Broken Cross

By Robert Boucher

The Giordano family has controlled Riverside for decades. Their criminal enterprise has brought in millions from prostitution, drugs, gambling, extortion, and loan sharking. They have had a comfortable life in past years, but now, a new enemy has reared its head. A turf war, a murder, and an imposter are about to change everything.

Detective JT Guner and his partner Gary Bronson are called out to investigate a dead body. They find scorched remains in the burned down remnants of Daniel’s supper club. This murder draws them into the city’s dark criminal underbelly.

As bodies stack up in the community, their boss demands action. The pressure is on to take down warring families and clean up Riverside. With many surprises along the way, can they stop more bloodshed before it’s too late?

• Language: English
• Publisher: LifeRich Publishing
• Release date: Oct 4, 2022
• ISBN: 9781489743695

Robert Boucher

Robert Boucher dreamed of being a writer. Born and raised in Milwaukee, he moved to California in search of his dream. This is his first novel.

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Copyright © 2022 Robert Boucher.

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except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue

in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

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ISBN: 978-1-4897-4370-1 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4897-4368-8 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4897-4369-5 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022915948

LifeRich Publishing rev. date:  03/22/2023

CONTENTS

Chapter 1     Death Done Right

Chapter 2     Get in the Car Andy

Chapter 3     Investigating the skim

Chapter 4     You don’t f..k with our end

Chapter 5     Ashes to Ashes

Chapter 6     The Ambers are Telling

Chapter 7     Time for a Challenge

Chapter 8     A little R&R gone bad

Chapter 9     5 Days later, Investigation continues

Chapter 10   Proving Loyalty

Chapter 11   Finding out what happened

Chapter 12   Digging Deeper

Chapter 13   An unusual proposition,

Chapter 14   The Engagement Party

Chapter 15   Bagdad, Florida

Chapter 16   Power Play

Chapter 17   More Killings

Chapter 18   Turf War

Chapter 19   The Wedding and…

Chapter 20   Revenge at a cost

Chapter 21   Crack in the armor

Chapter 22   What now?

Chapter 23   The Tower is Leaning

Chapter 24   Caputo?

Chapter 25   Where is Montez and Chapman

Chapter 26   The truth is told

Chapter 27   Sermons

Chapter 28   I need to know

Chapter 29   We hear the Truth

Chapter 30   Surprise?

Chapter 31   Surprise Part 2

Chapter 32   Big Bear

Chapter 33   Death Done Right?

Epilogue

CHAPTER 1

Death Done Right

T he full summer moon shone brightly in the quiet sky. Its glow flowed with streams of light, that drifted through the trees and landed gently to the ground. Everything in sight reflected the illumination, giving the whole field a sense of daylight.

The trees and shrubs swayed as the wind accepted the warmth of the moons glow. This was the first full moon of the summer and the breeze whistled through the trees making a sound like that of a distant train with an intermittent horn. Blowing ever-so- lightly, warning all who could hear to prepare for things to come. The night creatures went about their way moving slowly and guarding themselves more cautiously. Aware that their nocturnal enemies could see them more easily in the bright glow from the moon. In the distance a coyote was heard hollowing in agony. A male crying for that elusive mate to share the night. Resting quietly on an oak tree branch an owl gazed out into the open field. It is a night he knows he will find food. Suddenly, out in the distance something only he can hear and see. He darts from the branch towards his prey with full wings knowing time is of the essence.

The lake is quiet now. The night breeze helping move the current. The glow from the moon highlighting every ripple and white cap it made, as the water headed towards the shores edge.

At that edge of the water the shadow of a man stood calmly looking out at the Lake. Resting his foot on a rock and placing his arms on his knee, he looked as if he was waiting patiently for something to appear. Just then, moving so slowly, the body of a man face down in the water drifted by him.

As he stood straight up a voice from behind asked quietly,

Largo, do you want us to add some more weights?

He turned to face his partners with no emotion. Chapman and Felix were their names but, Largo did not acknowledge them. He just paused a moment and said slowly and curtly,

How... many... times... have we done this? The other two men said nothing, just waited. Largo turned his head back facing the Lake and growled,

They can’t find him until the fish have had their fill.

