by J. B. Reed
“So you convinced him to see me? That’s wonderful, Michael. This will be easier than I had imagined.”
“No, you don’t understand. I told Joseph about you killing Ryan. He wants to talk to you about coming to work for him, in the same capacity as I do.”
“Whoa, hold on a minute. Joseph wants to talk to me about working for him? That was not the plan Michael. The plan was to kill Joseph so we could be together, to raise Rose. Now you’re telling me that you want me to work for him, as a hired killer?”
“This is a better plan, can’t you see that? Do you not remember telling me, right here in this apartment, that you wanted to be a cleaner? Have you forgotten that?”
“That was before Rose was born. I have an obligation to my daughter, to live to see her grown. How can I even trust that Joseph doesn’t want to get me there to kill me?”
“I swear to you, Vivie, that is not what he wants. He wants you to convince him that you would be an asset to the family. I believe you would. And what better way to make a life for Rose? Do you realize the kind of money you could earn? It’s true, you would not be able to spend as much time with her, but you could visit as often as possible. Please, Vivie, this is our way out.
“When does he want to meet with me?”
“Right now. Are you ready to go?”
“Shit, Michael, you sure didn’t give me much of a chance to think about this.”
“There is no time. Now that Joseph knows you are here, we either have to meet with him, or we both need to leave town.”
“Very well then. Let’s go.”
Vivie grabbed her coat and they left the apartment. Standing outside of Joseph’s office, Michael knocked twice then opened the door. That was his signal to Joseph that it was him.
“Joseph, you remember Vivian, don’t you?”
“Of course, you’re the little girl that worked at the pub in Hell’s Kitchen. Michael tells me you’re thinking of a career change; you no longer want to be a waitress but one of my employees. Is that correct?”
“Perhaps.” Vivie answered Joseph’s question while looking him dead in the eyes.
Joseph laughed at Vivie’s response. Whatever else she was, she appeared to be very self confident. Joseph liked that.
“Michael also tells me you just whacked Ryan Kelly. Pretty brave of you, I must say. For a little girl like you to go down to the Kitchen and whack the guy that killed your father; it’s pretty damn brave.”
“Bravery had nothing to do with it. He had to pay for what he had done. It’s as simple as that.”
Joseph sat silently staring into Vivie‘s, eyes, trying to read her.
“This little girl has some mighty big balls, Michael.”
“Excuse me, Sir, but my name is Vivian; I am not a little girl and I would appreciate it if you would stop referring to me that way.”
Joseph reared back in his chair and laughed.
“Okay, okay, I apologize, Vivian. I assume you know that I put out a hit on you. That I ordered Michael here to whack you?”
“I am aware.”
“Michael failed to carry out my order; he betrayed me and lied to me; said he did kill you. What do you think of that? What do you think of a person who betrays you, Vivian. What should be done to a person like that?”
“Do you think you are the only one he betrayed? He knew that Ryan had killed my father because of what he himself had done to Shane. But instead of telling me, he took me to Las Vegas and married me instead. When we returned home, he then forced me to leave town, alone, so that he wouldn’t have to carry out your order to kill me. As far as what to do with a person who betrays you….I think they should be punished, but not necessarily killed. The person who betrays you can become useful to you; given the right opportunity.”
Joseph thought about what Vivian had just said. Michael did not tell him that he had married her out in Vegas, only that she was knocked up. What else was Michael keeping from him? But she was correct in saying that person who betrays you can become useful, if given the right opportunity. Joseph got up and walked around his big desk and sat back down on the edge of it, directly in front of Vivie. Michael sat quietly, knowing it was best, for now, to let Joseph and Vivie talk. He didn’t, however, like the direction the conversation was going; the fact that he had betrayed them both.
“Tell me, Vivian, what would you say if I told you the only way I would let you come to work for me, and the only way I will permit you to live, is for Michael to die? After all, he has betrayed us both. What would you do if I would shoot him, right where he sits, right beside of you.”
