Sudden Death (15 page)

“Now
that
would have made an excellent cell phone commercial,” Reid said. He looked over at Aimee, who was already writing it down.

He grabbed the closest phone and walked away from the group. He pulled Shane’s card from his wallet and dialed her cell. To his disappointment, her voice-mail came on; just hearing her voice again gave him a chill. He left a message that they were heading to Nobu. “Okay, let me go change and we can leave,” he said to everyone.

They walked to the restaurant and were led to a private dining room in the back. The subtle yet distinct scent of hot sake filled the air. After they took their seats, a waiter described Nobu’s famed Omakase dinner, a multicourse meal of the restaurant’s best and most exotic signature dishes. In front of their place settings were personal sake flasks, each resting on a flame warmer.

During the second course, there was a quiet knock on the door and Shane entered the room. All heads turned. A little embarrassed, she gave a quick wave and quietly said, “Hi, everybody.”

Reid jumped up, knocking his chair over. He hurried over and gave her a kiss on the cheek. “I can’t believe you came, I’m thrilled.” Everyone was looking at them and whispering quietly. Shane wore an olive-green silk blouse, black capri pants and sandals. Her long hair was braided down her back. The only make-up she wore was lipstick. She was breathtaking. Reid turned toward the tables. “Everyone, I’d like you to meet Shane.” He brought her to his table and, after a quick seating adjustment, they sat next to each other. A moment later, Joan came over and said, “Reid, don’t you want to introduce me to your friend?”

Reid rolled his eyes and said, “Of course. Mom, meet Shane; Shane, this is my mom, Joan.” They exchanged hellos and agreed to talk more after dinner. Reid was relieved his sisters hadn’t lined up behind their mom. Shane listened intently as he told her about the commercial shoot. He felt very good with her next to him. She actually seems interested in what I’m saying, he thought. Finally, a girl who might not only be attracted to my bank account. He asked if she would join them tomorrow evening for a classical concert at Caramoor, an outdoor theater on a beautiful estate. To his delight, she accepted the invitation. Shortly afterward, the party broke up.

Heads turned to admire Shane as they left the restaurant. Reid was glad the attention was on her instead of him for once. The group squeezed into the waiting vehicles. When they dropped Shane off at her apartment, Reid jumped out and walked her to the door. They stepped into the vestibule, out of sight of the others. He thanked her for coming and gave her a quick goodnight kiss; he wanted more but he was determined to prove himself a gentleman. As he started to back away, she quickly put her arms around his neck and pulled him back for another, more passionate kiss. She smiled and said, “Thank you for a wonderful evening. I can’t wait for tomorrow.” She gave him another quick kiss and said goodnight, then turned and walked to the elevator. He smiled and watched in silence thinking,
I guess Jamie is out of the picture.

He couldn’t wipe the smile off his face as he got in the van. Nobody said a word for a while. “Okay, you can resume talking now. And to answer the question you’re all dying to ask, yes, I really like her.” He paused. “A lot.”

The drive to Westchester was uneventful. Most of the group was asleep when they pulled into Joan’s driveway. Security team four had been waiting for them at the house. They dragged themselves to their rooms. The other security teams drove back to the hotel.

Reid’s mind had been racing the past few nights in bed. At least he had something good to counter the distressing thoughts of the threat. He only hoped he would be luckier than Romeo in the end. He finally drifted to sleep around 4 a.m.

In spite of the rough night and limited sleep, he woke up in a good mood. Thoughts of Shane left no room for anything else in his head. Looking into the bathroom mirror, he repeated a phrase that he used to say to himself as a kid. “Look and feel like the star you are.” He laughed as he thought about how many times he had said those words into this mirror. Who knew, maybe it helped. He knew his life was about to change. Shane made him feel… He thought, How does she make me feel? Complete. Yeah that’s it, complete. As silly as that phrase had always sounded to him, he finally understood the feeling. He had never felt like this before and, although it made him nervous, he liked it.

He threw on some old shorts and a college T-shirt that looked more like an old rag. Hunter and Jeff were in the kitchen. “Good morning,” he said cheerily.

“Good morning,” Hunter said. “Someone’s happy this morning! Coffee’s ready if you want some. Are you going for a run?”

