by Karen Clow
“Maybe you do have some of your grandfather in you” said the Turk laughing. “I will give you the money because I respected him, but I will expect the return that you spoke of within a month. Do not make me come and ask for it.”
Standing up he walked over to his safe, then with his back to Davy keyed in the security number. Taking out several wads of money and he placed them in front of Davy before sitting back down behind his desk. Davy picked up the cash and put it inside his jacket. The two men shook hands.
Back in the club the first few punters had started too arrived.
“The place will be packed by nine;” said Mehmet “can I invite you to stay and enjoy my hospitality?”
“I’ll have to decline; unfortunately we have to get back to London.”
On the drive home, Danny asked if everything was ok.
“Yeah everything’s good Danny, but the Turk is an arsehole. I’m going to have to teach him a lesson in respect!”
Danny had tried to find out what had been said between the two men, but Davy was keeping things close to his chest.
“I always thought you got along ok boss, or at least that’s the impression I get when the Turk comes to London to discuss business.”
“Well we don’t, doesn’t that just go to prove how people can get the wrong impression. He’s nothing but a mother fucker who should remember that this is my country before he goes bad mouthing me! I’ll tell you something Danny; he’s made a fucking big mistake threatening me tonight!”
Davy was still keeping quiet about what had happened. Danny just let him rant on about the Turk. He was relieved when they arrived home and ironically, he was also happy Sebastian was there because it meant he wouldn’t have to listen to Davy whinging on about the Turk. Danny opted for an early night and a DVD using the long drive as an excuse to retire early.
As the banks opened on Monday morning, Davy was one of the first customers. Depositing the money that Den was blackmailing him for. Davy wasn’t happy about having to use one of his clubs as security with the Turk, but he was cocky enough to believe it wouldn’t come to that, either by raising the cash through a drug deal, or winning at the poker game, he would keep his club. Unable to put the blackmail out his mind, he’d been toying with the idea of finding out who was behind the film, but trouble with that was, he had many enemies and since Nathan’s death, there were few people he trusted, especially with such a sensitive issue. Should he decide to look into it, there was one name that kept coming back to him. His granddad had often told him if there was ever a time that he needed anything found out; this particular man was the one to call. However, he had also said his services didn’t come cheap and that he was not someone to mess with. Davy decided to wait until he heard from the blackmailer, in the hope that maybe he could find out himself. The meeting with the Turk was also playing on his mind; his thoughts being, how dare he speak to him the way he had. Unfortunately for the Turk, Davy was one to hold a grudge and he was confident that sometime in the future the Turk would find out that, like his late grandfather, he demanded respect. Even if he didn’t always earn it, he seemed to think it was his birth right to be given it.
Davy had promised Seb they could visit the new dance studio once he’d been to the bank. Despite still being on his best behaviour regarding the recent attack on his lover, Davy knew that Seb was still wary. The incident had definitely taken the edge off their romance; he could sense that Seb was not quite as comfortable around him as before. He was hoping that the visit to the studio would help put him back in his good books, especially as Davy knew the work was all but finished. There were just the final touches to add.
Seb had already started taking names of prospective students as he was confident the new studio would be a resounding success. Despite his sister Tracy being slightly jealous, all his family and friends were eagerly awaiting the grand opening. Davy had already lined up caterers for a party and he would see to it that some very influential people would receive invitations. With their children attending the school, word would soon get round that it was the dance school to enrol at.
CHAPTER 45
Mickey was far more relaxed than usual, especially for a Monday, but it was the start of the Easter holidays and the girls had a week off school. Maria wasn’t looking forward to the following week when they would be returning to school full time, so she was determined to make the most of their time off. She suggested all of them going out somewhere that day, spending some quality time with the girls. Mickey had agreed that it was a good idea, although his motives weren’t quite as sincere as hers. The reason being it would be easier for his dad to do the business with Davy if everyone was out of the house. However, finding a good excuse for his dad not to join them would not be easy. He was grateful when just after half eight that morning the phone rang. It was Monica calling to ask what they were doing that day. Maria said they were taking the kids out and she would be welcome to join them.
