Padrick - 7. Chapter 7

'Paddy, that’s incredible . . . I'm stunned . . . I guess we're all stunned. (there were murmurs of agreement around the table); are you sure? I mean is this kid reliable? I'd hate to go off on a wild goose chase, relying on the input from a thirteen year old kid . . . a queer thirteen year old kid. Let's be careful here.'

'I'm certain chief; believe me I know the lad and he's kosher[1]. Being a young homosexual don't mean he ain't truthful. Look at it logically, why would he invent a story knowing he'd get into serious trouble? No trust me, his info's good.'

Paddy had asked for a speedy meeting of the entire Special group without first letting his boss know. He needed everyone to hear him out at the same time, at the same place. Leaving out any contentious matters, he gave them the gist of his meeting with the boys; well, he gave them an abridged version leaving out any touchy stuff.

The effect was instantaneous; everyone now sat upright, leaning forward on the conference table fully alert. Bill Delaney took up questioning Paddy.

'Is this kid your snitch that you've been telling us about?'

'No Sarge he's not, but he's close to my regular informant; in fact when I interviewed the lad, my regular guy was there to vouch for the kid. What he's given us is reliable . . . . trust me.'

'Well we have to don't we . . .'

'I'm (from Mary Gordon) just horrified to learn that there are under age kids selling themselves blatantly. What on earth are their parents doing, letting babies out at night to earn money by selling their bodies. It's a scandal, and as police we must do something about it for the sake of the kids. As to the boy's information, I'd say it's genuine. I know young kids can get fanciful at times, but what you've told us Paddy, has the ring of truth. After this whole operation gets wound up, I'm gonna make it my mission to do something about these under aged kids. Will you back me on that Miles.'

'Yes OK Mary, you and I can talk to that after we've finished this operation; for the time being lets concentrate on Paddy's report.'

'Paddy (from Giles) you told the kid . . . umm? . . . '

'Simon.'

' . . . yeah Simon, you told the kid that you guaranteed his safety; ya know that we can't do that. I don't like the idea of puttin' the kid in harm's way; we can't make a promise like that . . . . it's unreasonable.'

'True Giles, you're right, but do we have a choice? Here's a chance to nab not only a very vicious killer but the person he reports to. I won't put the kid in harm's way unless I put my own life on the line. I've got some thoughts on how to protect the little bugger but I'll not say anything until we get close to the rendezvous time; but first I need the group's approval to proceed.'

Silence . . . . then Miles O'Donnell spoke up,

'Does anybody want to speak against the line of action Paddy has presented to us?'

Silence, again.

'Ok Paddy, I guess we're with you; we'll set your plan in action. First lets you and I go over your proposal and fill in any missing details and assign responsibilities; after we're happy with the detail we'll get the group back together and present a detailed plan of action . . . . OK?'

Everyone nodded their assent, but as they we're getting up to leave Giles spoke up,

'Paddy, there's no doubt you’ve given us a major boost in finding the people behind the girl's killers but I'm still concerned about the young'uns safety. I hope you and the boss can come up with a plan to keep the little blighter[2] safe; I believe and I'm sure the gang agrees, that we should think twice before putting young kids in harm's way.'

'Yeah Giles, I know your concerns and I agree; I wouldn't forgive meself if any harm came to the kid.'

***

Gary Styles sat pondering at his desk; he had a big decision to make.

I'm supposed to tell the big boss about this development but something ain't right. I'm sensing danger; my instinct is warning me not to report Paddy's information and I don't know why I'm feeling bad. What will happen if the people I'm reporting to find out that I didn't report this development? What can or will they do?

I feel bad as it is that I'm spying on my work mates and would feel worse if after reporting upwards something bad happened to the young kid. Why, in the first place, was I asked to report on the group; why would he want this info from me and not from Miles O'Donnell . . . . it stinks! If they hadn't found out about that other matter I could've said 'no thanks' and walked away. This thing with Linda could become another hold that they have over me.

No, I won't do it; I'll just shut up and not mention anything.

