Free Fall

It was ruled a suicide.

When Coldham Fintan Noose III, nick named Fin, heard about it he was totally shocked and didn’t believe Kenneth Loesing had killed himself.

Fin knew Kenneth Loesing pretty well. Their relationship had been a difficult one. Both were self-assured, ambitious and leaders. They could be arrogant, selfish and stubborn. While Kenneth was conservative Fin was liberal. Fin was in his late twenties when Kenneth Loesing died, aged 66.

Kenneth Loesing was balding, grey haired, craggy faced and blue eyed. Fin was light ash blond and blue grey eyed.

They had met four years earlier. Fin started working for Kenneth Loesing under a pretense. He was a burglar and after a piece of jewelry belonging to Mr. Loesing.

The new driver was too own minded in Kenneth’s opinion and due to this they were at logger heads.

Later he found out Fin wasn’t what he claimed to be and was angry and upset about it. Thank goodness Fin kept his cover intact and Kenneth believed Fin was a security specialist.

Fin started discreet inquiries if Kenneth had been near bankruptcy, indebted, involved in shady business or had martial problems. Nothing came up, so Fin was convinced something else must have happened.

Kenneth was on a business trip in Singapore, when he “committed suicide”. He had checked in at his hotel – when it opened in the 80s it had been the tallest hotel in the world – a few days earlier.

Fin had spent part of his honeymoon at the same hotel and knew that all guest rooms had balconies. He didn’t believe Kenneth jumped. Had it been an accident? Some underestimated how vertigo inducing the height could be and simply fell. Or had something more sinister occurred and Kenneth had been pushed or forced to jump? Fin was puzzled why someone would want to kill Kenneth. Fin was sure Kenneth had made enemies during his career or even in his private life.  He could be quite brash. Was this enough to kill him? Fin couldn’t let it rest and since there was currently no new job waiting for him he decided to go to Singapore himself and investigate.

Fin took his wife and daughter with him and booked into the same hotel as Kenneth had. Interesting enough some of the hotel staff recognized Fin and Frieda. They were delighted Fin and Frieda had grown their family and spoiled Casey.

Fin spoke with the receptionists, dropping casually that he knew Kenneth Loesing and that his death was a tragedy. He found out Kenneth had been a regular and made no signs during his final stay to be depressed and behaved like always: demanding, a bit rude, but generous with tips.

Fin heard from the check in staff that Kenneth’s favorite bar was on the top floor. He checked out discreetly which staff members had dealt with Kenneth.

One of the bartenders remembered seeing Kenneth with a lady, who could have been his daughter or granddaughter. Fin guessed she must be quite young. According to the bartender the lady was about 5 ft. 7 in. tall and had caramel colored hair. She was thin and attractive.

Fin was puzzled. Who was that mysterious girl? Kenneth’s mistress? Fin wondered if maybe back of house knew more. He thought the house keepers wouldn’t trust a male, so he asked his wife to speak with them. Frieda took her time to gain the trust of the ladies and gentlemen. At first the mostly Filipino staff didn’t trust Frieda. It was unusual for a guest to be interested in them. When Frieda had gained their confidence she dropped that she had heard about the recent suicide and wondered what the staff made out of this. Firstly and not surprisingly jumps occurred more or less frequently. They agreed with their fellow employees and Fin. There hadn’t been any indication or reason why Mr. Loesing would have killed himself. He had behaved as usual. Mentioning the young woman in Kenneth’s company the staff got shy. They didn’t want to speak about that. Finally Maribel agreed to talk. They met at a café. Normally Frieda was a coffee lover, but for some reason she couldn’t take the smell and felt nauseous, so she did forgo her usual cuppa and ordered mint tea instead. She was glad Maribel wanted to sit on the patio. The smell wasn’t as intrusive there. “So, the lady staying with Mr. Loesing, was she his wife?” Maribel shook her head. “No, I have met Mr. Kenneth’s wife and children. I know what they look like. Ms. Anna is around 15 years older than the missy.” “So the girl was Mr. Loesing’s mistress?” “My mates and I believe so.” Based on Maribel’s description Frieda made a sketch of the woman. Maribel advised a few changes. By the end a clear picture emerged.

Frieda and Fin discussed how to proceed. They tried first to see if the receptionists knew the mistress’s name. Unfortunately they didn’t. Fin and Frieda dismissed the idea to check with Singaporean immigration. They didn’t want to draw attention that they were investigating themselves. So what could they do? Frieda thought of going to contact Kenneth’s family. Fin wanted to engage friends of his to hack into the US Department of State to locate her. Frieda didn’t believe the young woman was American. She thought Kenneth’s lover was Australian or New Zealander. They agreed on calling Patsy Loesing, Kenneth’s mother, with whom Fin had a good relationship.

Patsy was surprised to hear from Fin. He wasn’t the most loved person of the Loesing’s. “Mrs. Patsy, my condolences.” Fin offered. She burst into tears. Kenneth was only dead a month. It was hard on Patsy. She always had believed she would die before her son and couldn’t believe he had committed suicide, but he must have done it, because he had obviously jumped.

Normally Patsy was strong and didn’t show much emotions, so she was a bit embarrassed about her crying on the phone. “Mrs. Patsy, I don’t believe Kenneth killed himself.” “He must have done it…” Fin had debated with himself before calling if he should be straight forward. Knowing Patsy he thought she would prefer honesty over beating around the bush. “Did you know Kenneth had a girl staying with him in Singapore?” Patsy’s free hand went to her mouth. “I had no idea!” “Well, I suspect she was his mistress. I’d like to talk with her, since she was probably the last one to have seen Kenneth alive. Do you think your family might be able to help identify her?” “I’m not sure, but I will check.” Fin explained he had a sketch of the person and Patsy promised to sweet talk her daughter in law Anna to have a look and she herself would too of course. Anna didn’t want to hear anything about it. “I fucking don’t care what Mr. Noose wants! My husband is dead and Mr. Noose has nothing better to do than accuse Kenneth of having an affair!” “Remember when he worked for us he was always honest.” “He lied and he’s doing it now again! I bet he’s gloating about our misfortune.” “He lied to protect us. Don’t forget the Wallenstein branch of the family wanted to harm us and Mr. Noose was here to protect us. Otherwise he never lied and was a good employee. I trust his instincts.” “If it really means so much to you, go ahead and invite him!” Anna gave in, but she wasn’t happy at all.

Fin, Frieda and Casey travelled to Dallas, where the Loesing’s lived. Fin returned to the mansion, feeling tense, sad and guilty. Fin could guess he wasn’t going to be made very welcome and he could understand it.

As expected he was let in by Florence Durazo, the housekeeper, and led to the living room. All the family members were there. Fin was a bit wary of the youngest son Javier, who had kicked him the last time they met. Thank goodness Javier gave him only icy stares like Anna, Wylie and Johnny, the oldest sons, did. The only welcoming faces were Patsy’s and Adrien’s, the youngest and only daughter of the Loesing’s.

Patsy looked at the sketch first. She shook her head. “No, I don’t recognize her. Sorry.” She handed it to Anna, who briefly glanced at it and said. “Nope.” Johnny, who was fifteen denied ever seeing her. Fin gave up hope. The family probably didn’t want to face that Kenneth had been cheating or they simply didn’t want to help him because of their shared past. Wylie identified the unknown person. “That’s Sarah Condos. She was at the guest lecture my dad gave about oil, environment protection and why it is safe to drill in National Parks, like the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska last year at his Alma Mater. I remember her so clearly, because she sat beside me and blew Dad kisses. I was wondering why she would do that…” The seventeen year old had now a better idea. He had already guessed that his dad might have had affairs before Sarah. There had been signs, but Wylie had been too young to understand it.

