Episode 1.
- Out with the old
1
Richie woke up in a cold sweat. Not again. Richie fell out of bed, climbed back to his feet, and staggered to the shower. It was going to be one of those days.
Richie had been slumming it in cheap hotels for six months now and was getting tired of it. Nothing good was going on and he was tired from the road. Running. He was still running. Duncan was looking for him and he knew it. This filled him with anxiety and dread. Screw this. It was still dark, early very early and it was time to get moving. Thankfully the old lady was at the desk. Finally some luck. Once the room key was returned He was on the road headed south. Maybe Southwest, at least for now. His next stop would be the big easy and hopefully, he could lay low in there in the crowded Mardigras atmosphere for a few days. He and and thousands of young partygoers goers all looking to get away from the old and enjoy something new. He laughed at the thought. Find something new. Ya, get really drunk and shack up. Party on man! Ha. That would have been a blast, if only. Richie knew he needed to stay focused. What was he looking for? again. Home field advantage. a place to be near invisible to blend in with the sea of humanity and hide there while he got his plans together. worse case Duncan would find him anyway, the last thing he needed. I best keep my mind on the road. This U-haul isn't the nicest thing I've driven and doesn't handle like my bike or a sports car. Stay focused. A few more miles and I can pull off and have some breakfast. The sun was coming up on his left side and would set on his right side at the end of the day. Well, maybe. If he made good time.. yuck, sun in my eyes. What a way to end the day. Richie was planning to stop to eat dinner to give the sun time to set. Good plan.
Arriving near Jackson Richie realized he had to make a choice head south stay on 55, more Mississippi, or hang a right and get onto 20, heading west. He was board with Mississippi but didn't see heading west into Louisiana to be much of an advantage when heading south would get him closer to where he wanted to be faster. As long as traffic is moving south seems like the right call.
Late that night long after the sun had set Richie's day on the road was over. He pulled into a Holiday Inn. Better than most of the places I've stayed this week.
The next morning Richie woke to the wake-up call he had requested. 10AM. Not that bad. I really needed the sleep. He must have made the distance, no bad dreams or maybe I was just too tired to dream. His stomach reminded him he needed to eat. I think there's a waffle house just across the street. A good start. Richie considered how much cash he had and decided to have a big breakfast and then go look for some under-the-counter work and a place to stay. Some place that's not a rest stop or the back of that truck. He spent most of the morning dodging partygoers and learning his way around. Slow going but he had the time. He knew one job he could probably get if he could get it. Driving. Uber or maybe a cab or whatever.
By the afternoon Richie had made contact with a driving service he'd read an ad for in the newspaper over breakfast, they came and went mostly from the airport and the cruise liner out at the ports. Limo service, party bus for groups or private. The logo had a crawdad and a sunset over some trees in a swamp... Inspiring stuff. The jobs would be easy enough just to drive people around and pick them up on time. Nothing to it. It wasn't a real job, he was just hired on to fill in. It was that time of year and some drivers, who would remain nameless, that's what the boss said as he scowled at his pack of drivers. Some of them drink too much and can't show up to drive. You know. Losers. Well sometimes, mostly this time of year. You got here at the right time kid. Big Edd was a crude bastard of a boss. Richie could tell he'd seen this kind before. Big chip on his shoulder and general displeasure at the world at large but a heart of gold deep down there somewhere. A really good guy to work for if you did your job and didn't cause trouble. What an ass, Richie was sure they would get along just fine.
Yep, kid you'll work out. Richie caught the keys to the van with his left hand while putting on his sunglasses with his right. Hey Kid here's the folder. Take this with you, all the numbers you may need are in there along with your route and timetables. You roll till 9 tonight. Bring back any receipts. The card in there is only for gas we don't comp food usually but you just got to town so do a good job and we'll see what we can do about helping you get on your feet. Screw me and I'll smash your face something good. And I mean that. Knoock-um dead kid!
And just like that Richie had some work and made a fried. Lucky me!
The interview had gone well. Big Edd was reluctant at first but decided to hear Richie out. Richie knew how to turn on the charm in situations like that. Edd told Richie he was taking a big risk with the new guy in town stuff but something about him told Edd it was a risk worth taking. Edd remembered being that age and struggling to get by.