“I would say that you had better be damn quick. Otherwise I suggest you say goodbye to your balls. The gun in my pocket is pointed at your crotch right now. I guess the next move is yours, Sir.”
Michael had broken out in a cold sweat. But as nervous as he was at the possibility of what may happen next, he couldn’t help but be damn proud of Vivie. The girl does have balls.
“Sounds like she’s everything you said she was, Lucky.”
Joseph laughed again as he got up and moved back around to the chair behind the desk.
“Vivian, I think I may be able to use someone like you. Do you want to come to work for me, for my family?”
“If you can guarantee Michael's safety, it would be an honor, Sir.”
“Sir? Get that Lucky; she already pays me more respect than you do. Okay, let’s talk business; and you can call me Joseph, Vivian.”
Michael, Vivian and Joseph began talking about the issues with the Westies. Joseph explained to both of them what he felt needed to be done and the role they would play in bringing this war to a successful conclusion. Successful, from the family’s point of view. This was not something that was going to happen overnight; they all new that. He also agreed to give Vivie time to arrange things for Rose. Joseph still believed Rose to be Michael’s child; he would never learn any different.
Tommy sat in his office, the table in the back room of Molly’s. He had tried all morning to reach Ryan by telephone. Shane arrived and Tommy asked if he had stopped by Ryan’s before coming to Molly’s.
“No. I haven’t talked to Ryan this morning. He was pretty loaded when we left here last night. He’s probably still asleep.”
“Well it’s time he woke the fuck up. Come on, we’re going to his place.”
When they got to Ryan’s apartment building Shane stopped right inside the doorway of the lobby.
“You know I can’t get up to the apartment, Tommy. There’s no elevator in this building.”
“Damn it, Shane, you fucking cripple. What good are you? Park your ass right there and wait for us.”
Tommy climbed the steps to the third floor. He knocked on Ryan’s door but received no response. He pounded harder, yelling for Ryan to open the door; still no response. “Fucker has probably overdosed." Tommy said aloud, reaching for the doorknob. The door was unlocked; Tommy knew it wasn’t like Ryan to leave his door unlocked, no matter how high he might have been. As he opened the door and stepped into Ryan’s apartment, he immediately saw Ryan’s blood soaked body on the floor. He walked over and looked down at him, staring at the large hole in his chest. Michael must have been there. Tommy knew it had to Michael that killed Ryan to avenge Patrick Clancy. Tommy suddenly became frightened, knowing that he may still be there in the apartment, waiting for him. Tommy fled the apartment and ran down the three flights of steps. When he got to the lobby he said nothing to Shane, he just ran out of the door and down the street to Molly’s. Shane didn’t know what was going on, he looked up at the steps, wondering if Ryan was coming down; but Ryan was nowhere in sight. Tommy had been as white as a sheet. Shane left the apartment building and rolled himself up the street to Molly’s. Tommy was in the backroom, a bottle of whisky on the table and a glass in his hand.
“What the hell, Tommy? Where’s Ryan? What’s going on?”
“Ryan’s dead. He has a hole the size of my fucking fist in his chest.”
/> “Ryan’s dead?”
“Yes you idiot, he’s dead. How many times do I need to say it? That guy, must have found him. He was getting even for Ryan killing old man Clancy.”
“What are you going to do, Tommy?”
“What are you going to do Tommy, what are you going to do Tommy, you sound like a fucking parrot. I don’t know what I’m going to do. If you and Ryan had done your job and found out where this guy lives, Ryan would still be alive.”
Shane remained quiet. He knew that now was not the time to press Tommy for answers. Tommy was scared, he knew that if Michael was able to walk right into Ryan’s apartment and kill him, he was able to get close enough to kill him as well.
