’s bloody good. She’s the best I’ve ever seen!

Ally shouted, Hey Richard, come on in and give me a chance to win more Euros.

He walked round to the shallow end.

I’d be throwing money away. If Bill can’t beat you, I’m damn sure I can’t. He’s a lot better, fitter and younger than me. I’ll take a rain cheque on that challenge. By the way, good morning, hope you slept well.

Like a dream, thank you. You know it’s down to you two. I haven’t felt this secure in a long, long time; you’ve been so kind, too kind in fact.

Bill climbed out of the pool, I’m off for my morning jog.

He picked up a towel from a sun bed, winked at Richard, and jogged away a huge grin across his face.

How’s the back this morning? Did the cream help?

Not as painful as it was, I appreciated your TLC. Quite a while since any man’s been so kind to me.

Richard smiled to hide his embarrassment.

Think I’ll have my few lengths now if you don’t mind. Sets me up for the day, please do not laugh at my pedestrian rate compared to what it seems from Bill you can do.

She got into the water alongside.

Promise I won’t race; I’d like to swim along with you.

Richard swam up and down using his basic breaststroke.

Ally swam back crawl, so that she could continue a conversation.

Glad to see you found the right kind of costume.

Yes, I was very impressed by the wide selection. It’s the right size too.

I thought size doesn’t matter with those outfits. I thought these competition costumes were one-sized to keep you streamlined through the water.

She laughed, Sure does that OK. You don’t think it flattens me too much, do you?

She stood in the water and ran her hands down her body, accentuating the curves displayed by the costume.

There you go again, trying to embarrass me, and me old enough to be your father. Come to think of it, it doesn’t leave much to the imagination.

Ally fluttered her eyelids, I’m flattered you noticed.

He came to the end of a length and climbed out of the pool.

I’ve had enough for today. I’ll have my shower and then see señora Aznar to organise breakfast. Bill’ll be about twenty minutes.

OK, see you soon. I’ll do a few more lengths for speed.

Later, he made his way to the kitchen to organise breakfast, and as he passed her door he could hear her singing over the buzz of the hairdryer as she dried her hair.

Richard decided to wait for her before starting his breakfast.

He read the local newspaper, scanning the pages for news items concerning local activity, to see if there was anything about Mike Metcalf.

Bill was already tucking in to fruit, cheese, cold meats and crusty rolls when Ally appeared. She was wearing blue shorts and a white top, a combination which highlighted her hair, now tied back, and made her rich suntan even more apparent.

Richard stood as she appeared. Bill tried to do the same but spilt a glass of orange juice onto the table.

My, my, she said, sorry to cause you guys problems. It’s real nice to see you being so English; that kind of chivalry has died out across the pond!

Bill blushed, It’s me who should be sorry Miss. I was ‘ungry, and I didn’t know ‘ow long you’d be. I enjoyed that little contest. Makes me realise just ‘ow much out of condition I’ve become.

She sat between them.

Señora Aznar quickly cleaned up the mess caused by Bill.

When they had finished, Bill went to get the Range Rover ready. This was a daily routine he had adopted since their arrival in Spain. He checked the vehicle thoroughly, testing, and topping up water, oil and petrol, as needed.

Ally looked at Richard, Could we walk in the grounds out of earshot?

They walked through the gardens, and into a wooded area beyond. She stopped and sat on a small wall. He sat beside her.

Don’t get ideas Richard and think I’m coming on to you. It’s been too long since anyone was real nice to me, and you’ve kinda turned my head a bit. I hope we can be friends without this spoiling anything.

Don’t worry, he squeezed her hand as he had done on the first night in the restaurant, I’m not looking for involvement with anyone.

What do you mean? Have you had an unhappy experience? I kinda picked up you saying your wife had left this place to you.

That’s right. My first wife died in a road accident quite a time ago. My second wife was shot in front of me, and we were married only a couple of hours or so before she died. It was two years ago now. I’m still not fully repaired, and not ready to commit myself.

Oh, my God, that makes me seem so selfish. I won’t ask anything more, but, promise me, when you’re ready to talk, will you let me be the one who listens?

Thanks Ally, I’d appreciate that.

They walked back to the villa in silence.

Commandante Faragas was waiting for them, Buenos días señora, and Richard. I wanted to speak with you both; please sit down señora.

Ally gave him a hard look, and said, Does that face mean you’ve found Mike?

Well, señora, we found the body of a man, who has the description like your husband. It was in a stone quarry near the village of Espolla. We will need you to provide identification when we are ready, but I warn you the body has been mutilated.

She got up and walked to the edge of the pool.

Turning back to face him, her face distorted, she shouted, I suppose you’re going to tell me his dick was stuffed up his ass?

Antonio looked confused, I am sorry señora. I do not understand, what is a dick?

Richard intervened, Antonio, she means his penis.

Antonio was embarrassed, Now I think I understand. So, yes, we found parts of his, er, dick, in two places.

Richard went to her and tried to put his arms round her. She pushed him away.

Leave me alone. I’m OK. She held up a hand to stop Richard. Commandante, forgive me; there is something you should know. My husband was a nasty vicious homosexual. He was extremely promiscuous, and I feared one day, something like this would happen. Can I get the identification thing over with?

I am sorry señora, but it could be several days away. We need to have the post mortem, since the cause of death is far from clear. The local magistrate will not release the body until these formalities are concluded. For the moment, I wanted you to know we think we may have found your husband.

He got up, shook her by the hand.

He turned to Richard, and said, Please walk me to my car, our first examination of Metcalf, suggested he was killed by a bullet from a high-powered weapon. Could it be possible the man, who fired at you, also killed Metcalf?

