Backlash

by Charley Dee Brown

  ‘You two ready for the off?’ Seb asked casually.

  ‘You bet.’ They both replied in unison.

  ‘Let’s get the hell out of this dump then.’ Seb urged as they made their way out onto the street.

  ‘Fresh air at last.’ Billy gulped. ‘Well, maybe not fresh exactly, but anything’s better than that shit hole!’

  As they piled into the van Seb stated. ‘As we thought the Weavers are in there.’

  Ava was relaxing in the front room with her eyes closed, faking sleep. As once again she knew her mother was hovering around waiting to read to her. She preferred to read herself; she adored Brita, although it was difficult to follow her unsteady broken English. She meant well, however she knew her mother had to return to Sweden to sort out her affairs. A year had passed since Harry’s death and her own return to the family. Speaking to her mother had become a sensitive subject. She needed time to think alone, after sixteen years of being confined against her will. Ava’s main thoughts were for her daughter’s safety, that’s why she declined to discuss the subject. Crimson was at risk from George Brook every day. Harry visited her at night, which she found a great comfort, she had accepted years ago that they would never be together again in this life. She loved him beyond words and his spirit visiting her each night was of great comfort. He was assuring her that Matilda was a lovely, genuine person and she must meet her. Ava’s thoughts were broken by the sound of the door opening. A male voice close to her ear spoke gently. ‘Are you sleeping again lovely lady?’

  Opening her eyes she was so pleased to see her old friend Herby standing beside her chair. ‘Oh Herby how good to see you, please come and sit down, and I’ll make some tea.’

  ‘Hello Herby.’ Brita added. ‘Sit still Ava, I’ll make the tea.’

  ‘Thanks Brita.’ Herby replied. ‘I still like a little sugar you know.’

  ‘You’re still as cheeky as ever.’ She replied as she left the room.

  ‘I need a word while we’re alone Ava, Crimson came to see me, she wants you to meet Matilda, she feels it will do you good. And I must say I agree.’

  ‘So I believe Herby, mother is so against it, she believes the woman’s a witch.’

  Herby chuckled. ‘She’s not a witch my darling lady, in fact she’s one of the most genuine people you could ever meet.’

  ‘I believe you Herby, Harry tells me.’

  ‘Well there you are Harry’s spirit is real to you.’ Herby replied honestly.

  ‘I daren’t mention Harry’s visits to mother, she’d be convinced I was mad and hallucinating.’

  ‘Maybe you should ask Harry to visit Brita that may change her mind.’ He grinned.

  ‘Oh she’d run for the hills Herby.’ She laughed. ‘I need her to return to Sweden for a while.’

  ‘Leave it to me lass, I’ll do my best, you know I’ve always spoken my mind to her.’

  The door opened and Brita walked in carrying a tray of tea and biscuits. Herby took the tray from her and placed it on the coffee table. He watched Brita intently as she poured the tea. ‘So Brita tell me, have you decided on where you envisage settling?’ Herby probed.

  ‘Well of course I will stay in England.’ She replied instantly. ‘Now my Ava is back with us, there is no reason to live in Sweden.’

  ‘So have you arranged to return to Sweden to sort out your affairs?’

  ‘There’s no hurry.’ She replied quickly.

  ‘Wouldn’t it be better to organise that now Brita, none of us are getting any younger, and you’re paying bills on two properties.’ Herby urged.

  ‘Yes I suppose you could be right.’ She added. ‘I have to go at some time.’

  ‘Will you open up the old house on your return?’

  Brita appeared deep in thought. ‘I don’t believe I could ever live in that house again. I’ve never been inside since Eddie disappeared.’

  ‘Why keep paying the bills then?’ Herby said cautiously. ‘Maybe a smaller property would be favourable.’ Herby noticed the look on Ava’s face when her parents ‘old’ house was mentioned. If he wasn’t mistaken there was a look of fear in her eyes…..

  ‘I will sell my house in Sweden, on my return I will decide where to live.’ She replied openly. ‘In fact I will arrange a flight now, I realise I have been delaying the decision for weeks.’ Drinking the remains of her tea, she got up and left the room.