His musing was interrupted by Paddy who leaned over his desk and said,

'Hey mate, can you and I have a little talk outside; it's important enough that I don't want anyone to hear . . . OK?'

With a sinking feeling Gary followed Paddy outside and climbed into Paddy's car. When they had settled facing each other in the front seat Paddy went straight for the jugular.

'Gary, I know about you and Giles's wife Linda . . . '

'How the hell . . . .'

' . . . no, don't interrupt, let me finish. It's not important how I know, I just do and I'm telling you it's gotta stop . . . full stop, no discussion.'

There was silence as the two men just stared at each other; Gary tried to tough it out but Paddy stared him down.

'It's no use Gary, you only have one option and that’s to cut her loose. I think your morality levels are unacceptable; you're screwing a work mate's wife behind his back. She's making his life hell and when he finds out about you and her, well . . . it won't be pleasant and no one will blame him if he gets physical.'

Gary suddenly deflated and couldn't look Paddy in the eye.

'Yeah, you're right Paddy . . . you're bloody right. I'd come to that same conclusion meself, but it don't excuse what I've done. I'm a shithead!'

'Yes, you are! Whatever possessed you to cuckold Giles? What's he ever done to you that made you want to get back at him in this lousy way? Or is it because you just can't keep your cock buttoned up?'

'Yeah; (sigh) I reckon I'm what is called a sexual predator Paddy. I just can't help meself. A chick offers herself and before I knows it I'm in bed and fuck'n like crazy.'

'Yeah well I reckon you've got a real problem; it's not for me to judge, I mean we've all got some little 'nasties' in our make-up that make us do stupid things. In your case all I've got to say is that Giles' is a good friend of mine and I don't want to see him hurt . . . if I can avoid it. I don't know much about Linda 'cept she hates me because Giles and I are good buddies. Anyway, what are you gonna do to get rid of her?'

'Well, from past experience I won't shirt-front[3] her and tell her to piss off; I done that on several occasions and the sheila usually turns nasty . . . very nasty. No, I'll just avoid her and give her the cold shoulder until she gets the message. Y'know, last time we met she actually said that we should get married after she's ditched Giles . . . I nearly shit meself; I'll make sure she knows that’s not on.'

'OK, well it's your problem to fix; just do it anyway ya want as long as Giles don't get hurt.'

'I hears ya; and Paddy I'm sorry . . . real sorry. I'm not a bad cove, just stupid when it comes to me cock.'

***

'Sooo . . . here I am all dressed in me Sunday best . . . . sitting in an upmarket restaurant, waiting for you'se t'tell me why all the mystery. C'mon Paddy . . . what gives?'

Two days before, Ken received a cryptic call from Paddy asking to meet at a restaurant called 'Valentines' in Oxford street, on the way to Bondi. Ken was curious to say the least; Paddy offered no explanation other than to set a time and asking Ken to 'dress up' a bit. Now they sat opposite each other at a table obviously placed to ensure a degree of privacy. Dressing up to Ken entailed making sure his pants were cleaned and freshly ironed. He wore a shirt with a collar underneath a fairisle[4] jumper; the alternating white and blue bands matched Ken's eyes.

On the other hand Paddy wore a grey suit, white shirt and blue tie.

'Yeh, I guess you're a little mystified by all this; hey I reckon you look great in that jumper . . . a present from a boyfriend perhaps?'

'No, me mum dickhead! Now stop fuck'n around and tell me what's goin' on . . . ya won the lottery or sumfin'?

Pause . . . Paddy looked down but after a minute looked back up at Ken,

'Since I left you the other day, I've been doing some thinkin' . . . .'

' . . . . oh shit, yer not havin' second thoughts are ya?'

'No (laughing) on the contrary. I just thought that seeing we've made a commitment to each other we should celebrate in some way (pause) so's I thought we'd have a celebratory dinner, and . . . and . . . I could give you . . . (pulling something out of his suit pocket) . . . . this,

Paddy pushed a small box over to Ken and told him to . . .

