The Investigators, Inc. The Accidental Murder Case. Chapter 17. So Close.

“I was listening to this conversation at a table behind me and Cindy,” said John, “and when I heard the name Victor, it really made me listen careful like. This Alonzo has a sister, named Mandi who inherited her husband’s fortune and apparently he convinced her to sign everything over to him for safekeeping, since she is kind of young. He gave all the property to his girlfriend Betty and kept the cash for himself, about 30 million euros.

The property is worth over 70 million euros. But he did not want to use his own money, he figured to borrow from Victor enough to get himself set up with his own organization up here, then eventually to take everything from Victor, in a war if he had to. And he has a lot of weapons too, enough for several hundred men I figure. I checked up on this Mandi and for a little money, which she does not have anymore, I got some nice pics of the layout under that castle down the road.”

Then John pulled out a few photos of the rooms. The Major looked at them and handed them to Chub (Clarence). “Hey, those are Victor’s weapons,” said Chub, “this guy is going to fight Victor with his own guns.” “Do you have proof of the money and property?” asked the Major. John pulled out a piece of paper and began to hand it to the Major, but he said to give it to Chub, which John did. “Check it Chub,” was all the Major said. “How did you get the bank account number for Alonzo?” asked Chub.

“Compliments of Mandi,” said John without hesitation. “Hey, look at this,” said Chub, “the guy does have over 30 million in that account.” Then he started checking on the properties on the list. “I only did four properties, and I am up to 35 million,” said Chub, “all registered to his girlfriend, except one that is in both names.” “Enough for now,” said the Major, “is it easy to find those rooms?” “Sure thing,” said John, “let me draw a diagram for you.” Meanwhile the guy in the corner is looking at Cindy.

“Why not dump your old guy and come with me?” he asked her. “Sorry, John is my guy,” she answered nicely, “no one can top him.” Cindy made a mistake there by adding that last bit. John knew it as soon as he heard her, but he kept drawing his diagram hoping what she said would pass. “That is an insult girlie,” said the man, “no woman insults Six.” “Take it easy Six,” said the Major firmly, without even looking at him. But Six was obviously angry.

“Okay,” he said, “just to show there is no hard feelings, have a slice of my pizza girl.” Cindy walked over to get it from Six, who was holding it out to her, even though she really did not want it. The Major looked up as Cindy walked over. Once she got close enough to Six, he slapped her hard with the slice of pizza, hitting more with his hand, knocking her against the bed. “Six!” said the Major, firm and loud. Cindy got up and slapped Six so hard it echoed in the room.

Poor John, at that point he was figuring they would not be getting out of there alive. He stood up and looked at Six. John figured if they are going to die, may as well fight. Six flipped out a rather large knife. “I am going to cut up that pretty face of yours little girl,” he said. “Six, I will not say it again,” said the Major, “now stop!” “Shut up!” he said to the Major. Then he lunged at Cindy! She grabbed the arm that had the knife, then in amazing quick succession, kicked him in the stomach, his side, then one hard kick up to his chin, knocking him smashing against the wall.

He fell to the floor, out cold. “Whoa,” said Chub, “I never seen legs move that fast in my life!” The Major had his gun out, but put it away when he saw what Cindy did. She turned and looked at John, then walked over to the Major. “I, I am sorry,” she said quietly. “Not to worry Cindy,” he said smiling at her, “the washroom is over there, that pretty face needs to be washed.” “Thanks,” she said quietly again and smiled slightly. She then went quickly to the washroom.

“It is okay John,” said the Major, “Six deserved that, and he will find out that no one tells me to shut up.” Cindy comes back out after a bit and sits on the bed next to John. “Chub, give John something,” said the Major. “Sure thing,” he answered and opened a large briefcase full of cash, “how much?” “100K”, he said. “Big or small Johnny?” asked Chub. “Small,” said John, “but I really did not come here for that.”

“I know,” said the Major, “but Victor would want it done this way.” “Here you go Johnny,” said Chub. “Oh, that cop on your payroll is also on Alonzo’s payroll,” added John. “Huh, talk about greedy,” said Chub. “You and Donny take care of him,” said the Major, “and take Six with you. You and Donny come back.” “Done Major,” said Chub.

“Looking for a job John?” asked Major. “Not right now,” he said, “I have some long overdue vacation time coming.” “I like the sound of that,” said Cindy smiling. “Chub, give him my card,” said Major, and Chub did so, “give me a call any time, if you want some work.” “I will remember that,” said John, as he and Cindy get up to leave, “nice to see you again Clarence.” “Likewise Johnny,” said Clarence. John and Cindy hopped in their car and drove off, heading back home…

To Be Continued.

©2022 Steve McLeod.