by Don Easton
“You shouldn’t be telling me this. If Cocktail gets popped, you’ll be giving me the hairy eyeball.”
“Hear me out. I’m not blabbin’ without reason. It’s like you said before, I need to gather as many allies as I can. Cocktail says the bikers are going to force us to accept a truce and decide what turf belongs to who.”
“Sounds smart. What’s that got to do with Cocktail?”
“He is going to represent the bikers at the meeting. Act as a referee. Guess the bikers don’t respect us enough yet for a face to face.”
No shit …“When is this meeting?”
“In the next couple of days. It will be better for me if I have as many people on my side of the bargaining table as possible. With your connections and everything … I would be willing to cut you in on the action. I know dope isn’t your thing, but we could still work something out. Even if you were to act as a silent partner or something, with your connections maybe I could expand. Claim more territory to make me look good at the meeting. We could make a shitload of money.”
“I should meet Cocktail.”
“He’s more into the lab side of things. Not your bag.”
“Remember earlier when I said there was something you could help me with? When we were at Pizza 24-7?”
“Yeah, but I was busy going out to take care of Roach and Bagger. What do ya need?”
“I’ve got a friend who also moved here from back east. He’s into the dope scene. The guy is meticulous and good at calculation. With a little training, he would be ideal to run a lab.”
“Fuck, that fits right in with what I am asking you. Like I said, you obviously know people.”
“My friend’s name is Sammy. I spoke to him about it and he was thinking we could pipe the product back east. That way it wouldn’t step on any toes out here.”
“That’s even better yet.” Sy paused as he thought about it, smiled and said, “Hell, yeah, I’ll be glad to help. Provide the chemicals, training … how to set the lab up proper. Even find him a place to do it.”
“Sounds great. I’ll tell Sammy. How much money will he need to get started?”
“Fuck, don’t worry about that. We’ll front him what he needs to get started. Once he’s cooking he’ll be workin’ on commission. As long as he maintains his deadlines and makes it how he is supposed to, everything will be fine.”
“Sounds perfect. I’m sure he’ll be pleased. When could he get started?”
“Give me a day or two to arrange things. Too bad you hadn’t said something earlier. I could have mentioned it to Cocktail this morning.”
* * *
That evening, Jack and Laura met with Connie and Sammy and debriefed them on Jack’s conversation with Sy.
“God, we are going to get this guy,” said Connie, once more fondling the crucifix on her neck.
“You talking to us, or Him?” said Jack with a grin.
“You and Him,” replied Connie.
“I’ve hedged our bet,” said Jack, becoming serious again. “We have at least two chances. If he doesn’t show up to teach Sammy how to run the lab, then I will try to wangle a meeting with him through Sy at the truce conference.”
“So all these drive-by shootings should come to a halt,” said Connie.
“The truce is supposed to take place within a few days,” said Jack. “When it does, we can all breathe easier.”
“Maybe I’ll get a weekend off some day,” said Connie, happily. Her gaze drifted back to Jack and she said, “How the heck do you pretend to run a lab?”
“I know a guy who owns an old farmhouse on an acreage in Langley,” offered Sammy. “He used to raise chickens, but is retired now and travelling. The chicken coops are gone, but the house is usable. Months ago he rented it to some guys who started a grow-op. He clued in as to what they were doing and reported it. I’m sure I could convince him to let us use it.”
“Perfect,” replied Jack. “We can’t do any arrests involving the lab because it would lead back to our informant. Once we identify Cocktail, Laura and I will find an excuse to disappear.”
“We can’t be trafficking in meth!” said Connie.
Jack laughed and said, “Don’t worry, we won’t. In theory, it should take Sammy a week to get up and running before they expect product. By then, the truce meeting should have taken place.”
“And if it doesn’t or we still need more time to ID Cocktail, what then?” asked Connie.
