by Karen Clow
They were woken by his phone ringing, it was Mickey. They were happy when he said, “Monica’s improving in leaps and bounds if she stays that way you’ll be able to visit her tomorrow. Oh and I’ve arranged for Lenny to go to the hotel where the Jamaicans stayed. Got to go Jim, I’ll see you at the restaurant around ten.” When the call ended she said, “Jimmy phone the restaurant and reserve us a table, Leon will probably blow a gasket, because it’s such short notice.” “You’re right babe, I’ll do it now.” After sweet talking the chef Jimmy managed to book a table.
As usual he was ready before her, but as always she was worth the wait, she looked stunning when she finally emerged from the bedroom. Wearing a white figure hugging dress, her hair was swept up and the tasteful jewellery he had bought for her finished everything off perfectly. Complementing her he said, “You look beautiful babe, this is why I’m so jealous, you’re without a doubt the best looking girl in London; if not the world.” “Oh stop it Jimmy,” she giggled.
Thirty minutes later they were entering the restaurant and instantly he was aware of the other diners looking at her, especially the men. Jeremy the new waiter greeted them, “Good evening madam, sir, do you have a reservation,” he asked politely. Jimmy shook his hand and replied, “You must be Jeremy, I’m Jimmy and this lovely lady is Maria, we own the restaurant.” “Oh I do apologise, it’s a pleasure to meet you both. Can I take your jackets, before showing you to your table?”
Once they were seated Jimmy ordered a bottle of wine and told him they would have the prawn cocktails, followed by lobster. When Jeremy returned to the kitchen with their order, Jimmy grinned at Maria and said, “He’s definitely an iron hoof.” Looking rather shocked she replied, “Really, I wouldn’t have assumed that, how did you know he was gay?” “When we arrived every man in the restaurant looked at you, every man except Jeremy and he eyed me up!” Speaking very quietly she giggled and replied, “Oh just think if you didn’t have me here tonight you might have pulled.” Pulling a face of disgust he replied, “If anyone like Jeremy ever so much as implied that he fancied me, I wouldn’t have a problem beating him to death!” “Jimmy you’re so old fashioned, being gay is considered quite normal now a days.” “Sticking your cock up another man's arse is not fucking normal and never will be!” She knew he would never change his opinion on gays, but as long as he was respectful and polite to Jeremy, he was entitled to his opinion.
They chatted as they enjoyed their meal. When Jeremy came over to ask if everything was alright, Maria replied, “Tell chef the meal was wonderful.” “I will, now can I get you anything else?” “Just two coffees please, but before you go can you make a reservation for two on Monday evening at eight in the name of Samuels; it’ll be on the house.” “Of course, I’ll do it now.” Jimmy piped up and said, “Give Mr Samuels and his guest a bottle of champagne and wish the lady a very happy birthday on our behalf.” “I’ll see that it’s done, actually a gentleman has already telephoned to make reservations for Monday for a table for two; he said that you had arranged it.” Jimmy frowned and said, “What was the name?” “Bridger I believe, I took the booking was that alright?” Grinning at Maria, Jimmy said, “I forgot, Shane is taking Max out on his night off, I told him to bring her here. Yes the bookings fine Jeremy, include a bottle of our best wine with our compliments.”
When Jeremy left, Jimmy joked with her about Shane and said, “I don’t think for one minute he’ll get anywhere with that Max, although maybe after bringing her to such a fine establishment he’ll be one step nearer to the bedroom.” Pinching his leg under the table she said, “That’s terrible, what a dirty mind you have James Dixon!” “Yeah and as they say babe, a dirty mind is a terrible thing to waste!”
They didn’t realise how quickly the time had passed, until Mickey showed up to join them at quarter past ten. They introduced him to Jeremy; before Maria said, “Have you eaten Mickey?” When he shook his head she said, “Then I insist you eat something before we leave.” With a grin he replied, “I suppose I’d better eat if I want any peace, I know you’ll only keep on.” “Absolutely, so shall I order your steak now?” “That’ll be great babe,” he said with a chuckle. “So tell us about Monica, how is she,” said Maria. She was delighted to hear that she was making a very good recovery, even though he had already told them earlier over the phone. Jokingly Mickey said, “I think she’s willing herself better because of my wedding proposal.” They all laughed.