'Open it'

When Ken flipped the top of the box he saw a silver ring . . . a plain silver ring. Inscribed on the back was 'all my love . . . P'

For several minutes he just stared at the object and then picked it up and slowly placed it on his left index finger; it was a perfect fit. Only then he looked up with damp eyes that conveyed both love and comprehension. There was a long moment of silence. Then,

'I know it sounds corny but I really don't know what to say. There just aren't any words to describe what I'm feeling now, right now. I . . . I can only repeat that . . . I love you mate; I love you with every part of my body and soul. There are times when I physically ache to hold you; I smell you; to make love to you; to lick you; to look at you and to listen to you . . . to hear your voice.'

'Yeah, I know . . . I share those feelings. I was getting frustrated that I couldn't find a way to express my feelings towards you; that’s' why I thought of a ring . . . . something that we can both share and acknowledge that we are together . . . we are one.'

'It's a wonderful gesture Paddy, but to be meaningful we both must wear a ring and next Saturday we're going to a local jeweller to get a ring for you. As for now please take me home Paddy, I'm about to burst with love.

To the surprise and disappointment of the waiter, they left the restaurant and headed home to Paddy's place. Once inside they literally torn their clothes off and allowed carnal desire to overwhelm them. The need for release was too strong to indulge in any foreplay so it wasn't long before Paddy lay on his back and offered his body to Ken. With trembling care Ken penetrated and slowly inserted himself into his lover, not stopping until he could advance no further.

Somehow this was different; somehow it was ceremonial; somehow this was an acknowledgement of their commitment to each other.

Paddy could feel his body open up to accept his lover until the two bodies became fused as one and their eyes were locked in a sensual trance. Slowly they began the love dance; each thrust bringing them closer to relief and discharge. Soon Ken's onslaught became wild; Paddy drifted into a sexual lethargy as his own climax approached. At some point he vaguely heard Ken emit a plaintive cry as he emptied himself and then continued to lunge as Paddy surrendered to a messy climax.

Afterwards they lay happy peaceful in each other's arms.

***

Moira looked again at the handsome young man sitting beside her; he wasn't film star gorgeous, but had an aura about him that she found attractive. Ok, he'd picked her up as she was sitting at the bar of one of Sydney's posh pubs; she found his clumsy attempts at conversation amusing and predictable. Obviously he was a novice at picking up strange girls but she forgave his clumsiness because of his boyish good looks. After he stumbled through several awkward attempts at conversation she turned and gave him a killer smile.

'Look kiddo, you don't have much experience at picking up women in bars do you?'

She almost laughed in his face when he blushed crimson and looked away; his right hand nervously played with his half-finished beer as he mumbled,

'Umm (uncomfortable) . . . no, is it so obvious? I'm a country boy trying to learn the ways of big city life. I only arrived in Sydney three days ago and am still trying to cope with big city ways; life here is so different to where I come from. I'm sorry if I've offended or embarrassed you; would you like me to leave you alone?'

'No kiddo (laughing), I think you're cute and refreshingly old-fashioned. Some guys on the pickup are obnoxious, rude and full of themselves. No, I don't feel threatened or pressured in your company; no don't leave, stay with me and let's get to know one another. Can you buy me another drink, please?'

'Delighted (signalling the barman for another round); what are you drinking? It looks disgustingly green. What's it called?'

'A Devils Delight; made with crème de menthe, vodka and vermouth. Would you like a taste? . . . .(sensuously) of the drink that is.'

'No (grimacing) thank you; I'll stick with my beer. Never been one for exotic cocktails.'

As time passed, Moira became entranced with her gawky boyfriend and as they chatted and drank she started to fell horny.

Ummm . . . he's good looking and when he got up to go to the gents I could see he has a beautiful arse. Yes mammy, I could fuck this one's brains out.

Eventually,

'What do you say Nathan, should we take this party to my place and see where the night takes us?'

'I'd like that Moira; I'd like that very much. How about we finish our drinks and I'll get the doorman to call us a cab.'

***

'What is it Janet? Don't need no bad news just as Jim and I are enjoying our morning coffee. Out with it and then go and prepare yerself for tonight's customers.'