The two men moved quickly toward the water’s edge. Felix entered the water just in time to reach-out and snag the floating corpse. Bodies are hard to move in the water when fully clothed. With both hands gripped tightly he pulled hard to guide the body to the shore. Chapman grabbed a hold of Felix’s shoulders and yanked as hard as he could. His feet were slipping, so he dug his heals hard into the ground. His footing held and Felix and the corpse slid on to the shore.

Largo reached into his pocket and removed his phone. The illuminated face shined brightly in his hand. With his thumb he made a few swipes and pressed down. He lifted the phone to his ear as he watched the two scrambling to add more weights. It was a good thing they were in a remote area. He felt comfortable no one would see them.

A voice answered on the other end. It was a low and uneven,

Largo, talk to me, The voice was a little groggy, but deliberate.

Largo answered. Its beautiful down here tonight. There’s a slight breeze, and the Lake looks good.

Are the fish biting yet?

Before answering, Largo looked over to see the two men securing up the extra weights. He watched as they lowered the body slowly into the lake. It was quickly taken by the current and swallowed below the water line as it made its way down into the depth of the abyss. He had picked this area not only for its isolation, but it also was the deepest part of the lake that he knew of. He smiled as he watched the white caps gently flow away. The extra weights helped. He put his attention back to the phone call.

Not yet, but in a short while I know they will have a feast, He was smiling now. He knew the voice on the other end of the line was happy,

Good, I hope you enjoy yourself. Perhaps I can make the trip with you next time?

Nothing else was said and the line went dead. Largo was amused. The comment was a good sign. Job well done my trusted friend.

With a wide smile on his face, he bent down and placed the throw away phone on the rock he rested his leg earlier. Making sure it was steady and not moving, he then raised his right foot and smashed the phone on the rock. Shattering it into many pieces. He carefully began picking up the items and made sure he left nothing behind. He placed the pieces into his coat pocket and looked at his two partners,

Ok, let’s get out of here. He said walking toward the road where the car was parked.

Where to next? Felix asked as he and Chapman followed.

I need a drink, a stiff drink, Largo answered,

As they reached the car Felix slid into the driver’s side as Chapman hit the back seat. Largo opened the passenger door as the car started and he looked out at the Lake. It looked peaceful and siren. As if nothing had disturbed its slow flowing water.

That takes care of another one who didn’t pay! Largo said, Let’s go

As the car pulled away the owl returned to his perch on the oak tree branch. He held a small field mouse tightly in his talon. The night was a success for all.

CHAPTER 2

Get in the Car Andy

A ndy Da Silva walked out the front door of Daniel’s and breathed a sigh of relief. The night was crazy busy, and they were short waiters. He even had to leave from behind the bar and help out. He just hated when that happened.

Sammy Bruni the owner, got all pissed as they could not get the customers their food fast enough. He knew in his mind that the two servers that didn’t show tonight, were gone. He knew that the bar did good. They had a big party in the back that also put a strain on the staff, but it paid off. There was a party of 12 and they were big spenders both food and drinks. It put a smile on the boss’s face when he saw the bill on that group.

Andy lit a cigarette as he headed for his car. It bothered him that the workers had to park so far away from the restaurant. It was quiet and eerie now so, and he walked fast. Unlocking his door, he flicked the cigarette to the ground and then caught himself. Cigs are six dollars a pack and you’re throwing that one away? He said to himself. Standing still for a moment, he finally stooped down and butting the cigarette on the ground put it into the cigarette pack he had in his right pocket. He slid into his car and started the engine. He told himself it was going to be a better night, now that he was away from the stress. He thought he would stop at Chet’s Inn and have a nice drink and maybe play some pool. He knew for sure there were a couple of his buddies there and they would be easy Pickens. Andy had a great stroke when it came to shooting pool and not many people wanted to play him for money. But his two buddies were suckers and hated to lose, especially to him.

