348 West 49th Street Chapter 11

Marc is on  the set rehearsing  the extras on what they are supposed to say and do in the up-coming shoot. Sui- Lon walks out onto the set while John looks on with Hunter and Cole.

“So did you guys have a good time?” He ask them.

Hunter who is all excited says “Yes I am learning a lot about movie camera’s and how they work. I want to buy a movie camera.”

Cole laughs at him and with a little smirk on his face says to him – You can’t buy a big movie cameras like this. They are too big for you to carry around.”

Hunter – (Matter of fact.) – “Coley I know that. Duh…But they do have small ones. I want one to practice with so I can be a camera man when I grow up. Can I John? Please?”

John – (Smiling.) “Of course you can. Let’s talk about it later though when we get home. But when you get it I want you to teach your brother how to use it too.”

Hunter – (Smiling back.) – “Is that your secret way of saying that I have to share?”

John – (Playfully) -“Now would I do that?”

Cole giggling says, “Yes!”

“Coley you’re a funny guy smart but funny.”

John musses up Coles hair.

Meanwhile on the set Marc is going over the lines with the extras.  Sui-lon thinks that they are all hearing these lines for the first time.

“Okay let me quickly set up this scene. The main star is standing near his open window thinking that he is talking to himself. He doesn’t see you all standing outside waiting for the bus. When he say’s loud enough for you all to hear: “Well will you?” And then you all (The extras) will respond mockingly: “Will I what?” and then all of you burst out laughing and then of course embarrassed he will close his window. Okay everyone got it?”

Sui-Lon along with all the other extra’s nod their heads yes. Marc does two more quick rehearsals. He tells the actors and crew that this is going to be a take. Someone yells : “Quiet on the set! Take 1!”

Actor: Well will you?

(The other extras do not respond.)

Sui-Lon –  Will I what?

She looks at the other extras wondering why they aren’t responding  with her on cue. She is little embarrassed thinking that perhaps she miss-spoke.

Marc – “Will you marry me Sui-Lon?”

Sui-Lon looks over at the director’s chair and catches Marc’s eye. She is really surprised.

Sui-Lon – “Will I what?”

Marc – “Will you marry me?”

Sui Lon blushes and puts her hands over her face as Marc starts to walk over to her.

Sui-Lon –” Marc are you serious are you sure? Are you playing with me here?”

Marc is standing in front her now. He bends down on one knee and pulls out an engagement ring.

“Nope I am not kidding. The crew help me set this up and it’s costing us a fortune to shoot this so if you say no.”

She interrupts him. “I’m not going to say no.”

” So you’ll marry me?”

“In a New York minute.”

Marc slips the ring on her finger. Sui-Lon starts to cry. He stands up and wipes the tears from her eyes and they kiss and embrace and everyone starts to cheer for them.

John who is also tearing up says. “Perhaps some one should yell cut!”

Marc stops kissing Sui-Lon for a moment smiles and yells – “Oh yeah.. Cut!

____________________________________________________________________________

Det. Little and Det. Larrabee are standing outside the apartment of Rebecca’s in-laws Mr. and Mrs. Krampf before they knock on the apartment door Det. Larabee says,”Now Little before we go in remember let’s stick with the question’s that we went over and let’s not deviate from them.”

Det. Little – (Annoyed.) – “I know Larrabee. I know!”

“I am only saying it man because you know that I told the captain to keep you on this case. I mean after all man you have been my partner for over ten years and I stuck my neck out for you here so let’s do this by the book.”

” I know man and I do appreciate it. I’ve got your back here too. Don’t worry. Now let’s do this.”

Det. Little knocks on the apartment door. Mrs. Krampf opens the door.The Detective’s show her their badges and announce their name’s.

Mrs. Krampf looked at their badges and said. “Hello may I help you? What is this about?”

Det. Little says to her.”If you would let us come in we would like to discuss the death of your daughter-in-law Rebecca Krampf.”

She waves them in and calls out to her husband to let him know that they have guests. He walks into the living room. He shakes their hands and everyone sits down except for Mrs. Krampf. “Excuse me for a moment I have a pot on the stove and I need to turn the heat down. I don’t want it to burn up. Don’t start with-out me.”

“Not a problem Mrs. Krampf. What ever you’re cooking sure smells good.” Det. Larrabee tells her.

She smile’s and laughs to herself because the only pot she has on the stove is a pot of water. “Thank you. I won’t be but a minute.”

She walks into the kitchen and pulls her cell phone out of her pocket and sends a text message.

Text Conversation :

Text : They r here.

Text Response : u know what to say.

Text : Of course. Little nervous.

Text Response :  Breathe! Call me later.

Text: I will.

Text Response: Think of the boy’s.

Text: Done!

(End of text messaging conversation.)

Mrs. Krampf walk’s back into the living room. She sits down on the sofa beside her husband. Smiling gracefully she says. “Sorry to keep you gentlemen waiting.”

“Not a problem ma’m.” The detectives say at the same time.

Det. Little starts off with the questioning. “We’re investigating the death of your daughter in law and we just need to ask you a few questions.”

Mr. Krampfs answers. ” Anything we can do to help detectives. Oh I’m so sorry officer’s where are my manners? May I offer you some coffee or anything to drink?”

Both detective’s thank her and decline her offer and continue with the questioning.

“Where were you on the night she died?”

“We were over at friends that night having dinner. We didn’t get the call until that next morning though. We were just devastated. Just devastated!” Mrs. Krampf said to him.

” Who called you?”

“John.”

“That’s John Childs. Right?”

“Yes that’s correct.”

” Now was he seeing her?”

Mrs. Krampf smiled – “If you mean by “seeing” her were they dating? Not hardly they were very good friends.”

Det. Little shifted in his chair a little himself seeming uncomfortable from the previous question. “Was she “seeing” anyone?”