2
Nick was ready to go. He'd been slowly getting everything ready to quietly make his exit. Amanda had tried to reason with him, get him to stay on at the bar. She worried he would get into trouble being as she put it so young. Nick had been around the block a few times already and wasn't swayed. He's spent weeks moving stuff off to a storage unit and sending stuff off to the state. He still had a POBox and had his mail on hold. Nick was ready to go. His life had just drastically changed and he'd spent some time reevaluating who he was and what he thought was right or even what he thought was wrong. His plane to leave without saying goodbye. Amanda had a job in the UK she was working for a weekend and Nick hadn't gone. He'd said he would just hold the fort down while she was out. He left the morning before she was set to return. The bar could still open on time. Could is the optimal word.
His flight left early and by the next day, he was stateside again. BWI crowed but he was back in the States so there was that. A connecting flight later and he was in Nashville. He planned to stay for only a few days, catch up with a friend in the area, and move on. Garry moved to the area just outside of Nashville after his time in the Army. He'd also worked with Bert once or twice right after he got out which was how Nick had met him. Nick didn't plan to call Bert but figured could pass anything along discretely Bert was still in France, more or less. Bert had job requests internationally so Nick knew if he needed work chances were good he'd be able to take a pickup job, fill in, or do some leg work. Garry was on a bender this weekend drinks with little umbrellas and those goofy Hawaiian shirts. Good grief Gary. Nice shirt. Me causa you causa! Garry handed a drink over and slapped Nick on the back as they stepped onto Garry's back deck.
Lunge chairs and some dogs on the grill. Americana! Garry you dog! You must be doing well for yourself. Good on ya! Garry's place was nice, upscale to a point but also like a party house. Typical Garry.
Sorry to break it to you Nick but it's just a lease really. I'm undercover but it's a good fit so can't complain. Well, it's you, buddy! So what brings you around Nick? Oh man, I just had to get out of Europe ya know. Had to get back for a while. Too much going on. It was stressing me out. A vacation for now. I'll probably be back there in a few weeks. Some personal stuff ya know. don't want to bring you down so well just call it a vacation. Good for the soul! I think the dogs are about ready. Need a place to stay?
Garry could put him up for a couple of days Nick knew that and knew it wouldn't be a problem.
Sure man, that sounds good. I'll be out of your hair in a few days though I have a few places I have to get around to, Wait, Undercover? Haha, something like that. I shouldn't talk about it. Since you're staying though I should tell you that if some people turn up unexpectedly there might be trouble. Nothing I can't handle but an extra set of hands wouldn't be unwelcome. I'm not expecting any gunplay... Hey man I can lend a hand while I'm here.
Nick spent the evening online looking for a good gym. He'd find several in a few different places and started bookmarking them. He ended up with several gyms and martial arts dojos in several states.
all part of the plan. Train and try to stay out of trouble. Then it hit him, Church. Nick also found lots of churches, "Holy Ground'. Just to have that card to play if or more likely when he'd need it.
Better safe than sorry.
Nick woke to an argument downstairs. Garry was getting loud and very agitated but he couldn't make out the other voice. Sitting up and getting up off of the hideaway bed Nick slipped on his shoes and moved to the door. Cracking it just a little and he could hear the argument better. Some female voice or ... effeminate male voice... couldn't really tell. Sounding like some kind of deal going bad. Then a gunshot. Nick rushed down the stairs pistol in hand. Garry was standing over someone. They'd clearly been shot and were moaning and crying. Bleeding all over the place. Garry! What the hell man! Oh, sorry Nick. still waiting on that silencer... Not funny Garry. Who's this clown. This here is Bayou Billy but I can't say that's his real name. I'm not even sure Billy is his real name. Nick felt his head rush, his temper was coming up. He was annoyed and knew he should cool off a little. sigh. Ok. What the story.
Sometime later Garry had filled him in and they were on the road in the leased Cadillac headed south with Mr. Billy handcuffed and gagged in the back seat. Sometime late tomorrow they'd be in New Orleans looking for a locker at a bus station or something like that. So you're telling me this guy has been fixing papers and passports? This little dweeb? Sure, he's got some friends they all work together and crap out those fakes. Good fakes don't get me wrong. Billy here is going to help us nab the rest of them and we'll get a fat paycheck. I'm telling you Nick it's a milk run at this point! Sour milk probably Garry.. Look Nick he's only bleeding a little and I didn't shoot him anywhere important. Our buddy back there is going to reform and become a productive member of society, just watch you'll see. Have a little faith bubby! Right, Garry. Hey maybe. Maybe he will. From the back, Billy was moaning something about having been shot and their disregard for his having been shot but it was difficult to really tell. Look, dude. I tied it off, you'll live! Never change Garry, never change. They passed the time catching up on Nicks's various jobs in Europe and Nick recounted the death of his ex-wife some months earlier. I can see why you had to get out of there. Shit man. That's rough. Nick was careful not to mention Amanda. He didn't want to jinx himself. It seemed to him that just uttering her name would be enough for her turn up.