Finishing his meal, Mickey said, “We should be going Jimmy, it’s almost half eleven. We could drop Maria off on the way to the club; it’ll save Leon having to when the restaurant closes.” “Good idea, we can drive straight to Dixie’s, then on to Sweet Cheeks,” replied Jimmy.
CHAPTER 31
Half an hour later they were pulling into a reserved parking space at the club. After talking to the staff at Dixie’s, they were happy to hear that there had been nothing out of the ordinary happening, so they went on to Sweet Cheeks. Shane was on the door when they arrived. “Alright Shane, how’s it going,” said Jimmy. “”Good Jim, it’s been busy since about eleven. There has been a couple of Jamaicans in, but they’re regulars they never give any trouble.” “That’s what we like to hear.” “Seems funny the Jamaicans have given up, it’s been days without any sign of them.” Mickey piped in and said, “I don’t doubt for one minute they’ll be back, although I’m surprised too with the sudden quiet, but they’re devious bastards who no doubt are planning something. With any luck Lenny will have news on their whereabouts within the next few days.” “I hear you booked a table for Monday, Max hasn’t changed her mind then?” said Jimmy. Shane laughed and replied, “No she’s dead keen, I reckon she’s secretly gagging for it!” “I should warn you Samuels is eating there on Monday.” Shane looked surprised. Jimmy explained exactly why they had invited the detective to dine there. “I just hope he don’t put me off me fucking dinner,” joked Shane. Mickey grinned and replied, “Under the circumstances it might just be best if you keep out of his way, but if he does ask you anything just go along with what’s already been said, ok.” “No worries Mick, having said that, Samuels will be off duty on Monday, so in theory if he does get lippy I could belt him one if I felt the need.” “As tempting as that might be, I think you should save it for another time.” Shane just grinned and nodded. “So Shane, how are things going with Max?” “She’s doing really well with the dancing. I’ve got to know her quite a bit; she’s even talked to me about her past. Did you know she wanted to be a doctor?” They shook their heads. “And there’s a kid, she’s got a son of twenty months, her parents look after him while she works, they think she works in the club bar.” “I thought she was different, definitely not your average pole dancer. So what’s the score with the boy’s father?” “No idea she never talks about him, but from the few things she has said, he’s bad news, her and the boy are better off without him.”
They chatted for another half hour then Mickey said, “If we don’t need to hang about Jimmy do you mind if I push off home, only I’m meeting Monica’s parents at their hotel at ten in the morning. I feel guilty I haven’t seen much of them, I’ve only spoken to them briefly when they had arrived at their hotel and then at the hospital.” “No you get off Mick. I’m going too I’m knackered.” After saying goodbye to Shane they left.
Maria was fast asleep when he got home. Standing quietly in the bedroom he looked at her; she was so beautiful, with her hair cascading across the pillow and part of her naked body showing where the duvet had slipped off. Slowly he got into the bed next to her, briefly she stirred. “Sshh, it’s only me babe,” he said as he placed his arm around her and fondled her breast. Then gently moving her hair he began kissing her neck and back. Moving his hand up and down her body, she began to wake up. Slowly she turned to face him. Holding her firmly he said, “Stay the way you are babe, I want to take you from behind.” Moving his hands up and down her body, he wanted her more and more as she pushed his hand down onto her, arching
with pleasure every time his fingers touched her. When the time was right he entered her, still stimulating her with his fingers.
Remembering how jealous he had been earlier, he would never let another man touch her, even as he thought about it he thrust himself harder into her. Making love to her this way he felt he had total control over her, be it all for only a short while. Lying holding each other afterwards, he said, “I’m sorry about what happened earlier babe.” Tenderly she kissed him and replied, “It’s okay, I like the fact that you feel so passionately about me; it was only because I thought you didn’t trust me I made an issue of it.” They kissed and cuddled for ages before they finally settled down to sleep.