Mrs. Krampf still very composed says. “No. She was very devoted to our son and when he died her total devotion went to those two beautiful boy’s our grandchildren.”

Det. Larrabee who had been quiet during the question takes over.  “You seem very sure about that.”

“I am very sure because I am certain that she would have shared it with me.”

Det. Little stepped in again. “So you were very close with your daughter-in-law?”

Mrs Krampfs nods her head with a very certain yes and says. “Very!”

“And your grand-children?”

“Yes most definitely!”

Det. Little sounding very serious and attempting to sound concerned before asking her – “I’m just curious then? Why did she leave her kids, your grand-children with her “friend” (He does quotation marks.) John instead of you and Mr. Krampf. I mean after all you are their blood.”

Mrs. Krampf who was not believing his sounding of concern at all says. “That was a decision that she made. It was in her will. It was her choice and we stand by it.”

Mr. Krampf who had been quiet the entire time backed her up with. “Yes we do!”

“I see. So that didn’t upset you at all?”

“Why should it? John is a really wonderful, respectable young man and we can see our grandchildren when ever we want.”

Det. Larrabee took over again. “The fact that he is gay doesn’t bother you?”

Mrs. Krampf  sat up in her chair leaned in towards the detective, looked him straight in the eyes and said. “Should it? Does it bother you? And sense it seems that you knew that he was gay why did you ask me if she was “seeing” him?”

“Well you know that there are some situations where the woman doesn’t know that her lover is gay. It happens all the time.”

“Trust me. She knew that John was gay. She and John were very close friends. He spent time with her and the boys.  Rebecca lived in New York City for Gods sake. She had more than a few gay friends as well as clients that she did reflexology on. Everyone that Rebecca came in contact with loved and respected her including us.”

Seeming apologetic Det. Larrabee says. “I don’t mean to imply anything. It’s just necessary that we cover all the bases here regarding her death.”

Mrs. Krampf nods her head.  “No problem anything we can do to help.”

Mr. Krampf agreeing with her ask.”Yes. Yes. Do you have any leads?”

Det. Little not wanting to give anything  away says.”Right now we’re just investigating all possible leads.”

Mr. Krampf  not believing him responds with. “I see.”

“One last question. When was the last time that you or your husband saw Rebecca?”

Mrs. Krampf lifted her head slightly to think. The last time we stopped by was about 6 months before her death right honey.

Mr. Krampf nodded his head in agreement.

“So sounds like you didn’t see her very often?” Det. Little ask her.

“We saw her and the children as often as we could. Distance had a lot to do with it. After all we live out here in Forest Hills Queen and she was in the city.”

“So sounds like you really couldn’t say whether or not if she was “seeing” or involved with anyone. I mean if you didn’t have much close personal contact. How can you be so sure that she wasn’t involved with someone?”

Mrs. Krampf sounding matter of fact.”It’s something she would have talked to me about. Trust me I would have known.”

Det. Little closes his note pad and stands up. Det. Little also stands up.

“Well Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Krampf. We’re sorry we interrupted your dinner.”

Mrs. Krampf interrupts him before he can finish his sentence. She and Mr. Krampf are also standing now.

“No problem at all. Anything we can do to help. It’s not a problem. If you could just please keep us informed we would appreciate it.”

Both detective’s nod their heads. They all walk towards the door. Mr. Krampf opens it and the Detective’s step outside.

“Thanks again for your time. Should we have any more questions we will contact you. Det Little say’s to her.

“No problem.”

Mr. and Mrs. Krampf close and lock the door. She pulls out her cell phone and sends a text.

Text Message :

Text : They just left.

After she sends the text message she puts the phone down and she and Mr. Krampf embrace.

Outside the Detective’s are walking to the car. They get inside the car.

Det. Little says to his partner. “So what do you think?”

“Nice lady. (He hesitates.) – Smart lady too.”

Yeah and her answers seemed to pat.”

Det. Larrabee agrees with him. “She certainly seemed rattled when I brought up the grand-children and John.”

“Yeah but she recovered really fast. She didn’t miss a beat. Something’s up.!”

Det. Little starts the car and they start to drive away. “Well what ever she might not be telling us. We’ll be back with more questions and we’ll put a car on them and their apartment.”

“Agreed but I have sneaking suspicion that she’ll be ready and waiting for us and the car that we’re going to put on them.

348 West 49th Street Chapter 10

Devon is at the MTD recording studio with his singing group Seph’ they have been trying to lay down some tracks all morning.

“Okay guys that’s great. Now let’s do it again.”

The singing group was tired from all the hard work they had been been there since very early in the morning. They start to grumble and moan at Devon’s request to do it again for what seemed like the hundredth time.

“Come on people it’s really great but you can do it much better. One more time and after that we’ll do a take.”

A flashing red light comes on in the studio to alert them that there is a phone call. Devon quickly picks up the phone and when he hangs it up he says. “I know that you all are going to be very sad but I am going to have to give you a break. I need to run upstairs for a meeting. You can still rehearse on your own after the  break. Please try not to miss me too much.” He said with smile.

Seph’ cheered and applauded playfully because he was leaving them. Devon takes a bow and walks out the door. He gets on the elevator and heads up to the 16th floor. When he gets off the elevator he opens the door to the boardroom where he is greeted by  his Scott his agent, and two executives producers from the MTD recording label and another gentleman who Devon avoided making eye contact with.

“Hello Devon. I am sure that you know everyone here except for Robert. This is Robert Lurie his company will now be representing your group as their publicist.” Scott said to Devon.

Devon who was taken aback by what he was being told. Reached out and shook Roberts hand. “Gentleman I’m a bit surprised here. My group Seph’ already has a publicist.”

Edward one of the executive producers responded to Devon with a smile and said. Robert Lurie Agency is and has always been a part of the MTD recording label. We use them for all our newly signed talent.”