  ‘Your mother is dilatory Ava, making a direct suggestion has certainly worked.’

  ‘She takes notice of you Herby; she has ignored all of the others.’

  ‘How would you feel about opening up the old house Ava?’ Herby pressed. He could see the daunted look was still with her.

  ‘I’d rather she sold the place…too many memories.’ She muttered.

  ‘That could soon be arranged Ava, I’m sure a bungalow or flat would be far more suitable.’

  ‘I’m sure your right; however I feel she’d want to stay here.’ Ava added.

  ‘Is that what you’d want lass?’

  ‘I love my mother Herby, as you know, after spending sixteen years being locked away I tend to like my own company at times. My mother makes that difficult; she believes I should never be left alone.’

  ‘I understand lass.’ Herby agreed.

  ‘My lovely boy spends most of his free time with me, which I cherish. Fred and Patsy are wonderful and always around if I need them. Mother though, she wants to be with me all the time, irrespective of who else is in the room. She’s only left now because of your suggestion.’

  ‘Maybe you can urge her to buy a property of her own, as one day Crimson may decide to settle down and that would change things. Perhaps you could mention that.’

  ‘Oh I wish my girl would settle down Herby, running Harry’s firm. I’m so afraid of the underworld.’

  ‘She’s an incredibly courageous young woman Ava, a martial arts expert and she enjoys the life.’

  ‘Herby, while I was locked away in that basement I used to watch them all, it used to break my heart not being able to speak to them. I have no strength, I’ve always been weak, and Archie is the same. Crimson takes after Harry and he’s so proud of her.’

  Before he had chance to reply, Brita came back in the room looking somewhat pleased. ‘My flight is booked and I leave early next Wednesday morning.’ She beamed.

  Herby faked a smile; he was pleased that Brita had taken the plunge to return to Sweden. However her return to the room had prevented Ava from continuing to open up about her incarceration. And he wondered now how long it would be before she mentioned that terrible experience again. Realising that spending any further time alone with Ava today would be unfeasible, so he decided to take his leave.

  As I approached the office the following morning, I heard the shrill tones of the telephone. ‘Good morning The Docket.’ I greeted the caller.

  ‘This is Stan Weaver, so listen up lady; I’m giving you one week from today to accept my reasonable offer on The Docket. I’d advise you to comply, or I’ll make your life hell. I know everything about your family, one week lady just one week!’ The line went dead.

  Apart from my initial greeting I hadn’t spoken a word, I’ve learnt in life it’s not worth conversing with scum. We’d expected this vulgar specimen to raise his ugly head again. Nevertheless my initial thoughts were with Billy and his forthcoming wedding, Weaver can wait. I’ll inform Johnboy and Seb, Billy needn’t know until after the weekend.

  A still tongue keeps a wise head…

  On Friday morning Johnboy drove me and Seb to the local registry office, where we all joined Billy and Janet to witness their wedding. A quiet affair, exactly as they’d planned. We all went back to The Docket for lunch, then I told Billy and Janet to make the most of the weekend, and we’d meet up again on Monday. They were surprised, though grateful. They deserved so much more. Janet seemed a strong minded girl and had accepted the life she’d married into. It takes a special kind of girl to marry a member of the underworld….they were unaware
of what lay ahead …

  Chapter 3

  George Brook had been supposed missing for over a year, since the day of his brother Harry’s funeral. He recalled being very drunk at the wake, although he couldn’t remember leaving the door of Jimmy Burns flat open, so Ava could escape. Who’d taken her? He’d had her imprisoned for sixteen fucking years, now he knew he should have done away with her. She knew far too much. He doubted she’d have blabbed even now, she’s weak and gutless, not like her fucking daughter. He’s sick of playing fast and loose with the bitch Crimson, he knows she wants him dead, so why hasn’t she set her heavies on him. She was up to something and he intended to find out. After a recent chance meeting with a man called Stan Weaver, he’d been hatching a plan. If he could get his hands on Ava again, he knew the bitch would do anything to get her mother back. He had his club Clouds, to bargain with, and Weaver wanted property. He’d call all the shots and he’d soon be back in business.