“It will be easy to stall,” replied Jack. “Sammy could say he has to get out because the owner is on a round-the-world trip, but is coming back unexpectedly. Or we could arrange a fake bust on the lab. Have it done when Sammy isn’t there. It would be an excuse for him to flee.”
“This could work,” said Connie. “It might draw Cocktail out so we can identify him. Even if he doesn’t appear, if we follow Sy, he might lead us to him.”
“I don’t recommend you do that,” said Jack. “Cocktail is tied in with Satans Wrath. They are too adept at switching vehicles and spotting surveillance. If they spot a tail, we may never get another chance.”
“Plus,” said Laura, “Sy will be extremely kinky after being shot at the other night, not to mention his own guys being busted. They are all going to be looking over their shoulders. At least until a truce is finalized and who knows how long that will take.”
“Speaking of that, what about the risk that you might get caught in a crossfire again?” asked Connie.
“We’ll be careful,” said Jack. “When Sy says it is time to get the chemicals, I’ll rent a van that nobody will have seen before. When we leave the apartment, I’ll have Sy duck down so he won’t be seen by any of the opposition if they are watching.”
“Between the bikers, Cocktail, and the turf war, everyone is going to be paranoid as hell,” noted Sammy. “First time dealing with them, they’re going to be worrying about you doing a rip-off, as well.”
“For sure,” replied Jack. He looked at Laura and said, “Wear something tight and skimpy so they know you’re not packing a gun. The bikers will likely ensure we’re not being followed. You guys sit back and wait until we call you. I’m confident Sy trusts us, but I won’t be armed, either, in case we’re searched.”
“Sounds bloody dangerous,” said Connie. “I don’t like the idea of you not having backup. You know what policy says in that regard.”
“We’ll have you for backup,” said Jack. “Way back … waiting in Langley close to Sammy.”
“A lot of good that will do,” grumbled Connie.
“I don’t want anything to happen that could scare Cocktail away. Even if he doesn’t show up at the lab, there is still the backup plan over the truce meeting. I’m sure I can convince Sy to let me tag along for that.”
“Which is even more dangerous,” said Connie. “Going to a meeting with a bunch of guys who are at war with each other.”
“They may be at war with each other, but I think they will all respect the wishes of Satans Wrath,” said Jack. “Besides, they say there will be security to make sure nobody is armed.”
“If Cocktail shows up at Sammy’s lab, the meeting may not matter,” said Laura.
“One day at a time,” replied Jack.
“Maybe we should put a bug in the van you rent,” suggested Connie.
“Not a chance,” replied Jack. “Satans Wrath is liable to do a sweep. If they find a bug, we’re all dead. It’s bad enough having our apartment bugged, I’m not going to risk the van.”
“Speaking of bugs,” said Laura, “how is it going with the wiretaps?”
“Good,” replied Sammy. “I spoke with OCTF. All new names have been added to their Part VI. The judge signed it this morning so if anyone is dumb enough to use their phones, we should hear.”
“Tell them to keep their ears open,” said Jack. “If they hear of anyone that might be moving chemicals, I’d like to know about it.”
“I spoke to them,” replied Sammy. “I also didn’t want them busting us by mista
ke.”
“The two of you will be entirely on your own,” said Connie, looking back and forth at Jack and Laura.
“We know.”
Everyone sat for a moment in an uncomfortable silence. Eventually they all silently nodded in agreement.
Sammy placed a call and discovered that he could use the farm house in Langley any time he wanted.
“We’re set,” said Sammy. He looked at Connie’s worried face and lightheartedly said, “Hey, cheer up kid! What could possibly go wrong?”
* * *
Jack was driving to Sy’s apartment when his BlackBerry rang again. It was Gabriel Parsons.
“Hope I didn’t catch you in the middle of anything?” asked Gabriel.
“I’m not busy,” replied Jack. “What can I help you with? Is it Faith?”
“Faith is doing okay. Too sick to do much, but at least she’s home now. No, the reason I called is because of Noah. I would like your opinion on something.”