Devon shook his head in disapproval. “Edward I can appreciate that but Seph’ is hardly new talent here in NY. The Turaj Agency has been our publicist since we started. They’ve done right by us. I am not turning them loose and besides I already have a signed contract with them”

Lee the other executive producer sounding annoyed but trying to be diplomatic says to him. “I am sure that the Turaj Agency was very good for what you needed them for at the time, but now you’re signed with a major recording label. Seph’ needs major representation  and that’s what the Robert Lurie Agency can provide. And as far as the signed contract that you have with the Turaj Agency, we can buy them out of their contract .”

Devon gave them a scowling laugh of disapproval. “Gentleman I’m sorry but I’m not going to ask them to do that. They were with us from the groups inception. They have worked really hard for us in getting the group’s name out there. And they may not be as large as the Robert Lurie Agency but they have been there for us and they have a good reputation.”

Lee still trying to sound diplomatic but becoming noticeably annoyed tries to explain it to him again. “Devon this is a part of the process for all new MTD recording artist. We really need you onboard with this.”

“Sorry gentleman I can’t get onboard with this. The Turaj Agency is who I want to stay with.” He says very adamantly.

Edward who had allowed Lee to sort of the carry the ball with this decided he better jump in again because he couldn’t understand why Devon wasn’t allowing for any flexibility. “Devon what is the problem here? We are offering Seph’ one of the biggest names in the industry. Yes the group is known here in NY and a few other cities but we want to take them global, push them out into the stratosphere. And let’s be honest here you can’t do that the Turaj Agency. Surely you can’t have a problem with that!”

Shaking his head Devon say’s, But I do!”

Edward agitated and showing his disapproval of Devon’s behavior. “Devon I don’t understand this. This is a win-win situation here. What is the problem?”

Robert Lurie who had been sitting there very quite during the entire meeting responds to Edwards question. I’m afraid gentleman that I am the problem. Right Devon?” He says this with a playful smile on his face.

“He speaks!” Devon says very sarcastically.

The two music executives and Devon’s agent Scott all look over at Robert. “What’s going on here Lee ask him.”

“Shall I tell them Devon or do you want to?” He says with an honest to goodness twinkle in his eye.

Devon shrugging his shoulders says. I’m not sure what you think you have to tell them Robert. But please be my guest share with us.”

“My company represents Charles Corrieri, Broadway’s and the worlds most renowed and very well known conductor and musician.”

“And let’s not forget one of your dearest friends. I am wondering if perhaps my father has his hands in this deal?” Devon said almost becoming heated from the thought of it.

” I can assure you Devon – your father has nothing to do with this. My firm has always worked with MTD recording just as these gentleman have been saying. This just happens to be one of life’s little coincidences.” Robert said to him.

Edward wanting to get back to business says to them. “I don’t know exactly what’s going on her but any issues that you have with your father and to be honest with you, I don’t care. I need for you to put them aside for the good of your partnership with MTD recordings. That is if you still want your group to remain on our label.”

“That sounds like a threat Edward. I hope, truly hope that it isn’t! I have a signed contract.” Devon said to him very calmly, so calmly that he sounded threatening.

Lee always the diplomat at least still trying to maintain that role interrupted them. “Gentleman let’s bring this down a thousand. This is going in the wrong direction. Devon no one is making threats here. I just feel like we should be able to come to some kind of compromise.”

Robert stood up and said. “I think perhaps if we just all take a break, give Devon time to think this through.”

Devon stopped him.  “I don’t need to think about this.”

Smiling and sounding impressed Robert says, “I swear you are just like your father.”

Not very happy to hear him say this Devon says. “You think so? I’ll tell you what I’ll compromise here but you’ll have to do something for me.”

Curious Robert says, “What is it?”

“Lose my father as a client. Now gentleman this meeting is over for me. I have to get back to my group. I’ve left them in the studio far too long. Robert you’ll call me tomorrow when it’s done and then we’ll be working together. Ciao.”

He gets up and walks out the door. While everyone else remains seated.

Edward  very angry at this point says to Scott “You’re his agent handle Devon.”

“No one handles Devon. He’s a very smart business man. He knows his business and his business is music. He knows what’s good in this industry and what sells. I will speak to him though.”

As they were all leaving the boardroom Robert still smiling and almost seeming to enjoy what had gone down there with Devon and the exec’s said. He’s just like his father – Brilliant!”

_______________________________________________________________________

Simone was sitting in the Savpasich coffee-house impatiently waiting for Josh. She almost got up and left twice. She wondered to herself why she was waiting for this mess of a man but she had to admit she was curious to find out what he had to say. It would also give her a chance to tell him off too. She ordered a cup of cinnamon spice tea with a touch of licorice. The waitress brought it over to her table.

“Thank you very much.”

“You’re very welcome. Will that be all?” The waitress asked her.

Simone gave her a – I’m thinking about having something I shouldn’t have look. “Well I would like to order a slice of marble pound cake that is if you could take the pounds out of it.”

She and the waitress both laugh.

“It looks like you could afford a pound or two. You look like you’re in great shape. Go ahead and order it. It’s very good.” The waitress said to her.

“Thanks! You’re very sweet and upon your recommendation, please bring it over here before I change my mind.”

The waitress smiled at her. “Very good. I’ll bring it right over.”

The waitress turns to walk away. Simone thinking that she’s talking to herself and sounding exasperated say’s “Oh God – what am I doing here?”

The waitress still within ear shot says to her. “Excuse me?”

Simone a little embarrassed says to her. “I’m sorry. I guess I am thinking out-loud.”

The waitress backs up walking back to Simone’s table says. “Not a problem I do it all the time. What is it that they say? As long as you don’t talk back to yourself, then you’re not crazy. At least that’s what my mama told me.”

