Lovers & Players

by Jackie Collins

  ‘Christ!’ he said irritably, as Lulu’s screams attacked his almost formed headache. Turning to Nanny Reece, he said, ‘Don’t you have any control over Lulu whatsoever?’

  ‘Excuse me?’ Nanny Reece said, her back stiffening.

  ‘My child is screaming. Do something about it.’

  At that moment Lulu came racing back, her dress and hands covered with blood. ‘Mommy’s sick!’ she yelled hysterically. ‘My mommy’s sick! Sick! Sick!’

  Chapter Forty

  ‘Slick Jimmy’s got moves I only ever dreamed ’bout!’ Cindi raved, bursting into the apartment early on Monday morning, her face flushed with excitement. ‘He’s hung like a freakin’ stallion, an’ that man knows how t’ go down an’ then some!’

  ‘You didn’t show up for work today,’ Liberty said accusingly. ‘You were supposed to be there at six this morning. Manny called earlier, he was really pissed about neither of us coming in. I told him you had flu. Y’ know, Cindi, you promised you’d cover for me. We really let him down.’

  ‘Who gives a shit?’ Cindi said. ‘We got loot now, we’re movin’ up. No more workin’ our asses off slingin’ hash an’ pourin’ coffee.’

  ‘Wrong,’ Liberty corrected, always the responsible one. ‘That money is to pay off our bills, remember? We still need to keep our jobs.’

  ‘Not me. Jimmy’s scorin’ me a gig singin’ back-up on his tour.’

  ‘Are you serious?’

  ‘Yup, this girl is dead-on serious. I’m movin’ out an’ goin’ on the road. How ace is that?’

  ‘For real?’ Liberty said, shocked.

  ‘For damn real. The dude is apeshit ’bout me, so I’m takin’ advantage of the situation.’

  ‘Cindi, you don’t know—’

  ‘Oh, I know,’ Cindi said confidently. ‘I know that I finally found me a man who’s gonna give me everythin’ I want.’

  ‘What about our apartment?’ Liberty asked. ‘If you’re splitting, where does that leave me?’

  ‘I know it’s sudden, little cous’,’ Cindi said, sounding guilty, ‘but I was thinkin’ you might wanna move in with Kev. He’s always doggin’ you t’ do that, an’ the two of you make a hot couple.’

  ‘You really think I’d move in with Kev ’cause that’ll make it easier for you to dump on me?’ Liberty said, trying to control her growing irritation.

  ‘I ain’t dumpin’ on you. All I’m doin’ is shakin’ things up, lookin’ to my future.’

  ‘Great! And what am I supposed to do?’

  ‘You’re the smart one, you’re gonna be fine.’

  ‘When are you leaving?’

  ‘Jimmy’s comin’ back for me in a coupla hours. I’m throwin’ some stuff in a bag, then I’m outta here.’

  ‘So that’s it–you’re going today?’

  ‘Hey, the man wants to keep me close. I ain’t arguin’ with that.’

  ‘This is crazy. You hardly know him.’

  ‘Ooh, I know him good,’ Cindi said, hurrying into the bedroom. ‘That fool is one hot boy, an’ I ain’t lettin’ him outta my sight.’

  ‘Then I guess this means you’re giving up your job at the coffee shop?’ Liberty asked, following her.

  ‘A girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do,’ Cindi said, tossing an assortment of clothes into a large duffel bag. ‘An’ this be my destiny.’

  ‘After one night it’s your destiny,’ Liberty said, shaking her head in amazement. ‘Man, that’s really something. Who’s telling Manny you’re not coming back?’

  ‘I was thinkin’ you’d do it for me.’

  ‘Gee, thanks.’

  ‘Don’t go gettin’ down on me, Lib,’ Cindi said, making a face. ‘I know it’s sudden an’ all, but I gotta do this, an’ you gotta understand.’

  ‘You’re not giving me much choice.’

  ‘It’s not your choice, girl, it’s mine.’

  ‘If it’s what you want…’

  ‘It’s definitely what I want. Only don’t be tellin’ my mom–she’ll throw a shitfit.’

  Liberty nodded, trying to make sense of what was happening. Cindi was making a move, and who knew if it was the right one? Since there was no stopping her, Liberty realized she’d better start thinking about herself.

  Kev was due back at any minute. Not that she planned on moving in with him–Kev was a nice enough guy, but she wasn’t looking for commitment.