During breakfast the next morning, Maria said, “I’ve been thinking about the possibility of us having a double wedding with Mickey.” “Well from what Mickey says, it could definitely be on.” “Then I should let Father Thomas know, I hope it will be alright at such short notice?” Smiling he replied, “Tell Thomas we’ll make a donation to the church for any inconvenience. I can’t see it being a problem if it does happen. The guest list wouldn’t change very much, the only extras would be Monica’s parents and a few of her work friends, all of Mickey’s family will be there anyway; even Fay and her family are coming over from the states. So as far as I can see a double wedding wouldn’t cause any hassle at all and I’m sure the hotel would welcome some more guests at a hundred and fifty quid a head.” She nodded just as his phone rang. It was Tony, “Alright Jimmy, just calling to let you know the coroner has just called me to say Hudson’s body has been released, they asked who was going to arrange the funeral. None of Hudson’s family overseas is going to pay; they’re not even going to come over, although they are hoping he made a will, cheeky bastards!” “People like that are worse than fucking vultures Tony. So it looks like we’ll be picking up the bill then, can we leave you to arrange it, just send us the bill.” “No worries Jimmy, I’ll sort it.”
Maria was looking forward to seeing Monica later that afternoon. Talking to Jimmy she said, “Can we stop off at a florist on the way to the hospital and get her a bouquet?” “Course we can babe.” While she busied herself, he called Mickey to tell him about Hudson and the fact that they were paying for the funeral. Joking with his friend, he said, “What with weddings and now funerals to fucking pay for, perhaps we should put our protection fees up just to cover the expenses!” They both laughed.
Mickey arranged to meet them at the hospital at two, as Monica’s parents were going to visit her later that evening.
Maria had asked Jimmy to go with her to see Father Thomas before they went to the hospital, begrudgingly he had agreed as it was en route. Father Thomas was very pleased to see them when they both walked into the church later that day. Maria kissed him affectionately on the cheek before Jimmy shook hands with him. When Maria told the priest that it was likely to be a double wedding, the priest smiled and replied, “Wonderful, in that case Jimmy, perhaps you and Mickey could attend a Sunday service soon?” Jimmy smiled and replied, “I’ll pass that on Thomas, I’m sure we could try.” After talking to Thomas for almost thirty minutes, Jimmy smiled at Maria and said, “Sorry babe, we can’t stay much longer, remember we’re meeting Mickey at the hospital.” “I know, I’m ready the times flown by. I’m so looking forward to seeing Monica.” From the church doors Father Thomas said, “I’ll pray for Monica, give her my best regards. Cheerio for now, hope to see you again soon Jimmy,” he added with a grin.
When they arrived at the hospital Mickey was waiting for them. “Alright Mickey, thought you’d be in with Monica?” “I was, but I came out to warn you that the nurse on duty is a right old battle axe, so you’ll have to tell her you’re Monica’s brother and sister, otherwise she won’t let you in to see her.” Jimmy laughed and said, “Neither of us look fuck all like her!” “That doesn’t matter, but just in case the nurse smells a rat, just say you’re her brother from your mother’s first marriage and Maria is the child from your dad’s second marriage.” Jimmy laughed and said, “It’s true what they say about solicitors, their nothing but a bunch of devious bastards!” they all laughed.
As they approached the intensive care unit the nurse appeared from a small office. Instantly she looked at Maria and said; “Flowers are not permitted in ITC.” Politely Maria replied, “Oh I’m sorry, I didn’t realise.” “You can leave them here, when Monica moves to a private room she can have them.” “Thank you, how is my sister doing?” Jimmy grinned as the nurse replied, “She’s doing well.” After the nurse returned to her office Jimmy pinched Maria’s bum and said, “You’ll go straight to hell for lying.” “No I won’t, I’ll ask Father Thomas to square it with God for me.” They all laughed.