“Oh is that what they say? Then I better watch myself because I was about to respond.” Simone said with a worried look on her face.

The waitress winked at her and said. “Don’t worry I want leak it to the National Enquirer.”

Simone gave her a wink back. “I was worried!”

They both laughed. The waitress put her hand on Simone’s shoulder to give her a sense of comfort that she felt that she needed and Simone patted her hand while it sat there for a couple of seconds allowing for it and thanking her without words. The waitress walked away to get Simone some marble cake. Simone picked up her cup of tea and began to blow very lightly on it to cool it off. When she was able to take a sip she looked up and there was Josh standing right in front of her.

“May I have a seat?” He ask.

Simone put out her hand directing him to have a seat. “Certainly!”

“Thanks for waiting for me. I really appreciate it. I mean I really don’t deserve it – considering the way that I acted that last night I saw you in Israel.”

Simone with attitude says. “Well if that’s your way of apologizing then go on!”

“Can you forgive my behavior? I shouldn’t have treated you that way. I should have respected your wishes or at least just stayed… (He hesitated) I should have just stayed!”

Simone picked up her cup of tea again and takes a sip. She puts the cup back down and looks him square in the eye. This was the moment she had been waiting for. The reason she sat there waiting for him. She was going to light his ass up.

“What do you want me to say?  When you left me that night, I went through an ocean of emotions. I have almost drowned many times in my life but I’ve always managed to pull myself ashore and that’s what I did that night. I bought my ass back to New York never expecting to see you again. And yet here you are asking me to forgive you for something that in my mind has drifted off to sea.”

She shakes her head and takes another sip of tea. The waitress walks over to the able and brings her the marble pound cake. Then she takes Josh’s order. He orders a cappuccino.

“That’s it? Ahh come on you have to order a dessert. You can’t let the lady “dessert” alone.” The waitress said with great big ole smile on her face.

Josh smile back at her and said. “Certainly not! I’ll have what she’s having.”

“Good choice. I’ll be right back.”

That waitress sure has a way with words. I did desert you that night. I’ll understand if you don’t forgive me. I just wanted you to know that  I know now that it was very stupid  and ignorant of me.”

Simone gave him a very puzzled look. “You know now? What happened did you all of a sudden get some revelation? Or does this have something to do with your test results? Did you get them?”

Letting out a big sigh Josh said. “Yes I did!”

“Well?”

Still with another sigh Josh hesitates at first. “Before I tell you I just was to ask you something. And your answer doesn’t have to be dependant upon my HIV results. (Sounding very humble) – I would really like to start fresh with “us” here in NY. I want rush you or make you feel pressured in any way. I’m just asking you to think about it for now. And whatever your answer is, I will accept it. But you have to admit the two of us meeting the way we did in Israel and now today at the same doctors office well, I just want to start fresh. If you can just set aside my human stupidity.”

Simone stops him before he could finish because he just seemed to have more to say. She couldn’t take it any more. She through her hands up in the air at him – waving for him to stop talking. With a little calm sarcasm she says to him.

“Please stop it. I can’t hear anymore of this. You’re breaking my heart. Where was this person that night when we were about to make love and you ran out on me?”

Blushing and sounding he says to her. “Hiding in my manhood and stupidity!”

“I want promise you anything. I can’t even promise you that my answer won’t be dependant upon your HIV results. I can promise you this. I will listen and be here now at this moment, after that I don’t know.”

“Fair enough and honest. I got my results back and well they came back negative.”

Simone smiled at him. “Congratulations. I am happy for you. Please make sure that you stay that way.”

Simone gets the waitresses attention. She takes money from her purse. Josh is sitting there, a bit surprised at her reaction or what he thought was lack there of.

“This should cover it. I ‘m also paying for his.”

“Okay – thank you and have a good evening.” The waitress says to her as she begins to clear the table.

Simone reaches into her purse again and this time she pulls out a business card and hands it to the waitress.

“Here take this. I like your energy. I need a receptionist. The job pays very well. If you want a job at my hair salon, it’s yours. Call me!”

The waitress was very surprised and thankful. “Thank you very much. I will – I absolutely will!”

Simone stands up. She puts heer hand on Josh’s shoulder. “Josh once again congrats! I assume that you still have my number?”

Josh sounding puzzled responds with a yes.

“Okay. Well I have to go. You take care of yourself.”

She removes her hand from his shoulder and walks out the door. When she gets outside the coffee-house she hails a taxi, gets inside, tells him her address. “348 W. 49th please.” She pulls a handkerchief from her purse and wipes a tear from her eyes.

348 West 49th Street – Chapter 6

John walks into his apartment and drops his keys down on the table beside the door. He’s just getting in from an early morning meeting with his publisher. He takes off his shoes at the door something he learned from his friend Sui-Lon. She told him that it was a spiritual practice that she had adopted. “Take your shoes off at the door to keep any negative energy from the day on the streets out of your house.” She had told him. She wouldn’t let anyone in her apartment unless they took off their shoes and now neither would John. He walked over to his cd player and turned it on. Nancy Wilson his favorite jazz singer cd came on . Then he walked over to the mantle and picked up the picture frame of Rebecca and the boy’s. He smiled and cupped his head in his hand and whispered. “How am I doing?” He put the picture frame down and walked into his office, sat down at his desk and moved the mouse on his computer to take it off stand-by mode. He got an alert that he had new email. He opened up his email from Sui-Lon first.

E-mail:

Sui-lonkit – Hi. I had a potential client yesterday at my home instead of my office downtown. No one had anything to eat though. However, they did ask me about my menus. I stayed with my usual menu. You know how hard it is to sway me from my usual menu. I do think that I need to re-think my children’s menu… especially since they asked about it. What do you think? Let’s talk about this. I always appreciate your input. It’s nice to have friends like you to discuss business with. I know that you will always be straight forward with me. It’s also very nice to have good friends in high places too. (lol) As I said let’s talk. Love Sui-Lon.