'(Hopefully) 'ave you'se seen Moira this morning missus? I called around where she lives and her roomie said she didna come home last night.'

'Ow would I see her; she isn't due to come on till late this arvo. What about you Jim, 'av you seen the little tart?'

'No . . . and don't interrupt me. She's a big girl an she don't 'ave to get our permission as what's she gets up to socially. Now (picking up the morning's paper) go away and leave me alone.'

Pig; thought Janet. Tilly gave Jim an derisory look and told Janet,

'Wait a coupla hour's luvvee, and if she ain't home yet let me know . . .'

'Shit!'

Tilly and Janet looked back at Jim who was staring at the morning headlines.

(in an alarmed voice) 'Tilly, ya better come and 'ave a look at this.'

Both Tilly and Janet moved quickly to read over Jims shoulder; the headlines screamed at them.

GIRL BRUTALLY MURDERED

Body found in an Alley in Chinatown viciously slashed

The body of a young girl in her Twenties was found early this morning in Sydney's Chinatown. She had been savagely attacked and virtually slashed to death.

Whilst the police are not issuing any statements, it's believed the girl was carrying a calling card for one of the brothels operating in the Woolloomooloo area. They are asking for anyone who may know the girls identity to come forward.

Three pairs of eyes silently absorbed the frightening headline. Tilley was the first to recover.

'Maybe (choke) it ain't Moira; could be any of the tarts that works down 'ere. Whatya reckon Jim; whatya think we should do? We'se gotta know fer sure if it's . . . (choke) . . . if it's . . . Moira.'

'Yep I agree. Janet you go back up stairs and keep yer gob shut. I don't want no hysterical females screamin' their heads off. I'll go and check in where Moira lives; if she ain't there I'll go see the coppers meself. I'll be back as soon as I know something definite. Tilley, you keep the troops quiet as you can and do not . . . I repeat do not tell Freddie until I gets back. If'n it is Moira he'll go berserk.'

But just as Big Jim was getting ready to leave there was a knock on the front door. It was the police; they were simply conveying the message that Moira's body had been identified by her roommate.

***

Gary Styles sat alone in the pitch dark of his lounge room; he'd tried sleeping but his mind was in turmoil. Events were moving too fast and he knew he had a big decision to make. Along with an empty bottle of beer, five discarded cigarette butts lay in his ashtray as a testament to his inner turbulence.

Jesus, Mary and Joseph, I can't go on like this; Paddy's info regarding the little kid has got alarm bells ringing. I've got to come clean and tell someone about me being a mole. Something ain't right; something sinister is in the air and I'm unwittingly part of it. What if the big boss is the cretin who's forced the kid to give him a blowjob; what if the Big Boss's offsider, this Nathan, is the same one who has apparently admitted to committing murder?

Knowing what I know I can't allow a young kid to put himself in harm's way just to catch a killer. It's all circumstantial evidence but with my input and the kid's experience it's enough for O'Shey to answer some uncomfortable questions; but then what's gonna happen after that?

Shit! Fuck! Damn! If they think I'm gonna spew on them, my life won't be worth a bloody nickel.

Who can I tell? Not the Sarge; not Mary, definitely not Giles . . . yeah, maybe . . . Paddy; I've got to talk to Paddy as soon as possible. Ok, ok . . . . what am I gonna tell him? (sighing) what about the truth, shithead. Let's see now; let's see if I can remember how this all started . . . .

I was summoned to see the Big Chief and kept waiting until I was called into his presence. Without any acknowledgement I was asked to sit facing another bloke who I hadn't met before. Straight away I didn't like the look of him; his eyes were shifty and he had the face of a rat. No introductions were made, but the atmosphere in the room was frosty. I remember the Chief's words . . . and his tone.

'Well now Gary (sternly), you've been a naughty boy haven't you. We know you've been fucking the wife of one of your comrades. . .

(I tried to interrupt) . . . no just you sit there and shut up! Linda Madden is just your recent conquest in a series of escapades you’ve had over the years. We've been keeping a close watch but now it's become so serious that we've decided to have this chat. You know the penalty for breaking the rules don't you!'