  Her immediate problem was what to do about the apartment. She’d have to look for somewhere smaller–either that or find a roommate to share the rent, because there was no way she could afford it on her own.

  Things were changing fast, but that was okay, she could handle it.

  After loading two duffel bags with clothes, Cindi finally shifted the attention off herself and asked Liberty what had happened between her and Damon. ‘I saw you sneakin’ out with him last night,’ Cindi said, wagging her finger. ‘You know we got a rule ’bout married dudes.’

  ‘Then I guess you saw him sneaking back into the party, ’cause all he did was tell his driver to drop me home.’

  ‘You askin’ me t’ believe he didn’t try t’ jump you?’ Cindi said, raising her eyebrows.

  ‘He was a gentleman all the way.’

  ‘Sheeit! That’s borin’, girl.’

  ‘Not to me.’

  ‘The dude was playin’ it tight, all the better t’ worm his way into your panties.’

  Liberty shrugged, discussion over. She didn’t want to share her feelings about Damon with anyone, not even Cindi. ‘How about I make us some eggs?’ she suggested. ‘You must be hungry.’

  ‘Don’t be all pissed at me,’ Cindi wailed, putting on her please-forgive-me-’cause-I’m-adorable voice. ‘Y’all know how much I love you, little cous’.’

  ‘I’m not mad. I understand.’

  ‘I was thinkin’ I’d give you all my money from the video shoot. Add that t’ your money, an’ you’ll be okay till you decide what you’re gonna do.’

  Didn’t Cindi ever listen? The money from the video shoot was earmarked to pay off all their outstanding bills. ‘Stop worrying about it, Cindi,’ she said. ‘I’ll manage.’

  ‘Mebbe later I can get you a gig singin’ back-up with me.’

  ‘No, thanks,’ Liberty said, thinking there was nothing she’d like less. ‘Slick Jimmy’s music isn’t my style.’

  ‘Oh,’ Cindi said, insulted. ‘I guess you’d sooner be slingin’ hash an’ shovellin’ eggs?’

  ‘I’m not doing that forever. Something will come along.’

  ‘Sure it will,’ Cindi said magnanimously. ‘You gotta have faith, girl. God’ll protect you. He always does.’

  Later, when Cindi had finally left, the full realization of what had just taken place dawned on her. She was totally alone. No Cindi to hang with, go shopping, share the cooking, read magazines, watch TV, catch the occasional movie, although they always argued about who was sexier–Denzel Washington or Blair Underwood. Liberty opted for Blair–he was one fine-looking specimen who didn’t work enough for her liking.

  Of course, she’d still have Kev, but a boyfriend was a whole different ball game. Boyfriends were good for sex and cuddling, killing bugs and fun. They came up short on real camaraderie. At least, that was her experience.

  Kev called as soon as he got back into town. ‘How you feelin’, sugar?’ he asked, over the phone. ‘’Cause I’m feelin’ in the mood.’

  ‘I’m better,’ she said.

  ‘Then I’ll come get you. We can grab a burger, a beer, an’ go back to my place.’

  Ah, yes, a burger and beer. Mr Romance is back in town.

  ‘Can’t tonight,’ she said.

  ‘How come?’

  ‘’Cause I promised Manny I’d work the late shift, seeing as how I’ve been off,’ she lied. For some reason she didn’t want to tell Kev about her upcoming meeting with Damon.

  ‘Sugar—’ he began.

  ‘Sorry, Kev. I know it’s a drag.’

  ‘Wanna c
ome by when you’re through?’

  ‘No.’

  ‘No, my girl says. That’s a stunnin’ welcome back.’

  ‘I’ll be tired. Maybe tomorrow night.’

  ‘You got it.’

  ‘There’s a new song I’ve been working on.’

  ‘Don’t you ever take a rest?’

  ‘I want you to hear it, see what you think.’

  ‘Tomorrow it is.’

  She didn’t mean to deceive Kev, but her meeting with Damon had nothing to do with him, and right now–just in case nothing came of it–she’d decided to keep it to herself.

  Damon P. Donnell. Even his name sent chills down her spine.

  Chapter Forty-One

  ‘Your wife was stabbed six times,’ Detective Rodriguez said. ‘Six times,’ he repeated.

  Slumped in a chair in the living room of Mariska’s apartment, Max stared at the man, his face full of disbelief.

  ‘Do you have any idea who could’ve done this?’ Detective Rodriguez asked, peering at him intently.

