Scent of Gardenia (Scott Tucker Series)

by Dick Waters

  “As a matter of fact I do…I have a special desire for the raised, with chocolate frosting. Mike doesn’t seem to bring them when he’s in charge of the doughnuts. I think he’s worried about my heart, but I think I’m over those problems now. Victor Young isn’t on my back about one of our strangling cases, which takes a lot of pressure off me.”

  Paddy held up his hands. “Let’s talk business now. I just heard from Holly and I agreed to let her stay in Bermuda. She’s making progress in several directions. One of them is unrelated to the case. It turns out she can stay without the expense of the hotel. I’m not going into any more detail than that, but that does allow her to continue her investigation. She says she has several investigative leads she wants to follow up on.”

  Mike asked, “How does she like Bermuda?”

  Paddy smiled, looking at both of us. “I sense she’s fallen in love with the place.”

  Colleen came into Mike’s office announcing, “Paddy, I’m sorry to break this meeting up, but Victor Young is on the phone for you…and he doesn’t sound happy. Can you take the call?”

  Paddy’s expression changed as he got up and headed to his office.

  *.*.*

  I was still in Mike’s office when Paddy returned five minutes later. Paddy sat down like the weight of the world was now resting on his shoulders. “Victor learned from Mr. Nielsen that we were doing a separate investigation for the family. He wanted to know the status of things. I’m glad I extended Holly’s stay.”

  Mike looked over at Paddy, asking, “So Paddy, why is he getting himself involved with this case? It’s not like it involves the state of Massachusetts.” He looked at Paddy, wishing he hadn’t added to his burden.

  Paddy was slow to respond. “I guess that’s what happens when you have friends in high places. Scott, you better bring a half dozen of those chocolate covered doughnuts tomorrow. Victor wants me to call him every morning with an update.”

  This time Mike was the one turning red. “Why don’t you tell him to get lost?”

  Paddy took a deep breath before replying. “Unfortunately, he’s in the unique position to impact our future investigations. You have to remember, he did assign me the responsibility to manage those two high-profile serial killer task forces. Those two investigations have given this office a sound financial foundation that covers adding resources sitting right in this room. Who knows what lies ahead for us, but his influence could make or break this office. I just can’t risk jeopardizing our future by pissing him off. God knows, my tongue is much shorter than it used to be.”

  He added, “Without his support to our office, we wouldn’t be involved in the Bermuda ‘missing men’ investigation. You both need to keep this in mind—should Nils Nielsen turn up dead, it could directly impact this office’s survival.”

  Chapter 35

  I returned to my office feeling the pressure Paddy must be under. I noticed the coin on my desk which Mrs. Abbott had affectionately given me. I picked it up and shook it, and let it land on my blotter. It landed tails up. Yup this is the kind of day it’s going to be. I guess I better call Bill to see what the problem is.

  I dialed the MIT lab number, asking for Bill Story.

  “Hello, this is Bill.”

  “Hi Bill, it’s Scott, Colleen told me to call you. She mentioned a problem.”

  He answered with a soft voice. “Maybe I should come to the office to talk about this. MIT has pulled the plug on our use of the computers here. They have given us a week to get our data out of here.”

  “That is not good news at all. Did they give any explanation?”

  “Yes. Our use is getting too commercialized. Although they have the processing resources, the director is concerned our use might hamper the various studies and projects they have going. Let’s talk about this back in the office, okay?”

  “How does this leave your own personal use of the computers there?”

  He didn’t immediately reply. “I’m not quite sure, but I better keep a low profile for the next few weeks. Someone is looking for the phone, I think. I better go. Bye.”

  I heard the dial tone as soon as the words left his mouth. Yup, this is unquestionably one of those days. I hesitate talking to Mercedes today.

  *.*.*

  I thought about how to make this a ‘heads up’ kind of day. I guess the lack of sleep didn’t affect my brain cells any.

  Heading back to Mike’s office I asked, “Mike, do you have a few minutes to talk about something?”

  “Sure, you look like you need a beer, but if my listening will help—go ahead.”

  “Thanks. I just called Bill because he indicated we have a problem. Well he told me MIT has pulled the plug on our use of their laboratory computers. Someone there feels our use is getting too close to commercialization. That’s not entirely incorrect, but we were doing only demos at this time. If we went into production, we would obviously need different resources.”

  “So, why are you smiling?” Mike asked.

  “Well I think I have a plan, but I need your thoughts on it first,” I said.

  “Shoot.”

  “Remember me telling you that Wang offered the use of a computer setup?”

  “Yes, I remember.”

  “Well, I think we need to make that leap now, since we have an imminent need with Stephen’s real estate listing project. However, before I meet to discuss that with Wang, I wanted your thoughts on it.”

  “Where the hell would you put it? Don’t those computer setups require considerable space for; tape, disk drives, card readers, and printers, not to mention the mainframe itself?”

  “Wow. I’m impressed. I didn’t think you knew any of that stuff. Have you been reading some of the research papers around here?” I asked.