When John finished reading her email he quickly responded to it and pressed send. He then deletes Sui-Lons email as he deletes it he gets an instant message from an unknown sender. He ignores it at first but it comes back up again. He clicked on the notice to view the sender of the instant message. He still doesn’t recognize it so he blocks it. He then receives another IM this time from Tommy and he accepts and responds to it.

(Instant message conversation)

TuneTomNYC : What’s shaking?

Shadowtimx2 : not much. What’s going on with you?

TuneTomNYC : busy here at the office. Some of us have to work u know…

Shadowtimx2 : Right and what are you trying to say?

TuneTomNYC : ummmm u know.. (lol)

Shadowtimx2 : I’ll let that pass. I work. Writing is work. It must be I get paid for it. I just don’t have to do the rat-race thing anymore and now (wow) I am raising children. 🙂

TuneTomNYC : I know.. I think I’m jealous!!

Shadowtimx2 : No you aren’t. U like the rat-race.

TuneTomNYC :Me don’t likey. I want to be a star.

Shadowtimx2 : You r honey..U are (LMAO)

TuneTomNYC : Meet me for lunch. I need to talk to you about something okay?

Shadowtimx2 : Is it important?

TuneTomNYC : HELLO – I am asking.

Shadowtimx2 : Where???

TuneTomNYC : Regalo’s in Chelsea.

Shadowtimx2 : Time?

TuneTomNYC : 20 mins …. don’t be late…

Shadowtimx2 : Stop being bossy. I’ll be there.

TuneTomNYC : Kewl .. luv u.

Shadowtimx2 : Love u too.

They both sign off and before John leaves his apartment he takes one more look at the picture of Rebecca and the boys and smiles.

Tommy arrived at Regalo’s ten minutes early something he always does. He hates to be late and he hates it even more if someone else is late. He can be a little over the top with it and knows it but he tells people it’s just who he is. One time a guy that he had been chatting with online for two weeks was ten minutes late for their first meeting and Tommy lit into him like something out of hell and left him standing there with his mouth open.

John walked up behind Tommy and tapped him on the shoulder and the first thing out of Tommy’s mouth was -“you’re late.”

“And hello to you too!” John said to him giving him the same attitude that he gave him.  They hugged, did air kisses and walked into the restaurant. They were seated immediatelyand given menus. Tommy picked his up and buried his head in it like it was a novel. “I’m so hungry I could eat the back-end of a pick-up truck.”

“Well I only eat SUV’s myself.” John says to him.

” Child you are 100% bourgie.” Tommy says as he takes his head out of the menu. They look at each other and burst out laughing.

“And I was only three minutes late.” John says to him.

Tommy just waved his hand at him dismissing him. He just did not want to go there he knew that it was his issue and best not to talk about it. He waved his hand again this time to get the waiters attention. “He’s walked by us twice already.” He buried his head back in the menu. “Well if you would get your face out of that menu the waiter would come over here.” John pulled the menu out of his hand, closed it and put it on the table.

“Well he’s  cute.” Tommy said blushing a little bit.

“Who the waiter, you’re flirting with the waiter and you don’t want him to see you?” John said shaking his head at his besty like he was nuts.

“Not until he comes over to the table.” Tommy said to him reaching for the menu again. John quickly stopped his reach. “This is the reason why you and I are friends. I know you. Anyone else sitting here would think that you’re crazy but I know you’re crazy.”  John said with sarcasm in his voice.

“You know me!” Tommy said with a child like smile on his face.

John pointing his index finger at Tommy. “And you better always know it!”

The waiter finally came over to the table and took their order. The whole time that he was doing it Tommy acted as though he wasn’t interested in the waiter by totally ignoring him while he was giving him his order he didn’t even make eye contact with him. ” And we’re in a hurry can you get that to us as soon as possible.” He said to him still not looking at him. The waiter smiled and looked at John and said, “Yes right away. Will there be anything else?” John winked at the waiter. “No thanks that’ll be it.” The waiter winked back at John and walked away.

John picked up his glass of water and took a sip. He shook his head at Tommy again and smiled.

“What?” Tommy said trying to sound innocent.  John just looked into Tommy’s eyes knowing better than to even go there. He just never understood Tommy’s mating rituals. “So whats up and what was the rush to meet me for lunch?”  Tommy sighed almost hesitating before he spoke. “Well remember that guy that I met online?”  John playfully snapped his finger in Tommy’s face like he was trying to snap him back into reality. “HELLO!! which guy?” Tommy had to laugh because he knew what John was saying was at least half-true even though he would never admit it. “Ha-Ha very funny. I’m trying to talk here!”  John pulled back a little bit from the sarcasm and laughing at Tommy’s expense. “Okay, I’m sorry go on.”  Tommy continued. “The guy that sent me that nasty email.”

“The one that stopped calling you and emailing you after what – he paused. Tommy you guys went out on what 2 or 3 dates?” A bit of the playful sarcasm had come back in Johns voice.

Tommy ignoring it, “4 dates! But that’s not the point. Anyway, I was just pissed that he stopped communicating with me.”

John who was still having fun with this conversation said. “Yeah I know, you and your control issues.”

Tommy was starting to get annoyed at John thinking that he wasn’t taking him seriously in this conversation. “Listen to me okay!” John pointed his finger at him making his point. “See!”

“Whatever! Anyway, he sent me an email last night saying that he was sorry for not getting back to me. He claims that he had a family emergency out-of-town. He wants to meet me for dinner tonight. Plus he’s called me a couple of times. I just haven’t called him back.” As Tommy was about to continue the waiter walked over with their food and sat it down on the table. Tommy who was still playing his crazy mating ritual with the waiter didn’t make eye contact with him.  John thanked the waiter while Tommy  threw him some attitude. “I’d like another diet coke.”