'I'm (shakily) really sorry sir, really sorry; I know this violation is frowned upon by the force and I've been trying to stop, but . . . . but . . . my cock overrules me head. Truth is sir, I love women and just get turned on by a pretty face even if she's not available; I reckon I need help sir.'

'As well you may, but I can't overlook your defying the rules of the force which have been put in place for a very good reason; Our rules state that I'll have to suspend you whilst your disobedience is considered by a higher authority.'

'NO! oh please sir . . . Please don't do that; I love being a copper and if you take that away from me I'll have nothing, nothing. Please sir, please; there must be some way I can make up for my actions. I'll do anything to avoid being suspended. I'll do extra work . . . dangerous work; community service; anything to make up for my bad judgement . . . anything Sir.'

Silence, until

'What do you think Nathan? Is there anything that Constable Styles can do to make up for his offenses?

Short silence, then the rat spoke,

'Well, we need to be kept informed about the activities of the newly formed Special Group of which Constable Styles is a member. Perhaps he could report to you regularly on what the group is planning; this could be a way of keeping you in the loop, so to speak; could be a way for him to redeem himself . . . it's up to you sir.'

'Yes (thoughtfully) it would be helpful to get a first-hand account of the group's activities; I don't like being kept out of the loop . . . so to speak. (Hmmm) yes . . . yes, do you think you could report to me Constable . . . ummm, on the quiet? Let me make it clear; I'm not suggesting you spy for me . . . I simply want a timely summary of the group's endeavours. Do you think you could do that for me? If you could see your way clear, I would certainly re-visit the matter of your suspension.'

'Yes! Of course Sir. Of course; I'd be only too happy to oblige as long as I'm not being asked to spy on my fellow officers. That wouldn't be acceptable.'

'But screwing the wives of your fellow officers is acceptable . . . hmmm? I don't think you're in any position to moralize Constable; by your own admission your deeds have been less than honourable haven't they?

'Err . . . Yes Sir.'

It was as simple as that! I'd been expertly played and forced to go along with their deception. God, I hate meself! What a cretin I've become! Now I can see it clearly; they'd used my pussy addiction to force me to spy on me mates.

Them! . . . . Who's Them? I was never introduced to the other shithead who the chief referred to as 'Nathan'. I remember him as perhaps early thirties, slim but with a callow complexion and his eyes . . . . . his eyes; they were dark, cold, pitiless and shifty.

Yeah . . . . they were killer's eyes. This Nathan would kill without any remorse. What on earth is his relationship to the Chief?

***

Gary arranged to meet Paddy at a Pub called the Crown and Anchor located in an area of Sydney called 'The Rocks'. This is where the first settlement in Australia was located and is of major historical value. It is a very old area (by Australian Standards) and over the years has become almost a slum.

In a secluded spot, safe from prying ears, the two men sat facing each other; one a study of misery and the other bristling with hostility. Gary had just finished telling Paddy his story. For several moments Paddy just stared at Gary who looked dejected, sullen and wretched. Then,

'You're a piece of slime Gary, aren't you? Where is your moral compass . . . no wait, that’s the problem . . . you've never had, nor ever will, have any sense of morality in you. You (leaning forward to emphasize his anger) don't know the difference between right and wrong. Why did you join the police force? Not being able to distinguish between good and evil is no qualification for a copper. (Lengthy pause). Look at you; all I see is an empty shell of a human being whose departure from this planet would not be missed; but (almost speaking to himself) sounding off ain't gonna solve the problem. (sigh) Let's see what we've got.