From then it was easy. Sarah was Australian and had been an exchange student at the University of Dallas when Kenneth Loesing had given his lecture for the Economics department. She had returned to her native Australia, but not to her home town Adelaide. She now studied in Sydney.

Checks confirmed Sarah had been in Singapore at the same time as Kenneth.

To get a better picture of Sarah Fin wanted to observe her, so he had to get a visa from the Australian Embassy.  He was relieved when he got it and finally could be on his way.

Sarah Condos was quite active. She went to her classes every day and to Aikido training twice weekly and worked three times a week as a waitress at a greasy spoon. Weekends Sarah met with friends or stayed home.

Fin watched her closely and couldn’t detect that she was upset about Kenneth’s death.

When Sarah was at university Fin broke into her flat. It was easy peasy. The flat was chaotic. Fin thought it was sad, because the contemporary design of the furniture and airy feel of the rooms didn’t fit with the dropped clothing everywhere, dirty dishes in the sink and the strewn books, papers and magazines around the living and bed room. Fin searched in the untidy environment. Fin nabbed the most actual diary and checked out the photographs he found. Some showed Kenneth and Sarah together in different locations. In a few they were kissing, confirming they had had an affair. He took photos of those.

One of the commodes drew Fin’s attention. The top drawer had a lock and seemed slightly larger than the others. Fin tried to open it, but it was locked. Fin didn’t want to leave behind evidence he had opened the drawer, so he went looking for the key. He found it in a ceramic bowl in the kitchen with other knickknacks. The key fit. Fin was surprised how heavy the drawer was. When pulling it out it nearly crashed on the floor. Checking the content Fin saw different gun licenses. Underneath was clothing and weapons. Fin could identify some of them, for example a Smith & Wesson 0.357 Magnum, a Luger 9 x 9 mm Parabellum, a Harrington & Richardson 0.32 Magnum, another Smith & Wesson with a 0.44 Magnum caliber and a Remington 0.41. Fin shuddered. He didn’t like weapons. Sarah on the other side seemed to know how to handle them. Fin returned the content and drawer to its original state and brought the key back. Having seen everything Fin left.

To Fin’s dismay the pages during Sarah’s Singapore stay had been torn out, so he guessed she had something to hide.

Fin read the other entries, though, to get an idea what made Sarah tick. She seemed self-centered and concerned with her own gain. Fin didn’t mind ambitiousness – it was a trait he had himself – but there were things he would never consider doing, like stealing from his brother or friends.

Fin had experience with killing. He had murdered someone once nearly a decade earlier, having had no choice about it. The experience nearly broke him. He would kill again if necessary. He did everything in his power to avoid it at all costs, though. Another time Fin had to protect his family, so he ordered an assassination. It hadn’t been done lighthearted or had been easy. He felt about both decisions regret and guilt.

Reading the diary Fin had the impression Sarah Condos didn’t have any scruples. In fact Fin believed he was dealing with a psychopath and Sarah was highly dangerous. He was also very sure she was responsible of Kenneth’s demise. He tasked his middle man and friend Adam Granato to organize police officers in Singapore, the US and Australia to help Fin in solving the case and contacts in Malaysia and Singapore in organized crime.

Fin met Anthony Smith at the police station, where he was based. According to the information provided by Adam Anthony was 58 and twice divorced. Fin was picked up by Anthony at the reception and brought to his office.

Anthony was on the shorter side and Fin thought some fat hid that Anthony was quite strong and muscular. Fin guessed Anthony spent lots of time outside, because his face was weather beaten, making his green eyes stand out. Anthony had grey hair and a mustache. His office was tidy. There were lots of files, though.

Anthony Smith didn’t know what he should make out of Fin. It was a bit unusual to receive requests from his American and Singaporean counter parts to assist a civilian. Anthony trusted his instincts and couldn’t shake the feeling Fin wasn’t a security specialist. He could have sworn Fin operated on the wrong side of the law. Of course Fin might have changed from illegal to legal work.

Fin was respectful and used the right rank. He thought Fin was too smooth and nick named him “The Eel”.

“Coffee?” Anthony asked Fin after offering him a seat. “That would be nice, Superintendent Smith.” Returning with some awful brew he took a seat opposite Fin behind the writing desk. Fin told him his plans. Anthony wasn’t sure if Fin was crazy. “It’s risky what you are planning to do. What if she doesn’t take the bait? What if she admits killing this Kenneth, but it won’t stand up in court due to it being seen as having made a confession under duress or in the worst case she will try to kill you?” “Well, if she doesn’t confess, it was at least worth a try. I will stroke her ego, so it will be definitely not under duress and if she wants to liquidate me I hope it doesn’t work out. If it does, I died at least for a noble cause.” Anthony shook his head. An idealist! Anthony couldn’t believe it. He wasn’t sure if it was the right motive, but against better judgment he agreed to go ahead with it.

Anthony and Fin worked out the plan for the operation. Fin was equipped with a microphone, transmitter and a bullet proof west. “Try your best not to get shot in the head.” Anthony suggested kindly. Fin laughed. “Thanks for the advice. I’ll try.” 

Fin chose a day he was sure Sarah Condos was working at the greasy spoon. He thought his chances of getting killed during a confrontation there were reduced. Fin took a seat at a window table. Soon Sarah approached Fin to greet him warmly and hand him the menu. “Hey, I think I recognize you from somewhere. Have we met?” Fin asked, looking puzzled. “No, we definitely haven’t met. I would remember someone as good looking as you.” Sarah flirted. “My, thank you! I can only return the complement.” Fin replied charmingly. Sarah thought she had flattered Fin, hoping for a big tip. Fin pretended to study the menu, watching Sarah covertly to sashay away. She was attractive, indeed, and intelligent. It only reinforced he had to tread carefully. He had a look at the menu. When Sarah returned Fin ordered an orange juice and the fried chicken. The food was okay, but Fin’s stomach was knotted with nerves. Sarah arrived to clear the table. “Was it tasty?” “Very good.” She was about to leave, when Fin grabbed Sarah by the wrist. “I remember now! Kenneth has told me about you and shown me pictures of you together.” Sarah frowned. “Kenneth? I don’t know what you are talking about.” “Kenneth Loesing. He was my former boss, but we kept in contact. Before he died he told me how happy he was to have found someone young, attractive and ambitious. Kenneth thought he could have both, you as a mistress and his wife.” “He was wrong about that.” Sarah spat, sending angry daggers with her eyes at Fin. “I must say I admire you.” Fin said. “Why?” Sarah tried to free herself. Fin held on with an iron grip. “You were very clever. The police thought it was a suicide.” “I don’t know what you are talking about.” “Of course you do.” “No, I don’t! He jumped, because I finished the relationship.” “How convenient. Don’t you think you helped him a bit to make up his mind?” “Why would I do that?” “You felt betrayed by him. In your imagination he was leaving his wife and marrying you. When confronted with the truth – Kenneth was never going to get divorced – you decided no one should have him.” “And how would I have been able to make such a strong man as Kenneth jump?” “Very easy. Officially you left for Australia. In reality you crossed the border to Malaysia and spent some time in Johor Bahru. I know for a fact you bought an illegal weapon there. You returned to Singapore and met with Kenneth in his room. Maybe you told him you had a rethink and wanted the relationship going again to gain access…” Fear flickered in Sarah’s eyes. “Safely in his room you managed to get him on the balcony, got out your pistol from your handbag and left him a choice: Either jump or get shot. He chose the first, playing in your hands. The police would believe it was either an accident or suicide, since there was no evidence of forced entry and nothing was missing. It had happened before, so there was no reason for suspicion.” “Wow, you have it worked out perfectly”, Sarah replied ironic, “how do you explain there is a boarding pass available in my name two days after I split up with Kenneth?” “Conveniently your identical twin sister lives in Singapore. You two exchanged passports, so your sister’s will show she has been to JB – short for Johor Bahru -, while yours has a stamp you left Singapore.” “I see you have covered all your bases. What are you? A private detective?” “No. I just couldn’t believe Kenneth killed himself and tried to figure out what happened.” “How can I insure you keep quiet about it?” Fin asked a question instead: “So is this how it happened?” Sarah hesitated for a moment. Her shoulders slumped. A sign she gave up. “I thought my plan was foolproof…” Then Sarah laughed. “You should have seen Kenneth’s face when I pulled out my Luger. He forgot about Champagne and sex on the balcony quickly!” Fin didn’t find it funny. Turning serious Sarah said: “Kenneth begged, but I wouldn’t listen. He had treated me badly – even laughed at me for being so stupid to believe I would ever be Mrs. Loesing. Nobody leaves me! I am the one, who decides if it’s over or not!” Sarah realized she had said too much. Her mind was working furiously. The kitchen! Fin had released her arm earlier, so she could easily march off. She returned minutes later with more juice. “I think we have earned our drinks.” She said. Fin didn’t trust the offering. He was lucky when plain clothed police officers arrived to arrest Sarah. It caused some stir. Anthony entered too. He said: “Congratulations.” “Thanks. Can you do me a favor and have the orange juice analyzed?”  “Why?” “Don’t you think it’s a bit suspicious Sarah offered me a glass without any charge or me asking for it?” “You are right. I’ll have tests done.”