“Certainly!” The waiter said smiling at Tommy. Tommy caught the smile but refused to smile back.

“You’re such a tease.” John said to him.

“Whatever! So what should I do about this guy?”

“Well first of all Tommy, since I know that you are going to do what you always want to do in the end, let me just ask you this. What do you want from him?”

“Some attention!” Tommy said without hesitation.

“Exactly and he hasn’t been giving it to you. So why even bother? I mean come on, what a lame excuse for not responding to your emails and not calling…. family emergency or anything be damned! If someone is interested in you, they are interested!”

While John was talking Tommy was already devouring his food in the middle of chewing his food he said. “I guess but..”

“But since I know you so well, you want to be the dumper not the dumpee right?”

Tommy still chowing down on his food. “Am I twisted?”

John shook his head no. “You’re human! And as for now it appears that you haven’t been dumped. So now is your chance. If that is what you want to do?” John starts to eat his salad.

Maybe but he is cute in that Mario Lopez – Mark Consuelos kind of way. I think that I want to go out on one more date with him and then I’ll see.”

“That’s your choice but once he stops giving you attention, I am here for you as usual.” John looked over at Tommy’s plate and it was completely clean. “I swear Tommy you eat like the ants are coming.”

They both laughed then Tommy looked towards the door of the restaurant and stopped laughing his whole face changed. He saw a man and woman waiting to be seated and while they were waiting he saw the man kiss the woman and they were holding hands. He looked as though he was going to lose his shit. John looked at The color just drain from Tommy’s face. “What’s the matter with you? You look like a ghost or like you just saw one!”

“Would you look over there at that bastard!”

“Who is it?”  John turned around in his chair to see who it was.

“Don’t stare! It’s the guy that I met online.”

John kept looking and then he said. “Who that guy – Ramon?”

Shocked and surprised that John knew who he was talking about. “You know him, you know Ramon?”

John who was just as shocked and surprised as Tommy said. “Ramon! That’s the guy that you been going out  with? No – No way!!”

Tommy almost yelling. “Yes it is! How do you know him? You better not have gone out with him too!

John laughed. “No darling I don’t do 21 flavors!”

” He never said that he was bi-sexual! How do you know him?”

“His father owns my apartment building and several other building in New York, California, Florida and in Europe. He’s a billionaire.”

“You’re kidding me! Oh my God! I can’t believe this!” He jumped up from the table and walked right over to Ramon. John tried to stop him but it was too late. He followed him hoping that Tommy wouldn’t lose it.

“Ramon!! How are you? Small world. He said sarcastically.

Ramon who was of course taken by surprise. “Yes it is. How are you?” He hesitated because he couldn’t remember Tommy’s name. And Tommy knew it and it made him even angrier.

“Tommy! My names Tommy!”

Embarrassed but trying to maintain his cool Ramon says, Tommy yes. It’s been a long time.”

“I guess it has been! And who is your friend?” What he really wanted to say he was holding back but it was hard for him.

“This is Leah.”

Leah reached out to shake Tommy’s hand. “I’m his girl-friend nice to meet you.”

Tommy didn’t shake her hand instead he put his hands on his hips and said. “Girl–friend. Hmm, last time we talked you were single weren’t you! How long have you been dating her?” He refused to say her name.

Leah who was obviously confused by his comment and the attitude that he was so obviously throwing at both of them and not appreciating it said. “Well how long has it been since you guys last spoke?”

Before Tommy could respond to her John thought he better step in and diffuse this bomb. “Hi Leah my names John. Tommy and I are friends. It’s very nice to meet you. (He shakes her hand) – Ramon nice to see you again. How’s your father?”

Ramon who was very happy that John stepped in. “It’s good to see you John. My father is fine. You know him, business as usual. (he turns to Leah) – John lives in one of my fathers building the one at 348 West.”

“Very pleased to meet you John” Leah said as she was able to shake Johns hand.

Tommy is still standing there fuming with his arms folded so tightly across his chest like he was in a straight jacket.

“John is a published author many times over. You’ve probably read a couple of his books – John Childs!”

Smiling and very impressed. “Yes of course. It’s truly a pleasure to meet you and I am reading one of your books now.”

“I hope you are enjoying it. Well we better get back to our table. My best to your father Ramon.”

” Thank you John. I’ll let him know that I ran into you.”

John grabbed Tommy’s hand and gently but firmly pulled him back to the their table. Leah gently called out to Tommy as he was being pulled away. “It was nice meeting you too Tommy.”

“Yeah Right! Talk to you later Ramon.” There was so much sarcasm in his voice that it sound like he was breathing fire.

John released Tommy’s hand and gently pushed him in front of him. He tried to add a little levity to the situation. “It sure is a small world after all.”

“Small world my ass. He’s going to think he’s a Disney character when I’m finished with him.”

“Who Daffy or Donald?”

They both laughed even though Tommy didn’t want to. “Stop it don’t make me laugh. I’m pissed.” He looked around to see where Ramon and Leah were sitting and just glared at them.

“Look let’s get the check and get out of here. Besides you have to get back to your office.”

Tommy pulled out his cell phone and started typing .

“What are you doing?

“I’m sending him a text message.”

“What ever for Tommy?”

“To work his nerves.” He kept on typing.

“Yeah right like that’s going to happen. Trust me, he looks perfectly content sitting over there with–what’s her name?”

“Leah! I’d be surprised if he could “lay-her.” Tommy smiled proud of his play on words with her name.

“Hey that’s pretty good. Now get it all out of your system so that we can get out of here.”

The waiter brought over the check. John looked at it and pulled out his credit card and immediately gives it to the waiter. Tommy is not even aware of the check or that John has already paid. ” Look over there. He’s not even responding to my text.”

Perhaps he doesn’t have his cell phone on.”