As he turned right on Riverside Street, he caught a glimpse of headlights in his rear view. He didn’t pay much mind until he stopped at the corner of Riverside and Central as the light turned red. The car pulled behind him and he could see the driver. It looked like Felix one of Largos boys. Largo and his crew came into the restaurant a lot. They always strong-armed Sammy for a free dinner and drinks for them and whoever was in their party. Andy knew that Sammy hated all of them but for some reason he tolerated it. Andy thought if it was him and his place, he would not have allowed it from the start. Just then a horn honked, and Andy moved ahead. Looking in his mirror he noticed Felix was following him. What the Hell? he said to himself. Why or what does he want with me? Well maybe it was just a coincidence. He drove on to the next stop sign. There he took a right and watched to see if Felix would follow. Sure, enough he made a right and his lights hit Andy’s rear view. He started to get nervous now. Did he do something to make Felix angry? Did he make his drink right? What the hell is it?

He decided he would find out, so he pulled over to the curb and stopped. Felix followed and parked behind him but, about a car length back. Andy regrouped himself and realized it was nothing he had done, but something that Felix wanted. He shut the car down and opened the driver’s door. He looked back and there was no motion. He took a breath and started walking toward the other car. When he reached the driver’s side as the window came down. Andy peered into the car to see if he was alone.

He smiled before saying, Hay, Felix what’s up? Smoke belched out of the window. Felix was a vaper, and the smoke was blinding for a short time.

Andy, where are you headed? Felix asked when the smoke cleared. His voice was low and mistrusting.

I was just heading over to Chet’s for a drink and some pool. He grasped tightly to the top of the car. He was annoyed. Felix never talked to him, so this was strange. He could feel the whites of his knuckles. Is there something… you need or want from me?

Andy tried to keep himself calm and not to worry but, sweat began to build up on the back of his neck as he waited for Felix to answer him.

Just a boring night, I was looking for some excitement. Do you mind… if I head there with you?

Sure, I mean, I can’t guarantee an exciting time at Chet’s. It’s just a hole in the wall place, not much going on

He was trying to discourage Felix for one reason, and one reason only. He didn’t like him, and sure didn’t want to hangout with him. He was bad news and Andy wanted no part.

I’ll follow you, Felix said, Just a couple of beers, watch you guys play pool and I’ll be on my way.

OK. Andy was confused as he walked back to his car. Why in the hell does Felix want to hang with me? The guy could be downtown at the Mission Inn having drinks and dinner. Instead, he wants to shoot pool and have a couple of beers? Weird man.

Chet’s lot was half full as Andy pulled in and parked at the first spot that he saw open. It was a small club and the lot showed it. It only had twenty spots for cars. He looked over his shoulder and watched Felix parked in the back row behind him which really didn’t make sense. Especially when there was a spot right next to him. He watched from the side mirror as Felix got out of his car and started walking toward him. Andy just had an awful feeling deep down in his gut. This was all going in a direction he didn’t understand. He shivered his shoulders and moved to get out of the car. Felix stood right next to him as he locked his door.

Well, are you ready to win some money? Felix said with vaper smoke coming out of his mouth as he talked.

Yeah, always. Andy replied.

Are your buddies here?

Yeah, that’s Gilbert’s Dodge pickup in the first row. I don’t see Clayton’s car.

What do your buddies do for work? Felix asked him.

Andy never answered him as he started toward the door to the bar. He pulled on the old handle and the door screeched a familiar sound. He remembered the last time it was oiled, he poured beer on it. He thought it had lasted about two years, which was pretty good considering the number of times the door was opened in a day. As he entered Felix followed right behind him. He saw his buddies in the far-left corner near the pool table. They both had a disgusted look on their faces. Andy knew he was late but, it was all Felix’s fault. He approached them and smiled. Andy turned to introduce Felix, but he wasn’t there.

Andy your late. Now prepare your ass to give up this week’s check. Gilbert said as he chalked his cue.

