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Terry shakes his head, 'I
can't
do it babe. It don't feel good anymore.' He looks at his long-term
girlfriend
Tanya for support, but she
doesn't appear to understand what he is saying. 'I can't do it, Tanya.
I've had enough of being the bad guy. I want to go straight. I want to
lead a normal life
and do something that makes me happy. I'm sick and tired of looking
over my
shoulder all the
time.'
'Terry! Don't be so stupid. We need the money. You have your son to
think
about too. Little Danny needs a future, and having a future costs a lot
of
money.' She looks angry. Tanya gets angry easily. Terry used to like
her fire, but these days anger and violence make him feel sick. He's
seen too much, done too much. He's had enough of being a hard man, a
punisher for the East End gang he has worked for since he was a teenage
tearaway.
Terry stands up, walks to the front door and puts on his long
Burberry
coat and Patrick Cox shoes.
'I'm going out for a walk. I need time to think. I need to get my head
straight. I'll be
back in a while.'
Tanya sits back on the sofa of their east London Docklands apartment and lights a cigarette. Her toddler, Danny, is playing with Lego on the expensive Turkish rug at her feet. She inhales deeply and blows a ring of smoke across the room. It is hard to keep calm these days. Little Danny is still keeping her awake, and now Terry wants to quit the gang and go straight. What will they do for money? Normal jobs pay terrible money. Terry is a complete fool. He couldn't get a real job anyway, or keep one. He'd end up punching his boss on the first day. It's a stupid idea. Terry loves hurting people too much. It is the only thing he is good at. In fact, he excels at it. For him, hurting people has been elevated to an art form. Tanya used to be excited by his raw aggression, but now she has other priorities.
His local pub sounds crowded and Terry can hear loud voices laughing inside. He walks straight past. He can't face them tonight. He thinks about what they would say if he told them he was finished working for the firm. He imagines they wouldn't believe him; they'd think he was joking, having a laugh. But he could imagine Eddie Acton's disbelief turning to anger when he realised Terry wasn't joking. Terry is a hard man but the gang boss is even tougher. Terry thinks he, Tanya and Danny will have to leave the country without saying anything, without telling anyone. Maybe go to Spain. But maybe Spain is too close. The gang has many contacts all over Spain, especially down south in the sunshine. He will have to take his family much further away. Away to a place they'll never be found. A place where he can devote his life to what he really wants to do; what he's wanted to do since he was a kid. Terry Adamson, hard man, wants to be an artist, and now is the time.
The next few weeks pass without incident, and Terry is spending a lot of time online, checking out his options, making plans. Tanya is getting increasingly worried, She knows that Eddie Acton never lets anyone 'retire' from the firm. He treats the gang like his family, and family is forever, through thick and thin, till death do us part. Those members know too many secrets. Secrets that could put Eddie in prison for the rest of his life. Tanya fears that Eddie might punish her or little Danny if Terry does something stupid. He's a fair man, mostly, but he doesn't flinch at wielding his supreme power. If something needs to be done, Eddie does it. If an example needs to be made - likewise. The thought of what he might do chills her. She's got to talk some sense into Terry before it's too late.
It's early evening and Tanya is
preparing dinner. She is standing, looking into their vast Smeg fridge
for inspiration, when Terry comes up behind her and gives her a big
cuddle. He kisses
her neck and smells her hair. 'I love you babe,' he says,
holding her tightly and pressing his hard body against her. 'Get off,
you idiot,' Tanya laughs, 'I'm cooking. Save it for later, after Danny
has been put to bed.'
Terry continues holding her, but forgets his amorous intent. 'Babe,
I've been doing a lot or research and stuff on the web and I think I
know where we're going. The EU is easy, of course, but it's too close
to home. It'd be too easy to find us. So I discovered that Panama is
the best option in our situation. Easy to get visas, easy
to get bank accounts with few questions asked.'
Tanya spins around and pushes Terry away. 'Panama? You are
joking. I sincerely hope you are joking Terry. Come to think of it,
where the hell is Panama anywhere? Some kind of
swamp in Brazil where they make stupid bloody hats? You're off your
trolley Tel.'
