Backlash

by Charley Dee Brown

  ‘Is there any news on Fred lass?’ He asked tentatively.

  ‘No Herby, there’s been no news during the night. The boys are on their way out now.’

  ‘Would you ask Johnboy to call in and have a word, I’ve got news on the Weavers.’

  ‘Ok Herby I have to stay in the club today, you take care and I’ll see you soon.’

  I needed to be around today as my first task was resolving the problems with the loan business. As Johnboy and Billy were leaving, I mentioned Herby’s call. Seb still hadn’t shown his face, my mind was made up. And Jack had proved his dedication. I’d offer him to take on the loans. He’d worked on the collections with Seb, so he knew the routines. As soon as he returns I’ll get this sorted, before we lose financially. It won’t take me long to reorganise, my books are always up to date. I’ll stay one step ahead of Seb, I know his game, he thinks if I’m not around he’ll take the reins….time I put him straight….

  When Billy and Johnboy met up with Alfie Rose and Matt Turner, they had found no sign of Fred throughout the night. Billy trusted these two men; they’d both worked as extra security for a few years now. Alfie was married with two lads, and his wife was disabled. Billy knew he wouldn’t risk his job for a back hander. Equally Matt, although single, was straight, so Billy intended to ask Crimson to put them both on the books; he’d vouch for them both. Casual security men were ok, and many were used. However a number of them had a ‘price.’

  Johnboy called into the Olive Tree to have a word with Herby.

  ‘Good to see you lad.’ Herby declared. ‘Will you have a pint?’

  ‘No thanks Herby, I best stick to coffee, we’ve got a long day ahead.’

  As he ordered the coffee, he asked. ‘No signs of old Fred then lad?’

  ‘No Herby it’s not looking good, no sign of the Weavers either.’

  ‘Well that’s one of the things I wanted to mention. Weavers been told to clear out of Scrubs, by all accounts the clubs been sold.’

  ‘Well we went in Scrubs last night, no sign of his mob, any ideas where they’d be?’ Johnboy asked hopefully.

  ‘Not at the moment, but I’m on to it lad.’ Herby touched the side of his nose. There’s something else I need to discuss with you, it’s about young Archie. That other lad came in here last night for a couple of pints, he was with an older bloke. They sat up here at the bar, so I bided my time. When the old bloke went for a slash, I asked the youngster about Archie. As soon as I mentioned Archie’s name I got the look. You know what I’m saying lad, I’d wager they are more than friends. I managed to ask if Archie was ok, he nodded. I then told him Archie’s sister was a good friend of mine, and she was worried about him. I asked him to call in and see Crimson at The Docket. I didn’t get chance to say anymore as the other bloke returned, and then they drank up and left.’ Herby stated. ‘Hope I did right lad.’

  ‘Certainly Herby, it puts a slant on the ‘friendship,’ I get what you mean.’

  ‘I couldn’t tell Crimson on the phone, you understand.’

  ‘Of course I do, nothing seems to shock the lass, she was thrown into the underworld at the deep end, and she handles it well. We’ve discovered his names Larry, if he comes in again, ask him to call in and see her, by invite. You know what I’m saying. I know that’s what she’d want.’

  ‘Ok Johnboy you know her better than anyone.’

  As he left the Olive Tree, Herby’s words flashed through his mind….yes he did know her better than most….if only…however he knew he mustn’t even envision anything further….

  Archie had been scanning the local papers, and he’d found a vacancy for a librarian in the Childs Hill library. He had no experience in this field of work, however he knew his CV was meritorious. Since he’d met Larry, he was aware he had changed, he missed his family inordinately….however the feelings he had for Larry were supreme…..After attending an interview at the library, which he’d found effortless, he’d been offered a position, to commence in the spring. He had agreed to work for three days a week, which suited him, as the library was small and only opened for limited hours. He knew with his photographic, mind this would prove to be an asset. On his journey back to the flat he felt exhilarated; at last his life had meaning. Although he was aware that Crimson was trying to find him, his thoughts of Larry repressed reality…..

  After a long and reassuring conversation with Matilda, I was thrilled to hear that my mother had once again accepted her new surroundings, and was beginning to converse more freely. I know there is vital information she is holding back, and only Matilda will gain her trust enough for her to lay bare the truth…..I believe telling me would be far too painful, as the last thing she’d want is to hurt me. What she doesn’t understand is that Matilda is recording all of their conversations. The truth is as difficult to lay hold on as air….what actually took place in 1956 is cardinal…only then would we discover why the iniquitous George, incarcerated my mother, making us all believe she was dead….for sixteen long obdurate years….deep in thought, I didn’t hear Jack enter the office.