He and Gilbert grew up together all the way through high school. He then went in the Army and spent two trips in Afghanistan. When he came back from the second tour, he spent six months in the VA for PTSD. They put him on medication to control it, but he just isn’t the same. Things get him anxious, and it shows. Just two weeks ago, the three of them were at a restaurant and Gilbert was coming back from the bathroom when he bumped into an olive-skinned man. The guy responded with a mid-eastern accent and Gilbert cold cocked him with one punch. This caused a may lay in the restaurant and got them kicked out. The police were called, and Andy tried to explain the issue. Gilbert showed them his VA card. The cops talked to the guy with a swollen jaw. Gilbert went over apologized and offered to pay for their meal, which seemed to settle everything down. He paid the bill and the three men left.

As the balls were being racked Andy looked over at the bar and saw Felix sitting way in the corner alone. He was raising a drink to his mouth when they caught eye to eye. Andy half smiled but still wasn’t comfortable with Felix. Something didn’t smell right. Why, would he want to spend time at the bar Andy hung out at?

As the night moved on Andy started to forget about Felix. He won 5 games in a row against his buddies and was lifting his beer glass for a sip when he glanced over at the end of the bar. Felix was gone. Did he just go to the john or what? After he racked up the balls for another game, he looked over and still didn’t see Felix. Andy walked over to the bar and sticking his head in close he asked the bartender,

Is the guy who was in the corner still here?

He paid his tab and left, The bartender said.

Did he say anything about me?

Look buddy, The bartender said in a pissed off tone. The customer pays the bill; I forget anything about him. He just left me two bucks and walked out the door, OK? If you need more information, I suggest you check out the film from the security cameras. The only thing we can’t film is if he takes a piss.

Andy got the message as he walked away slowly from the asshole behind the bar and headed toward the pool table. He was so fuckin confused but, maybe everything was like it was? Maybe Felix was bored and looking for some company. Although he didn’t spend time with Andy and his buddies at all. A couple of drinks later he was gone just like the bartender said. This sure has been a night to remember. He thought. I hope I never have another one like this.

Andy, Clayton said with curiosity as Andy reached the table. Are we going to get a chance to get our money back? Stop standing there gloating and let’s play some pool.

Andy glanced over one last time at the bar. The area where Felix was seated was empty. He shrugged his shoulders, shook his head, and looking back at the table he said gloatingly, Rack’um up suckers.

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Andy opened the door to Chet’s as wide as it would go, as he and his other two buddies left the bar. They walked and chatted toward Gilbert’s car. At one point they had to stop, as Gilbert bent over resting his palms on his knees. He started rocking back and forth and finally fell over onto the gravel. They all laughed as Clayton and Andy both grabbed an arm and helped Tug to his feet. He brushed off his clothes and wiped the dirt from his face.

Are you OK to drive there Gilly my boy? Clayton asked as he watched him weave to the left and brace himself against Andy’s chest.

"I’m ok to drive home mom. No need to worry." He straightened up and pulling out his keys proceeded to unlock the car door. He dropped himself hard in the seat, fired up the engine and rolled down the window.

You two fucks have a great evening. Thanks for taking all my money there, Andy.

No problem my boy. Same time next Tuesday? Andy said smiling.

Gilbert pulled back from the parking spot, spit out the window, and gunned his engine. The rear wheels spun widely trying to gain traction as the stones scattered every which way. Some Striking other car panels and even some windows. Andy and Clayton quickly moved away as the car swerved uncontrollably heading for the exit. Dirt floated in the air like a heavy fog and they both stood standing a moment covering their eyes.

As Andy’s vision started clearing, he looked at Clayton. He was waving his hands and laughing out loud.

That son-of-a-bitch is crazy, he said as he covered his eyes and let out a cough.

The two walked to Clayton’s car laughing and coughing at the same time. Some small talk ensued as Clayton bid his farewell and Andy watched him head out the exit. The sound of rocks flying and tires burning was heard as Andy reached the driver’s door of his car. He stopped, shook his head, and grabbed for the handle. Just as he made his way to enter a puff of smoke floated from behind. He froze and turned around, only to see Felix standing there smiling.

Felix, you scared the shit out of me man.

Hi Andy, Felix said in a low tone as he locked eyes with him,

Largo wants to see you. He stepped right in front of Andy and grabbed his arm. Andy could feel his heart beating from the tight grip.

What does he want with me at this time of night? He asked while releasing Felix’s hand.