  He reflected back on his eldest son Lance, and the unnatural experience that had taken place at The Docket, on the re-opening evening, well over a year ago. He’d been drunk, however he remembered the grotesque, ghostly apparition that had appeared. His wife Nancy had screamed and everyone started rushing for the exits. He didn’t believe in all this supernatural stuff, though his bitch of a niece did. He’d heard through the grapevine that she’d had an old crone perform an exorcism….His brother had been dead over a year and if anyone was going to haunt him, it would be Harry…he had good reason after what he’d done. George was convinced that the event could all have been a phantasm, he had been extremely pissed. Now he felt sure he could turn things around in his favour, and once again he’d be a Face……

  Every step you take…every move you make…

  I’ll be watching you…….

  After a phone call from Matilda, me and Johnboy paid her a visit. ‘Daley Malone’s been in touch with me, and Sean McRoy, his cousin is returning to England shortly. This will be helpful as he’ll know more about what went down in the fifties.’ Matilda assured. ‘When your mother was abducted lass.’

  ‘That’s good news Matilda, is Daley going to pay you another visit?’ I asked keenly.

  ‘I daresay.’ She chuckled. ‘Yes, another visit from my ex fiancée, he’ll probably just turn up unannounced. Has there been any news on Brita’s return to Sweden?’

  ‘Yes, all thanks to Herby’s intervention, she’s booked a flight for next Wednesday, so you’ll soon get to meet Ava. I’m so enthused.’ I added optimistically. ‘However we’ve had a threatening phone call from Stan Weaver, and if I don’t comply with his requests he’s going to make my life hell. His follow up phone call is due on Wednesday also.’

  ‘I knew trouble was brewing girl, what is he demanding?’

  ‘He wants Crimson to sell him The Docket at a price he offers.’ Johnboy gave a half smile. ‘Don’t worry Matilda we’re ready for the idiot.’

  ‘Keep me posted though lad. I sense this one is a nasty piece of work, and you can put that down to my intuition. Don’t let her out of your sight, I have a feeling they may try and snatch you Crimson.’

  ‘I’m rarely on my own Matilda; I’ll ring you after his next call.’

  ‘Make sure you both take care, next time you call I’ll read your cards. I have a feeling it won’t be long, something tells me I’ll be seeing Ava very soon.’

  ‘What makes you say that?’ Johnboy probed.

  ‘I can sense change is on the way lad.’

  Monday morning Billy returned to The Docket. Along with Seb and Johnboy we discussed Weavers threat. ‘I’ll mention the name to Janet.’ Billy offered. ‘With her working at the dog track she’ll pick up on any gossip.’

  ‘That’s helpful Billy, Herby referred to the fact he’d heard the name at the track.’ I added.

  ‘Time Rudy and Jack spent some time at the Scrubs; an evening visit could prove an advantage. The Weaver mob is more likely to be around.’ Seb suggested.

  ‘Yes, before they realise that Jack is connected to The Docket, Rudy’s appearance has changed drastically so I doubt he’ll be recognised.’

  ‘I’ll set it up straight away.’ Seb assured.

  Later that evening Rudy and Jack strutted casually into Scrubs, Rudy booked a pool table and Jack made his way to the bar, his initial thoughts were what a dive. After buying two pints of lager he joined Rudy. ‘Cast your eyes on the table at the end of the bar.’ Jack said quietly.

  Rudy took in the people seated at the table, a bald fat bastard and a couple of heavies. It was the woman that caught his attention; she was young, and black, possibly African or Caribbean. Being as the club was busy Rudy decided not to discuss the situation until they were outside. They continued with their game of pool, with neither of them showing any real interest. They were both watching the table near the bar; another man had joined the group. Rudy knew there was a back entrance to the club, although it was seldom used. He decided it was worth the attempt, as at least they’d both get a better view of the mob. ‘We’ll try the back way.’ Rudy muttered in a low voice. ‘Follow me; if the doors locked I’ll say we were looking for the gents.’