The meeting was set for the next day after they had arrived and had most of a night to recover from the drive. some race track. Horse races. Nick decided to see who was running and placed a bet while Garry took Billy off to their seats. Several seats had been bought for the meeting and sooner or later Billy's friends or someone would arrive. Nick arrived with popcorn and took his seat. What took you so long? Oh, I bumped into this guy who's running his horse here and he really sold me on that horse so I placed a bet. Oh? which one? Double Eagle. Funny name but he says he's brought him a lot of good luck so I bit. Some guy named Kit. funny name but he seemed like he really enjoys gambling. Oh, dude. You've been taken in! Ha! Garry was clearly amused. Could be Garry. He seemed legit. He gave me a business card too. Now I wonder if it's fake. Billy on the other hand couldn't have cared any less and remained silent.
The races were nearly done when someone took one of the reserved seats. Billy clearly knew her. Garry introduced himself and she exchanged pleasantries giving Ruby as her name.
The way she said Ruby gave Nick a raised eyebrow, something about how she said it.
Nick's horse crossed the finish line first. He was on his feet his leftover popcorn going everywhere before he regained his composure. He saw Kit ahead in the stands going wild with his win. Something about that's his horse, did you see my horse, and what a good run it was, what a horse! Seeing Nick he waved his hat to which Nick returned a thumbs up before sitting back down. Kit was already leaving to collect his winnings and check on his horse. He disappeared into the crowd.
Garry laughed but turned back to business quickly looking over at Ruby. So? Billy here says you can get something for me. Maybe, maybe. Darlin' if you've got the cash I might have what you're looking for. Billy tells me you should get half up front. Is that good? Might be. Let's see what you got. Garry handed over a playbill listing all the horses Ruby flipped it open to the middle and smiled. Looks like a good run she said. She handed her pay bill over. Garry saw there was a time and address and a box number on a sticky note pasted in. Alright, then We'll see you there? Sure darlin'. See you there. now I have to go powder my nose, see ay round, Ruby departed.
Nick, how much did you just win? Ten Grand man! Unbelievable. You have all the luck. Hey, sometimes I just trip over my own feet and land in it. And yes, Garry, lunch is on me. You get a burger too Billy. Least I can do for your troubles. They left the stands in search of a burger and fires. Nick hadn't really had a good oll' American greaseball burger in a few months, it would be quite the treat.
3
Things were going well for Richie. Picking up people from the airport was a breeze and he didn't mind it. The pay was ok at best but he was more or less employed and hey, ya never know, he could probably stay on if he wanted. Maybe. Richie was starting to feel more like himself. He'd been in a funk and more stressed than he'd ever been in his life. Duncan had turned on him and tried to kill him. Joe saved him but just barely. He'd run as far and as fast as he could. It'd turned him inside out. He'd felt sick all the time. It'd been really bad. This, this was good. He was starting to enjoy himself.
A call comes in. Hey Kid, I have a guy you need to pick up. Last minute I know but he paid a lot. I'll text you the address and the time. Finish your run and have a look, call if you have any questions. Alright, Edd, I'm on it. Richie made his runs to and from the airport. Most people he picked up were just off to hotels so the trips were fairly short.
Later that afternoon Richie was pulling up to a house in an upscale neighborhood and hit hit him. That buzzing in his brain. Damb. all I can do now is see how this plays out. The door opened and Richie was greeted with a Hey Kid, long time no see! as his client took his seat in the back. Adjusting the rearview and there he was. It was Kit. He'd only met Kit one time before and it had been some months or a year back. It had been a heck of a few days with this guy around. They'd bought a racehorse with Duncan's money. What a laugh, good times. Richie laughed to himself and shook his head. Kit, how you doing? You look like a million bucks. I gotta tell you, Richie, I feel amazing! Never better! My DoubleEagle landed me right where I need to be and oh man is it good! Well alright Kit, where too? Kid, I'm off to the Bahamas, some of those drinks you just can't get in the States then who knows after that. Richie put the limo in drive and they were off into traffic and on the way to their next stop before the ports. Don't worry Richie, I have this car booked until I'm done and there'll be a solid tip for you. So how's it been going? Well Kit, Richie started, I gotta tell you.... Not that all that good recently.