  ‘Are you alright Crimson, has something happened?’ He asked with concern.

  ‘No, there’s been no news so far, has there been any movement from George?’

  ‘No sign of him, however there’s a for sale board on the house. Rudy’s gone to speak to the estate agents for full details.’ He replied.

  ‘Now that is interesting.’ I added thoughtfully. ‘Jack I have a proposition for you, let’s have a coffee while we chat.’

  Jacks eyes lit up with curiosity. ‘I’ll get the coffees then.’

  I explained my proposition, while we drank our coffee, and Jack listened intently. His acceptance was shaking my hand. ‘I won’t let you down Crimson.’

  I then went on to explain, how my ideals differed from those of Seb, how Seb wanted to ‘take everyone out.’ ‘In 1956, when we were informed that my mother had been heinously murdered, I was just eleven years old, and Archie was five. When after sixteen years, Rudy rescued my mother from the clutches of his vile father…that was on the day of my father Harry A’s funeral. George had not only imprisoned my mother, he had also killed my father. That is why I’m tolerating the vile George…for now….until I detect what actually took place in 1956, and why my mother was purportedly killed. Only she knows the truth, and that is why my dear friend Matilda is coaxing her to speak. Why did this vile specimen…my uncle, and Rudy’s father, deliberate these atrocities? And who did he bury in my mother’s grave? He wants her back for one reason Jack…to end her life and bury his barbarity….’Jack looked solemn throughout my account. I felt better for sharing my thoughts with him. Even though I know I have no need to justify my actions to anybody.... ‘At the end of the day Jack, the punishment has to fit the crime, and believe me it will….’

  After Johnboy had enlightened me of Herby’s brief encounter with Larry Waite, I wasn’t shocked; perhaps I’d even suspected that Archie could be homosexual. Since finishing his education, he’d always been a loner, never socialising. I did get him involved with The Docket when we had the refurbishment; in fact he designed the rogue’s gallery. Since our mother miraculously returned to us, he’d spent all his time with her….until I had to whisk her away to safety from Weaver’s mob…and then he went on the missing list. All I want is for him to be happy. I fear now that he’ll be the next person they’ll snatch. Their attempt with me lost them their eldest son….and Fred, what has become of Fred? Archie would be the next best bet, he’s so vulnerable and weak….I have to move him away, somewhere safe…I only hope that Larry Waite will make an appearance…and soon.

  Fred was horrified as he was physically tugged out of the house, his feet dragging against every step it took his abductors to snatch him. A hat was yanked over his head, before he was thrown roughly into what seemed like a van. He desperately tried to focus…however he was being thrown around by the speed of the motor. Fred had been Harry A’s closest friend for more years than he could remember
. He had always been fully aware of his link with the underworld, and knew that one day he could fall foul to the villains. He would never betray Harry, or his wonderful daughter, he’d rather die. He knew Weaver was after Ava, although he had a notion as to where Crimson was keeping her, he couldn’t be sure. The girl hadn’t divulged that information to anyone…except her boys…then a face sprung to mind…as he’d been forced through the door, and as his head was being covered he was certain he recognised a face…Seb! Fred was baffled; Seb had been Harry A’s main man…had he been mistaken? No, now he was sure! Suddenly the motor jerked to a halt…then he was tugged bodily out of the vehicle and led into a building, once inside the hat was pulled from his head. The dim light made it hazy, there were three men, two looked young, and he didn’t recognise them. The stillness surrounded him and hatred filled the air. Fred craned his neck for a window, there was none; the only source of light was an old fashioned bulb on a bare wire, hanging above his head. The older man was talking; his voice was low and gruff. One of the young ones pushed Fred backwards. He couldn’t breathe, he felt as though he was choking. He wanted to curl up in a ball and die….They seemed to be waiting for someone….and then the three of them left…

  Other than the sound of his own laboured breathing, the room was a silent concrete box….when would the torture begin? He would never talk….never! He wouldn’t betray the people who had become his family. When he was pushed backwards, he’d landed on an old sofa….he sat anxiously awaiting his fate….The door creaked open and the torturer appeared…a pungent stench of sweat filled the air….as the bulk of the man overshadowed him….he was startled to see who’s face was glaring back at him….the glint of the blade he was holding shone under the glare of the thankless bulb….the torturer ran his fingers over the cold metal of the blade, then his eyes glared a little wider and his tongue shot out to lick his fleshy lips…..Fred was unnerved to see the eyes of a snake, glaring from a human head…one bereft of love and devoid of conscience….As he pierced the knife into Fred’s flesh he inflected in a raucous voice. ‘You start by telling me where the bitch Ava is.’ Without waiting for a reply he continued to cut….