He wants to talk to you about something.

Can’t it wait till tomorrow? Andy asked seriously. This thing was getting weirder as the night progressed. First Felix followed him to the bar, then him leaving without even saying goodbye. Now, Largo wants to see him.

Leave your car here, Felix said as he turned and walked away. You can ride with me.

Felix this is some weird shit going on. Andy said while locking his door.

Felix kept walking ahead of him and abruptly said, Get in the car Andy.

CHAPTER 3

Investigating the skim

A s Felix drove to meet Largo Andy had a lot of questions going through his mind but, he knew Felix wouldn’t tell him anything. The car turned west on Magnolia heading toward Tyler. About five minutes later the car passed Van Buren still heading west. Felix opened his window so he could blow out the smoke from his electronic cigarette. Andy was glad as the whole car had smelled like oranges. A gust of cool air flew into the car from the window and made its way around Andy’s side. The air felt good and helped dry the sweat that was gathering around his neck. Not knowing what was going on was scaring the shit out of him. He had no idea where Felix was taking him, or what Largo wanted with him.

The car passed Tyler and about a half mile later it turned right into a small Strip Mall. Andy glanced at a few of the signs ahead of some the small stores. There was Little Toddlers, Ben’s Tobacco Shop, Games Galore, and Addison’s Jewelry. Felix pulled into a diagonal parking spot right in front of Nacho Taco. He killed the engine and opened the driver’s door.

We get out here Andy, he said firmly.

Andy jumped out and had to rush to catchup to Felix as he made his way toward one of the store fronts. Felix reached the door and looked back at Andy. He frowned at him,

You walk like an old woman, he said with an annoyance in his voice.

Andy shrugged his shoulders but didn’t speak.

It was black as night inside; the only light was coming from the recessed fixtures placed strategically above each unit on the overhang.

Andy watched as Felix cupped his hand and looked through the front window. A short time passed, and he knocked on the door and waited. Andy watched as out of the blackness an image appeared. It was too dark inside to see who it was but, apparently, he expected them, as the door clicked open the image disappeared back into the dark. Felix motioned for Andy to step in and go all the way in the back. As he maneuvered through the seating tables, he saw a stream of light up ahead in a hallway. It was the double doors no doubt that led to the kitchen in the back. As Andy made his way to the kitchen door it opened slowly, and he could see who the person was who let them in. Largo was smiling as he waved Andy in. After Felix was inside the kitchen, the two men met Largo at the prep station he was standing in front of. It was a stainless-steel table and about six feet long. There were stainless containers all in a row used to fill the orders.

Andy, Largo said smiling the sinister smile of his, You look good.

Largo, what the hell is going on man? Felix is following me all over the place, and now he brings me here?

Largo ignored his question, Andy, do you want something to drink? Largo pointed toward some chairs to the right side of the prep station. Andy walked over and sat down.

What do you guys want from me? Have I done something or what?

I need you to help me. Something I think you know about. Largo said.

This aroused Andy’s attention, what in the hell could he help him with?

What can I do to help you, Largo? He asked hesitantly.

Largo walked around the left side of the station so he could look Andy straight in the eye. He pulled out a cigar from his pocket and took a moment to light it. He blew out a puff of smoke that quickly overtook the area they were in. Andy raised his hand to his mouth and coughed quietly. His eyes started to burn.

Andy, I have been sensing things are not what they seem over at the restaurant.

What seems different? Andy asked wiping his eyes. The smoked caused them to tear up.

Andy, you know Sammy like a brother, don’t you? Largo asked.

Well, he’s my boss and beyond that I don’t hang with him outside work.

You’re in charge of the bar, aren’t you?

I am.

You report sales every evening to him, right?

I total up the receipts of the bar, reconcile the registers, and turn them into Sammy with the cash from the register.

Largo gestured to Felix to get them some drinks as he pulled up a chair from nearby and sat across from Andy. Felix brought over two cups of coke, set them down on the table, and stepped back. Andy watched him walk behind him. The uneasiness mounted, he could almost feel the warmth of his breath on his neck. He swallowed hard and parted his lips as if he was to speak,

I’ll stop this bullshit, and get straight to the point, Largo said as he stood up; and resting his arms on the table palms facing down, looked angerly at Andy.