(Sitting back but still hostile) I'll ignore your career as a seducer; I've said enough about that already. The more important issue is the criminal activities of a senior police officer; we both know were talking about Inspector Peter O'Shey and some devious sidekick called Nathan. Agreed? (Styles nodded yes) OK. (taking a large gulp of beer) Now the original plan was to have young Simon identify O'Shey and the other bloke as the persons he'd heard discussing the murder of Emilee Harrington and a confession by this Nathan that he'd committed the crime. (pause). Now we must decide what to . . . . '

'Paddy (Styles interrupted) . . . . I'm not such an arsehole as you might think. It's solely because I'm worried about the young fella being exposed to danger that I decided to come forth and talk to you; I spent many hours mulling over the matter, so please give me a little credit for my action. (Paddy looked unconvincied). Now let's forget about me but allow me to share my thinking. (Paddy nodded for him to continue). It was always going to be hearsay on the kid's part and being a queer wouldn't have helped his reliability. Now we can add my testament which certainly points to some dirty behaviour; when I tell what I know, I reckon people will sit up and take notice. OK? (paddy nodded). It's all circumstantial but at least has a ring of truth in it. (pausing to drink) Sure, it would be nice to capture the kid sucking O'Shey's cock, but what does that prove? Eh? . . . . well it proves nothing except that O'Shey is a paedophile. He could get drummed out of the force with a dishonourable discharge but that means the murder crime will not be resolved, and that’s something we can't let happen . . . .'

'Agreed; (modifying his hostility) at least we're both on the same page. How about this; when the cops investigated the Emily Harrington death they could only get a vague description of the person who booked the fatal room. Now, at least, we have a name . . . . this Nathan creature, he's the Achilles heel. If we can get the booking clerk to recognize the bludger[5], and at the same time have the kid recognize the shit-head we can start building a firm circumstantial case for the murder . . . .'

'Yeah, (Gary sounding enthusiastic) and don't forget the barman who was only able to give a vague description of the character who was with the Jenkins girl at the bar; if he can pick this Nathan from a line-up, our case gets stronger. With my testimony about O'Shey and Nathan the circumstantial net starts to tighten.'

'Who's our best interrogator?'

'I'd (laughing) say Bill Delaney; I'm sure you agree Paddy, Delaney would scare the Pope into saying everything about JC is bullshit! I'd hate to be in his cross-hairs.'

'Yeah (also laughing) he's one mean bastard ain't he . . . hey, I'm empty; how's about you get a refill.'

'Right (getting up to go to the bar) let's summarize when I get back.'

Wow, just look at that arse; in addition to being good looking, Gary has a great body and an irresistible personality . . . no wonder sheilas fall for him. Sex appeal just ooze's out of him and coupled with a killer smile he's definitely eye candy. Hell, if'n he was gay I'd make a pitch . . . . sorry Ken . . . ; hey I'm getting side-tracked. I guess I was a bit unfair to call him 'a piece of slime' after all, no-one's perfect and Gary just uses his natural charm to advance his sex-life (sigh). He seems genuinely worried about young Simon though, so I reckon we can work together.

After a short interval, Gary returned to the table. In the meantime Paddy had given the current situation some deep thought.

'There ya are (placing two schooners full of frothy amber fluid on the table) I reckon we can lubricate our little grey cells; Hey what's up Paddy, you look thoughtful?'

'Yeah, been thinking what to do. . . . '

'Ok, what's on yer mind?'

'Well, let's surmise what we've been discussing. We agreed that this 'Nathan' is the weak link. Getting to O'Shey is a long shot. I mean we ain't got much in the way of evidence against the big fella; only young Simon's statement that he had sex with the cretin. This Nathan is a different story; we have Simon's evidence that the guy admitted to killing Emilee; we can also point to him booking the fatal room. We also have the statement by the bartender that Moira was with Nathan the night she was killed. Adding to that, we also have your testimony that Nathan was with you and O'Shey when they blackmailed you into spying for them. (Pause) OK, so far?'

'(Slowly) yeah . . . that’s about it . . . . Is there a problem?'

'Yeah . . . . there is a problem . . . . it's all BULLSHIT! Imagine what a Jury would think about this circumstantial evidence; not to mention how a smart Barrister would rip the so-called evidence to shreds. In short, buddy we ain't got nuthin'; nuthin' that will get either one convicted, hanged or send to jail for a long period. We've got NUTHIN'!

'Hold on (indignantly) . . . there've been many instances where circumstantial evidence has been enough to get a guilty verdict. If'n the Crown Solicitor is good; he can go heavy on the evidence, even if it's circumstantial. I don't see any problem at all.'