“Yeah, just a quick loop around the reservoir. Jeff, I hope you don’t mind. It’ll only take half an hour.” “No problem. I could use it myself.” “You’ll love the run. It’s quiet and really beautiful.” “Great. Give me a few minutes and I’ll be ready.” “Take your time.” After Jeff left the room, Hunter said, “You’ve really fallen hard for this woman, haven’t you?” “Is it that obvious?” “Hey, you and I may fight a lot, but there is nothing you can hide from me.” He wrapped his arms around her in a big hug. “I guess you’re right. If there’s anybody who can read me, it’s you. Well, it is mutual you know. I’ve seen the way you act around Keith. You can’t tell me you don’t have a little crush on him.” “Shut up,” she said grinning. They both laughed. Jeff came back in and he and Reid left for their run. They started slowly but kept pushing each other faster. Both were very competitive; by the end, they were racing back to the house. When they got to the front lawn, they collapsed, sucking wind.

Joan walked by a window, looked outside and saw them lying there. She screamed and ran out. “What happened? Are you okay?” she asked in panic. Too winded to speak, Reid just held up his hand and gave her a thumbs-up sign. “Oh my God, I thought…” She sighed heavily, “You guys are killin’ me.” Both men laughed with what little air they could get. “Sorry, Mom.” “Never mind sorry! Come in when you’re ready; I made pancakes for breakfast.” She turned and walked past the others who had all come running when she screamed. Looking at Betsy, she said, “Your brother is going to give me a heart attack.” She continued into the house, letting the screen door slam shut.

After breakfast, Reid showered, then joined everyone on the deck. He said, “Who wants to take a ride to Westchester Country Club? I want to study the course. Beforehand, we can walk around the sculpture gardens at Pepsi, then hit Walter’s for lunch. Afterward, anyone who wants to walk the back nine can, and anyone who doesn’t can come back here.” “That’s some itinerary. I’m in,” Betsy said. They all agreed. Reid called Shane and explained the agenda. She said she’d love to join them. “Great, I’ll send a car for you. You can meet us at the sculpture garden.

Call my cell when you get to the parking lot. Okay?” Shane agreed. When the call was over, he hung up then quickly called Buck and asked if he’d send his driver to run Shane up to meet him. Buck said, “No problem. Tell her to be ready in 15 minutes. By the way, Jay and I will take care of the press conference today; I’ll let you know how it goes. Jay has some updates on the investigation. I think he cleared Jennifer. Eli and Mike Gatto are still MIA. It seems Eli has gotten into some legal trouble since you fired him. Jay’s concerned. Make sure you have security wherever you go.”

“I’m no fool, Buck. I’m not going anywhere without them. Hey, I have to go, everybody’s waiting for me. Talk to you later.” He hung up.

“Okay,” Reid barked loudly. “Whoever wants to come, let’s get this show on the road. We need to be back early enough to get ready for Caramoor.”

Once again, they were on the road. They drove to the sculpture gar dens and started walking the gravel path. Reid was trying not to be impatient, but he desperately wanted to call Shane. He gave in and dialed. She answered on the first ring. “Where are you?” he asked. “Turn around,” she said. He turned and there she was, wearing shorts and a halter top, looking so good his heart skipped a beat. He ran, picked her up and hugged her. After a long kiss he said, “I missed you. I haven’t stopped thinking about you.” “Me either,” she admitted. He smiled and said, “Come on, let’s catch up with everyone.” They walked up to the others, hand in hand. Betsy turned around as they were getting close. “Uh-oh Mom, this looks serious.” “I know. Good for him, he deserves it, and I think I like her. She seems classier than some of the other girls he’s dated. Do you think she broke up with that other guy yet?” “I hope so. Should I ask her later?” “No, let’s not meddle. They’ll work it out.” Betsy nodded. They waited for Reid and Shane to catch up. Everyone said hi and they continued their stroll. “This place is beautiful,” Shane said. “I can’t believe I never knew it existed.” “It’s one of Westchester’s hidden treasures,” Joan said. They walked through the gardens, studying and appreciating the sculptures. They stopped pond side at a life-size bronze of a polar bear. Reid lifted Shane and she climbed on the bear’s back, then he jumped up as well. “Hold on,” Betsy said as she grabbed her camera and took a few shots.

A guard from the gardens walked over and nicely asked them to get off the bear. They apologized, got off and moved on. They all took turns posing for pictures, sitting among some lifelike sculptures of people on a bench. Arriving back at the vehicles, they boarded for the next leg of the journey.

“Okay, time for Walter’s,” Reid announced, “home of the world’s best hotdogs.” They drove to a funky, old-fashioned road side stand.