“My opinions are free. What is it?”
“Lately he’s been wanting to dress all in black like he is a vampire or something pagan. I simply won’t allow it. Now he’s bugging me to allow him to get a ring put through his eyebrow. It’s like he’s trying to make himself ugly. I know some of the kids at his school pierce their faces with jewellery, but Noah is only thirteen. What do you think?”
“He’s been through a lot for such a young guy. I realize he is still a child, but he is also reaching the age where he wants to show his independence. You need to talk to him. Maybe you could compromise a little. Perhaps allow him to wear certain clothing, but hold off on the face jewellery.”
“I try to be a good mother,” replied Gabriel, as her voice cracked.
“You’re a great mom. I admire you. Considering what has happened in your life … the stress you must be under … I’ve seen people fold under a lot less.”
“Well … thank you. I do find comfort in God. I pray that the man who killed Father Brown will turn to God and beg forgiveness.”
Jack thought about her comment after he hung up. Glad she didn’t ask for my opinion on that …
* * *
Jack met with Sy and told him that Sammy had a good spot already rented for a lab.
“Where at?” asked Sy.
“Somewhere out in Langley. An old house. It used to be a chicken farm. The owner is retired and is travelling around the world. Sammy is anxious to get started.”
“That’s great. Finding the right place is the hardest part. Chicken farm, eh? Cocktail will like that.”
Oh, I thought he would have preferred a daycare … “How soon before we can get started?” asked Jack.
“I gotta clear it with the bikers first. You staying upstairs tonight?”
“I’m not sure. Princess is afraid someone will come looking for you and start shooting up the place.”
“They didn’t get all my guys. I’ve got people guarding the place twenty-four-seven. I hate using phones. Why don’t you at least stay and I’ll come up and see you in a couple of hours. I might know somethin’ by then.”
* * *
An hour after Sy met with Jack, he took another stroll down the apartment hallway with two prospects from Satans Wrath, Chugger and Hamburger. Sy quickly told them about his new friends, Jay and Princess.
Hamburger did not tell Sy that Cocktail had given him the names earlier that morning.
“Jay is really connected,” said Sy. “He could make us a lot of money if I can convince him to partner up with me. He wants to set up a lab for a buddy of his. Good chance to impress him.”
“Yeah?” replied Hamburger. “You trust them both?”
“Fuckin’ A. They’re rock solid. Stake my life on it.”
“You will be,” said Chugger.
“Not a problem,” replied Sy. “They’re ready to go. Got an old farmhouse already.”
“We’ll front you what you need to get started,” said Hamburger. “First payment is seven days after delivery. If anything goes wrong …”
“I know.”
“How long have you known them?”
“Not long, but we’ve already done a lot of shit together. They came recommended to me by Rodine. They’re cousins. He’s known them all his life.”
“Tell ’em we’ll do it tomorrow. Take them both on a little trip while we check them out. If they’re not okay, you won’t be bringing them back.”
Chapter Thirty-Three
Later that night, Sy met with Jack and told him that things were set for the following morning. Jack left the apartment complex immediately and he and Laura had another brief meeting with Connie and Sammy.
“Sounds like everything is a go,” said Connie.
“My team will supply some of the cover out at the farm,” said Sammy.
“Make sure it is only your team that does,” said Jack.
“Still no word on the dirty narc?” asked Connie.
Sammy shook his head.
“Nothing unusual has come over the monitors from our UC apartment,” said Laura.
“Not yet,” said Jack. “It would really surprise me if Satans Wrath doesn’t check us out before tomorrow. Maybe tonight we will get lucky. I mentioned to Sy that I would be staying in our other apartment tonight. I know he has a pass key.”
* * *
The following morning, Jack and Laura rented a van and drove to Sy’s apartment complex and parked in the underground lot. They went to Sy’s apartment and saw a note on the door telling them he was next door at Brewski’s. Moments later they were let inside by Lorraine and saw Sy and Brewski slurping coffee at the kitchen table. The apartment was covered with empty beer and liquor bottles.