'Yeah, I acknowledge that handled properly, circumstantial evidence can be sufficient to get a guilty verdict. But remember the application of 'Reasonable Doubt'. If'n there's any doubt, the judge will instruct the jury that if there's any reasonable doubt, then they must return a 'Not Guilty' verdict.'

Styles became thoughtful as he considered what Paddy had said. Taking a large gulp from his glass,

'Sooo . . . . you reckon there's reasonable doubt; that a smart silk[6] can create doubt sufficient to sway both the jury and the Judge?'

'Yes, yes I do. Simon's just a kid and an admitted queer; an admitted male prostitute. I'd say that any barrister would have no problem making him an unreliable and untrustworthy witness. (pause) Also, I'd fear for his life; this Nathan creature would have no hesitation in killing the boy. I really am concerned for the kid's life. He could also be pressured to change his testimony; you know, they could threaten to kill his mother or any other family member. It's a very sloppy situation. The bartender could be challenged on identifying this Nathan. You know how slimy barristers operate; many a good identification has been refuted.'

Silence; both men thoughtfully sipped their beers. Gary sat back after a good guzzle and regarded Paddy pensively.

'Shit Paddy; we're back to square one ain't we? I mean . . . . jesus, you're not suggesting we let the bastards get away with it are you?'

'No, no definitely not! I think there has to be an alternative. '

'What! You think what? You've just ruled out any legal . . . HOLY SHIT! . . you don't mean . . . .?'

'Yes, yes . . . You catch on quick, Gary. Yes, the way I see it we can't touch them legally working within the law, but if we go outside the law we can get the result we want. Are you with me?'

Silence,

'I don't know Paddy; I don't like where this is heading but, well . . . . let's suppose we take another approach, how would we do it?'

'Not we, Gary; not us. We can't become involved; at least we can't allow any action be traced back to us. We can't do anything that will put us behind bars or even get killed in the process. We've got to make ourselves invisible.'

'OK my friend; you've obviously given this some thought. Spit it out!'

'I reckon we should use Tilly, Tilly Devine or at least someone in her mob . . . .'

'To do what? I want to hear you say it Paddy . . . . do what?'

'Kill Nathan; kill him and make it messy. Then we send an anonymous warning to O'Shey that we're on to him and unless he backs down, his life will be in jeopardy. That's what!'

Pause . . . . Silence . . . Gary tried to digest what Paddy had proposed.

'Shit Paddy . . . . I don't know if I can be a part of this. I mean, I might be a slime ball but I've never purposely killed anyone before and never, never planned to kill anyone. I don't know if I can do this.'

'Fair enough, I understand; but you tell me, what's the alternative?'

An awkward silence; Gary played with his near empty glass and was obviously distressed. In a quiet voice he replied,

'I guess there is none. Shit, I can't believe I'm saying this. I can't believe I'm actually agreeing to kill another human being. SHIT! SHIT! SHIT! I'm sorry Paddy; I'm not as strong as you are. Fucking married sheilas is about as far as my moral compass will go; I mean, even though I know it's wrong I'll still do it. But murdering another person is . . . . is . . . . Oh shit!'

Silence, then

'I understand Gary. I was wrong about you and you've just reinforced my positive view. Believe me, I find this difficult; very difficult. But if we took these cretins to court, how would you feel if they were acquitted; ask yerself that. Even if they were found guilty and given a jail term, they probably would be out in five years. Nathan in particular would be free to kill again, and kill again I'm sure he would. Every way I look at it, getting rid of him now would be doing the world a service. '

'Yeah I know, I know; look, let's say I agree with you. How can we make sure it's done without us being involved?'

'Um, as you know I come from an Irish background. I . . . um, know some folks who can handle this matter professionally; I haven't been involved before but I'll put the word out. I can assure you the problem will be dealt with quietly and quietly with no fuss and no mess. Leave it to me, boyo.'

'Jesus Paddy, I had you picked as a quiet one; a little catholic choir-boy. I'll have to watch meself around you in future.'

* * *

But soon events were to about to escalate out of control.