  “As a matter of fact, there have been some interesting articles in several of the magazines I receive, talking about what criminal investigations will be like in the very near future. They talk about data bases storing information from across the country. It all sounds far-fetched, but I guess if you can think it can happen…it will.”

  “To answer your question about where to put it—I don’t think we have the space in this office for it. I heard the other day our old task force office building hasn’t been leased since we moved out. I bet we could get that for a song and put the equipment there. Maybe we could do some other projects for Harvard as well. I’m sure Wang would be interested if we had a solid plan. Should we talk with Paddy? If we talk with him, what about my offer to help Holly? It sounds like she has her hands full. Have you forgotten about Charlotte’s request for our help, well more specifically mine?”

  Mike was giving what I mentioned some thought. “Let me talk to him in private. Today is not a good day, given the AG calling him again for status of the missing men investigation. I’ll try to sense whether he’s in any better frame of mind later today.”

  *.*.*

  Scott left for Stephen’s office to discuss some of the options with him. Mike was giving some serious thought about a computer set up for the office. It would be nice to explore using the computer equipment on some test criminal databases. Bill would have to help set them up, but he had been sharing with him how the computers could be used in investigation work. It would be nice to be on the cutting edge of that utilization.

  Mike stuck his head in Paddy’s office. Paddy greeted him with a smile. “Wow Paddy, I wasn’t expecting to see a smile on your face. Care to share what you’re drinking?”

  “I got a second call from the AG. Victor actually apologized for his earlier words. I honestly think he might be concerned I’ll have another heart attack, and where will that leave him. He would be your problem…or you would be his.” He laughed. “Anyway, in calmer words he asked if we needed any additional resources, or if there was anything he could personally do to help with the investigation. I found out Victor is Nils’ Godfather, which is why Larz Nielsen is reaching out to him.”

  “Well I guess this is as good a tim
e as any. Scott told me earlier that MIT has pulled the plug on our use of their laboratory computers. We have a week to get any of our stuff off their mainframe. Bill is not sure where he personally stands. Scott says Bill is just going to keep his distance for a few weeks, then see how things shake out.”

  Paddy looked very concerned. “That puts a damper on Scott’s real estate project, doesn’t it? What does Scott have to say about this?”

  “Scott is the one who mentioned this. He has a backup plan that he talked to me about, and I want to get your thoughts on it. Do you want me to continue, or do you want to think about things for awhile?”

  “I’ve got some patched bullet-holes already, what’s a few more. Shoot.”

  “Scott mentioned a while ago that Wang offered the use of one of their computer setups. At the time, we did not have a direct need, having the use of the MIT computers. Scott’s suggestion is to discuss with Wang if they were indeed serious, and if so, take them up on it.”

  “Those computers take up a large footprint, don’t they? Where would we put it?”

  “Scott had an answer for that. He mentioned our old task force office, which hasn’t been leased since we moved over to this building. He thought we might be able to work something out given the situation.”

  “I like the sound of that. Maybe that’s where we could use some of Victor’s resources. We could do some prototype work on criminal databases, and commercial projects. Why don’t you have Scott join us?”

  “He went over to Stephen’s office to communicate this new wrinkle.”

  “Well, when he comes back, why don’t we huddle to put some meat on this plan? I think this could be a real opportunity for us,” Paddy offered.

  “While you’re in a good mood, there’s something else I need to mention to you. It involves our investigation in Bermuda.”

  “Okay.” Paddy hesitated for a few seconds. “I sense this discussion might have a problem associated with it?”

  “Scott asked if he could assist Holly with her investigation in Bermuda.”

  “Absolutely not.”

  Chapter 36

  I needed to talk with Stephen about the new developments. He altered his afternoon calendar, telling me to come right over.

  We were seated at his small conference table. I could tell from the frown, he was apprehensive about what I was going to talk to him about. “So Scott, what’s so important that I had to break my appointment with the Mayor. I’m just kidding, but you sounded very upset on the phone. I’m ready. Would you like a drink first?”

  “I would love one. Thanks.” I followed Stephen to his concealed bar. He didn’t even have to ask what I wanted. He poured two double shots of bourbon in each glass, handing me one of the glasses.

  Stephen proposed a toast. “If we’re alive…there’s no problem that can’t be solved. Here’s to a solution. Cheers!”

  We touched glasses. “Cheers!” I echoed.

  We didn’t go back to the conference table. Stephen sat in a chair next to the bar and I sat opposite him. “Stephen, I wanted to let you know that MIT has pulled our use of their computers. We have a week to remove all of our material.”

  “Is that the problem? I thought it was something serious. Do you have any suggestions?”

  I was glad he was making light of the situation. “I have several.” I looked to see if he was interested. “I had an offer a few weeks ago about the use of a Wang computer setup. I’m going to talk to them to see if they were serious about it.”

  “See…there’s no problem.”

  “I have also suggested a location for it. We had leased a building in Harvard Square for our earlier task force operations. The building hasn’t been leased since we vacated. I think we could set the computer operation up there.”

  Stephen took a long hit on the bourbon. “Sounds like you have the makings of a plan. How can I help?”