They were all surprised to see Monica sitting up in bed smiling. Maria kissed her on the cheek and said, “How are you feeling?” “Better, it’s painful when I move or cough; otherwise it’s not too bad considering I’ve been shot!” When Maria talked about the possibility of a double wedding; she noticed that her friend looked quite sad. “Are you ok Monica?” Keeping her voice down in the hope that the men wouldn’t hear her because they were talking; Monica replied, “I’m worried that Mickey only asked me because of what had happened.” “You’re wrong, he asked you because he loves you.” Mickey interrupted and taking Monica’s hand said, “You don’t have to talk about me as if I’m not here babe; you only have to ask me.” Looking lovingly at him she said, “More than anything Mickey I want to be your wife; only things are different now, I’ll never be able to give you children, so I need to be sure we’re doing it for the right reasons and not because I got shot and you feel obligated.” Their friends just sat quietly as Mickey replied, “I love you babe, when I thought I could lose you I realised I should have asked you a long time ago, as for children, that isn’t a big issue for me, but if you really want them we could adopt.” Then to everyone’s surprise he went down on one knee and still holding her hand said, “Monica will you marry me?” Tearfully she replied, “Absolutely, yes.” Maria also had tears in her eyes, she knew he was a smooth operator, but she never realised how romantic he could be. Reaching over, Maria squeezed Jimmy’s hand, holding it until he said, “Remember we’re supposed to be brother and sister and the nurse is watching us from her office.” Giggling she replied in a quiet voice, “Thank God she didn’t see us last night then!”
No one was surprised when over the next few days Monica continued to improve. Within a week of being shot, she was moved to her own room. Everything on the Jamaican front was quiet; no one had seen or heard anything. Tony had arranged Hudson’s funeral, he was to be cremated the following day; with a wake being held afterwards at one of their restaurants, probably Satins because it was closest to the crematorium. Mickey was uneasy about the Jamaicans, since a full ten days had passed and no one had seen or heard anything. Lenny hadn’t had any luck at the hotel the first week, but he was going there again that Thursday.
The wedding was getting closer. Monica was getting stronger by the day. She had arranged to stay with Maria when the hospital released her, Mickey was pleased about it, because once her parents returned to Devon she would have no one except him to look after her and he did have his law firm to run, as well as other things. Another bonus was it meant that he would get to eat Maria’s cooking every night.
It was the evening before Hudson’s funeral, Jimmy’s phone rang, it was Lenny Porter, “Alright Jimmy, I’ve got something for you.” “Great Len, go on.” “I’ve been at the hotel waiting for the Jamaicans. I thought it was going to be like last week with no one showing up, but then out of the blue one of them turned up to collect a parcel.” “Fucking cushty Len.” “Yeah, that’s what I thought, anyway I followed him; he went to an apartment just ten minutes from the hotel. I could see the other Jamaicans inside.” “Good work Len, we’ve got the bastards!” “Hang on a minute Jimmy. Now me being a nosey bastard, I wanted to get a closer look, so I climbed onto the balcony so I could hear what they wer
e saying.” “Fuck me Lenny, the hotel probably thinks they’ve got a peeping Tom!” “No one fucking saw me, but the traffic made it difficult for me to hear, now here’s the good bit, I did hear one them make reference to Hudson’s funeral.” “That’s interesting what did they say?” “That’s the problem Jim, I don’t know, a fucking great lorry went passed, so I’m going to stay here and keep watching, I’ll try to bug the apartment if they leave.” “Be careful Lenny, now we know where they are the balls back in our court.” “Got to go Jimmy, they’re on the move.” “Be careful Lenny, catch you later.” Immediately after the call ended he phoned Mickey to tell him the news. Mickey said, “Now we know they’re still here, I think we ought to tighten security at the clubs, especially while we’re at the funeral; even though the clubs will be closed, the Jamaicans might see it as an ideal opportunity to do something, especially if they think no one will be there.” “Yeah you could be right Mickey. I’ll phone round the boys to get cover for the ones who are going to the funeral, especially Shane and Billy as everyone knows they’ll be going.” “Ok mate, see you later.” Jimmy called Shane first and told him what Lenny had found out. Shane instantly said, “No problem we know some good boys who work for us on a casual basis, I’m confident they’ll be only too happy to hold the fort while we’re at the funeral. I’ll bell Billy and let him know what’s going on.” “Great, I’ll see you tomorrow at the funeral.