Sometime later Kit was getting out of the limo at the port, the office there was a rental unit that the cruise company was using. Hey, Richie, watch your head. and don't let the man get you down. Kit waved as Richie pulled away. Richie liked Kit, he was a really decent dude. The tip was something too, six thousand dollars cash. Wait, watch my head. another Immortal must be around. Oh joy, just what I needed. There was always a chance they'd never even meet but he also knew he should be ready just in case. Richie turned on the radio, the Kingfish was on the air. Music and chatter about the big party, there was something almost spiritual about it. This'll do.
With this drop-off done Richie was ready to head back to the shop and turn in the car for the day.
Not a bad first day at all. He still had to turn in the U-haul it was going to cost him if he was too late but he did still have a little time. The six thousand bucks in his pocket really helped him out. He'd have to repay Kit for helping him out at some point. Or maybe Kit was paying him back for helping sort out the horse trade so many months ago. Richie had a feeling that Kit couldn't care less about six grand, he'd just sold the horse and had money to burn, that guy. What a joker.
Big Edd was smiling when Richie walked into the office. Good to see you're back Kid. Ya, did real good today. No complaints. Richie handed over the folder and the car bag that held the cash payments. Edd would go over all that but didn't seem too worried about it. Richie had to ask. Say, Edd, you look like you're in a good mood. Just how much did that client pay you? Edd snorted as he laughed and said Enough Kid, he paid enough. Let's just say him booking that much time bought you a fair few feet of rope. and I hope you use it well. Ya did good today. Keep it up.
Oh, where are you staying again? Richie replied, I have no idea. I've been on the road for weeks, anywhere that doesn't cost much for a few nights. Edd cut him off, Well, I know a guy who has some studio apartments for rent if you're interested. Shouldn't cost too much either. They're not fancy but I don't see you as able to afford fancy today. interested?
4
Nick was sitting the the passenger seat of the Cadillac sipping a hot coffee and waiting on Garry. Garry had taken Billy into the building with him to check out the locker here at the airport. Garry would have to let Billy go. He had no real authority to arrest him and Billy had more or less been kidnapped and drug along. Nick remembered Ruby's reaction to the three of them and the look on her face told Nick that she had more or less figured out everything was off. She couldn't be that stupid not to know something was wrong. The real question was would she, or her people, do anything about it. Garry was playing bait. leaving the race track Garry realized they were being tailed. Between the two of them, they'd come up with the loose plan to let things play out but try to steer whatever was going to happen in such a way that whoever was following them would be in no position to do much of anything right away.
Public places full of people and security cameras. Lots of movement with people coming and going.
Not a good spot for a shoot but they'd planned to bolt if any shooting started. They could work with that. Nick looked up quickly seeing Billy hustling out of the airport. He moved at a quick pace trying to walk and run at the same time. He flagged a cab and was gone. Not exactly part of the plan.
Garry came out next with a gym bag over his shoulder. Garry got in the car tossing the bad in the back seat. The car moved off into traffic and back around towards the downtown. Nick said, So where are we planning to stay? Garry said nothing for a second then, well anywhere is good really. They ended up getting two rooms at a cheap hotel not too far out of the way with easy access to the highway in or out of town. Not a bad spot if you have to pack up and go Nick said. Exhausted from all the driving and time in the car they both went to their respective rooms for the night. Garry as usual was restless and headed down to the bar to mingle and drink a little. He knocked on Nicks's door to offer the invite but Nick didn't answer so he figured Nick was asleep.
Nick heard the knock but didn't make a sound. He had some stuff to think about. He'd pulled his laptop out and was looking for something but he wasn't sure what exactly just yet. He'd saved some files before he left Paris to go through later, old cases and notes he'd saved from his time with Amanda. As much as they were working together he had been collecting information on immortals names she'd mentioned, dates, and location that they were associated with as she had recalled and related them to Nick. Nick wanted to add his own. He'd just met Kit that afternoon. Kit came off as a really funny and genuine person. He seemed to not be looking for any trouble. When Nick and he met Kit had said a few things that kinda went over Nick's head but they'd gone away from the crowd and were alone. Nick must have said something wrong Kid drew a sword from his cane but Nick talked him down. Nick still wasn't sure what had happened. After that Kit seemed a little embarrassed about the whole thing. They got to talking and somehow Kit had sold him on betting on his horse. Kit had a sale lined up after that race. He said something about how much luck the horse had brought him but he knew he was a horse and they only get so many days better if he sold him at the top of the game rather than at the end of the game. Made sense to Nick. Take the money and run, why not. Nick decided to bet on his horse as an offer of goodwill and threw a twenty down at the window. It was only money and he was trying to build a bridge in this new world. Best if things happen on good terms. Kit for his part was glad to make a new acquaintance and not have to fight. Nick was trying to decide what he thought about that. Maybe he was just some guy trying to get by like everyone else. still, he wasn't sure how far to trust him but just like that Kit was gone, money in hand he was on the move and off to who knows where. Nick envied how relaxed Kit had been.