“Holy cow, this place must be good, the line’s a mile long,” Joel exaggerated.

“Joel, Shane and I will go wait on line,” Reid said. “You all go in the back and reserve some picnic tables.”

When they reached the front of the line, Reid ordered 50 hotdogs and enough fries and drinks for the group. The girl that took the order repeated it, causing everyone behind the counter to shift gears. Those in line behind them groaned. Reid appeased everyone in line by signing autographs until his order was ready. As he paid for his order he handed the cashier an additional $300 and said, “This should cover everyone’s order in line, and leave enough to share as a tip for everyone behind the counter.” Applause broke out on both sides of the counter as Reid, Shane and Joel carried their order away.

“That was nice,” Shane said as they walked. “Maybe if the press saw you doing things like that they’d get off your back.” “Maybe they would.” They placed the food on the picnic tables. “What was all the commotion about?” Joan asked. “Nothing,” Reid said. “It was your son being a nice guy to his fans,” Shane said. “Really?” Betsy said in disbelief. Reid shrugged. They passed around the food and as everyone gobbled it up the only noise to be heard was, “Mmm, these dogs are great!” After his last bite, Reid said, “The last stop is the back nine. Anyone not up to it?” No one said anything. “Mom, are you sure it’s not too much for you?”

“Hey, I’ve come this far on your crusade, I’m not quitting now. Let’s go.” He smiled and said, “Then let’s roll.” They pulled up to the front doors at Westchester Country Club. “Let me go in and speak with the manager first,” Reid said. I’ll be out in a minute. Shane, will you come with me?”

They walked into the lobby, and all heads turned to look at them. Here, everyone knew who Reid was. The clubhouse was enormous. Everything about it was distinguished, especially its members. It exuded old world charm and sophistication. The lobby had multiple sitting areas. The furniture consisted of immense dark leather couches and elegantly upholstered armchairs. The stone fireplace at the head of the room was big enough to park a golf cart in. Gigantic vases of fresh flowers brightened the room. No one ran up for Reid’s autograph. Not here. An older couple walked by. The gentleman politely tipped his cap, gave a small nod and said, “Welcome, Mr. Clark.” Reid nodded and respectfully said, “Thank you, sir.” Word spread that he had arrived and Steve, the club manager, came out to greet him. Steve was clean-cut, around 40 years old, and wore a beige suit with a dark green tie. Reid introduced him to Shane, then explained his intentions of walking the back nine with a few friends. Steve said, “Let me call Jimmy, our starter, to see what we look like on the west course.”

They followed Steve to his large office. Motioning for them to sit in the black leather chairs in front of his desk, he dialed the starter and reiterated Reid’s desire to walk the back nine. After listening, he hung up. “There are four groups on the west course now. Three are on the back nine, but you can walk the front. Jimmy will send anyone who wants to tee off over to the East Course for the next two hours.”

“Thanks, Steve. I’ll be around quite a bit over the next week and a half. In fact, I’d like to walk the back nine tomorrow. How about having lunch with me afterwards?”

“Excellent, you name the time. By the way, here.” He handed Reid a cigar from his humidor. “I know you enjoy them.”

“Wow, thank you,” Reid said as he ran the cigar lengthwise under his nose, inhaling the spicy aroma. “Excellent, Buck will be so jealous,” he said in Shane’s direction. “Here, take another for him.” Steve reopened the humidor. “Thanks, he’ll appreciate it. I’ll let you know about lunch as soon as I can. I need to check timing on a press conference first.” Reid and Shane walked out to the front of the building, where everyone was waiting. “Follow me,” he said. He found Jimmy standing proudly beside the starter’s shack, wearing a golf shirt and cap with WCC logos. “Hi, Jimmy, it’s good to see you. I appreciate your help,” Reid shook his hand and tried to hand him 50 bucks.

“No thanks, Mr. Clark,” Jimmy said, “wouldn’t take it even if I was allowed. It’s my pleasure to help.” He then added, “I wouldn’t mind a couple of autographs for my kids, though. When you have the time, that is.” “Absolutely Jimmy, you got it. I’ll obviously be around for a while.” “Enjoy your walk.”

The group walked the front nine, listening as Reid explained his plan of attack for the course. He discussed some of the tougher holes and the possibilities of hitting lay-ups versus long shots. Ball placement achieving the best approach to the green was critical.