  Fred didn’t speak….the pain had an unpleasant warmth, eating at his stomach…the nausea rose into his throat…choking….the pain increased in waves…all he could do was writhe, the occasional whimper escaping…echoing off the walls. The torturer made demands…his voice was distant…as Fred lost his fingers…..his innards burned like boiling water, he was in more pain than he could ever have imagined…his blood had turned to acid…destroying him from the inside out…a bullet would be a mercy…he silently prayed, as he slipped into oblivion….

  Rudy had updated me on the prospective sale of George’s house. I’d spoken to Cedric Allen, and an offer had been placed with the estate agents, anonymous of course. Knowing George would be looking for a quick sale, due to the fact he was penniless. I’d lowered the asking price considerably. Herby had phoned and enlightened me as to Weavers whereabouts, and Rudy was on his way to locate Johnboy and Billy. This was the third day and still no sign of Fred…would they find him now? Weaver had taken over one of the Geary’s old haunts, The General Smuts in Bloemfontein Road, virtually on our doorstep…. What the hell was Weaver up to now? Sean McRoy had purchased Scrubs, he’d put a manager in and the building was undergoing a complete refurbishment. Herby was an amazing informant….where was Seb? I had to stay one step ahead…As I deliberated what was taking place, a soft tap on the office door stopped my musing.

  The young man standing at the door was a stranger to me; he was tall, well built, with blonde hair which was tied back. He was dressed casually, though smart, in fact rather an attractive figure. He smiled shyly. Realising this could be Larry Waite, hope gripped me. ‘Hi how can I help?’ I asked in a silvery tone.

  ‘Are you Crimson Brook?’ He replied.

  ‘Yes that’s me.’ Convinced this was Larry I ushered him into the office.

  ‘I’m Larry Waite, a friend of your brother Archie. Herby long suggested I call and see you.’

  ‘Well Larry take a seat, it’s good to meet you.’ I pointed towards the sofa. ‘Would you like a coffee?’

  ‘Thank you.’ He gave a half smile, and a flush crept over his face.

  ‘I’ll be straight back Larry.’ While waiting for the coffee I considered this young man….what had I expected? I had no idea; however this man was the complete opposite to my brother. On reflection I remembered the old adage, opposites attract. The last thing I wanted to do was alarm him, nevertheless Archie’s safety was paramount, and I have to retain this thought. I wonder if he has any idea of the multifarious family he is becoming involved with….heading back to the office with the coffees, I had one of my exigent ideas….passing Larry a mug of steaming coffee, I offered him sugar. ‘So Larry how did you meet my brother?’ I felt the need to tread softly.

  ‘We met in The Olive Tree, where Herby drinks.’

  ‘Does Archie know you’re here?’

  ‘No, he doesn’t know.’ He looked downwards.

  ‘Has he told you about our family Larry?’ I asked cautiously.

  ‘Not a great deal.’ He muttered between taking sips of his coffee. He looked nervous.

  I made a split decision to enlighten this young man exactly what our family was all about. He listened intently as I defined our circumstances. Let’s be fair it’s not every day you find yourself involved with the underworld, some would say, a mob of villains, loan sharks. And the man you’d recently started a relationship with, was at present top of the hit list with an evil bunch of racketeers. By the time I’d concluded my brief elucidation of the firm, Larry looked baffled, and who could blame him. ‘You needed to know Larry, as you’ll now realise that my mother’s, and my brother’s lives are in imminent danger. What are your immediate thoughts?’ I asked cautiously.

  ‘There’s certainly a lot to take in, Archie said he’d walked away from his family.’ He replied quietly.

  ‘I understand, however walking away from our family is not an option, as I’m sure you now realise. Perhaps you should give yourself time to absorb the scenario. Nevertheless I need to move Archie to somewhere safe, should you wish to be involved, I could arrange for you both to take a vacation abroad. Somewhere to ensure he’s protected.’ I gave him a moment before I continued. ‘Time is running out Larry, I’ll need an answer by the morning. Meanwhile make sure he stays inside, out of sight. I know he’ll understand the severity, once you tell him about Fred. Of course it would be easier if you gave me the address where he’s staying.’