“Oh I am pretty sure that he has it on.”

“What did you text him?”

With a wicked smile on his face Tommy say’s, “I told him to turn around.”

“That’s original! Come on let’s get out of here.

Tommy reluctantly gets up. “Yeah okay – this has been the lunch from hell.” He takes one last glaring look but Ramon’s back is to him so Leah receives the look. This gets Tommy even more annoyed. John walked behind Tommy to make sure that he doesn’t go over to Ramon’s table. John nudges him lightly on his back to hurry him out the door. When they get outside Johns cell phone rings. He answers it talks for a moment and hangs up.

“I need to run. That was the principal at my kid’s school.”

“What’s the matter?” Tommy said sounding concerned for his besty.

“I don’t know. She wouldn’t say. She just said that it was important that I come by now and that she needed to speak with me.”

“Go – go on John. I’ll be fine.”

“You sure?

“Yes – now go. I said I’d be fine.” Tommy reaches into his wallet to hand John some money for his half of the lunch but John doesn’t accept it.

“Please keep it. Next time it’s on you. And please make sure it’s some place nice and oh yeah some place where your “pieces” don’t hang out.”

“Funny!” Tommy said with a smile.

They gave each other a hug.

“I love you!”

“I love you too.” Tommy said back to him.

John hailed a taxi while Tommy walked back to work.

348 West 49th St. Chapter 5

Sui-Lon was busying around in her apartment when her house phone rang. It was the doorman calling her to tell   her that two detectives were coming up to see her. She hung up the house phone and simply waited patiently for them to come up when she heard the knock on the door she opened it up immediately and before she could say come in one of the detectives picked her up and started  twirling her little body around like a rag doll and kissing her on the cheek. Then he put her down “ Do you know how long I’ve known Sui-Lon? What is it about 10 years?” As he put her down she shook herself off from  all the love he was showing her and smiled and nodded her head  in agreement.” Yes David’s like a big brother to me.”

Det. Little who was taken aback by their  familiarity said – Oh yeah! So you two are like family right.” He reached out to shake her hand as Detective Larabee introduced them.

“Yes David has been to more family gatherings with me than I can count. My mother expects him at every family event and ask about him if he’s a no-show. She just loves him.

Det. Little took out his pad and pencil and went right into detective mode not seeming to care much about the two of them knowing each other so well. He was a little surprised that his partner of many years failed to mention this little fact to him. “ Sui-Lon I am pretty sure that you know why we are here. We are questioning a few people in the building regarding Rebecca Krampf. Now as I understand from the police officer’s at the scene that night, Rebecca was supposed to attend a dinner party here with you and some friends.

Sui –Lon responded to him unimpressed with his detective skills.” Yes that’s right. It wasn’t really a dinner party though. It was just an impromptu kind of spur of the moment thing.”

Det. Larabee interrupted them dismissing the idea that Sui-Lon’s cooking could be anything less than “spur of the moment.

“Spur of the moment dinner my ass!  You gotta taste Sui-Lon’s cooking. She can cook anything.”

Still taking notes Detective Little said . “That’s right Larabee tells me that you own your own catering company. Sui-Lon’s Kitchen Right?” He thought to himself that it was interesting that his partner had told him about that but nothing else about their personal relationship. He figured that bit of information about her catering company came from detective work.

Det. Larabee started talking before  Sui-Lon before could respond. “That’s right. She has an office and a whole kitchen set up down in Tribeca and her cooking to die for.” He put his fingers to his mouth and spreads them out like he’s an Italian chef giving the mark of approval for good food.

Sui-Lon acting all embarrassed,  “Ah come on you flatter me David. By the way you guy’s hungry? Dave you know that I can whip something up for you two in a matter of minutes.”

Det. Larabee smiled all big and manly. “Now come on Sui’ don’t tempt me. You know how hard it is for me to resist your cooking.  We grabbed something on the way over here though.”

Det. Little who was still playing detective wasn’t to happy about his partners behavior considering that Sui-Lon with in his eyes – a person of interest. “We’re going to need a list of everyone who was here that night.”

“Sure not a problem.”  Sui-Lon said to him. She gave him all the names. As he was writing them down on his pad he said to her. “ I understand that the deceased’s children Hunter and Cole were here too?”

“Yes that’s right. Dinner was kind of a last-minute thing. Rebecca couldn’t get a-hold of her regular baby-sitter so I just told her to bring them down.”

“ And how did they come to be here at your apartment without their mother?”

“ She said that she had a couple of things to do before she could come over. So to free her up, I told her to send the boy’s ahead. They have been here before. I met them at the elevator and brought them in. Hunter likes to help me cook. (She laughs.) – Cole and Marc set the table. They are really great kids and smart too.”

Det. Larabee spoke up to reassure his friend. “Sui’ now you know that this line of questioning is just procedure with a case like this.”

Sui-Lon trying to sound like she wasn’t probing said. “Yes I know. It’s not a problem. Anything that I can do to help is fine with me. Still a few un-answered questions I suppose.” She didn’t want to make it sound like a question but she was hoping he would give her a little something.

“Just trying to close up a few loose ends is all.” He said  not about to give up anything to her.

Not giving up herself she said. “Yes I see. What was the M.E.’s determination as to the cause of death?”

Both of the detectives looked at each other and laughed. “Look out! She’s quick. She’s been hanging around me to long”. Det. Larabee said still laughing.

Sui-Lon laughing with them, “I guess that I have.”

Det. Little put his pad and pencil away and stood up.  “Well I guess that we better get going. We have all we need for now.”

Det. Larabee  stood up too. “Yeah   Sui’ listen if we have more questions we’ll give you a call all right sis?”

Sui-Lon gets up and walks them to the door. “Of course and hey you know where I live.”

