by Calinda B
“Dad, what happened?” I ask poking my head into the room, afraid to hear the answer.
“Nothing happened. Just a rough day, Harlow.”
“Do you want to talk about it?”
“When you’ve felt the pain caused by losing someone you love more than yourself, you don’t wish that on anybody. It hurts all the more when that person holds a special place in your life and you think of the family being left behind.” He rubs his forehead. “It’s another nightmare I can’t wait to be waking up from.”
“Maybe I could reach out to the son, or his daughter even? I’ve been through this, my help might be welcomed.” Offering my help is the only thing I can think of, although introductions would need to be made as I’ve never seen them.
“Dana doesn’t want the family involved with the Club.”
How hard must it have been for Thomas to maintain two different lives? Dad has always been open about the Club, even bringing me there without issue. Of course, I understand this type of living can’t work for everyone. It’s against most rules, but I refuse to consider myself a thug or a bad person. I work my ass off as a waitress to pay my bills. The money I make via the Diamond Club is for my future, and all the extras life demands.
After three short hours of sleep, I wake up with a plan. I need to know who TJ is. Do I know him? Maybe I’ve seen him before.
It’s almost too easy to find his business address on the internet.
Why am I doing this? I ask myself, then answer, Curiosity, and the need to see that he’s okay. Though I’ve never met him, I’ve heard about him for as long as I can remember. Funny thing is, I’m a stranger to him, but he isn’t one to me.
A quick shower, a bowl a granola, my hair twisted in a tight bun, and I’m ready to go. His office isn’t too far from where I live, so I decide to walk. My first outing of the day doesn’t usually happen before midafternoon. It’s strange to be out at this time of the day, with all the normal people. By normal, I mean people working a nine-to-five schedule.
I grab a coffee on the way because, God, I’ll need it. If I’m lucky, a nap will be possible later. My limbs are so heavy with exhaustion that I’m wondering how I’m managing to walk.
When I’m a corner away from TJ’s office, I pause, unsure what to think. I’ve never seen him, but over the years I’ve built a fictive image of him. There’s no way my imagination will be accurate. Seeing him for the first time will be a surprise, and I’ve not thought about what I’m going to tell him. The nerves taking over, I finish my coffee before entering his workplace.
“Hi!” I blurt as soon as I’m inside.
“Good morning. How may I help you today?”
He’s tall; taller than I had imagined. Right in front of me, he runs his hand through his short, dirty blond hair, and I’m speechless. That doesn’t happen often. TJ is handsome.
“Do you know where I can find the Weirs Building?” I ask. This building is where the Diamond Club is located. Deep down, I hope it’ll ring a bell so he’ll ask more questions.
“Yeah, it isn’t far from here…”
He gives me directions, but I’m not listening at all. I’m studying him. TJ looks fine, no sign of sadness. The sound of his voice is a tad hoarse, but that could be normal. I have no clue.
I give him my prettiest smile. “Thank you so much.” Rolling my eyes, I try my best to act aloof. “I must have turned left instead of right. Can I take one?” His business cards are sitting on his desk, and I point my finger at them. The office is small from what I can tell, but well-decorated. Modern, I would say.
“Absolutely.” He smiles back, and my cheeks warm with my blush.
While I hope to see him again, I walk out, not looking back. It’s done. There’s no way I could’ve offered my help or support. It was crazy of me to think I could just walk into his work and tell him my story and how it links me to him, and that everything would be fine from there. His situation is none of my business.
However, right now, all my mind can focus on is his smile, his face. So different from what I’d had in mind, and, oh, so much better. This is just the beginning.
I know I’ll see more of him.
1
TJ,
You must be wondering when I wrote this letter, and who mailed it to you, but everything will make sense after you’re done reading. I also know that if you’re reading this letter, then I’m not here anymore, and I’m sorry. Most things in life, like our health, are uncontrollable.
* * *
First things first, I need you to take care of your mother and sister for me. I know I’ve got no right asking you for this, but we are family after all. Your mother is so proud of you and the man you’ve become. She can’t stop talking about her architect son. Like father, like son. I am, too—proud of you, that is. I know things have been difficult between all of us, but I think it’s time to look forward and make amends. You should visit her more often.
As I’m writing you this letter, memories of us keep coming and going through my mind. Our baseball games and football nights. Your first steps, the day when you were born—already so stubborn and strong. You’ve grown into a good man, and I’m deeply saddened that a small difference in opinion created such a huge void in the family.
Through the years, you must have wondered where I sometimes went to late at night, and why. The truth probably won’t please you, and I’m sorry for that. That club I brought you to a few months ago, to have a drink? It’s much more than just a bar, TJ. It’s the Diamond Club. The Club will welcome you with open arms when you are ready to go to them. Prior to my health issues cropping up, I’d started working on a plan which would ensure your mother and sister’s future. It was a good plan, son. I’m counting on you to follow it through. Demanding it, in fact. Their lives depend on it.