Nick looked in the mini bar and found a little something to eat and called it a night.
Down at the bar Garry was on the small stage singing Be in my video on the karaoke machine. shortly after that he was back at the bar for another beer and trying his luck with a couple of college girls but he'd gotten nowhere He'd had his fun either way. He was buzzed but decided to play it cool and went back to his room as nonchalantly as he could. He told himself it was for the best anyway he'd been up for too many hours and needed to crash. Landing on his bed, Ya, I'm tired it's through off my feng shui, he slurred to himself smiling as his eyes closed for the night.
Nick had heard him stumble back to his room singling a little and out of tune. He'd get him up bright and early, what are friends for.
5
A black van pulled up to the row of shipping containers. Ruby got out and stormed over to the open rust-red box where Billy sat in a crappy lawn chair smoking a cigarette and twitching his legs, he couldn't really stay still even sitting there. He was beat and his day wasn't even close to over yet.
Ruby! He said trying to sound positive or at least not pathetic. My ass, Ruby said. Shut your face limp wrist. She was about to go on a rant Billy already knew before she'd started in on him.
she went on about time and money and messing around all that stuff. Then at the height of it all, she slapped the cigarette out of his mouth. ash and spittle flinging in a trail following the motion of the slap. Shit ruby that sting! Look I know you're pissed but it wasn't my fault. He tried to defend himself.
Aww poor baby did mean oll' Ruby hurt you? Well, it's tough love, call it a wake-up call shit for brains.
It ain't our money or our paper you've gone and thrown away getting nabbed like that. You had one job.
Look Ruby he knew and he was waiting it was a setup! I went there for one thing and he laid me out and shot me too. I lost control of everything from there on. You seen those guys. I don't know what game they're playing or what they really want. They ain't said nothin about it. Not a peep. shit, I got shot and all I got was a burger for my trouble. It's your show, Ruby. You're the boss as far as I care.
Well, at least he knows his place Ruby mocked. Well, Ruby said, I guess we need a good plan. We need to get one of them and put them somewhere where we can have a good oll' talk. We have a number we can call to set a meeting so we got something. Those clowns will just be sitting around waiting. They paid half already so they do want a call. Ruby continued, we'll set a meet and take one of them while the other is distracted. That's where you come in Billy. You need to get the attention of the other one and get him to follow you, just act suspicious. If those guys are the law then they'll want you as a witness so you're the bait. If we can take them both we will but try to get away if you can. Let the other one chase you back towards the van and Bruno and his friend over there will come up and push him in after you. Or you get away. we'll park the van out back for that. We'll pull the first guy into a cab or something and just bribe the driver. We'll tell him our friend is drunk or something. I've some coliform left over from something else we did a while ago. I didn't really want to lay the plan out like this but I want you to be able to get your job done without messing things up cause you didn't know what was going on. So keep your traps shut the lot of you. Remember boys, Mr. Big is particular how things run and he doesn't like when they don't run the way he likes. Remember what happened to little Franky.
Yes, boys. remember what happened to that careless little shit. Remember the look on his face, Gator Bate. Ruby, get them in gear and get it done right, Mr. Big's voice was commanding but distant.
Mr. Big, up on the second-floor landing tipped an oil drum over the edge for dramatic effect. His goons jumped at the unexpected crash and clatter. The drum rolled and stopped at Billy's feet. Billy suddenly felt very sick.