  ‘I thought you said it was a robbery,’ Max stated.

  ‘I didn’t say it was,’ Detective Rodriguez replied. ‘What I did say was that it might have been. Start listening to me, Mr Diamond, it’s important.’

  Max was still in shock. The events of the morning were fresh in his mind as it had only happened less than half an hour earlier. After Lulu had emerged, screaming, he’d followed Nanny Reece into the bedroom where they’d discovered Mariska sprawled across her bed in a pool of blood. The room had been ransacked.

  Stoic English Nanny Reece had become hysterical. Max had been forced to shake her. ‘For God’s sake, you’re supposed to be looking after Lulu,’ he’d shouted. ‘Pull yourself together and get her away from here. Take her to a neighbour, anywhere.’

  ‘But, Mr Diamond, your wife is dead. She’s dead.’

  ‘We don’t know that,’ he’d said, although he knew she was–there was so much blood that Mariska couldn’t still be alive.

  Christ! Where was Lulu? He’d run out of the bedroom to find her.

  His little daughter was sitting on the floor in the hall, whimpering softly. ‘Everything’s going to be all right, sweetheart,’ he’d said, sweeping her into his arms. ‘Nanny’s taking you to some friends, and Daddy will come get you in a little while. Mommy’s not feeling very well.’

  ‘Okay, Daddy,’ Lulu said, tears rolling down her cheeks. ‘I be a good girl, Daddy. I be very good.’

  ‘Yes, sweetie, I know you will.’ He’d turned to Nanny Reece, who looked as if she was about to lose it again. ‘Are there any friends you can take her to in the building?’

  Nanny Reece nodded.

  ‘Go, and stay there until I come for her. Call down to the desk clerk and tell him what apartment you’ll be in.’

  ‘Yes, Mr Diamond.’

  As soon as they were gone, he’d picked up the phone and dialled 911. ‘I’m reporting a–a murder,’ he’d stammered. ‘Or…a dead person. I–I’m not sure. My–my ex-wife, she’s–she’s lying on her bed–covered with blood.’

  He’d given them the address, then taken up a position by the door.

  Within five minutes a patrol car arrived downstairs, and a few minutes later two policemen walked into the apartment.

  ‘Is anyone else here?’ one of the cops asked, looking around, his hand hovering near his gun.

  ‘No, I–I just got here myself.’

  ‘Where’s the body?’

  ‘My daughter was with me, and her nanny…We walked in and found her.’

  ‘Who exactly did you find?’

  ‘My ex-wife.’

  ‘Where is she?’

  ‘In the bedroom,’ he said, indicating the way.

  ‘Okay, sir. A detective will be here shortly,’ the cop assured him. ‘Do not touch anything. I suggest you go sit in the living room and wait.’

  So that was exactly what he’d done, too shocked to do anything else.

  In the back of his mind he knew he should call his lawyer. But why would he do that? He wasn’t guilty of anything. Yet every time he saw a murder on TV or in a movie, the husband or ex-husband was always the main suspect.

  Jesus! He wasn’t thinking straight. It was ridiculous. He’d walked into the apartment with Lulu and her nanny, there was no way anybody could possibly suspect him.

  Besides, he knew who’d done it. Vladimir. He had no doubt about that. Vladimir Bushkin had murdered Mariska, because who knew what the two of them had going on between them?

  Max stared at the overweight Hispanic detective. The man had a small, annoying black moustache and crooked front teeth. He wore glasses and his jacket was too tight for his large frame.

  ‘I am listening, Detective,’ he said, attempting to pull himself together. ‘This is a terrible shock.’

  ‘I understand, Mr Diamond,’ Detective Rodriguez said, producing a well-used notebook and a stubby pencil. ‘But, as I’m sure you’re aware, I do have to ask you some questions.’

  ‘I’ll tell you what I can,’ Max said, still trying to clear his head. ‘It won’t be much, because Mrs Diamond and I are–were–divorced.’

  ‘Amicable?’

  ‘Excuse me?’ Max said, hunching forward.

  ‘Were the two of you fighting? Having any problems?’

  ‘No.’

  ‘You’re sure about that?’

  ‘Yes, I’m sure.’

  ‘Hmm…’ the detective said, scribbling something in his notebook.

  ‘What does that mean?’ Max said, taking offence at the detective’s attitude.