The results showed the beverage contained rat poisoning. It meant further trouble for Sarah, who was charged with murder, attempted murder and owning an illegal weapon. Singapore and the United States wanted her extradited, which she fought with tooth and nail. Sarah won that battle and was sentenced in Australia to life without parole.

For the Loesing’s the case meant closure and they were grateful to Fin, who was satisfied he had figured out how Sarah had committed her crime and sad and angry, because Kenneth’s death had been so senseless.

©2017

Ability

David Beasley was nervous. He was mussing his hair and swearing. David combed his hair for the second time in as many minutes. David had heard of course about Fin Noose and he felt privileged to maybe get the chance to work together with the best in his field, but he was worried. Fin's mercurial temper was legendary. David had heard Fin was a perfectionist and always dressed to the nines. David normally preferred more casual dress. Being unsure what to wear, he thought it was best to put on a suit and tie.

It was time to go. David didn't want to come too late. A good impression was important and David didn't want to set off Fin's temper at the beginning. David had liked learning from Ruth. She never shouted and led by example. He feared Fin would be the total opposite. He had also heard rumors that Fin was violent and had punched a team mate, because he had failed in his task. Reassurances from Adam, his middle man, Fin was a good guy, hadn't helped.

Having arrived at Fin's room, he took a deep breath and knocked. A minute or so later - what felt like ages - the door opened. David had expected Fin was formal dressed. To his surprise it was a mix between black dress pants, a black t-shirt and a suit jacket in the same color. Fin's age was a surprise too. David had always believed Fin was in his forties, based on how much he had done.  Fin looked barely older than him, was tall, blond and had blue grey eyes. David's host smiled at him. Fin noticed David, who had red-brown hair and blue eyes, was nervous. Fin tried to ease David's tension. "Come on in." Originally David had expected Fin was staying in a suite. He found out both had the same room type only different views and a slightly different layout. David liked that Fin didn't put on airs. Fin had watched a Spanish news channel while waiting for David. "Do you speak Spanish, Mr. Noose?" "Yes and please call me Fin." "David." Fin smiled at his colleague and shook his hand. Fin offered David a seat. "If you want to get rid of your tie to be more comfortable, I have no issues with that." David was glad Fin made the suggestion. While removing his tie, David checked out the room further and noticed it was tidy. This was fitting with being a perfectionist. "Would you like something to drink or eat?" Fin offered. "Coke, please." Fin went to the minibar to retrieve the soft drink for David and a bottle of Vichy Catalan for himself. When settling down again, Fin said: "Tell me more about yourself." "Well, I guess I should start with my parents. Don't get me wrong, I really love them very much, but I believe they were simply crazy..." Fin's eyebrow rose, but didn't reply to the statement. "They had it all - a great job at the United Nations Headquarters for my mother and my father was an investment banker, both pretty successful. According to them their lives were too stressful and they decided to quit it all, when they had enough money together. They moved to rural Wyoming and bought a cattle farm. On the side they grow organic vegetables and have a few free roaming chicken. While my older brother loved it, I was bored as hell. I was up to a lot of mischief. A dare caused me to find my true calling. My friends bet that I wouldn't dare break into the ramshackle house of an old, deranged lady. Of course I was tempted, so I did my homework and broke successfully in. Even so my friends were waiting outside, I brought a token that I really was inside. Naturally I was the hero. I liked the thrill, but also the organization behind a heist. Some maybe find it tedious, but I thrive... At home I was also famous to be a fixer. If somebody needed something I knew where to get it from. When it was time for me to go to college I had heard through the grapevine that Ruth Frankham was open for tutoring. I approached her and after meeting up a few times she agreed to take me on. I told my parents I was going to L.A. and studying subjects involving security. They don't know what I do. To cut a long story short I learned everything I could from Ruth and I'd like now to start out by myself." "Ruth is specialized in museums burglaries, isn't she?" "Yes." David told Fin about the break ins Ruth and he had done together. "You can show me what you have learned. I want you to break into the Alto Museum and get me this figurine." Fin showed David a photograph of the item he was looking for. David was a bit taken aback. Fin had requested it friendly, but it was clear it was an order. He had hoped Fin would trust him enough to employ him immediately. It felt like a slap in the face. Grudgingly David accepted the challenge. He left soon afterwards, grumbling to himself. Of course the job was simple enough and he managed to figure out the low security quickly. Within a week he brought the figurine to Fin, who smiled warmly and said: "Well done. I'd like to discuss the job with you and to have your advice, but before we'll start can you return the figurine?" David was speechless. All the work for nothing? "It wasn't senseless. I needed to check you can fulfil the tasks at hand, since I don't know you. You have proven you can do the job and I didn't expect anything else, when you come highly recommended by Adam. You don't have to break in again to return the artwork. I'm sure you will find a creative way to return it." It seemed Fin was able to read David's mind. The explanation made sense and David felt flattered by the compliment Fin had paid him and their middle man. "Alright. After the figurine is back, I'll be in touch with you." "Of course." David didn’t need long to develop a plan. He cleaned the figurine to make sure none of his finger prints were on it. He packaged it and approached a homeless man. David offered the homeless 100 Euro if he would deliver the box. Of course the man agreed to do the job. The homeless left it one morning on the door steps of the museum. The staff was glad to have the figurine undamaged back.

Fin invited David a few days later for a tapas lunch. They talked about private things, likes, dislikes and family. David was at the moment single. In his own opinion he was too busy to take care of a girlfriend. Fin could understand David. If he hadn't met Frieda, who could live with his absences and philandering, he would have had no relationship at all. "Have you ever been caught as a teenager for breaking and entering?" "No. I was lucky, I guess. And you?" "My parents caught me stealing. All hell broke loose afterwards." "I can imagine. Once my friend and I had the brilliant idea to throw stones into some windows of our neighbor's home. My mother was very displeased, when the local sheriff brought me home. He let my mother deal with me and there weren't any official repercussions." "That's good. My parents didn't go to the police." "Well, I guess that's what loving parents would do..." Fin cleared his throat. His eye color changed to blue. "It hadn't anything to do with caring for me. My parents were concerned about their own image. It would have embarrassed them no end to have to admit their son was a criminal." David sensed he was on shaky ground now and changed the subject. The dinner was enjoyable and the two seemed to click. Both believed they could work together. David and Fin made an appointment to discuss the heist in privacy. David was surprised it was in Bangladesh. He had never been to Asia before, so it was going to be a culture shock. He looked forward to the challenge and working together with another genius, Charles Harold Fox, within in the burglar community.