“This is so beautiful,” Shane said. “Now I understand why my friends have been trying to get me to play for so long. Well, I guess it’s time for me to start, huh?”

Reid turned toward her and with a deadpan face said, “Wait a minute, you don’t play golf? I don’t believe this. Somebody get her out of here! I can’t be with this woman any longer.”

Silence followed, accompanied by looks of astonishment on many faces. Finally, Reid started to laugh. “Wow, you all thought I was serious? You really think I’m a jerk, huh?” Everyone nodded and Shane slugged him in the arm. “Ow! Don’t do that, I’ve got a big tournament coming up,” he said with another laugh. “Where did you learn to punch like that anyway?” “From two overprotective big brothers, so consider yourself forewarned.” “Duly noted. Alright,” he said rubbing his arm. “In all seriousness, I’m really looking forward to teaching you how to play.” He turned and gave her a hug. “That’s better,” she responded. They walked the last few holes holding hands. When they got back to the clubhouse, there was some commotion at the valet parking desk. A car had been stolen from the lot. It was a Porsche and Reid quickly learned that it belonged to Jim Turner, one of the golfers he had placed on the suspect list. Turner, at the moment, was yelling at the valet manager. “How could you let this happen, you idiot?” he growled.

Reid couldn’t help himself. He walked up to Turner and said obnox iously, “Oh, Jim, your car was stolen? What a bummer. Hope you have better luck on the golf course.” “Fuck you, Reid,” Turner said, steaming. “Right back at you, bud,” Reid said as he turned and walked away. “Dammit, Reid,” Joel said, “don’t pull shit like that.” “Sorry, I couldn’t help myself. He’s a jerk.” “I mean it, Reid, cut it out. Do not provoke anyone else. You seem to forget that someone threatened your life. You need to take it more seriously. Besides, the guy’s car was just stolen.”

“Okay, no argument, you’re right. Let’s go get the vans, since the park ing attendants are all caught up in that nonsense.” He turned and yelled to the others, “We’ll be right back. We’re going to get the vans.”

The two men walked to the vans and each climbed into one. Reid start ed his and was just about to put it in gear when Joel gave a quick honk to get Reid’s attention. Joel was waving him over. Reid got out of the van and approached Joel. “This was under the wiper on the windshield,” Joel said. It was an envelope with Reid’s name printed on it. An icy chill ran through Reid as he reached for the envelope with a trembling hand. He weakened as blood drained from his head. He quickly grabbed hold of the side-view mirror to keep from falling.

Joel awkwardly reached for Reid’s shoulder through the open window, trying to help stabilize him. “Breath deeply,” Joel said. “Take it nice and easy.” Joel waited until he saw the color come back to Reid’s face. “Are you okay?”

Reid took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. “Yeah…I guess.” He slow ly let go of the mirror and tested his shaky legs. Joel was still holding him through the window. “Can I let go?” Reid nodded and took another deep breath. He looked at the envelope.

“Why don’t you open it and read it to me.” Joel nodded and carefully opened it up. He unfolded a blue note and read:

I don’t care how much security you have,

They can’t stop my bullet. Don’t win the classic.

Reid started to shake again. He fell to his knees and heaved. Joel couldn’t open the van door without hitting him. He climbed out the passenger door and ran around the van. He put his palm on Reid’s back as he retched violently.

Reid remained hunched over for another minute. He waited until his breathing and heart rate stabilized. Then he slowly stood up with Joel’s help. “Is there a towel in the van that I can clean up with?” “I’ll go check. Can you stand on your own?” “I think so.” Joel came back with a couple of towels. Reid wiped his face and hands and asked Joel to get the waterless sanitizer and a clean shirt from his bag in the other van. He cleaned himself up and asked for an inspection.

“You look pretty good; this should do it.” Joel handed him a stick of gum.

Munching on the gum, Reid asked, “You think whoever did this stole the Porsche?” “That would be my guess,” Joel answered. “Let’s not tell everyone about this. You tell Stu, and when we get back to the house, we’ll call Jay.” “Agreed. Do you feel well enough to drive?” “Yeah.” They drove to the clubhouse and everyone piled in. Reid was very reserved on the ride home. “Are you okay? You’re so quiet,” Shane said. “I’m fine, thanks,” he lied. “Just thinking about the tournament.” They drove the rest of the way without much talk. Jared and Judy, protection team three, were already at the house when they arrived. “I’ve got to pick up the fried chicken and salads for our picnic,” Joan said. “How many will we be?” “Get enough for 25,” Reid said. “Those not coming with us will eat here.” He handed her some cash. “Good thinking,” she said. “Who’s coming with me?” Hunter, Judy and Jared all went with Joan. Joel, Stu and Reid went into the den and closed the door. They called Jay on speakerphone and told him about the note and Turner’s stolen Porshe.