'But babe, we could bring up Danny in a tropical paradise. Go swimming.
I could paint.'
'Paint? Paint what? Your nails? Walls? You are you going on about?'
'I want to start oil painting like Paul Gauguin did in Tahiti.'
'What?' Tanya goes bright red with rage, 'Since when were you into art?'
'Since I was a kid. I was really really good at art in junior school. I
just got
diverted into other stuff as I got older. My old teacher, Miss Jenkins
said I had real talent. She said I was special.'
Tanya looks confused and angry. She starts shaking her head, ' No,
Terry. You've lost the plot mate. And what about mum and Cynthia, and
the twins? And what about your
brother? There are too many "what ifs?"'
'Trust me, babe. I've got it all worked out. And money is no problem.
I've got easily enough stashed away. It'll be a dream life. When we get
settled your mum can visit.'
'How can anyone
visit if no one knows where we are?'
'I'll sort it. I'll work something out. I promise you babe. I love you
and Danny so much. I want us to have a good life.'
'No, no, no. Terry. It don't sound good to me. It don't sound right.
Eddie will go mental.'
Terry is asleep. It's late
on a cloudy windy Sunday afternoon and Tanya takes her mobile phone out
onto their
balcony. In front of her is a wonderful view of the river Thames,
silver-grey and
lined
with dozens of expensive apartment buildings. Tanya's heart is racing
as she
waits for the number she's dialled to start ringing. After only two
rings, it does. There is no voice on the other end. 'Hello, Is that
Mister Acton?' says Tanya nervously.
'Who is this? How did you get this number?'
'This is Tanya, Mister Acton. Terry's girl. I am so sorry for calling
you Eddie, but there's a problem. It's Terry.'
'Speak to me.'
'He's gone a bit crazy, Eddie. He says he wants to quit the.. the...
company. He says he wants to take me and little Danny away.'
'When?' asks the gangster sternly.
'I don't know, Eddie. He's been making plans, mentioning Panama. The
thing is, I don't
want to go. I'm happy here, and I have my mum and sister and her kids.
I want Danny to grow up in England, speaking English. But please, I
don't want anything
to
happen to Terry. He's a good bloke, I love him. He's been good to me
and he's a good father to the boy.'
'You did right by calling me Tammy.'
'It's Tanya, Mister Acton.'
'Tammy, Tanya. Listen... Don't tell Terry we had this little
conversation. You know he owes me a lot of money, don't you? You know I
lent him the money for your flat? That's a lot of money. My money,
Tammy. You know what I'm saying, don't you?'
'Yes, Mister Acton.' You won't hurt Terry, will you?'
The line goes dead. 'Eddie...? Mister Acton? Are you there?'
Tanya wonders if she has done the right thing. Through the wide
floor-to-ceiling bedroom windows she
can see Terry still asleep on the white sheets of their bed. Danny is
asleep next to him. They look so peaceful. Has she made the wrong
decision?
It's 6.30pm the same day. Terry
is in his black Audi A3 driving through Canning Town on his way out to
Ilford in Essex to see his brother. Rob is eight years younger than
Terry, and has never been part of the gang. His route to a better life
has always been education. Last year he graduated from university and
has started working as a Java programmer in a small IT company
in Canary
Wharf. He's doing well for himself. Terry hopes his own decision to
won't
affect his kid brother. Rob already knows the plan and has moved from
his
old flat to a new 'secret' location. He needs to keep his head
down until it all blows over. If it ever does. Eddie has always been
one to bear a grudge, and absconding with his hard-earned cash will
definitely not go down too well.
Terry keeps glancing at his phone, hoping it won't ring, hoping it
won't be Eddie. His phone rings. It's Eddie.
'Terry, can you pop over later tonight?
'Sure. What time?'
'Around nine.'
'I'll be there.'
'Make sure you are.'
Eddie sounded normal but Terry is paranoid. He hopes he didn't sound
edgy.
An hour later Terry is parking
up at his brother's new place. He looks around before he gets out of
his car. He always does that, it's a habit. He has made a lot of
enemies in his trade. A lot of people want to pay him back for the
broken arms and razor cuts he has given them. He presses the buzzer on
the entrance door to the 60s brick-built block where Rob is staying.