“Good to see that you got out,” said Jack, giving Brewski a friendly pat on his back. “Looks like we missed a good party.”
“You did,” said Sy. “I went back to get you last night, but you were already gone.”
“I got sprung yesterday afternoon,” said Brewski. “Gotta appear in court next week to enter a plea. Should be able to drag it out for a couple of years. My lawyer says the cops aren’t saying why they searched us. Could be because of a wiretap or somethin’. He thinks we have a good chance of getting it tossed under a charter argument.”
“That’s great,” replied Jack.
“Same goes for the two in the Mustang,” said Sy. “It hadn’t been reported stolen yet so the cops had no legal reason to search it.”
“Excellent,” replied Jack.
“So, I hear you’re introducing Sy to someone to go into business with us,” said Brewski.
Jack nodded and said, “A buddy of mine by the name of Sammy.”
“And what business would Sammy be in?” smirked Lorraine.
“It’s called none of your business,” replied Jack.
Lorraine mouthed the words “fuck you” and smirked again.
“Speaking of which,” said Sy, “You both ready to go?”
“Both of us?” replied Jack. “I was thinking we didn’t need Princess.”
“Hey, I don’t want to be stuck sitting in the apartment by myself,” protested Laura.
“Not really any choice,” said Sy. “You have to come. My friends said they wanted to meet the both of you. You get a van to use?”
“Got one from Budget. It’s in the underground lot. You better duck down when we leave.”
“You don’t have to tell me. I’m doing a lot of ducking these days. Give me a minute to go back to my place and use the can. I’ll meet you both downstairs.”
When Jack and Laura left Brewski’s to go to the van, Laura grabbed Jack by the sleeve and said, “You try to cut me out of the action again and I’ll kick you in the nuts.”
“It just occurred to me, why should we risk the both of us if there’s no need?”
“That’s bull. You thought of it before and waited until we were in front of Sy, hoping he would agree with you.”
Jack frowned and said, “Okay, you’re right, but think about it.
Why risk your life if we don’t need to?”
“Because I’m your partner. That’s why.”
* * *
Balvinder received his second call that morning and passed it on to Fateh. After that he sent the second text that morning to his contact with Satans Wrath, asking to meet. He received a text message back saying: “Like before. I’m busy. Meet this afternoon.”
Balvinder shrugged. He had done what was asked. Besides, by this afternoon the war might be over …
* * *
There was a reason why the prospects couldn’t meet Balvinder right away. They were waiting in Sy’s apartment to confirm that Jack and Laura had left with Sy, before using the pass key they had been given.
The prospects weren’t the only ones waiting. In a wooded area close to the United States border, Fateh bounced along in the back of a van with one arm draped over Big Bertha. A gang member by the name of Hadad drove, while three other gang members sat with him in the back of the van.
Fateh looked out the window as the van approached an uprooted tree beside the road. Rutted wheel tracks led past the fallen tree into the woods. “This is it,” he said. “Hadad and I checked it out early this morning. There is only one way in and out.” He looked at Hadad and said, “Drive past the entrance and find a place where we can watch. They’re in a Budget van. Once they arrive, give ’em a minute to get in there and park. Then we introduce them to Big Bertha.”
* * *
Jack and Laura gave Sy a curious look when he arrived and climbed in the rented van. He was carrying a box made of thin plywood that he set in the back of the van.
“What’s that?” asked Jack, hearing a scratching noise come from the box.
“That my friend, is Harry the Hamster.”
“You’ve got a hamster in there? What on earth for?” asked Laura.
“It’s a safety thing,” replied Sy. “Something my friend Cocktail came up with for the lab.”
“The old canary in the coal mine?” asked Jack.
“Yeah, something like that,” replied Sy, laying down on the seat behind Jack and Laura as Jack drove toward the exit.