6
Garry was hearing something but he wasn't sure what. His pillow was soaked with drool. Bang Bang Bang, there it was again. Shit, it's the door. Get up, Garry! Groan. Give me a second. I'm getting up, Give me a second Nick. Come one Garry! Get your ass up. Nick was being loud and obnoxious. Groan, some friend you are Garry shouted as he fought to get up. The door opened after a long while. Nick could hear Garry stumbling around and working hard just to get to the door and was laughing almost the whole time. Garry wasn't amused. Nick stepped in holding a take-out bag of chicken biscuits, tatter tots, and mostly fresh hot coffee. Ah, good man, Gary said as he stumbled over to the small table and chairs five feet from the door. The least I could do for a friend Nick said. They began planning out their next move.
Garry was recovering quickly after he took two pills. a Multivitamin and Ripped Fuel he said. it's like meth but it's safe and legal and also not meth. Oh, well wouldn't want to lose any of those teeth, Nick snarked.
An hour later they were back in the car but Nick was driving. They stopped on the street near a payphone, Garry got out to make a call to arrange a meeting for the final payment. He was playing dumb about some of the details intentionally. The meeting was set for later in the afternoon. The location was at the pier. There was a warehouse and a lot of shipping containers near there. Nick realized they had seen it from the highway the day before and remarked at how it seemed out of place being so close to the cruise liners. Garry had laughed, that's right you never got the brief about this assignment.
Oh Nick, Garry said,, the long and short of it is we had been using them for documents before. Mostly as props, we could pass off for bait in legitimate jobs. The fakes were passable to anyone who really didn't know what they were looking at like criminals trying to flee the country. They're in a hurry and will take next to anything thinking it's kosher. Typically we'd even help them get out of the country if we were planning to track them for a larger operation. The more we help them the more we know. Remember that guy who was busted for that computer stuff in the news a while ago. well, we helped him a little to get the guy who was paying him. The authorities got them both and we recovered what was stolen, some bank data and passwords not to mention some other property that his "employer" was sitting on. On top of that the charges were higher because he'd become an international criminal so he'll be locked up a little longer. Bad for him but good for us. We're in a strange line of work, Nick replied. The strangest! Garry cheerfully agreed.
Garry started, Nick when we pull in park near the food trucks. Rub said we're supposed to hang out for a little while and someone will come over to us. We both have to be there because they know there are two of us. Before you ask, She said not long.
The Cadillac took the exit and shortly after was pulling in near the food trucks. There were people around waiting for food or eating at the benches and tables. People coming and going. Plenty of parking too.
It was an industrial area that would probably have been packed full of people who worked in the surrounding Warehouses and wherever here at the port had it not been this time of year. Clearly, a lot of people were calling out.
After parking they got out, having decided they wanted something quick and maybe enjoyable but not really food they'd decided on hot pretzels. Garry grabbed up a newspaper that was already on the bench. He skimmed and they made idle chatter while they waited. Nick, this feels like a setup and I'd say that but I know you already know, which is why I'm not saying it. Garry shrugged, All part of the job Nick.
More cars were coming and going. A van pulls in, and Ruby gets out and walks over smiling. Hi ya, boys.
Word is ya'll are good to go. Coming up from behind here was Billy. He yelled out You Bitch! And started to draw a pistol. Garry reacted first grabbing Ruby and throwing her to the side he landed mostly on top of her due to having been seated. The gun went off but the shot was wide or high, in the confusion it was hard to say. Billy was running. Nick with a face full of soft pretzels taken by surprise at what was going on recovered himself and gave chase. Billy was fast, Nick was determined. Down the row of food trucks, they went, people being pushed aside or trying to dodge out of the way. They rounded the last truck in a tight right-hand turn Nick nearly catching Billy then WHAM! All Nick could see were stars.
As they stood back up Ruby was starting to freak out but Garry urged her to get in his car so they could get somewhere safe, anywhere. Ruby said the meet was still on and they should just go. Garry wanted to wait for Nick. As they recalled what they thought they had seen Garry drove the Cadillac down the row of trucks and back around to look for Nick. Nick was gone.
7
Richie was driving, He'd been making another run the fourth already. The last one had been longer than he'd thought and had called in to make sure someone was available. Edd had told him to do that, he liked to keep a few cars in rotation to pick up the slack or score an extra client. Richie was headed to the port area for a bite to eat, it was central enough to his route that it seemed like a good stop. As his party bus was pulling in he heard a gunshot and saw some commotion two guys sprinting away. Richie figured he would have a look and kept driving to the end of the row of food trucks. He saw it all.