Above him, on the third floor, Rob looks out of the window, before
answering. 'I'll be right down bro.'
Two minutes later Rob is driving Terry to Ilford station. He is keeping
the car and will sell it and send his brother the money. The two
brothers hug and say good bye. It's not easy leaving your family.
Especially like this.
It takes an hour to reach
Eddie's house by train and taxi. Terry is scared stiff, but keeps
reminding himself that Eddie doesn't know anything. How could he? The
only people who know about his plans are Tanya and Rob. Tanya hasn't
even told her mum or sister. Terry waits outside the solid front door
to Eddie's six-bedroom house. One of Eddie's minders, 'Titfer' opens
the door. 'Evening Titfer. How's your dad? Is he out of hospital yet?'
'Yeah, he is. Thanks Tel. I'll tell the old bleeder you've been asking
after him. Come in, come in. Eddie's having a sauna. He said to join
him.'
Terry goes inside the immaculately decorated house and
down into the basement. In the corner of the games room is a
small wooden sauna. He can see Eddie through the glass window. Terry
strips off and wraps a small white towel around himself before going
inside.
'Well, well,' says Eddie, with sweat dripping off his wide
flat nose. 'How are you Terry? We haven't seen much of you recently.
You're not planning on running away are you?'
Terry swallows and can feel panic rising inside him. But then Eddie
laughs. 'It's a joke Terry. you remember them, don't you?'
'Yes, Eddie.' Terry doesn't know what to say.
'I know you would never leave the firm. I know you're a loyal member of
our band of brothers. Isn't that right?'
'Of course. I'd.. I'd never do anything against you Eddie.
'That's good to hear. I'm pleased we see eye to eye. And how's your son
Danny? He must be getting bigger. You should bring him over to the
house one day. Carol loves kids and she likes your girlfriend Tammy.'
'It's Tanya.'
'What is?'
'Her name is Tanya, Eddie.'
'That's right, that's right. Pretty girl but a bit of a mouth on her,
as I remember.'
Terry laughs. The sweat is pouring off him now. He has never enjoyed
saunas. 'I'm feeling a bit hot, Eddie.'
'That's what saunas do. They make you sweat. You seem to be
sweating for England.'
'I get a bit panicky in hot places.'
'That's good to hear too. Hot places can cause death. You know what I
mean, Terry. And death is fatal, isn't it. No way back from death. Too
late to wonder if you did the right thing when you're dead.'
'That's the truth. I know what you're saying,
Eddie.' says Terry, nodding his head.
'I'm glad you do. Now go take a shower and we'll see you next week. We
have a plan for some business in Southend. There's a Post Office van we
have our eye on, and I want you to play a key role.'
'That's kind of you, Eddie. I appreciate it.'
'That's good to hear. Now off you go. My Thai massage therapist will be
here in
ten minutes.'
Terry stands up feeling dizzy with the heat and the stress. Just as he
is about to open the door to leave, Eddie grabs his arm,' Hold on
Terry... One more thing. What's happened to your Audi? You came on
foot.'
'It's in for a regular service, boss. Costing me an arm and a leg, it
is. Mechanics... they're all a load of
crooks!'
Eddie Acton laughs, 'Ain't that the truth; thieves - the lot of 'em!'
Terry is in the street outside
his boss's large house. As he lights a cigarette, a young attractive
Thai man arrives in a taxi and carries a bag into Eddie Acton's house.
Terry stubs out his cigarette and jumps in the cab. 'Canning Town,
mate,' he instructs the cabbie, 'And go the direct route. No messing
about.'
As the black cab makes its way through the London streets, Terry takes
a good look around. This is his world, his manor. But times have
changed and he needs to make a decision. Earlier, while Tanya thought
he was sleeping, he saw her on the balcony, talking on the phone. The
stupid cow erased the number she dialled, so Terry knew she was up to
something. Now, he is pretty sure she spoke to Eddie. Terry knows he is
lucky to be alive at this moment. Eddie has killed men for
much less. What to do next? What to do next? Terry lights up a
cigarette. 'You can't smoke in my cab,' the cabbie says immediately.