I think you guys are both skimming over there! He said very sternly.

Andy pushed back from the table but was stopped by the bulk of Felix’s body.

Largo… what the Fuck? I ain’t been doing any such thing. I come into work, do my job, and get the fuck outa there. I would never be doing anything like what you’re thinkin.

What about Sammy? Largo asked slowly with a stare that could cut a man in half. Andy felt his hair stand up on the back of his neck.

I don’t know nothing about what he does with the money after I give it to him.

Andy saw the look on his face. He knew this wasn’t working. Largo was not buying it.

Wait! I remember coming in one time and seeing Sammy doing something on the left bottom drawer of his desk. He got all excited, slammed the drawer and told me to never come in without knocking. I never barged in at him again. Matter of fact, he made sure the door was locked so I couldn’t. That’s all I remember Largo. I never took a penny from the restaurant. Just my pay and tips.

Largo straightened up and took a long draw from his cigar. The smoke flowed slowly from his pursed lips as he exhaled. A moment passed, then he looked at Andy and pointing his finger he warned,

Andy, your lying, but if you tell me the truth, I’ll let you leave this room tonight. Just don’t bullshit me and tell the truth. You’re hiding something.

Andy looked at Largo as a bead of sweat trickled slowly down his right temple. He knew Largo wasn’t fuckin around and meant every word. He had to come clean by throwing Sammy under the bus. He hoped by doing that it would save his neck. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and used his thumb to remove the sweat bead. He took a deep breath,

Largo, I’ll tell you everything I know, Andy felt himself shaking from fear, both in his speech, and his body. He hoped telling everything would save his life. If not, he probably wouldn’t leave the room alive.

Sammy was skimming. I saw him put stacks of money in that drawer. It looks like it has a false bottom. It lifts and he puts the cash in. The end of the evening he takes it. What he does with it, I don’t know.

Sammy told me not to say anything and that he would give me something to keep my mouth shut. He said he was sick and tired of working his balls off. Only to share the profits with you. He hates you I swear, I never popped the nights earnings. Everything was up and up to Sammy.

Largo took another puff of his cigar and lowered it to his side. He heard what he needed to hear. Now the action would justify the means. He placed a key on the prep table and gestured toward Felix.

OK… that wasn’t hard, was it? He asked.

Andy said, No but, I just don’t want to..

Largo waved his hand to cut him off and shouted,

Shut the Fuck up! He paused a moment to regain his composure. He raised his cigar up and took another draw. Calmness took over as he continued,

"Just get your face away from me. Felix will give you lift back to your car. Starting tomorrow, I’d be looking for another job. I can’t have fuckin scumbags like you working for me. Get out my sight!" He shouted as he slammed his fist hard on the prep table.

Andy got up from the chair and moved slowly toward the kitchen door. He stopped and looked at Largo, but his back was turned away from him. All he could see was blue smoke drifting in the air. Andy wanted to say something but didn’t. He knew it was over, and it was best to get out of there before things changed.

As the kitchen door slapped back and forth Largo pulled his phone out and dialed. He took another drag on his cigar as he waited for the call to be answered.

Hello, the person on the other end said in a curious tone. It was Danta Foster, the go to guy for special projects.

It’s Largo… The game is on, Chet’s Inn. You have about 30 minutes.

OK, consider it done.

Who you taking with you?

It’ll be Stew. He’s my right-hand man. Don’t worry, we’ll get this done tonight. It will be painless, except for one person. The phone went dead as Largo pulled from his cigar and puffing nice round rings of smoke he smiled.

Felix walked behind Andy as they made their way toward the lighted entrance. He stepped in front of Andy and flipped the inside latch. Andy stepped out, and as Felix followed, he paused to lock the door with the key Largo had given him. They got into the car and drove away.

The car ride back to Chet’s was silent. Andy looked out the window and watched the city fly by him. He was trying to calm down from what just happened by taking deep breathes. As he did so, thoughts about