Jay responded, “I need to think about this. You guys have any thoughts?”

“We’re going to start double-teaming Reid,” Stu said. “You need to adjust the schedule again.”

“Good point. I’m going to go question Turner now, although it sounds like it would be too clever a cover up for him.” “Wow!” Reid said. “I never thought of that.” “That’s why you hired me,” Jay said. “By the way, the press conference went very well. The press are behaving, but I have to keep feeding them tidbits, so don’t be surprised when you watch the news.” “I haven’t had the time and don’t think I will,” Reid said. “Joel, make a copy of the note for me and send the original to the lab by messenger,” Jay said. “I want it analyzed and compared to the first. We think the paper was purchased from a store right here in New York, and they only received the shipment three weeks ago. We are checking their receipts as we speak. Hopefully, there weren’t many customers who bought that color.” “I’ll send it out immediately.” “Good. We’re close to nailing this sucker, but now he’s playing with us right under our noses. You know what you need to do.” Stu quoted their motto: “Always awake, always alert, always aware.” “Exactly. Keep me informed,” Jay said and hung up. “Reid, from now on, Stu and I are going to be with you whenever you’re awake. The other teams will cover in shifts while you sleep.” “That’s comforting, I guess,” Reid sighed. They joined the others on the deck. When Joan, Hunter and Team Three got back from the market, they packed a picnic dinner and put the rest of the food out for all who were staying behind.

Those going to the concert jumped in a van for the quick ride to Caramoor. The evening was delightful, and the classical music was soothing. Reid’s stress began to ebb, he closed his eyes and let his mind drift. He pictured himself on a beach with Shane. Now that’s different, he thought. Usually his daydreams were about golf. He enjoyed the change.

The concert ended and after a long wait in parking lot traffic, the group drove home quickly. After dessert on the deck, they all hit the hay early. Hunter moved into Joan’s room to give Shane her bed.

Weary as he was, sleep wasn’t coming easy for Reid. He tossed and turned for over an hour. A picture of the second threatening note was stuck in his head. Anxiety overcame him. He broke out in a cold sweat and began hyperventilating.
Dammit
, he thought,
this pressure is going to eat me alive
. He sat up, buried his face in a pillow and screamed. No one heard him except Bill, the guard on-duty who broke the latch, splintering the doorframe as he crashed through.

“What happened?” Bill asked, scanning the room but finding nothing wrong. “Are you all right?”

Reid was sitting with the pillow in his lap. “Shit, Bill, this really sucks. I’m trying like hell to take everything in stride, but it’s impossible. This sonofabitch is going to ruin my life.” Realizing his pun, he added, “That is,
if
he doesn’t kill me first.”

“Hey, man, it’s only natural for you to feel like that. Nobody expects you to be a hero. Sometimes it’s healthier to let your emotions flow. If you keep them bottled up, the pressure builds until you explode. Just let it go; it’s okay.”

“I know you’re right; I just don’t want my family or Shane to see that I’m so scared,” Reid said, shaking his head. It’ll just worry them more than they are already.” He let out a long sigh. “I’m fine now, thanks. Believe it or not, that scream helped.” “I hope so, because it scared the shit out of me.” “Sorry.” “No need to apologize. I enjoy a little excitement on my shift. It gets my adrenaline flowing.” “Well, in that case, I’m glad I could be of service. Next time use the door knob though,” Reid said. “Oh well, I guess I got a little overzealous. Sorry.” “Don’t worry about it. Now get the hell out of here so I can get some sleep,” Reid joked. “It’s so nice to be appreciated. Goodnight.” As Bill turned to leave the room, he and Reid noticed that everyone in the house was at the door, looking in.

“I’m okay, everyone,” Reid said. “Please go back to bed. Sorry for wak ing you.” Joan started to walk into the room. “What happened?” “Mom. I’m fine. Now please go back to bed. I really don’t want to talk right now.” “Whatever you say, dear.” Joan turned and sighed as she stepped over the splintered wood and left the room.