'Can't you read?'
Usually, Terry would punch him and not stopped punching him
until his blood lust subsided, but this time he apologises and puts out
the cigarette. It's gone nine pm and he needs to reach Cynthia's house
before nine-thirty.
Mini-movies are playing over and over in Terry's mind. Trailers for horror films in which all his plans go wrong. In one, Eddie knows all about tonight and is waiting for Terry with his two minders and some very large butcher's knives; or Tanya reaches her sister's house half an hour earlier than expected after discovering that Terry has packed lots of his and Danny's clothes. So many things might go wrong. He does his best to concentrate but he's a bag of nerves when he stops the cab in the next street to his sister-in-law's flat and asks the cabbie to wait.
Cynthia's flat is on the second
floor of a smart looking Georgian block near Victoria park. She's a bit
surprised when it's Terry instead of Tanya at the door, but if she's
suspicious, she doesn't show it. 'Hello Terry, love. Wasn't expecting
to see you. Come in. Danny's in the lounge playing with the twins.'
'Thanks, Cyn. Oh! Any chance of a cuppa? It's been a long day. Know
what I mean?'
'Yeah, I do. The kids have been right little horrors this afternoon.
Run me ragged, they have! Go in to the lounge and I'll put the kettle
on. Tanya
out late with Mandy?'
'Yeah, she is. She deserves a night out once in a while. So I mailed
her and said I'd pick Danny up and she could have a late one.'
'You're too good to her, Tel. But you're with the wrong sister - you
should be looking after me. My Dave, is a right waste of space.'
Cynthia winks at Terry and heads into the kitchen to make the tea.
Then Terry shouts, 'Hold the tea, Cyn. I'd better be off. I just
remembered I gotta go see a man about a dog before ten. I'll just grab
Danny and be off.'
'Okay, love. Well... see you soon, and don't forget the offer to leave
Tanya and run away with me still stands.'
Cynthia is still smiling as Terry closes the door.
Seconds later, he is running down the street with Danny in his arms.
Back inside the waiting cab, Terry passes the driver a crisp fifty
pound
note and says, 'Heathrow, mate, but first, we need to make a quick stop
in East Ham. Go the quick way and
tell your radio operator that you're on your way to Stanstead. You
catch my drift?
There'll be more cash when we arrive... If you forget I was ever in
the cab.'
The chubby, red-faced cabbie nods. It's not his place to question his
fare's motives and movements. As long as Old Bill aren't involved, he's
happy to make a few extra quid tonight.
Twenty minutes later, Terry's
mobile starts buzzing and flashing. It's Tanya. 'Where the hell are
you? Where's Danny? Talk to me Tel. What's going on? I just got to
Cynthia's and she said you picked Danny up.' Tanya sounded both angry
and
scared.
'Relax, babe. I've got Danny with me and we're going on our way home. I
meant to mail you, but it slipped my mind. We'll be back in ten
minutes.'
Terry knows that his girlfriend doesn't believe him. She's probably
already phoned Eddie Acton to let him know Terry's doing a runner
tonight. But Terry has already planned what to do. A couple of days
ago, he made sure he left a clue on his internet search history. he
left a guide to Stansted Airport on his browser. He hopes his
girlfriend saw it and tells Eddie to look in completely the wrong
direction.
The cab stops at Canning Town Self Storage and Terry picks up three
suitcases and a holdall containing his travel documents and wallet.
Seconds later, he's back in the cab and heading west with his son.
Taking no
chances, he dons a claret-coloured baseball cap and puts Danny out of
sight on the
floor. He's sweating. He knows Eddie will be looking for him within
minutes. Eddie has contacts in the cab business, and as expected, the
cabbie looks nervous as he talks to his controller. Terry waves another
fifty pounds at the driver. He nods again. Terry knows the driver is
taking a risk accepting his money and lying to his controller. Eddie
Acton doesn't take kindly to people who lie to him and obstruct his
business, but the cabbie in unaware of the situation, and to
be honest, his future problems are not Terry's concern.