Some guy with a black jacket and dark hair smacked in the face with a shovel and laid out cold. The guy he'd been running with and another two guys picking him up and stuffing him in the back of an older model burgundy Lincoln. The skinny guy who had been running seemed to be giving the orders. They'd all piled in and started to go. Oh man, Richie said to himself. Everything that he'd just witnessed screamed to him to be some kind of abduction. He was starting to get hot. His heart was pounding. Richie followed the Lincoln driving as casually as he could manage. Three of those guys maybe four and just me. This is going to hurt. Glancing down Richie saw the only option he would have and smiled, It could work.
The burgundy Lincoln was headed away from the pier leaving the road and joining traffic on the highway. Richie was following but a few vehicles behind. He was looking for his soon-to-be crappy driving excuse. The Lincoln took the next exit and looked like it might be circling back around to the pier district. Why even get on the highway, Richie wondered aloud. Sure enough, it was going to hang another right after the interaction. Signals on and everything. Richie saw an oncoming truck and decided it was time to take his shot. The party bus swerved into oncoming traffic and then back again just missing the semi-truck to the sound of air horns and the clear look of panic on the driver's face. Richie could imagine all the choice words the driver would have for him. The party bus came to a sudden stop right after it cut off the Lincoln. Richie was ready and swerved just right after the contact, the Lincoln driver was not ready and crashed into a power pole its windshield shattering on impact. Richie grabbed his fire extinguisher hopped from the bus and rushed to the Lincoln. Richie's head was buzzing as he doused the front of the car making sure to blast the two people in the front. Doors on the Lincoln were opening, and passengers were trying to get out. They were coughing and in a panic. Richie wasted no time giving one a thwack to the head with the fire extinguisher. Somehow he had the situation under control. He realized he'd accounted for everyone except the guy he'd seen stuffed into the car. Figures, Richie said to himself, leaning into the back of the car and finding the man in the black jacket. He pulled him from the car. He seemed to be coming too. Richie helped him mostly to his feet and back toward the bus. I don't know if you can understand me, Richie said, I'm just trying to help.
Nick was blinking and trying to walk. This guy was trying to hold him up and help him move. His head was buzzing but it passed quickly. Before he knew it he was in the bus on some of the seats behind the driver and they were moving down the road. Where am I, Nick asked his mind coming back to reality.
A party bus, man, Richie replied. I'd say where too but I doubt you even know where you are right now. don't worry I think we're close to where those guys nabbed you. Nick was now alert and assessing his situation. Nick wasn't new to head injuries between his line of work and boxing. He had never had the effects of having been rocked wear off so fast before. Um, thanks, Nick replied after a second.
So what's the story with those guys, Richie asked. Nick couldn't see a reason to keep it to himself so started, well, I was chasing a skinny guy and got blindsided. I don't even know why but I think that means my partner is in trouble. Partner? Richie asked, so you're like a cop or what? No, not exactly Nick replied. We work for this company and I was just helping a friend with this job because I had nothing really going on. Not really a long story I guess. Richie laughed, you don't hear that every day do ya. Nick seemed confused. Richie went on, well you know our kind. We've always got a long story about stuff. I'm Richie, Richie Ryan, by the way. Nick, Nick Wolfe. Thanks for lending a hand Richie. So, How long have you been Immortal? Richie asked. Not that long just a few weeks Nick replied. And you? A few years now Richie said. And I mean a few years.
Good to meet you. Richie. Could be, Nick, early days. I'm glad to lend a hand but I think I just lost this job. My boss isn't going to be too happy about having been in a fender bender and running off. Oh well, easy come easy go. Where can I drop you, Nick?
The bus arrived back at the hotel Nick and Garry were staying at. Nick knew he'd have to find Garry and figure everything out, the sooner the better.
Well, Nick, it's been swell. Now I have to get back and try to smooth things over with my boss. If we meet again we can exchange homework, Richie waved as he drove away.
8
Garry was almost not surprised when he stopped the Cadillac between two warehouses just on the other side of the pier lot. Ruby had him driving around for a while. They'd stopped so she could make a call.
Apparently, she had been given the OK to come in and now they were just a quarter of a mile from where they had started out. Garry wasn't sure what to make of it but he didn't find it surprising or think very highly of this band of miscreants he was about to deal with. Really, Garry said. Ruby chimed in, Yep. Look hun we're here and we've got what you were looking for. As long as you've got the cash that is. Ya, I've got the cash. Ruby smiled and pulled a gun from her purse pulled back the hammer and pointed it at him. Good thing sugar. Now honk the horn once and keep your hands on the wheel, Ruby instructed.