  ‘Did the ex-Mrs Diamond have any enemies?’ Detective Rodriguez asked, still scribbling.

  ‘I shouldn’t think so.’

  ‘Was she seeing anyone?’

  ‘Why are you asking me?’

  ‘I thought you might know.’

  ‘Well, I don’t.’

  ‘Where were you last night, Mr Diamond?’

  ‘Excuse me?’

  ‘Where were you last night?’ Detective Rodriguez repeated.

  ‘I was at a party. My rehearsal dinner actually.’

  ‘Rehearsing for what?’

  ‘It was my rehearsal dinner,’ Max said, speaking slowly. ‘I’m getting remarried.’

  ‘Really?’ Detective Rodriguez said, scribbling furiously. ‘And I guess your ex wasn’t too happy about that.’

  ‘What does my getting married again have to do with anything?’

  ‘You never know,’ Detective Rodriguez said mysteriously. ‘Now, tell me, Mr Diamond, what time exactly did you leave this…rehearsal dinner?’

  Max frowned. He didn’t like the way things were going. ‘Do I need to call my attorney, Detective?’ he asked.

  ‘I don’t know,’ Detective Rodriguez replied, giving him a long penetrating look. ‘Do you?’

  ‘Come with me while I run upstairs and take a quick shower,’ Chris said, as they left the hotel gym. ‘Then we’d better get going. Don’t want to be late for Daddy-oh.’

  ‘Wish you’d told me you were working out,’ Jett remarked, as they headed for the elevator. ‘I could’ve joined you instead of standing around watching.’

  ‘Why didn’t you?’

  ‘I’m not exactly in workout clothes.’

  ‘You could’ve borrowed something,’ Chris pointed out. ‘I’m sure they have stuff here.’

  ‘Nah, it was more fun watching you,’ Jett said, not even bothering to eyeball the pretty blonde getting out of the elevator as they got in. ‘You’re kinda buff for a lawyer. How come?’

  ‘I used to have my own gym–that was before my house got mud-slimed.’

  ‘I meant to ask, what’re you doing about that?’

  ‘I’ll figure things out when I get back to L.A. I’m not even sure what the insurance covers–if anything.’

  ‘Man, it’s a real bummer,’ Jett commiserated.

  ‘Don’t worry about me, you’ve got enough on your mind.’

  ‘I’d so
oner you didn’t remind me,’ Jett said, grimacing.

  ‘You can’t hide from it,’ Chris pointed out. ‘You have to decide how you’re going to handle the situation.’

  ‘You’re right,’ Jett said glumly. ‘I can’t pretend it never happened, and Amy can’t pretend I don’t exist.’

  ‘Have you thought about how you’re going to contact her?’

  ‘I’ll come up with something.’

  Easy to say, but what exactly was he going to come up with? He felt so damn helpless.

  Chris’s cell rang. It was Birdy, informing him in an excited whisper that all was cool and the wedding was back on.

  Big surprise.

  They reached his suite where a maid was already cleaning the bathroom. ‘Five minutes,’ Chris said, slipping her a twenty-dollar bill, ‘and we’ll be out of here.’

  He showered quickly, dressed, and met Jett in the living room. ‘I’m not sure if I can stomach seeing the old bastard today,’ he said, downing a glass of orange juice from the room-service trolley. ‘What’s he going to tell us? That he’s not leaving us one dime, that he doesn’t have to?’

  ‘Hey, he’s gotta leave his money to somebody.’ Jett pointed out, biting into an apple. ‘He’s a freakin’ billionaire. He’s too cheap to leave it to charity, and we all know he hates everyone else.’

  ‘He hates us too,’ Chris stated.

  ‘What makes you think it’s about money anyway?’ Jett asked. ‘It could be—’

  ‘Could be what?’ Chris interrupted. ‘In Red’s warped mind money is the only hold he still has over us. And you know what? I’d rather be broke than beg anything from him.’

  ‘You’re here early,’ Nigel said, greeting Amy at the office. ‘Your mother’s been on the phone already. I should warn you–she sounds as if she’s on the warpath.’

  ‘Not again!’ Amy sighed.

  ‘Yes, again,’ Nigel said crisply. ‘Where were you? According to her, she called your apartment three times this morning and got no answer.’

  ‘I stopped by the hospital to see Tina.’

  ‘How is the darling girl?’

  ‘She’s doing great, the baby is beyond gorgeous, Brad is ecstatic.’