  “Here’s my thought. If we run into a problem leasing the building, do you think you could lease it for us? I’m not sure what our financials look like, and it might be a stretch at this time.”

  His smile got wider and wider. “I don’t think that will be a problem at all. I think we could justify the rental expense to pull off a working scenario on the real estate listing project. Later, if the project grows in size, we might be able to turn the operation over to the Real Estate Board. Regardless, I’m not worried about that at all. Do you want me to check out the details of the lease, or do you want to call me with them?”

  “I think at this time, I better call you with the details. Paddy O’Brien might just want to have our office leasing the building. Thank you, Stephen, for your generous offer.”

  Stephen’s secretary came to the doorway. “Mr. Strong, I’m sorry to bother you, but you mentioned if your daughter were to call to let you know. She’s on the phone.”

  “Thank you Margie, I’ll take her call. Scott, would you please excuse me.”

  I got up to leave and he shook his head, waving me to sit down.

  *.*.*

  “Hi sweetheart, welcome home. How was your trip?”

  I watched as Stephen listened to Mercedes’ response. He nodded a few times and said ‘okay’ more than once. About five minutes into her side of the conversation, he remarked, “So, you’re still thinking that profile fits. I know, I know but listen Mercedes the chance of that—“

  Stephen was obviously interrupted, listening to her side of the conversation for a few more minutes. “Okay honey, I hear you, and I’m sure you’re concerned. However, he’s sitting in my office right now. Yes, he is. Do you want to say hello?” Stephen held the phone across his desk. “Mercedes wants to say hello.”

  “Hi Mercedes. Welcome home.”

  “Scott, I’m sorry. I wouldn’t have called if I knew you were with him. I would have called you last night, but I was…I was tired from my trip.”

  “It’s okay. Do you want me to call when I get back to my apartment?” I bet she says no. She’s probably going out tonight with Ralph.

  “No.”

  I processed her response and replied. “Okay, then you call me when—“

  “Scott, shut up and get your butt over here when you’re finished with my dad. I’ve got a bad case of Scottitis, which only seeing you will fix. Bye.” She hung up.

  “I’m sorry Stephen. She hung up.”

  He laughed, downing the balance of his drink. “I told you if we were alive, there’s no problem that can’t be solved. Is there anything else on your mind?”

  I finished my drink. “Not that I care to discuss.”

  Chapter 37

  I was happy Mercedes wanted to see me. It was a short drive from Stephen’s office to her apartment building. I parked my car under the portico, asking the doorman to have it parked for me. I gave him a five dollar bill, which he hesitated taking.

  “Will you be long sir?”

  “I’m not sure.” I felt uncomfortable, but headed into the building.

  Two minutes later I was outside Mercedes apartment, knocking on her door. I kept knocking, but she didn’t answer. Could this be a replay of my last visit? I checked the door and it was unlocked. I entered her apartment, closed the door and called for her. She didn’t answer. I proceeded into the apartment checking to see if she was in any of the rooms. I heard the water running and went into the bathroom.

  “Mercedes it’s me.” The glass enclosure was fogged, but I could still see her standing under the spray holding out a washcloth.

  “My hero…you’re just in time to wash my back, and I’ll return the favor.”

  I quickly shed my clothes, already excited as I opened the shower door.

  Mercedes smiled, looking down. “As I’ve said before, that’s the way to greet a lady.”

  I wanted to rush to hold her, but she held up her hand, moving away from the spray. She took the handheld unit, focusing it where she wanted. She was enjoying her little charade and so was I. She fiddled with the dial, dropping the water temp slowly,
turning cold and then freezing cold. I tried to cover myself. She shook her head emphatically. Within a minute, the cold water spray was cutting like a sleet storm into my body and then I could no longer feel my lower body at all.

  She wore a big smile, hanging the handheld back up without changing the water temp. She rushed into my arms. The warmth of her body was incredible. One thing for sure, we didn’t have to worry about the hot water running out. After making love more than once, she dialed the temp back to normal and we washed each other. Needless to say, I was ready again, much to her delight.

  *.*.*

  An hour later we were headed out of the city. Mercedes wouldn’t tell me where we were going. She was doing the driving. Her white ’64 T-Bird could probably give my Bonneville a run for its money, but it was much more luxurious inside. I could tell she was on a mission. She asked me to; sit back, enjoy the ride, and keep my mouth shut. The quiet and comfort were both working on my lack of sleep last night. I could also tell she was enjoying my constant eyeballing her. I noticed a slight hint of a grin, even though she was trying her best not to.

  She was easy on the eyes. Her red hair was pulled up and covered with a white kerchief. Earlier, she had me pick out the clothes for her to wear. I picked out a long-sleeved-white shirt, which I could tell was a man’s because of the buttons. I had never seen her in jeans, and with her long legs we almost didn’t get out of the bedroom. She had to lie on the bed to get them on. Tight wasn’t even close to the right description. Now, even in the limited light inside the car I could see a hint of the black bra since she hadn’t buttoned the top buttons.

  I wanted so much to tell her how much I missed her. I think she could tell by my entry earlier and my attention now. What in the world was she up to?