Fin proved to be pleasant, took David’s finding serious and was open to his suggestions. The same couldn’t be said about Charles. He was the oldest and most experienced, no doubts about it. He looked harmless with his slight built, light brown hair and green grey eyes. David was impressed how arrogant and dismissive Charles was. David wasn’t looking exactly forward to meetings, where all three discussed security issues and what needed to be done. Fin was civil to Charles, but David noticed he struggled to keep his temper in check. David admired Fin’s self-control and diplomacy. He somehow managed to keep them on track and achieve their goals without coming to blows or having big arguments, especially when Charles put down David. The youngest member of the team at age 24 tried hard to shrug Charles’s behaviour off. It wasn’t easy and sometimes he was still seething after the meeting was over.

Fin and David didn’t have to spend time together, when they weren’t planning the heist, but they enjoyed each other’s company and shared regularly meals or went exploring Dhaka. Charles didn’t mingle with them. David thought Charles believed himself to be above Fin and him. David wasn’t happy Charles had a big ego. He was glad, though, Charles didn’t want to hang out with them. The atmosphere would have been tense and it would have been only a question of time until either Fin or he would have been thoroughly fed up with Charles. David didn’t need to spend time with someone, who so clearly didn’t like him.

Soon the planning had reached its end stage and Fin had to make up his mind, who was stealing the first stamp set issued after the independence of Bangladesh and who was taking an antiquity. The team was going to split up. Two were going to steal the Buddha relief and one the stamps. David hoped he didn’t have to work together with Charles. His biggest wish was that he was going to be allowed to steal the stamps. Fin let Charles and him know he had come to a decision and would tell them in his room. David was nervous and excited at the same time. It was a struggle for him not to mess up his hair again. Charles was already there, sipping a glass of Mum water. Fin was looking out of the window, enjoying the magnificent views over the city. It seemed the two hadn’t talked while waiting for David. “Take a seat, David.” Fin said. He was pacing the room now, before he settled down on the bed. “David, you will break into the Museum of Independence and get the stamps. Charles and I will take care of the Buddha Relief.” David wanted to hug Charles and Fin, but contained himself and said simply: “Thank you. I really appreciate you give me the chance to proof myself. I won’t let you down.” “No problem. We’ll do the jobs tonight.” Fin smiled. Charles congratulated David. He seemed genuinely happy for David. Was something wrong with Charles? David didn’t bother to find out the reason for Charles’s unusual behaviour. He focused completely on the break in. All three had staked out the security of the two museums they intended to burgle, discussed the best way to enter and where their meeting point was going to be afterwards.

David didn’t have issues with disarming the alarm system. What was a bit tricky was opening the entrance door. Finally David had unlocked it. Having come well prepared he knew where the stamps were located. No one disturb him, so he picked the lock of the show case and took the stamps out without leaving any trace, stowing them in his shoulder bag. He left the same way he arrived and didn’t encounter anyone.

Fin and Charles had been successful too.

The team disbanded soon after handing over the hot items to a middle man.

Having proven David could work alone as well as part of a team he was soon on the way to a stellar career as master burglar. 

©2016

Queen Casey

Thanks to EW, who inspired this story.

Daddy was so unfair! Casey was angry and to calm herself down she fled into her own dream world.

She was Queen Casey of Bruman and the Sultan adored her!

Casey was lying comfortable on a golden upholstered day bed outside her pink palace, surrounded by her favorite toys. The sun was shining and the air humid like in Miami. Casey enjoyed the great weather and was even happier when the Sultan of Bruman approached her. He definitely knew how to please her - unlike her father. He wore an opulent uniform and looked exactly like the Aztec warrior in her picture book. The Sultan carried a chocolate cake. "Here you go, darling." The chocolate cake looked delicious. Since Queen Casey wore finery, she feared if she was eating herself she was going to ruin her beautiful azure dress. The Sultan seemed to read her mind. "Let me!" He said, picked up the fork and fed Casey. She sighed with pleasure. The cake was yummy and she wanted more. It was of course immediately forthcoming. Casey’s toys cheered her on. She shared with them. Queen Casey was beloved by her subjects due to her generosity and kindness.

Unfortunately it was time to return to reality. Father and daughter had arrived at home. Daddy helped Casey out of her car seat. She was still upset her Daddy hadn’t given her cake. A clementine was NOT satisfactory! Casey hoped Daddy had learned his lesson and treated her like the queen she was. Casey and her father Fin might didn’t look similar, but both could hold a long grudge. So when nothing sweet was served that evening, Casey ignored her elder. The next morning was another day, though, and the cold shoulder treatment was over.

©2016

The Cookie

The Noose family was checking in. All went smoothly until five year old Solomon asked: "Where is my cookie?" "Sol!" Frieda, his mother reprimanded him. Fin, his father fought hard not to smile. They had recently stayed in a lot of DoubleTree by Hilton properties and of course they had always received cookies at check in. Fin loved the cookies in fact. They were gooey, contained a generous amount of chocolate chips and were warm. Thinking about them made Fin's mouth water. His thoughts were interrupted by eight year old Casey, who said: "Dummy, it's not a Doubletree." Sol got flustered. He didn't like being called a dummy by his sister. Before a fight could break out the receptionist said with a smile: "I will see if I can find a cookie for you.” She left for a few moments and returned with one for Casey and one for Solomon. The siblings thanked the lady. “You are welcome. I hope you will enjoy your stay.” She handed a key card to Fin, explaining, where the family could find their suite. Taking a bite from his cookie, when they were out of earshot Sol complained: “It’s not warm and there are too few choc chips.” “Well, darling, they use a different recipe and the lady went above and beyond for you, because they normally don’t give you cookies.” Frieda explained patiently. “Wouldn’t it be nice every hotel would offer free cookies?” Sol asked. “Yes, it would be definitely nice.” “And all should taste like the ones at the DoubleTree.” Casey continued Sol’s dream. “Yeah!” Sol agreed wholeheartedly. He had already forgotten he was angry with his sister and couldn’t wait to see their room.

©2015

Jealousy

This story builds on to "The Real Andreas Lucarini". Hope you like it.

Andreas Lucarini stared at his boyfriend Augustus Shelton and their friend Coldham Fintan Noose III. Andreas’s blood was boiling with jealousy. Augustus, who was tall, lanky and African American with cinnamon colored skin, kissed Fin, as their friend was nicknamed, on both cheeks. Andreas didn’t like it one bit.

Besides he was hung over and Augustus’s good mood got on his nerves. Andreas, who had red hair and green eyes, hadn’t also approved of Augustus calling Fin his sunshine just before kissing him. Andy, as Andreas preferred to be called, had met Augustus thanks to hitting on Fin, who let him down gently by saying he was straight and happily married. Frieda, Fin’s wife, had thought that their mutual friend Augustus would be an ideal match, so Fin arranged a meeting of Augustus and Andy without letting the others know they were set up. It had worked perfectly well.

Suddenly Andy wasn’t so sure if Fin had been telling the truth. When Andy had first met Fin he had been certain Fin was gay. Maybe Fin was a closet homosexual and his lover was Augustus. Andy and Augustus had agreed to a monogamous relationship. Andy would have been very disappointed if Augustus was unfaithful. Normally Andy wasn’t jealous, but Fin was so attractive, Andy could have understood if Augustus and Fin were fuck buddies.