Inside this envelope, you’ll find a flash drive. Once you enter the password noted at the bottom of the letter, you will only be able to view the video once. Be ready. Take notes if you absolutely need to, but do NOT leave anything traceable behind. You’ll also find an access card for the Club. You’re a prime member, TJ. If you ever need help or advice, call this number: 212-555-7707—or go directly to the Club and tell them I sent you. Weirs Building, 100th floor, NYC.
I know what I’ve got to ask of you will be a shock, but it’s one way to get a good amount of cash to plan your future, and it’s one heck of an adrenaline rush.
I hope you aren’t angry or disappointed in me, son. I’m still the man you always knew, except this is my catch. Follow through. Trust me, the plan is without fault. Flawless.
I love you, son.
* * *
Your father,
Thomas Senior
* * *
Sitting in my car, in my apartment parking lot, I grip my father’s last words to me. I’ve read this letter a hundred times, if I’ve read it once.
Each time I become so livid, my emotions growing so hot, it takes everything in me not to lose my mind. I hadn’t seen my dad, mom, or sister a whole lot in the past two years, and now it’s too late to catch up on wasted times. Dad is gone. I don’t even know what to say to my mom.
The funeral was cold and filled with pain and remorse. Many people came to say a last goodbye, yet I knew none of them. Not even Mom knew them. Odd doesn’t cover it.
I bet they were from that… club.
I haven’t watched the video yet, but I did call the number. The man who answered gave me an explanation. The best way to describe what he told me is the storyline behind a movie I once saw, Oceans 11. Actually, my dad owned the DVD box set. Explains everything, now.
My dad was a thief and he’s asking me to become one.
What kind of father does that make him? Did that make him? Past tense now, TJ. I groan while my eyes flood with tears. Missing him and regret for not seeing him more weigh heavy in my head. It has been days since I went to work, and I don’t miss it. It seems I’m way too preoccupied with the disaster that is my life.
/> * * *
A week later...
* * *
Ready to take the next step at last, I sit at my desk getting ready to listen to whatever is on that flash drive. I have a note pad in case I need to take notes. Using the mouse on my laptop, I press play:
* * *
TJ,
Know that I had every intention of going through with the plan before my condition got worst, and I failed. So, I’m here asking you now. Go through with this to secure the family finances. If only for your mom. Please. She doesn’t need the added stress of dealing with my hospital bills.
What we’re looking for is a ring with one of the finest pink diamonds I have ever seen. It’s four carats and perfectly cut. One of a kind, for sure, and worth more than I dare to count. I have a contact in Germany who is interested in buying it. When you reach this part of the plan, call that number again. They will give you the instructions on how to proceed. Are you ready? Here is the plan...
* * *
Though intrepid, I take plenty of notes because this is nothing like anything I’ve ever done. This is not me, not who I am, but for my father, I’ll do it this one time. Maybe. Being an architect helped him find ways to enter a property without being seen. His strength was in the planning, and the importance he put into the details.
I’m surprised to learn I know the area where the house is located well. My high school girlfriend lived there. It’s a wealthy neighborhood, of course. To own a diamond of that value, they’re probably living in a marble, gold, and crystal-filled home.
My parents, I thought, were both more than okay where finances were concerned. My dad was raised with nothing but the best of everything, until his father lost a lot of money in Vegas playing poker. I don’t understand why Dad had a need for diamonds… for stealing. Why? Does my mom know?
I bet Dad’s only wish was to make sure Mom never had to worry about money. If only he didn’t have to steal from other people to make that happen. It’s sad in a way, but when a man knows his death his coming, it can push him to do irrational things.
Thinking about the address again, I decide it can’t hurt to go figure out which house it is. I can’t see myself following through on anything like this, but curiosity can be quite strong. The address is imprinted in my mind while I cruise through the neighborhood. As I get closer to the number, I realize I’m nearing my ex-girlfriend’s old house. In my head, I’m begging Dad the target isn’t her family. But it is.
Dammit.
“Dad,” I groan out and bang my fist on the steering wheel. Cassie, my ex, has been looking for me here of late—perhaps seeking another attempt at rekindling our romance. Can I pretend to be interested in her again for a while? Quick and easy access to the house without having to break in sounds promising. Plus, Cassie would be thrilled to hear from me. Stop, TJ! I scold myself, unable to believe I’m considering this idea. I’ve never been this man. Stealing goes against all my values. But if I really need to do this, this might be my way… Without further thinking, I grab my phone and send her a quick text. Not sure why I haven’t removed her phone number, even after two years apart, but now I’m glad for that.
* * *
Are you home?
* * *
Knowing Cassie from the old days, I expect she’ll respond fast.
* * *
Yes, I’m home. Why?
I’m in the neighborhood.
Stop by.
* * *
Easy enough. I smile, turn the car around, and go park in front of her house. Sporting a huge grin, she’s waiting outside in a barely-there skirt and a tight-as-skin tank top when I pull up.
“What brought this on? I knew you would end up reaching out to me someday, but why now?” Cassie asks as I get out of the car. To say she seems surprised is an understatement.
“Just thought I should stop by and say hi,” I lie while leaning in to kiss her cheek. “It’s been a while.”