When Maria told them Monica and George had brought a new car, a five seat Renault. Mickey saw the opportunity to leave his dad at home.
“Bloody typical,” said Mickey “two people carriers and we’ll still need to take another car because we’ll be a seat short.”
Billy caught on straight away.
“There you go Den” said Billy, “the perfect opportunity for you to stay home, you said earlier you didn’t really feel up to going.”
Mary questioned why he hadn’t wanted to go. Thinking quickly, he said he’d slept awkwardly and his neck hurt as a result.
“Oh love, you should have said.”
“I mentioned to Billy that I really didn’t feel up to a day, but I wouldn’t want to spoil it for you though, but as Billy pointed out you lot could all travel in the two cars if I stayed here.”
“Would you like me to stay with you love, I’m sure the others can manage without us?”
“The girls would be disappointed Mum if you don’t come and like dad said, he’s not ill, just a bit off colour that’s all. Come with us Mum, dad can have a rest.”
“Mickey’s right you should go,” said Den.
“If you’re sure then love. I did want to get all the kids something for Easter.”
“Course I’m sure, I’ll make the most of the peace and quiet while everyone out.”
Mickey glanced at Billy with a smug look on his face; it couldn’t have worked out better if they had planned it.
Monica finally arrived just after half ten. Maria was feeding the triplets. It was almost lunch time when they finally left. They decided to take the kids to Pirates play world. They would also eat lunch there as it had a small eatery.
At Pirates the three women fussed over the triplets, while the older children played. They left the two men to get the coffees and order lunch. While they waited to be served; Mickey congratulated Billy on his quick thinking earlier about leaving Den behind.
“Let’s just hope Den pulls it off Mick. What time is he going to call Davy?”
“I’m not sure, but I would imagine he’ll do it about three o’clock, based on the assumption that Davy is normally home around that time.”
They were interrupted by Billy’s phone bleeping. As he opened it, he grinned, it was a text from Hilary. She wanted to know if he fancied calling round to her place later this afternoon. He would text her back and say he was working. Although if it was ok with Mickey; he’d offer to go round the following afternoon.
“That’ll be fine Billy, but are you sure she can wait that long?”
“Probably do her good Mick; she’ll be gagging for it by then!”
After sending the text, within two minutes she had replied, ‘until tomorrow then big boy, I’ll keep it warm for you!’
It was quarter past three when Den made the call to Davy using the mobile he had bought.
“Listen carefully Mr Sheridan, turn on your computer. Within five minutes an account number will appear on your screen, send the money to that number. If the transaction isn’t mad
e immediately, the deal is off. Don’t bother trying to trace it. Once the money is in the account, I’ll send you the original film. If anything goes wrong and I don’t get the money, the film will be sent to every known criminal in England, along with every influential person who is connected to your lovers new dance studio.”
Davy attempted to speak, but Den ended the call. Seconds later, Den sent the details via the lap top he had bought. Then he waited for Davy to wire the money. Checking his watch, at precisely three minutes and twenty four seconds later the money was sent. After double checking, he transferred the money to another account and closed the one the money had originally been sent to. Within ten minutes of calling Davy, his son was considerably richer. There was no way the account could be traced. Den had not only been very clever, but also very devious. In some small way he felt a little bit of justice had been done as he dialled Mickey’s mobile. Not that the money came close to repaying the personal trauma his family had suffered when the twins were kidnapped, but even knowing that, Den did feel slightly smug.
Mickey was thrilled to receive the call. He couldn’t really ask his dad much, because he was in a public place, but he listened as his dad told him the money was in his account.
“That’s music to my ears Dad; put the champagne on ice for when we get back.”
He noticed the others were staring at him when he ended the call.