When Michael and Vivie returned home, they discussed what they would need to do regarding Rose. Vivie had not intended to stay in New York. Her plan was to come in, kill Ryan and Joseph and then persuade Michael to return to Matewan with her. Michael suggested they both go to Matewan and talk to Mary about keeping Rose with her, until she was a little older. Vivie was not sure Mary would agree to do this. And what would the reason be for Rose to stay in West Virginia while she came back to New York to live. Thinking of leaving her child, at this young age, was heartbreaking to Vivie.
“I know how you feel about Rose, but you know that you cannot bring her back here; at least not right now. Maybe later, when she gets a little older and things have calmed down with the Westies.”
“How can I leave her, Michael? I feel like I am abandoning her.”
“You can visit often, Vivie; at least twice a month. You have to see that she is far better off with Mary than she would be here, with us.”
“I know that Michael, but it’s still a difficult decision. We need to go to Matewan as soon as possible. Joseph has only given us a short time to make arrangements for Rose. He will be expecting us to be here when he needs us.”
“We can leave right now if you like.”
“Yes, I think the sooner we do this, the better.”
Michael threw a change of clothes into a duffle bag and they left for Matewan.
Mary was sitting in the porch swing, enjoying the cool of the evening, when she saw the T-Bird pull into the driveway. Her heart skipped a beat before she realized that Vivie was in the car with Michael.
“Hello, Mama.”
“Vivie, where is your car? Why is Michael bringing you home?”
“Michael is going to stay a couple days. We have something to discuss with you, Mama.”
As they walked up onto the porch, Liam and Keri, Vivie’s fourteen year old sister walked out to greet them.
“And just why are you children out of bed?” Mary scolded the children in a stern voice.
“We heard Vivie’s voice. What’s going on? Where’s your car Vivie?” Liam was wondering why Vivie arrived with Michael instead of driving herself home.
“I am going back to get it in a couple days, Liam.”
Mary looked first Vivie and then Michael. Vivie could see the concern on her face, wondering why she was planning to return to New York.
“You two get back to bed. There will be plenty of time to visit with your sister and Michael tomorrow.” The two children said their goodnights and went back into the house.
“Okay you two, let me hear what you have to say. Why are you here together and why are you returning to New York, Vivie?”
Michael took a seat on the porch banister while Vivie sat down beside Mary in the swing. Vivie began by telling her that she had met with Joseph and things had been worked out between them. She also told Mary that Joseph had offered her a job, as his secretary. No matter how old she was, not being honest with her mother made Vivie feel like a naughty child, hoping to escape punishment for whatever wrong she had committed. She explained that the job with Joseph was more than she could have ever hoped for. She would actually be earning a good living, more than she could have ever earned as a waitress. She also explained that, for a while at least, she would not be able to have Rose with her. She would need to get settled into her new job and find appropriate child care before taking Rose back to New York. Vivie pleaded with Mary to keep Rose with her; just for a while. Mary listened patiently, watching the faces of both Vivie and Michael. She was trying to determine if what Vivie was telling her was the truth; she believed she could tell by their actions.
“I have one question, Vivian. What about the men who killed your father? Are they still looking for you and for Michael?”
“No, Mrs. Clancy. Those men were arrested for Patrick’s murder and they are now behind bars.” Even though she was not his mother, Michael felt a little guilty lying to her. “I would never permit Vivie to return to New York if I thought she would be in danger. I love your daughter, Mrs. Clancy, she‘s my wife, and we want to build a life together; a life that will also include Rose in due time.”
“I cannot stop you from doing what you have made up your mind to do, Vivian. I never could. I will care for our little Rose until you can take her home with you.”
“Thank you, Mama. I will visit as often as possible and we will provide for Rose.”
“I am not concerned with your providing for her. I know you love your daughter, just as I love mine.” Mary took Vivie by the hand and then reached for Michael’s with her other hand.”
Michael and Vivie stayed in Matewan for three days. During that time Liam was finally able to secure a ride in Michael’s T-Bird. Michael even permitted Liam to drive the car. He made sure he drove by Susie Jackson’s house. Liam had become fond of Susie in school and he wanted to impress the teenage girl by letting her see him driving the fancy car.