“Okay.” She frowns. “You’ve really caught me off guard. I didn’t expect this today.”
“Do you want to go somewhere and grab something to eat?” I offer, hoping she declines.
“I was about to eat, do you want to come in?”
“Sure, okay.”
Aha! Already inside. That wasn’t too complicated. If I’m going to do this, then I’ll play by my rules and follow my plan. It’ll be better.
2
After indulging in fresh veggies and shrimp, Cassie’s hands become more adventurous—or is it curious? One thing’s certain. This is a woman who knows what she wants, and she’s letting me know she isn’t playing around.
“Why have you come back to me now, TJ?” she murmurs against my lips, leaving me surprised.
Things were not supposed to get serious this fast between us. What I’m doing is terrible, I know. Karma will get me back one day, but I don’t even want to think about that right now. Cassie is a beautiful young woman, in a Christina Aguilera kind of way. She’s attractive and sexy, but her personality is a blank page. There is nothing interesting there. That’s why I left her in the first place.
“Thomas, why don’t we go to my room and see about rekindling our love?”
Shit. While sex is always welcome, this is a fucked up situation. I have no feelings for her, except maybe sympathy. The Plan is driving these actions, not my heart, I console myself.
“Come on, don’t be like that. It’s not like it’s our first time.”
“Cassie…” Words fail me, and she uses my silence to take off her top. “Cassie,” I repeat louder, worried there might be someone else in the house. That’s an issue I’ll have to figure out, too, since there’s always someone here from what I remember.
“Don’t worry. We have the house to ourselves for the next three weeks. My parents are in Brazil.”
Great! As long as the ring is here…
“Are you coming or going?”
“Coming,” I reply as a thrill zings within me, as if I were playing a role in a movie. I’m stepping into a foreign zone. No feelings, only playtime.
Facing the Weirs building, I know I have to talk to someone to go over my revised plan. I’m not even sure it’s something that can be done. There is nothing concrete to rely on; it’s just me and them. Strangers.
After ruminating for a minute I enter the building I’ve only entered once before, with my father. I was so clueless back then. He should have warned me, talked to me in person about this instead of leaving me a letter. A sigh escapes me while getting into the elevator. It takes forever to reach the 100th floor and anxiety runs inside of me the whole way. It’s hard to think with Cassie’s perfume all over me. What if it wasn’t a good idea to add her to my plan? Rubbing my forehead, I can only hope it’ll be fine. The final ding startles me, and I step off, ready to use my key card and walk in to get my questions answered.
Jazz music is playing in the background. People seated at multiple tables are talking and drinking something amber colored, maybe whiskey. Most of them turn to look at me while the doorman speaks into a small microphone attached to a headset. I’m a stranger here, and it doesn’t look like I’m welcome.
A woman with long, black, wavy hair comes to me; she may well be the lone woman here. Smiling and rolling her eyes at the older men, she asks, “How can I help you?” She gets too close to me too quick, and I step back.
“I’m TJ Haynes.”
All of a sudden, at the sound of my name, three of the older men stand up and walk toward us.
“How are you holding up?” the tallest one asks, and I recognize his voice from a previous phone call we’ve had.
“I’m holding up fine, thank you. I’m also ready to deal with my father’s plan.”
“I’m Ramsey, we talked.” We shake hands, more like, he almost crushes mine. “It’s okay, Harlow. I got it,” Ramsey says to the black-haired beauty.
“No introduction? How very rude!” She crosses her arms over her chest.
“I’m sorry. TJ, this is my da
ughter Harlow, and Harlow, this is Thomas’ son.”
Her face falls revealing how bad she feels. I’m glad to know she’s Ramsey’s daughter. “Sorry,” Harlow whispers then gives me a hug, which I don’t expect at all. “Nice meeting you.”
“We need privacy now to talk.” Ramsey points toward a door on the opposite wall. “I’ll be back shortly, Harlow.”
She nods.
Ramsey leads the way, and I follow without asking questions. He opens the door to a room with tan leather sofas and walnut tables. The lighting is dark which makes the room intimidating. I’m nervous and don’t know what’s going to come out of this meeting.
“Sit. I’ll get us something to drink,” he says dropping ice cubes into glasses before hard liquor fills them. This is a good thing, it will calm me. “So, how’s the plan going?”
“About that,” I pause, “…it turns out the diamond ring belongs to my ex-girlfriend. So I thought that instead of breaking in like a criminal, I would call her up and try to get back with her. On a temporary basis, of course, so I could get in without resistance.”
Ramsey sighs. Disappointed? “We have to rethink the whole thing then, TJ. Your father... Look, if you just show up back in her life and the diamond disappears, followed by you, it’ll make you the primary suspect.”
Shit, I hadn’t thought about that. This way of life isn’t in me. After a moment I come up with a possible solution, though. “Let’s say we throw a party at her place, and get dozens of people inside the property. So long as it goes missing that night, it wouldn’t make me the first suspect. I could even stay with her afterward, for a while, until things fall back into place.”