“What exactly are we celebrating darling?” asked Maria.
“We’ve just made a shit load of money babe. It must have been fate dad staying home today. He’s just told me he was on the net and some shares that I invested in several years ago hit an all time high. So he’s sorted it out and our bank account is looking very healthy, so good in fact, I think I’ll take everyone out for dinner later, if that’s ok with you babe?”
“Actually, I wouldn’t mind a takeaway, because then we can get the babies settled and the kids bathed, so we can eat in peace!”
At Mickey’s request, Monica would text George and ask if he could join them when he finished work. Monica was confident he would join them, especially as he’d gone into work on his days off. Mickey asked if George was off the following day. Monica nodded. He’d book a couple of days while the boys were off.
“Get him to grab some clothes and stuff,” said Mickey “then you could stay over. The boys’ can ride their ponies and it’ll be company for Maria and the girls. I’ve got to go into my office tomorrow morning. I just thought if George and Billy wanted to tag along we could possibly speak with the owner of the club in Maidstone, if he’s available.”
“George will jump at the chance if he doesn’t have to work. He’s dead keen to get the ball rolling about the club. Although as far as he’s concerned it’s virtually yours. He can’t wait to leave the Force or London for that matter.”
A few minutes later her phone vibrated. It was a text from George replying to the offer of joining them for dinner. Obviously he was still busy as it simply read, ‘Love to, I should be there by half seven, love G xxx’.
She text him back about staying over. He sent a thumbs up on his text.
It was almost six by the time they got home from Pirates. Mickey was keen to speak to his dad, but the triplets needed feeding and the older kids needed a bath and something to eat. It didn’t take long for him to realise that he would have to wait, but he didn’t want to discuss it when George was there.
As eight o’clock approached the house was quiet. All the kids were asleep. George had arrived around quarter to eight, moaning about the London traffic as the others greeted him. Mary sorted out what everyone wanted to eat and then Mickey phoned the order through. Everyone made their way into the lounge.
“Here, we haven’t locked the ponies up for the night,” said Den “I’ll nip over and do it now before the grub turns up.”
Mickey saw that as his opportunity to speak to his dad alone.
“I’ll join you Dad, we can give Rosie a walk at the same time.”
Once out of ear shot of the house, Den filled him in on how the call to Davy had gone.
“That’s great Dad, everything’s going to plan. I’d love to know how he feels; I bet he’s been torturing himself over who was behind it. The more I think about what that bastard did, the more I want revenge. I need a favour Dad. I want you to repeat the procedure in a few days.”
“I had a feeling you might say that son.”
“That bastard took me for a million Dad, so that’s what I want back. I’m going to teach Davy fucking Sheridan a lesson he won’t forget!”
He noticed that his dad seemed to hesitate before answering him. Mickey asked if his dad thought it was a bad idea.
“What if he can’t come up with the money, we both know he’s been having financial problems. The worse scenario would be he doesn’t pay and we send the film to some mutual friends, but that would mean you stand to lose five hundred grand. I know it was never about the money son, but let’s face it, that would be a fucking shame. Especially as we’ve got no intention of giving him the film anyway. I would have liked to have seen you come out of this a bit better that’s all.”
“You’ve got a point Dad and maybe there is another way. If he can’t come up with the cash then maybe we should look at some of his assets. He’s got several clubs and a couple of restaurants; maybe we could arrange to take a couple off his hands?”
“I’m not so sure that’s a good idea son, he would know it was you with the paperwork and I don’t want to see you bite off more than you can chew.”
“You worry too much Dad, who said anything about me doing it, even Davy’s not that fucking stupid. It wouldn’t take him long to work out who was behind taking the film and you were right about the money Dad, it’s not important. What we need is someone with the balls and the muscle to back the deal up. I’d give them the film; it would be worth it to see Davy get squeezed.”
“I presume by that you’ve got someone in mind?”