  As they made their way through the rabble of lowlife punters, Rudy could see the back door was slightly ajar. Passing the mob at the table he quickly scanned the faces, no one looked familiar. Once outside he took a deep breath. ‘Fucking hell, what a dive.’

  ‘Did you notice the big old bird that’d joined them?’ Jack added.

  ‘No I just scanned the faces to see if any were locals, seems they’re all outsiders. Maybe the black girl is a girlfriend or wife.’

  ‘Yeah, could be, seems like a family affair.’ Jack suggested.

  ‘Yeah most of them are, see what Crimson thinks.’

  On Wednesday morning I called all the boys to the office. This absurd situation has to be nipped in the bud. With my grandmother returning to Sweden today to sort out her affairs, I’ll be able to take my mother to Matilda’s, the sooner she discloses the repugnance of her solitary and unshared experiences, the greater her chance to regain her life. I need to know who George Brook, the evil monster, buried in Ava’s ‘grave.’ Why he faked my mother’s death, I’m not convinced it was just his compulsive obsession of envy of my father. There has to be more…Death now would be too easy for George…he needs to suffer, and feel the pain he made us endure….I’ll make my move when I’m ready…

  At ten o’clock the phone burst into life…I picked up the receiver, and in a honeyed voice I wished the caller good morning. Seb, Johnboy, Billy, Rudy and Jack were eagerly waiting for my response.

  ‘So lady, are you ready to make a deal?’ Weaver’s voice was gruff.

  I stayed silent.

  ‘Weaver continued. ‘Don’t piss me off.’

  I stayed silent.

  ‘This is your last chance, you sell or you suffer!’

  ‘Mr Weaver I presume.’ I said confidently. ‘My club is not for sale.’ I quietly replaced the receiver….we all waited as we knew he would ring again.

  As I picked up the phone for the second call he shouted. ‘Say goodbye to your mother, as Uncle George wants her back, I did warn you!’ The phone line went dead.

  I relayed the short conversation word for word to the boys. My immediate concern was for my mother’s safety, Weaver was obviously collaborating with George. ‘Johnboy will you please go to Hampstead and take Ava to Matilda’s, best to use the back way on both homes. I’ll ring Fred and let him know what’s taking place.’

  ‘What time is Brita leaving for the airport?’ He asked.

  Glancing at my watch I replied quickly. ‘By the time you reach the house she’ll be on her way to the airport by taxi.’

  Johnboy called out as he left the office. ‘I’m on my way.

  As it’s too late to move them all to a safe house Seb, will you arrange constant security at the Hampstead home please.

  ‘I’ll fix that straight away lass.’

  ‘Rudy I want
you and Jack to suss out where your father is, I assume he’s somewhere local?’

  ‘I’ll call in and see the old girl; if she’s in the mood she’ll spill the beans. No need for me to ask questions, you know my mother Crimson.’

  Unfortunately I know Nancy only too well; however she has a reputation for free speech, amongst other freebies. ‘Don’t let her meet Jack, at the moment he’s unknown.’

  ‘Billy you stay here until the others return and we’ll plan our next move.’

  I felt relieved after I’d spoken to Fred, as he assured me that Brita had already left for Heathrow airport by taxi. After a brief explanation he affirmed that Patsy would make sure Ava had all necessities packed, so she was ready for Johnboy. My next call was to Matilda informing her of our latest torment. However she was thrilled that Ava would be staying with her. I apologised for not being able to call in, as I knew she would understand, as the so called Weaver mob would have me under surveillance. I’m so thankful for the telephone system…..

  Rudy walked into the kitchen of his mother’s ‘escort agency,’ alias knocking shop….He stood in the doorway watching her peel vegetables. He gave a lopsided grin as she looked up. ‘Bloody hell Rudy I thought you’d gone to join your brother.’ Nancy said with sarcasm. ‘Where’ve you been hiding then?’