At the sound of the horn, several men came out of the warehouse. Garry couldn't make out what they were saying but he was sure it was the kind of trash talk he'd come to expect from low-level punks and criminals. I take it these are your boys, Garry said. Ruby smiled laughing as she said, Oh, you know it, darlin'. My boys here will make sure you're taken care of. They'll play nice as long as you don't do anything stupid.
Garry played along and acted as compliant as he could only giving the smallest amount of struggle. He didn't want things to be that easy for these thugs but he realized he had no easy way out. Garry was deposited in an old folding lawn chair in a dark corner of the warehouse from which he could see a light on in an office off in the distance but also above, a second-floor office, Garry realized. He could just make out two silhouettes through the window. He couldn't hear what they were saying at this distance.
Garry could hear the thugs every now and then, they were around but not nearby. He couldn't see them but he knew he wasn't alone. Shortly, Garry heard a vehicle pulling in. Something about it was off.
More goons staggered into the dark warehouse. From the way they were moving, it seemed something was wrong with them. One was limping really badly. Now Garry could hear them. They were complaining about an accident or having been bushwhacked or both, they didn't seem sure. Weird, Garry thought.
An empty soda can thumped Garry in the head. A voice said, Be cool man, don't get too curious.
The less you know the better. Garry tried to turn to look in the direction of the voice and was treated with another empty pop can landing on his head. The voice was different now, Are you even listening man? A drip of soda ran down Garry's face, and he wiped it away.
Ruby stormed out of the office and down the flight of stairs, She started in, Who's idea was it for him to shoot at me! Ruby was pissed and ready to take it out on these guys as far as Garry could tell. Ruby stopped in her tracks at the sound of metal on metal banging from up above. She'd just come from that direction Garry noted. Ruby seemed to instruct the newcomers to go upstairs. She walked off kicking at rocks and other trash.
9
The phone rang. Nick answered it on the third ring. Yes? This is the front desk we have a letter for you.
You can come and collect it at your convenience. I'll be right down Nick replied.
Shortly after, Nick opened the letter to read, Nick, Thanks for the help. Heard about your face. Hope it doesn't hurt very long. Ouch Buddy, taking one for the team. One last thing I need you to do. In my room is a gym bag, in it is a fat manila envelope marked C.O.D., If you wouldn't mind taking it back to the pier where we stopped before someone will meet you there. Don't worry you aren't in for any trouble. Thanks a bunch. ps, everything else in my room and that bad is yours. Think of it as a payment for services. Last thing, Keep this under your hat, you know how it is.
Nick wasn't too happy. He called a cab and returned to the spot at the pier. Shortly after a van pulled in, Nick's head started to buzz. Someone was nearby but who. Nick couldn't tell yet. He was approached by a younger guy. This guy looked like a punk rocker or something Chuck Taylors, with a dirty Jean Jacket, and some wild-dated sunglasses. Hey, man. You got somethin for me? the guy asked. Depends, Nick replied. Come on man you got the letter, you're here, you got something for me and we both know it.
Ya, guess we do, Nick answered and handed over the envelope. The punker stuffed it in a pocket. Nick asked, Not going to count it? Not my job man, not my job. Alright, come with me. The punker motioned towards the van. They climbed into the back the punker, having boarded second, pulled the door closed and they were away. The trip was really short. They could have walked. So, guys, Where are we headed Nick asked right as the van was coming to a stop next to a warehouse not far from the food trucks. Oh, looks like we're here. The punker chuckled and pulled the door open. Ruby was standing there a smirk on her face. Nick remarked that they all seemed to either be in a really good mood or in on a joke. Somethin like that, Ruby said.
Ruby walked up close to Nick and looked at his face. aww, that's going to be a bruise. Poor thang. The boys are sorry about that just so you know. They said things got weird after that so maybe you call it even for now. Business ya know. She presented Nick with a set of keys and an envelope. That's it, the car is over there at the end, Ruby pointed. That's it? Nick asked. That's it Ruby replied. She climbed into the van. The punker pulled the door closed as the van departed. Nick felt the buzz in his head as the van rolled away.
Nick felt really out of sorts now, his friend had disappeared for reasons he may never know.
Now what, Nick asked aloud giving an empty soda can a kick. He started over to the car.
With a turn of the key, the Cadillac came to life. Nick realized he was hungry, guess I really haven't eaten a good meal. Dinner would be a really good way to end this weird day. The Cadillac rolled off, the sun was only starting to set in the west.
Roll credits.
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