The day they had to leave was a difficult day for Vivie. Holding Rose in her arms, she whispered to her that she loved her and would bring her home, to live with her and Michael as soon as possible. Vivie removed the crucifix she wore around her neck and pinned it to Rose’s little dress.
“Keep this on her at all times, Mama. I know it may sound silly but I would feel better knowing she has it near her.”
“It’s not silly at all, my child. Your faith is strong and the Lord will honor your faith by keeping Rose safe in his loving hands.”
Vivie handed Rose to Mary, hugging them both at the same time. She then said goodbye to her brothers and sisters and walked out onto the porch, tears streaming down her face. Michael hugged Mary as well, and kissed Rose on the forehead.
“You take good care of my daughter, Michael; and I will take good care of yours.”
“I will Mary, I promise you that.”
Mary and the children waved from the porch as Vivie and Michael drove down the road.
“Blessed Father, keep my daughter and her husband safe. I do not believe they were completely honest with me, Lord, but you know what they are in store for.” Mary prayed as she watched the T-Bird drive out of site.
Vivie slept most of the way back to New York. Michael, alone with his thoughts, pondered their future. Mr. and Mrs. Whoever were about to become Mr. and Mrs. Killer for Hire…..two very deadly shamrocks.
14.
SETUP
After returning home, and a day of rest, Michael and Vivie had time to collect their thoughts and tried to enjoy their alone time. They were happy to be together again. Vivie missed Rose, but knew she was better off with Mary for now. They had not heard anything from Joseph; but they knew that could change at any moment. Sitting on the couch together, after dinner, Vivie’s thoughts turned to romance.
“You know, we never have consummated our marriage, Michael.”
Vivie looked at Michael with desire in her eyes, wondering if the same thoughts had been going through his mind.
“That’s very true; we never have. The time never seemed quite right, had it, darlin?”
“We don’t know what is ahead of us, Michael. I need you so; make love to me, tonight, right now.”
Vivie stood to her feet and held her hand out to Michael. Michael took her hand and Vivie led him to the bedroom. Once inside the bedro
om, Michael took her into his arms and held her tightly, kissing her gently on the lips, then, moving slowing to her neck. Vivie’s body trembled at his touch. How long she had waited for this feeling. Vivie unbuttoned Michael’s shirt and removed it; caressing his chest with her hands and her lips. Michael unzipped Vivie’s dress and let if fall to the floor. Vivie turned around so that Michael could unfasten her bra. After removing it, she turned to face him.
“You are the most beautiful woman I have ever known, Vivian.”
Michael could not take his eyes off of Vivie. She led him to the bed where she laid down and invited him to lay beside her. They held each other in a lover’s embrace, kissing passionately, their tongues intertwined. Michael’s hands caressed Vivie’s body tenderly, as only a lover can. The mere touch of his hands sent shivers of pleasure coursing through Vivie’s entire body.
“Are you sure you are ready, my darling Vivie?”
“I want you so badly, Michael. My body aches for you. Make love to me. I desire you in all the ways a wife can desire her husband. I love you Michael.”
“I love you too Vivie. I have wanted you for so long.”
Michael and Vivie made love throughout the night, taking their time; savoring every moment of their first time together. Vivie felt as though she was a virgin again, that this was truly her first time. Michael had forever wiped the experience of the attack from her mind.
Just before dawn the lovers were awakened by the ringing of the telephone. It was Joseph.
“Hello, Lucky? I need to see you and Vivian. I have a job for both of you. Sort of a team effort, if you will. How soon can you get over here?”
“We can be there within the hour.”
“See you then, Lucky.”
Michael placed the phone on the receiver and turned to face Vivie, who was still basking in the glow of their lovemaking.
“Joseph has a job for us.”
“For both of us?”
“That’s what he said. He said it was going to be a team effort…whatever that means. He wants to meet us at his office. Better get dressed.”