Richard frowned, If that is so, I don’t begin to understand why. There can’t be a connection to me. I only met this woman after my own incident, and I’d never heard of her or her husband before that night. I agree, it is a very strange coincidence.

Richard, I would like your help at the beach where you experienced your incident. Could you be available before the low tide tomorrow afternoon? We will use metal detectors, to see if we can find one or more of the bullets fired at you. If we can recover one bullet, and there is a match, then we have provided one answer, but alas, no solution.

Antonio got into the car, and was driven away, leaving Richard deep in thought.

Ally was pacing up and down at the side of the pool when he returned.

He went to her putting his arm round her waist. I’m truly sorry. How can I help?

Don’t be sorry; be glad. I won’t shed a single tear for him. I’m sorry if he suffered, of course I am, but I am also relieved to be free of him. You cannot understand how much I longed to be free, after he made me suffer so much. However, I do need to find out why he died, and who it was who killed him.

She took his hands, Will you help me Richard, please?

He looked at her and smiled, Sure I’ll help, and I’m certain Bill will too. I’m not sure however, what we can do.

"Mike was working on sensitive defence stuff. He was an outed gay, with an appetite for young boys. He was turned on by boys with blonde hair. He was very cruel; I was frightened of him, and by him. That’s why, despite the beatings, I didn’t dare to leave. I was afraid he’d come after me and kill me, he sure as hell threatened many times.

She wiped away a tear, Now he’s dead, obviously murdered; but by whom, and, for what? I need to know. You could help me. I’ve got my own money, and I’ll pay whatever it takes.

Ally, I’ve already said we will help you. Forget payment, we don’t need it. We must think what we need to do. Why don’t you take a siesta, and I’ll talk to Bill?

She went to her room, and he went to the stables which they used as garages.

He took a six-pack with him, and sat on the wall with Bill, who agreed to help as soon as he heard the explanations.

Sure, count me in Mr. M. You know I’m ‘ere to ‘elp anyway. I took it for granted we was up for it anyway.

Richard told him of the conversation with Antonio, and the possibility Metcalf’s killer and the man who fired at him could be the same.

I don’t get it Mr. M. Suppose it’s possible those what ordered the assault on you, ‘appen to be involved with those what wanted to get Metcalf. Sending one ‘eavy to ‘ave a go at you, they might’ve decided to kill two birds with one stone.

It still doesn’t make sense Bill. I know we’ve speculated Ikanov’s friends might have a go. But there’s no reason I know of, why they should be interested in Metcalf.

‘Ang on a minute, we could be barking up the wrong arm. We’ve been thinking all along with the left, when we should be thinking with the right, if you gets my meaning Mr. M.

That’s all very well, but I’m not aware of anyone on the right of the political spectrum who might be upset by my actions. It’s a valid point though. We’d better seek additional protection. We should persuade Ally to let us go through her villa for evidence which might help. That is, when Antonio’s boys have finished.

Right you are Mr. M. I’ll give Dad a shout. ‘E did say ‘e’s got several of ‘is old comrades along the Costa Brava. We could do with a few of them to lend an ‘and.

Good idea. Whilst you’re doing that, I’ll talk to Antonio. He should be back at his office.

He spoke to Antonio, who agreed they could search the villa after the visit to the beach.

Bill came into the study, to report on his call, The old man gave me a right old bollocking for not taking better care of you. Four of his mates will be ‘ere tomorrow morning, tooled up and rarin’ to go! ‘E wanted to know if ‘e should alert Peter, so I took it on myself to say yes. ‘Ope that’s OK. ‘E sends ‘is best by the way.

Perfect. I think it’s time to go through Metcalf’s wallet.

He went to the cupboard to retrieve the wallet. Before he could take it out Ally appeared.

Hi you two, couldn’t rest. So, I want to get on. Hang on a minute, what’re you two plotting? You both look so guilty.

Are you feeling OK Ally?

Yes, I’m fine. Don’t avoid the question.

We’re both ready to help you in any way. We are organising additional security cover. Tomorrow afternoon we go to a local beach to see if we can find one of the bullets fired at me, which could be from the same gun they think might have killed Mike. After that we’ve arranged with Antonio to go through your villa, with your permission of course.

Richard hesitated, And, yes we do have a confession to make.

There you are. Woman’s intuition, I knew you were hiding something. What the hell’s going on?

Explanation first; we think we should examine all of Mike’s things. Go through the villa. Look in every corner in which he might have put anything. Go through the pockets of his clothes in case there are any bits and pieces. Receipts and things like that, anything which might give us clues. We should pay particular attention to his wallet.

I don’t have Mike’s wallet. It wasn’t amongst the things the Commandante gave me..... Her voice tailed away.

She went over to Richard and stood in front of him, Are you telling me you’ve got it?

He stopped her, putting his finger across her lips. That’s the confession. When we first saw you in the restaurant, Bill did a search of the men’s room. He found the wallet in a corner. I didn’t want to tell you at the time. I didn’t want to alarm you. Since then, events have moved ahead of us, a bit faster than we expected.

Richard pulled a face, We think it’s possible when Mike was attacked; he hid the wallet, because of his security passes. It makes me think there could be clues in it; Bill and I were about to examine the contents, when you walked in.

There was silence, and then she grinned.

Come on then, if we’re going to work together, you’d better get used to me winding you up. Let’s get started.

They laid each item taken from the wallet on the table. There were four security passes, each bearing Metcalf’s photograph; three credit cards; two cards which looked like club membership cards; two thousand two hundred Euros, and twelve other bits of paper.

They turned the wallet inside out, checking there was nothing caught in the lining. Using a small knife, Bill carefully slit open the stitches holding the wallet together.

Ally pushed the credit cards, the money and the security passes, to one side, "Any clues are going