Fin had noticed Andy’s dark glares and tried to re-assure him. "Don't worry, I won't have Augustus for dessert. He's a long term friend and nothing else." "You kissed him!" "Wrong. He kissed me and believe me I would be more than happy if he wouldn't do that. I'm not into men." Andy lowered his eyes. He tried hard to hide his feelings. He was still jealous. Fin sighed. He was blond and had blue grey eyes. There were a few things Andy found interesting about Fin. He was good looking, had dress sense and was fit. Fin was generous and honest. Another remarkable feature were Fin’s eyes. They changed color, depending on his mood. Sometimes to Andy’s chagrin, Fin seemed to be able to read other people’s mind. Now didn’t seem to be different. Fin didn’t try to convince Andy he wasn’t interested in Augustus. Instead he tucked into his scrambled eggs and kept quiet.

After breakfast Augustus and Fin were washing up. Andy felt another stab of jealousy, when Fin whispered something into Augustus’s ear. Was it something endearing or a love declaration? It seemed to please Augustus, who smiled at Fin. It hurt to see those two so close.

When it was time for Fin to leave for Seattle, Augustus and Andy accompanied Fin downstairs to say good bye. Of course Augustus had to kiss Fin again. Andy had enough. He grabbed his boyfriend, saw off Fin and pushed Augustus inside. Augustus protested. Andy pressed his lips tight together and dragged his boyfriend along. Back at the apartment Andy asked straight forward: “Do you and Fin have sex?” At first Augustus was totally perplexed. His jaw dropped. Then Augustus could barely contain the laughter bubbling up. It was amusing to imagine Fin’s reaction if Augustus really tried to make love. Andy saw Augustus’s lips twitch before turning serious. “No. He is my best friend. I’m not attracted to him and he’s straight for that matter. He would kill me if I made any sexual advances. Well, maybe not kill me, but ignore me for the rest of our lives.” “Why do you touch him, then, and give him smooches? It drives me mad and makes me think you want to be with him instead of me!” “Oh, no, darling, don’t feel that way!” Augustus replied. “It’s not my intention to hurt you. I’m just having some fun teasing Fin and see how far I can go. You are the one and only for me.” Augustus stroked Andy’s cheek softly and his eyes lit up the way they only did when he saw Andy or thought about him, so Andy believed him and was pacified. Augustus promised to try and keep in mind how his interactions with Fin made Andy feel and managed to turn his flirting a bit down. Both Fin and Andy appreciated it.

 
©2015

Oddham Finbar Nose

Jamison Powell was looking forward to the Thanks Giving Dinner his son gave every year. He enjoyed the company of younger people. The upcoming dinner was going to be interesting, because his son Stanford had changed his management team and there were a lot of new faces.

Stanford introduced Jamison to one of the new managers. He caught the name and thought it was very strange. "Why would your parents name you Oddham Finbar Nose? I don't get it!" Mr. Nose looked strange at him. Jamison's gaze wandered to Mr. Nose's wife. For some reason her shoulders quivered as if she tried to hide a laugh. Jamison didn't understand it. Mr. Nose replied: I was named after my grandfather and father." “Were you teased as a child?” “Merciless, but I didn’t rise to their teasing, so they gave up. I think I have heard all possible variations of my name from baked to fried ham.” “I believe parents should be responsible and give only more common names.” Jamison said. Stanford could have said something about nicknames too. His had been Ivy League, because he had been named after the university and since it was quite prestigious, class mates saw it fitting. It hadn’t been too bad, though, and some still called Stanford Ivy League.

Oddham agreed completely with Jamison. He had a one and a half year old daughter, who was named Casey. Jamison was satisfied. He thought Casey wouldn’t have problems later on and wanted to see a photograph of her. Oddham obliged.

Oddham, Frieda and Jamison had a good time during dinner.

Later Jamison talked with Stanford about Oddham. Jamison found out that the CSO wasn’t named Oddham Finbar Nose. His real name was Coldham Fintan Noose. Jamison wondered why Fin, as Stanford insisted his CSO wanted to be called, hadn’t corrected him. It explained the looks and Frieda’s suppressed laughter, though. Jamison hoped Fin didn’t believe he had called him by a different name on purpose. Sometimes it was difficult for Jamison to follow a conversation, because he was hard of hearing due to his age. He brought it up with Stanford, who promised to have a chat with Fin.

Fin had already worked out Jamison was hard of hearing and to save him embarrassment he hadn’t corrected Stanford’s father. Stanford was glad Fin had been diplomatic and let his father know there weren’t any hard feelings.

©2015

Green Eyes

Coldham Fintan Noose III, nicknamed Fin, reeled back from the garbage bin.  Something was inside the bin and staring at him.

Was it a rat? Fin shuddered at the thought. Since he wanted to get at the bottom of it he approached the bin cautious.  Huge green eyes in a small red furred face were looking at him curious. Fin laughed relieved. It was a cat - to be precise a kitten. It meowed at him.  Fin picked it up and wrinkled his nose, when he pulled out the cat. It stank to heaven and the fur was sticky. Fin wondered how the animal had ended up in the bin.  Had it unnoticed sneaked in? Fin didn't think so. Holding it at arm’s length he set the kitten onto the ground and wanted to leave it to its own device. The cat had different ideas. It cocked it's head and then started brushing Fin's legs.  Fin sighed.  He got rid of his trash as planned, nearly knocking over the kitten, who was in the way.  Fin swore. The kitty was still trying to get attention and affection from Fin, who wasn't interested at all and didn't like animals specifically. Fin tried to shoo her  away, but the small cat simply followed. Fin didn't know what to do with the own minded creature. He tried to get as fast as possible into the house without letting the cat in. He wasn't quick enough. She managed to slide in between his legs, nearly making Fin trip. He had a swear word lying on his tongue again, but stopped just in time, when he saw his one and a half year old daughter Casey toddling towards him. His chance of avoiding to take in the kitten had vanished. It was love on first sight. Casey's eyes lit up with delight and she shouted: "Gad!" It meant cat. As fast as her short legs could carry her, she raced towards the red striped miniature tiger. The cat enjoyed the attention and didn't mind being squeezed hard. Casey wasn't bothered at all by the cat's smell or the stickiness. If Fin didn't want to break Casey's heart, he had to accept grudgingly he had now a pet. Since his wife welcomed the kitten with open arms too and mothered her, he didn't stand a chance.

Fin made it  clear he didn't want anything to do with the little intruder, so Frieda took the cat to the veterinary. It was a her and between eight to ten weeks old. She was healthy. The veterinary showed Frieda how she could get rid of the sticky stuff in the cat's fur.

Frieda and Casey named the cat Ginger. When she was a bit older she was neutered and received all necessary vaccinations.

Fin ignored Ginger. The cat really liked him, though, and won him slowly over. Ginger was always there, when Fin was sad or his emotions in turmoil. She had a sixth sense, when he needed undemanding company. Ginger liked to curl up on his lap. Stroking Ginger calmed Fin. Soon he couldn't imagine living without the new family member.