The three of them laugh . Det. Little shakes her hand. Det. Larabee  gives Sui-Lon a hug and while he’s hugging her she whispers in his ear. “Keep me informed.”

He whispers back. “We’ll do. I’ll call you tonight.” They break from their embrace and she opens the door.

“It was nice to meet you Sui-Lon. I look forward to sampling some of your cooking.”

“You’ll never eat your wife’s cooking…I’ll tell you that boy…hmmm..”

“Ahh come on David don’t tell him that.” She said waving her hand at him to stop.

“I’m not kidding. Why do you think that I never got married?” He playfully pokes Det. Little in the ribs. He gave Sui-lon another big hug and as they leave Sui-Lon stands at the door waiting until they get on the elevator. She goes back into her apartment walks into her office and touches the mouse on her computer to bring it up from stand-by mode. She writes a quick e-mail to John and presses send. Her phone rings.

Sui-Lon – Hello.

“Hi girl Guess whose back?”

“Simone…Welcome home girl. When did you get in? Sui-Lon said with a great big smile on her face.

“I just got in. I decided to take an early flight home. I did enjoy Israel though. The culture and the history..ahhh…It took my breath away….many times. So did the men “hello!”

“I am sure that you have a lot to tell me.”

“That I do girl…That I do! Where is John? I tried calling him. There was no answer. No surprise…(She laughs.) – But I sent him a few e-mails before I left Israel and he has not responded to any of them. That’s not like him. Is he all right?’

Sui-Lon paused.  “Hmm…Simone where do I begin? Listen how soon can you get down here?”

Sounding concerned Simone said.  “Is it that deep girl? Well I have to call my general manager see how business is going at my salons. (She hesitates.) – Oh what the hell that’s what I hired him for… I’ll be down at your apartment in about five minutes.”

“I’ll be waiting. I’ll put on some tea.”

“Herbal ?”

“What else?”

“See you in 5.”

 

It’s early morning and as Devon and Emmie are getting ready for their perspective busy day. The phone rings Emmie goes over to answers it.

“Oh hi dad. It’s good to hear your voice too. (She giggles in response to his comment.) – Yes I am. How is mom? Ahh ok send her my love too. I have a photo shoot this morning 10:00a.m. but I should be done by then. Okay sure. I love you too. Hold on. I’ll get him for you.”

She puts the phone on hold and walks into the bathroom. Devon is just getting out of the shower. She nuzzles up behind him and wraps her arms around him as he continues to dry himself off. He nuzzles her back.

“Honey cut that out or I’ll never leave.” He says to her all smiles.

“That’ll be fine with me but I can’t cancel this shoot. And you know I don’t do quickies. (She laughs.) – Honey it’s the phone.”

“Who is it?” Devon ask still drying himself off.

“It’s your father.”

Devon stopped  drying  himself and throws the towel down on the floor. “Ahh damn!! Not right now..Tell him I’m sleeping.”

“Now honey be nice…I all ready told him that you’re going to pick-up.”

Devon cringes and shudders. “Okay I’ll pick-up. What the hell does he want?” He picks the towel up from the floor and wraps it around him.

Emmie shrugs her shoulders. “What makes you think that I know? Hurry up honey he’s been on hold for way to many minutes now. “She pushes him out of the bathroom and over to the phone.

“What makes me think that you know? Because “Hello!” He tells you everything.”

He picks up the phone and as he picks it up Emmie takes the towel from around his waist leaving him totally exposed. She burst out laughing and so does he.

Trying to compose himself “ Hi dad. Oh nothing. I’m fine dad. What? I’m not sure if we can make it dad. Let me check with Emmie. Okay if she already told you that she would be available at that time. (He makes an exaggerated face at Emmie and sticks his tongue out at her. She covers her mouth so that she want laugh out loud at him in his pending situation.) – Okay dad then we’ll be there. 8:00 p.m. Okay. No dad I can’t talk to mom right now. I have an early morning meeting with the exec’s. Tell mom that I love her and I’ll see you both tonight. Okay- Okay.(trying his  to get off the phone.) – I gotta go dad love you. Bye.” He slammed down the phone and let out a heavy sigh of exasperation.

“Give me that towel.” He said trying to compose himself.

“Come over here and get it.”

He moved in close to her and wrapped the both of them up into the towel. He looks over at their grandfather clock and eyes the time. “Honey I think that we have enough time for some..(He winks at her.) –fun.”

“Cut it out honey. I don’t have time. I told you already. You know how I feel about “quickies.”

“Honey I never do anything quick.” He said with a crazy sexy look in his eyes.

She playfully pushes him away and herself out of the towel. ”I know that but I have to be going in a few minutes. I’m sure that the car is all ready down-stairs waiting for me.”

Reluctantly giving up Devon wraps himself up in the towel. “All right I’ll finish getting ready too.”

“So your father is being honored tonight by his peers on “Broadway” at the Ritz Carlton and we’re going. You want to talk about it?”

Letting out a heavy sigh and not wanting to talk about it.  “Not really honey. Not right now. Let’s just go tonight, make a showing and leave as soon as possible.”

Emmie knowing when to leave well enough alone especially when it comes to his father said. “Okay baby. He loves you…you know?”

“Yeah I know. I can’t be what he wants me to be. I can’t be him.”

“I think it’s that..(She pauses.) – As you said let’s leave it alone for now.”

She picks up her wrap, grabs her bag and walks over to Devon and gives him a deep passionate kiss. He kisses her back pulling her closer to him. “Stay a few minutes longer hun.” He says with a little pleading in his voice.

She pulls away playfully. “Sweetheart I have to run down to the car. Now stop it. I told you that I have to go.”

Giving up he says. “Okay. I’ll meet you back here at 6p.m. Then we can head over to the Carlton.”

“All right darling. Any problems we’ll “cell” each other. Have a good day.”

“You too hun. I love you.”

“I love you too.”