by Graham Marks
Austin J. Randall gave Mr. Pisbo a massive bear hug and then held him at arm’s length, saying how much he hadn’t changed. Mr. Pisbo politely begged to differ, but admitted that it was great to meet up again after so long; he patted Austin J. Randall on the back and said what a guy he was, and how much he owed him and that he thought he’d moved to Detroit. Trey was about to pinch himself when someone tapped him on the shoulder.
“My dad used to work for him.”
Trey looked round to see Velma and Banjo. “What?”
“Austin J. Randall was his first boss.”
“But how…”
“Trey, my boy!” Austin J. Randall grabbed Trey’s arm. “Introduce me to your friend, why don’t you!”
“I’m Velma Pisbo.” Velma stuck her hand out. “And this is my dog Banjo. My dad has mentioned you somewhat more than now and then; pleased to meet you.”
“Likewise, my dear, very much likewise!” Austin J. Randall beamed at Velma and then turned his attention back to Trey. “You look like someone who could do with an explanation, am I right?”
“I should say so – how on earth…?” Trey looked at Mr. Pisbo.
“Nothing to do with me, son. I’m as surprised to see this particular gentleman as you are.”
“It’s all down to your grandfather, young man.” Austin J. Randall tucked both thumbs into his waistcoat pockets. “He told me that he’d noticed you had a copy of my book and that you seemed to be pretty fond of it. That’s why he did a bit of detective work of his own; he tracked me down, got in touch and here I am. Hope I’m not a disappointment in the flesh!”
“No sir!”
“That’s swell!” Gramps’s eyes twinkled, delighted his plan had worked. “Thought the chance to meet your favourite author would be right up your alley!”
“Got something for you, young man – a signed first edition of my book that you might like for your bookshelves. I’ll go and get it!”
“Signed! Thanks a lot, sir, that’s great.” As Trey watched Austin J. Randall hurry off, Mr. Robertson Bonner came up next to him.
“Got my own small token of appreciation for you, son.” He reached into his jacket pocket as he spoke and brought out a leather-covered box. “I do believe you more than deserve this.”
“What is it, sir?”
“Take a look.”
Trey opened the hinged lid to find a brass shield, topped by an American eagle, resting on dark blue silk; he couldn’t believe his eyes.
“It’s a special presentation Bureau of Investigation badge, son. It ain’t real, but I do believe you have the makings of a real detective.” Mr. Bonner shook Trey by the hand. “I look forward to you joining us!”
Trey stared at the badge. In his head he heard himself announcing “Captain MacIntyre, Bureau of Investigation!” to a bunch of crooks he’d just caught in the act, and he had to admit the words had a real ring to them!
GRAHAM MARKS had his first book of poetry published while he was at art school, studying graphic design. After a successful career as an art director he decided it was time for a change and now works as a journalist and author. He has written everything from comic strips and film tie-ins to advertising copy and novels for children and young adults.
Graham is married to fellow journalist and author Nadia Marks, and lives in London with his two sons and a cat called Boots.
Find out more about Graham Marks at
www.marksworks.co.uk
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epub ISBN 9781409531821
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