©2015

Punished Together

Frieda Noose was searching frantically for her children. They had vanished during a shopping trip. She was worried something had happened to Sol and Casey. Frieda found out to her dismay they had hidden from her, but watched her closely and had some fun. Frieda wasn't amused. In fact she was fuming and barely kept her temper in check. Frieda was glad she had herself under control. The temptation to smack her seven and a half year old daughter and four year old son was there. Instead Frieda grabbed her kids by the hand and left the store with them, walking briskly. She was silent until they reached their car. Frieda barked at her kids: "Get in!" By now Casey and Sol realized their mother was upset with them. When they were all sitting at the back and the doors were closed Frieda started her lecture. "Don't do that ever again! I was so scared you were lost! Casey, you are old enough to know hiding from me is wrong and that I would be worried. Involving your brother is even worse! I'm disappointed in both of you! I'm considering going home immediately..." "But Mommy, you promised us to go to the toy store!" Casey protested. "Didn't I say we would go there, when you are good?" Casey had heard it, but it had gone in one ear and out the other. Sol's eyes filled with tears. He had been looking forward to check out dinosaurs and Lego sets. Suddenly the prank didn't seem that funny and seeing how disappointed their mother was, Sol felt guilty. He climbed on Frieda's lap, snuggled close to her and said: "Sorry, Mommy. I didn't want to scare you. I will be good. I promise." Frieda didn't say a word for a moment. She was still very angry. "It's okay, honey. You made a mistake and hopefully you have learned from it." "Yes, Mommy." Sol replied meekly. They hugged. Frieda turned a gimlet eye to her daughter. "So, Casey, do you think you behaved in such a manner you have earned going to Toys'r'us?" Even if Casey had inherited Frieda's black hair, heart shaped face and brown eyes, she was very similar to Frieda's husband Fin, who could be own minded and stubborn on occasion. Casey didn't want to admit she had done something wrong. She stared at her mother with crossed arms and a scowl on her face. Frieda tried to stay calm. When Casey still didn't answer after a tense silence, Frieda said quiet: "Answer me, please. I'd like to have your opinion." There was a bit of a threat in Frieda's voice, so Casey thought it was better to admit she hadn't been that good behaved, before she made her mother even madder. Frieda could get very unpleasant if she felt she wasn't taken serious. Frieda took into consideration to go to the toy shop, but thought she had to reward and praise appropriate behaviour and to punish serious misdemeanors, so she had to go through with what she had said earlier. Sol burst into tears and Casey sulked. Frieda comforted Sol by saying: "I love you two very much, but you caused me great grief today. Just because we don't go today to see toys doesn't mean we are never going. If you are two little angels for the next few days, I'm sure we can maybe even Daddy convince to go on an outing with us." The promise worked like a treat for Sol. He stopped crying pretty soon, not so with Casey. She refused outright to return to the mall for grocery shopping. Frieda was okay with that. She left Casey with the babysitter service of the mall, which made her daughter not happier. Casey had planned to black mail Frieda, but it had back fired.
Sol wanted to come with Frieda. He liked helping his Mommy fetching and choosing groceries. He generally wasn't holding a long grudge and was easy going like his mother. He looked like a miniature copy of his father.
After the completion of their tasks Sol and Frieda picked up Casey. Frieda had regained her psychological balance again and her anger was gone.

At dinner Casey was still sullen. Knowing her daughter Frieda wasn't surprised. It took Casey a day or two to let go of events that upset her. Fin, who had managed to be home for the meal, but hadn't had time to catch up with Frieda, sensed the undercurrents and was wondering what had happened.
He and Frieda found a quiet moment. Fin wasn't amused about the prank. He understood his wife completely. Whenever the kids misbehaved and Frieda deemed it necessary to net out a punishment, he backed her up.
The kids knew playing out a parent against the other didn't work.
Fin brought the kids to bed and had a chat with Casey. Fin and Casey's thought processes worked similar, so he could easily walk in her shoes. He managed to explain to Casey why Frieda was disappointed and angry and made Casey understand her mother better. It helped keeping the sulking to a minimum and the next morning Casey was back to normal.

Frieda asked Fin after the kids were asleep if he and his brother Mike had ever been punished together. She knew she was walking on treacherous ground and might open old wounds. Fin thought about it for a moment. "Well, let's put it that way we might were in trouble at the same time and sometimes got a warning smack in front of each other, but that was it. In most cases Mike managed to wriggle out of the situation by claiming I was responsible and my parents believed him, so I was the one, who ended up with a sore bottom. I remember only one occasion, when we were both punished for the same thing at roughly the same time, but in separate rooms." "Why were you spanked?" Fin grinned. "Our neighbor, Mike and I were in disagreement. I was around nine and Mike eight. Mike and I loved at the time nothing more than playing soccer in our garden. A few of the shots went wild, and well, the ball ended up in the neighbor's garden. She was an old lady and very proud of her prize winning flowers, so she was very disturbed and annoyed about it. She always swore at us, talked to our parents about it, who told us off, and confiscated our ball, when it happened again. Mike and I were very angry about the mistreatment and swore to get revenge. I came up with the idea to climb over the wall and pee on Mrs. Tomczyk's terrace. Stupid - I know." Fin and Frieda giggled. "Mike agreed it was a brilliant idea, so when we both had to wee we sprang into action. As bad luck would have it Mrs. Tomczyk was at home and saw us. She was quite fast I can tell you." Fin smiled at the memory. "We didn't even have a chance to zip up our trousers, she had us grabbed by the ears and we were on our way home. Mom and Dad were outraged about our little prank. They scolded us right in front of Mrs. Tomczyk. Of course we had to apologize and Mrs. Tomczyk was promised we were going to be punished. I knew what it meant for me. I wasn't sure how our parents planned to deal with Mike, though. We were ordered to our rooms. Waiting was awful. I tried to figure out if I was going to allowed to keep on my underpants or if I would be caned on the bare and how many strokes I was going to get. It didn't take long until I heard Mom and Dad approaching. I shivered. Mom entered my room, cane in hand, without knocking. To my surprise she was alone. Normally - no matter who spanked me - both parents were present during my punishment. She told me off about my disgraceful behavior again. I listened with one ear, because I thought I had heard Mike cry out. I heard him again, this time louder, so I knew he was being spanked as well. It was a small comfort. My mother told me to lower my pants and to bend over my writing desk. I only realized then that I had opened my window earlier in the day and hadn't closed it yet. I didn't dare ask my mother to move again. She said: "You are going to get four strokes." I was dreading it and hated the three ft. long cane. It inflicted so much pain." Fin was silent for a moment. His blue grey eyes had changed color and were more blue than grey, a sign he was upset or angry. Fin continued. "Mom was merciless. She brought the cane down with a flick of her wrist, hard. As always for a few seconds I didn't feel anything and then there was the searing pain. Even so I knew what to expect, the stroke took me by surprise and knocked the air out of me. My mother waited until the fire in my behind was a bit subsiding, before she lined up the next lash. The pain from the second stroke merged with the first. It was unbearable and I cried out. My eyes filled with tears. I hoped I could hold them back a bit longer. It didn't work. I burst into tears, when the cane landed at the center of my buttocks. I nearly jumped up, because it hurt a great deal. Holding on for dear life, I waited and waited... Mom took her time. Finally she flicked the cane across my sit spots. I screamed at the top of my lungs and I cried now unrestrained. I was so concentrated on the fire in my behind, I didn't hear Mom telling me I could get up. She repeated herself a couple of times, before my body functioned more normally again. I wasn't happy about Mom's tries to comfort me. When she hugged me I tensed, so she gave up, frustrated. Mom had just hurt and humiliated me, so I thought she was two faced and not serious about consoling me. I was also upset, because I thought it was unfair Mike got away relatively easy. Okay, he got - I would guess - something between eight and sixteen smacks and they definitely hurt, but while his pain was gone by the evening, I was still smarting the next day and it was impossible for me to sit. Any signs of his spanking would have vanished within hours; my tramlines stayed for two weeks. Mike had the higher embarrassment factor, because he was spanked on the bare. Not that my underpants offered a lot of protection from the cane. My brother had the lighter spanker. Dad always was a little bit softer than Mom, but he made me cry as much as Mom did. Of course I couldn't say anything about my feelings. I feared I would make it worse for myself if I would bring it up, so I kept quiet. Like Casey I was holding a long grudge, but I was better than she is. I think on this occasion I ignored my parents for a week." Frieda didn't know if Fin wanted comfort, but thought it couldn't hurt. She put a hand on his tanned arm. "I'm sorry." "Hm, it wasn't the worst caning I've got and one of the fairer ones. Mike and I were so careful afterwards the soccer ball never again ended up in Mrs. Tomczyk's garden, so I guess we both had learned the hard way." Frieda and Fin looked up startled. They thought they had heard Sol sobbing. Frieda went to investigate. She found Sol behind the kitchen door, crying. "What's wrong, honey? Did you have a bad dream?" Frieda crouched down. "I was thirsty and I... I heard what Daddy said." Frieda picked up Sol and brought him to the kitchen. She thought it was better Sol spoke with his father. Depositing Sol on Fin's lap, Frieda made hot chocolate for all of them.
Sol was hugging Fin tightly. "What's bothering you, sweetie?" Fin asked. "Your Mommy and Daddy weren't nice to you." "No, unfortunately they weren't." Fin confirmed. "I'm sad about it." "That's very generous of you, Sol." Fin smiled against his will. He was proud Sol showed empathy. Frieda and he must have done something right. "You don't have to be sad, though. I'm still alive. Growing up the way I did made me decide I wanted to be a different type of father, so all's good." "Don't you miss your Mommy and Daddy?" Since there was no love lost between Fin and his parents and they had parted acrimoniously a long time ago, Fin didn't. "No. It is better for all of us if we don't see each other. We have our own lives." "I would miss you." Sol said seriously. "I would miss you too, sweetie, but we don't want to go different ways, so we don't have to miss each other. Or do you plan to be a big boy and move out tomorrow?" Fin asked with a twinkle in his eyes. Sol giggled. "Noo." He said. "I'm happy to hear it." The hot chocolate was ready and Sol had asked all his questions and seemed satisfied with the answers. After his thirst was quenched he went to bed.
Fin checked later on his sleeping children and was amazed how deep he felt for them. Love was a strange thing. Fin had come a long way. At first he didn't want children. His biggest fear was he would turn out as brutal and uncaring as his parents. Frieda's pregnancy with Casey was an emotional roller coaster ride for Fin, but he fell immediately in love with his daughter when he held her in his arms shortly after she was born. It wasn't the same with Sol. Fin had originally wanted a second daughter and was convinced Sol would be a girl. For about one and a half months Fin had felt betrayed Sol was a boy. Fin realized he was heading down the same path as his parents had with him, corrected his behavior in time and learned to fall in love with his son too. Now living without Sol would have been unthinkable for Fin.