  On his way to the door Larry turned around. ‘I can’t betray Archie’s confidence, although I promise to contact you in the morning Crimson. Thanks for being honest with me, however I wouldn’t be able to take time off work, so that would rule me out.’

  ‘Don’t concern yourself about work or cash, if you become one of us, money will be the least of your worries. There are always jobs available here at the club.’

  His jaw clenched.

  ‘Don’t be anxious, nothing untoward. We run two bars, a busy restaurant, and we own many properties, just for starters. As I shook his hand, I was relieved to see a genuine smile.

  Chapter 10

  The shrill ringing of the phone woke me abruptly, glancing at the clock it was just before six o’clock. A shiver ran down my spine, far too early for good news. As I picked up the receiver I was stunned to hear Dougie’s voice so early. ‘It’s Fred lass, he’s been left here, I don’t know if he’s breathing, poor man’s in such a mess.’

  ‘Do what you can Dougie, we’re on our way.’ I dropped the receiver and hastily grabbed a robe, slipping my arms into the garment as I ran towards Johnboy’s flat. Pounding on the door I cried out. ‘Please hurry Fred’s been found!’ Within seconds Billy and Johnboy appeared, both unshaven. ‘Fred’s been dumped at the scrap yard.’ Without a word they both rushed off to dress, by this time Rudy and Jack were standing next to me.

&nb
sp; As Johnboy pulled on his jacket he gently squeezed my arm. ‘Stay here lass we’ll bring him back.’

  I grabbed a blanket from the flat, and threw it towards the boys as they were leaving, Jack was dressed and going with them. Rudy stayed with me. ‘I’ll ring dads doctor Rudy, and then we can sort Sebs flat out, there’s no doubt as to who’s behind this.’ It was so obvious, how Fred had been dumped in the scrap yard; Seb was the only one with a key. What else was he capable of? Doctor Marshall looked after mum when she returned to us; he works within, and out of the limits. I’d woken him when I rang, and he’d assured me he’d make his way to The Docket immediately. I took the master key from the safe in my bedroom, and then we let ourselves into Sebs flat. Once inside, you could see how he’d abused the property, the rooms were strewn with unwashed clothes, filthy crockery and stale uneaten food, the stale smell of body odour was sour. The only room untouched was the second bedroom, which appeared to have never been used. ‘I’ll make this bed up Rudy, start packing everything else into bin bags and throw them in the passage.’ As Sebs flat was next to Rudy’s there was a small corridor at the side. After I’d made the bed and opened the window, Rudy had cleared most of Sebs possessions. ‘The locks need changing on this door today Rudy.’

  ‘I’ll see to that lass and I’ll open the doors so it’s easier for the boys to get back in.’

  ‘Doctor Marshall was the next to arrive, I made him aware of what I knew…which was minimal…and then the three of us waited for the boys to return with my beloved Fred…..The sound of the van screeching to a halt above the basement doors, sent shivers down my spine. The sight of Jack on the basement steps, holding what could have been a child wrapped in his arms, made my heart skip a beat. The blanket I’d given them was white…now it was soaked in blood. In the bedroom Jack carefully laid Fred onto the single bed, doctor Marshall immediately opened the sodden blanket…Fred lay covered in blood, some fresh and some almost dried….the room had a sickly sweet butcher shop odour. His injuries were hideous…he’d been sliced like bacon…his left eye had been gouged out and the goo floated like jelly in the socket…..Between the thumb and finger of his right hand, he was holding the severed index finger of his left hand…his nails were all missing…raw flesh… the smell became more putrid…and it was blatant his bowels had been released… The doctor cried out that he’d found a pulse…he instantly injected morphine into Fred’s agonized body…. ‘He’s hanging onto life by a thread…how? My heart pounded as one question continued to race through my mind…who did this? And did Fred know the bastard who tortured him? His swollen lips were oozing fresh blood…he was trying to speak….gently I picked up his blood drenched hand and bent forward, close to his face…my mind struggled to stay in that moment…to keep him close as his precious life ebbed away….this man had been my second father…I loved him with all my heart..My tears deluged my heart like warm rain…..I cradled his head to me and told him how much I loved him…I heard whispers of shallow breath…then one word…almost silent…though clear…Seb….And then Harry A appeared…as human…as he once was…He radiated love…he smiled at Fred and beckoned….come with me lad I’ll take you home…..As we all watched Fred drawn upwards with my father….all that was left was an empty lifeless defunct shell….