“Let’s just say I think it might be time to speak to Tony. Anyway, we should think about getting back to the house now before Maria sends Billy to find us. With any luck the food will turn up in a minute, I’m fucking starving!”
“Me too son, I could eat a nun’s crutch through the convent railings!”
They both laughed, they were still laughing and joking as they entered the house.
George talked about trying to speak to the club owner the following day. Mickey had managed to get the owners private number, so he suggested calling him. The others listened intently as Mickey arranged over the phone for them to meet with him the following day. He was just about to tell the others what the bloke had said when the food turned up.
The entire evening was spent talking about the new club. By eleven the ladies had heard enough, so they headed for bed.
Everyone was up early the next morning, the kids wanting to ride their ponies. The men had arranged to meet the club owner at the club at three o’clock. It was just after lunch when they left as Mickey had some papers to collect from the office first. Despite working from home and employing the services of another solicitor, there were still some cases he liked to handle himself.
When they arrived at his office Billy suggested him and the others grabbing a coffee while Mickey did his business. There was a nice little café just over the road from his office. He’d meet them there when he’d finished.
Forty minutes later Mickey walked into the café. He wasn’t surprised to find Billy chatting to the young waitress. It wasn’t hard to see that she was quite impressed with him and his friendly banter. After she left to get Mickey a coffee, he joked with Billy about her.
“He’s already got her phone number,” said George “apparently he’s taking her for a drink later in the week.”
“Fuck me Billy you should carry a government health warning!”
“Can I help it Mick if women find me irresistible,” joked Billy.
They left the café at half two. The club was only a ten minute
drive away, but they didn’t want to be late.
The owner, Edward Banks, was pleased to meet them. When Mickey introduced the others, Edward told them to call him Woody.
They talked for a few minutes then Den asked Woody what the turn over from the club was like. He wasn’t surprised when Woody quoted him two sets of figures, one for the tax man and one for his pocket.
“Well I’m no accountant, but that sounds good to me,” said Mickey “Can I ask if you’ve had much trouble with the club in the past?”
Woody seemed quite honest, although the fact that he wanted to make a clean sale was obviously going to have some bearing on his answers.
“We don’t get much trouble now, but we did have some from another club boss a couple of years ago, Roger Burke. He’s well known locally, I’m his main competition. He has asked me to sell him the club several times.”
“Can I ask why you didn’t, especially as you were thinking about retiring from the club business?”
“Because the fucker was offering peanuts, that’s why! I’d give the place away before I fucking sell it to him, the smarmy bastard, I detest him. It was after I refused to sell we had a few incidents in the club, nothing too heavy, but I knew he was behind it. So I went and had a little chat with him.”
They could all see Woody would not be one to back down; he had that look about him. The type of look that tells you, if the going got tough, he would get tougher.
“He’s already made another offer on the club through his solicitor. I won’t lie to you, but even after I told him it was sold, he made it clear that he wants it.”
“Should we expect any trouble from this Roger if we buy it?”
“I would have said yes before, but for some unknown reason, he seems to have accepted that the club is as good as sold. My guess is he’s checked out who’s buying it and for reasons best known to him, he’s backed down. Which if I’m honest has surprised me, but like I say, I’d fucking give it away rather than see him here. This place is a little gold mine and from what I hear you lads are thinking of doing the back room up? I thought about it myself a couple of years ago, if I was staying I probably would have done. If you’re thinking of expanding, I have heard that the pool hall next door might be coming up for sale. Shame really, Pete the owner has been there a long time; he was there when I was a teenager. Pete’s a decent old boy, but he’s in his seventies now and having trouble with his ticker. He lost his wife last year, nice woman only in her sixties died from cancer. Anyway I’d like to see him get a fair price for it, so if you’re interested I’ll have a word with him. Obviously there will be a few people interested in buying it and keeping it on as a pool hall, but I’m pretty sure if you had a nice chat with the local planning office, you could get permission to extend the club.”