The kids were very well behaved for the next few days, so their reward was to visit the toy shop as promised and their Dad was also coming with them, which was a highlight for them.

  ©2014

Promotion

Philip Maxwell felt utterly relaxed. He had been away for two weeks. His peace of mind was shattered within seconds.

The new Chief Security Officer Coldham Fintan Noose III had been attacked while Philip had been on vacation. He had been knocked unconscious and beaten up while on duty, stopping a burglary in its tracks. Fin, as the CSO wanted to be called, had asked Philip to come and visit him at his home, when he was finally able to reach him. Philip wondered what Fin wanted from him.

Philip felt a bit awkward, when he arrived with his beat up Honda CR-V at Fin's very posh neighborhood. He found the house easy and was welcomed by Frieda, Fin's wife. She was a surprise. Fin was light ash blonde and of European descent. He preferred to wear only black designer clothing. Philip thought it was an Italian brand. Frieda was Latina and wore a simple jeans and a colorful t-shirt. She looked very young. Philip liked Frieda immediately. She was warm, seemed down to earth and less stern than Fin. Frieda explained Fin was asleep. They heard screams. "Uhm, it seems Fin has a nightmare. I'll better wake him up." Before rushing off Frieda offered Philip to take a seat at the kitchen table. Philip hadn't been comfortable for long before he jumped up in fright. Something had touched him. Overcoming his shock Philip checked under the table and found a toddler, grinning broadly at him. The little girl looked very much like Frieda, so Philip assumed she was Frieda's daughter. Philip burst out laughing, amused he had been frightened by a small kid. Frieda returned at that moment and said smiling: "I see you have met Casey already." "How old is your daughter?" Philip asked. "17 months." "Casey is really cute." "Yes, and a lot of work too." Frieda replied with a smile. "By the way Fin is ready for you." Fin had come down to the living room, where Frieda brought Philip to. Fin was looking rough around the edges and not as well groomed as he usually did. Philip had a hard time not to stare at the cast on Fin's left leg or the fading bruise on Fin's cheek. He couldn't see any further injuries, but he noticed Fin was in pain. Fin didn't pause for small talk. He came straight to the point. "Where have you been on the night between 01.00 am and 02.00 am of the 19th of August?" Philip understood immediately what this was all about. He bristled and in his anger jumped up from the sofa. "Come on, you can't be serious!" Fin just looked calmly at Philip. Cooling down somewhat Philip replied: "I was in Portland. At first at a Dinosaur Jr. concert and then hanging out with some friends at a bar. I think we were there until two or so." "Alright." "That's it?!" "Yes, it was just pro forma. I know you're not the one, who broke into the company and attacked me." Philip was outraged. "Why are you asking then?" "Mr. Powell wanted an alibi." Philip blew through his nose. His uncle and CEO of the company he worked for, suspected naturally him being behind the break ins and fraud, since Philip's father was a criminal. Philip had enough and wanted to quit. He said as much to Fin. He also said resigned: "I guess you are going to investigate behind my back again if it's true what I'm saying." Fin had done some back ground checks when he heard from a "source" Philip’s father was a robber and serving a long prison sentence. Philip thought the source had been his uncle Stanford Powell. "No, but if you could provide me with the invoice of the hotel you have stayed at..." "Like hell I will!" "Look, if you do what I ask you for, I might can do you a favor too." "Really?" Philip asked sarcastic. "Really." Fin replied with a grin. "And what would that favor be?" "I'll have to get Mr. Powell first around to support my idea... If I'm successful it would definitely proof to everyone that you aren't guilty." Philip looked up startled. Someone had spread the rumour he was behind the crime and a few co-workers ostracized him. He suspected the situation was worse now thanks to the new burglary attempt. Philip wondered how Fin knew about it. The offer was tempting. "I'd like to see how you get my uncle around." Now it was Fin's turn to be surprised. "He's what?" "My uncle. My mother and he are siblings. He is seven years younger than Mom." "Okay." If Fin had come to his own conclusions why Stanford had been so adamant Philip was the thief and so totally unwilling to promote his nephew within the company he didn't show it. Philip promised to drop his evidence by.
Frieda knocked and told them dinner was ready. Philip didn't expect the invitation was extended to him and another reason he wanted to leave was his dislike for burritos and chili con carne. He believed Frieda was Mexican, where the majority of Hispanic immigrants to the US came from. Philip's experience with Latinos was limited, because they only made up around six per cent of Seattle's population. Since Frieda and Fin didn't take no for an answer, Philip agreed to have dinner with the couple. He offered to help Fin up, who told him it was okay. It seemed Fin had experience with crutches and didn't need support. The dinner was a pleasant surprise. The setting was simple, but elegant. Casey was already sitting in her high chair and couldn't wait for the meal to begin. She made urgent noises and stretched her arms out, when Frieda served Philip first. Fin told Casey soothing: "Guests come first, darling. Don't worry, it's your turn next." Casey quietened down as soon as she received her portion of the Khmer beef salad. It was delicious Philip admitted and not what he had expected. When he asked where the recipe came from, Frieda told him they had picked it up during their honey moon trip two years earlier. Turning to Fin Philip asked about the nightmare. Fin said short: "I don't want to talk about it." Frieda gave Fin a concerned look, but he ignored it. Philip cleared his throat and instead talked about the first part of his vacation he had spent at Salmon River, just a little over an hour outside Portland, with his grandfather. They both loved fishing. Fin admitted freely he was an urbanite and didn't care very much about fishing. He and Frieda liked water sports, especially scuba diving. After dinner Philip went home, wondering why he had agreed to hand over evidence he had been really in Oregon and how Fin was going to proof to the public Philip wasn't the bad guy and convince Uncle Stanford of it too.


Philip dropped off the invoice he had received for his stay in Portland the next day.

Three days later Stanford Powell's Personal Assistant arranged an appointment with Philip. Stanford was pretending to be busy, when Philip entered. "Take a seat." Stanford said, not looking up from his papers. He let his nephew stew for a few minutes before he paid any attention to him. "You are lucky you have such a staunch supporter in Mr. Noose. He's 100% sure you are innocent and since he is the authority in his field I trust him." Philip gave his uncle a baleful glare. Their relationship was difficult. Philip had found out by coincidence that Stanford had only given him a fulltime job in return of Philip's mother cleaning Stanford's house for free for years. It had made Philip resentful, because Stanford could have easily afforded a cleaning lady if he had wanted to. Philip’s mother Deana had a hard enough life in the first place and Philip thought they all were family, so Stanford should have supported him and Deana without making demands. Returning to the present he didn't reply. Stanford sighed. "Mr. Noose suggested the company should look for an additional security guard. For the moment it's only when one of the other team members is sick or on holiday. You will of course receive full training if you agree to take on the position and it includes night shifts. The position might turns into something more permanent, if it proves to make sense. Would you be interested in being our reserve security guard?" Philip wanted to refuse out of rebellion, but decided to take on the job. First it would rankle Stanford, Philip had finally managed to escape the warehouse - if only partly; second it was a challenge and third it definitely proved Philip had nothing to do with the break ins. The Chief Security Officer wouldn't invite the suspected perpetrator to join his team. So much was for sure.

Fin had been right. People, who had eyed Philip before with suspicion, were suddenly back to treating Philip as usual.

For Philip it meant spending a lot of time with Fin, Aurelio and Adrain from the security team.
Philip found out soon why Fin had been selected to replace Michael Kuraite, the former CSO. He was younger than all team members, but seemed to have quite a lot of experience in security matters. He was better than the others and saw things they overlooked. Philip realized Fin could get easily into the mind-set of a criminal and wasn't surprised when Fin solved who was really responsible for the theft and fraud. It was a bigger shock that nearly all the management had to be replaced and Fin's announcement he was going to leave the company. He chose his successor, which caused a few tongue wagging. It had always been assumed the new CSO would be Ty Hansen, Michael Kuraite's and later Fin's deputy. Instead Fin selected Sammy Metz, another security guard. It meant Philip was offered a permanent position on the security team, which he accepted. Sammy proved to be a worthy successor - it was no wonder having been handpicked and intensely trained by Fin before he left. Philip liked his new job. It was sometimes boring, but could be also demanding and exciting. Philip had never thought he had a talent for it and surprised himself and his uncle. They never were very close, but they started to trust and respect each other. When Sammy retired he suggested to Stanford to promote Philip. He had groomed the CEO's nephew any way and was glad when the CEO agreed to make Philip Chief Security Officer. At first Philip was worried if he would be able to fulfil the demands of the job. Slowly he grew into the position and if he needed help he knew he could always contact Sammy or Fin, with whom he had stayed in contact over all those years.




©2014 

Favors

Stanford Powell was giving his sister Deanna Maxwell a penetrating stare. She was good looking, honey blond and blue eyed. She was also the black sheep of the family. And now she was here to ask for a favor. Stanford was younger and the whole opposite of Deanna. She was attracted to bad boys and had married one. Stanford thought about the scandal this had caused and shuddered. Deanna's husband was serving a twenty year prison sentence for numerous robberies. To the Powell family's dismay Deanna stood behind Donald and refused to divorce him. Stanford considered to reject Deanna's request. Weighing up the consequences he gave her a disgusted look and said: "I'll take him, but if Philip makes one misstep, he's fired." Deanna squealed in delight, ran around the big mahogany writing desk and gave her brother a big hug and kiss. Stanford sighed. What had he done? Invited a future criminal into his company? Stanford feared his nephew Philip was going the same way as Donald.

It had been a hard time for Philip. Everyone treated him and his mother like personas non grata. Before his father's trial Philip had been very much involved at his school's theatre group and other after school activities. Since Philip's classmates, most of his friends and relatives believed Philip was worthless, he began to withdraw and hang out with the wrong crowd. It was a knee jerk reaction. Philip appreciated his mother and his paternal grandfather Bobby were concerned about him.

Bobby woke Philip's interest in fishing. They went off together every other weekend and sometimes during summer vacation.
Philip enjoyed the peace and quiet and being in close contact with nature. It always released his stress levels.

Philip was encouraged by his mother to work for his Uncle Stanford during vacations. Philip was wary, because the Powell's looked down at Deanna and him.
Of course Stanford treated Philip with disdain, but to Philip's surprise he realized he was good at his job and he liked it too. The rest of his co-workers were nice. It seemed Stanford had only told management about Philip's father's conviction and the others didn't know. Bobby's and Deanna's positive influence and his warehouse job kept Philip out of trouble.

When Philip held his high school degree in hand he was disappointed. His mother told him there wasn't any money to go to college. Philip had expected as much, but it still made him sad. He had hoped he could go to an acting school. Deanna promised Philip a job though, and he could guess where and what it was going to be.

Deanna went again to Stanford for help. This time around he wanted something in return and asked Deanna to clean his home for free the next three years twice a week. Another condition was Philip's good behavior. Deanna vouched for Philip and reminded her brother about how well Philip had done during his stints at Foreman Scandinavia Import. Stanford could only grumble and asked surly: "So, do you agree to the terms?" Deanna sometimes disliked Stanford very much. She already worked four part time jobs, including cleaning houses, babysitting and tutoring. Her family wasn't supportive, even so there would have been enough capital to help her, but she was being punished for marrying the wrong guy.
Deanna's father had told her in clear terms she had made her bed and now had to lie in it.
Bobby tried very hard to help: Be it spending time with his daughter in law and grandson, money, if he could spare it, dealing with house repairs, supporting Deanna and Philip morally or parting with his wisdom.
When Deanna didn't reply immediately Stanford said gruff: "You know beggars aren't choosers, so what is your answer?" Deanna hated begging and had a hot reply on her tongue, but swallowed it. She could rant about her stupid brother later, but Philip's future depended on her, so she replied meekly: "Of course I'll do it." "Great!" Stanford gave Deanna a smile. It didn't reach his eyes. "Anything else?" He asked. Deanna shook her head and answered: "No." "Off you go then. We can talk about when you start at my home later. Send Philip on Monday to the HR department, where he can sign his contract." Deanna bit hard on her tongue. She hated it how Stanford treated her.

Over the years Stanford kept an eagle eye on his nephew. He was torn between feeling proud and dismay, because Philip was excelling as warehouse worker and should have been promoted, but somehow Stanford couldn't bring himself to admit Philip wasn't like Donald. His official excuse when he was approached by Philip's superior about Philip and making him deputy of the warehouse Stanford replied he didn't want to be accused of cronyism and Philip was way too young to hold such a position.

When someone started stealing in the company and also a hole in the book keeping was found, Stanford suspected Philip. When the police couldn't solve the mystery Stanford thought outside the box and engaged a cat burglar Coldham Fintan Noose III, the best in fact, to get to the bottom of the problems. Stanford was more than surprised when his new head of security didn't confirm his suspicion. Mr. Noose told him he had come to other conclusions but needed more evidence to support them. Stanford was impressed on the one side what Mr. Noose had achieved within a three months period, but was getting impatient, because he wanted to know who had betrayed him. Forcing himself to not press for answers he waited for the results. When they came Stanford was very disappointed in the persons involved, since they were not only employed by him, but he had counted them as his friends too.

 ©2014