Airports have never been comfortable places for Terry Adamson. Firstly, he hates flying. He's not scared, of course; definitely not scared. Just doesn't enjoy being cooped up in a flying box with a load of smelly punters. Secondly, airports are full of police and security. Terry has feels deep repulsion towards anyone in uniform, from the lollipop lady when he was in infant school, the Nigerian shopping centre guard who always looks at him funny, to traffic wardens - bastards, the lot of them. All of these authority figures freak him out. But Old Bill is always looking for a way to feel his collar, despite any sweeteners Eddie may dish out. Tonight, Terry has to control his mood and his actions. Try not to get upset. He's a normal guy taking his son on a holiday to Thailand, nothing to worry about. Keep cool, keep calm.
Check-in is smooth. Tanya hasn't involved the authorities yet; she wouldn't; it's not her style; she hates the police more than Terry does. Father and son pass through passport control with Danny, tired and sleeping on his dad's shoulder. He keeps asking for his mum, but sadly, it might be many years before they are reunited. By that time, he won't remember anything about her. Terry hopes his son grows to understand the situation and forgives him for his extreme actions. Probably not.
The direct Qantas flight to Bangkok leaves at 0045 and Terry is sat next to a young middle-class university student, off to meet his friends for some flash-packing around the islands and beaches. Terry chats a little, but basically he has a mistrust of the middle-classes and the conversation is stilted. The guy looks relieved. He actually seems a bit intimidated sitting next to an obvious thug like Terry. As Terry tries to settle his son he realises that changing his life means changing his appearance and demeanour too. The days of frightening people for a living must be consigned to the past He needs to let some warmth come into his voice, open his mind, trust people. Remould himself in the shape he wants to be. From now on he decides to introduce himself as Terence, not Terry. Terence Adamson, the aspiring artist who made his money in business in London, and his son Daniel, a child who will grow up with beach-tar on his feet and salt in his hair.
Terry was surprised how easy it was to arrange a visa for Fiji. More suprising is the fact that he doesn't have a criminal record. He always been lucky evading the long arm of the law. His legitimate but totally fake 'paid' job has always kept the taxman at arms length too. He was for all intents and purposes as clean as a whistle, and with a stack of money in several banks, buying a plot of land on the island of Koro was a breeze. As soon as they arrive he will arrange to have a small house built. Until then, they are going to rent a holiday apartment and settle in to a new pace of life. Maybe he'll meet a new girl. Someone with a touch of class. Although he won't admit it, Terry feels so disappointed that Tanya let him down. He so wanted them to stay together as a family and make a new life together. When he realised he couldn't trust her, it killed him. What point is there in loving someone if they betray you? Everyone in his life had betrayed him. His father, who left home when he was a nipper; his mother, who died from booze and smack; his teachers, even Miss Jenkins, his art teacher; everyone. Now there is only him and Danny. He'll never leave his son, he'll always be there for him, even if it meant leaving Danny's mum back in London. One day he'll bring them together.
The world spins smaller and
smaller but some places are still a long
way from London. After three flights and a seaplane journey,
father and son arrive on Koro island. Both are exhausted and it is
raining and much cooler than Terry had imagined. The air, heavy and wet
is, however, fresh and fragrant, and fills Terry with
confidence that he has made the right decision. Waiting for them,
standing with arms crossed on the jetty is a young Fijian girl with a
white Toyota pick-up, who takes
them on a bumpy ride to the small private cottage Terry will rent until
his house is completed. 'I'm Sera. Welcome to Koro... So Mister
Adamson, how was the flight? Not too
exhausting, I hope?' the friendly property company rep enquires.
'To be honest, I've lost all sense of time and space, and little Daniel
keeps crying. He doesn't understand where he is,' Terry says, flashing
a smile at his attractive driver, 'and please call me Terence.'
'May I ask if Missus Adamson will be joining you?'
'It's a long story, but no she won't. It's just myself and Daniel.'
Sera, keeping her eyes on the twisting road, nods sagely.
'The office said you are retiring from your business in London. You
look too young to retire, if I might say so. I don't want to intrude,
but how does a young good-looking man get to retire and move to
paradise?'
'Property,' Terry says confidently, his eyes exploring the young
woman's long smooth tanned neck, 'Let's just say, I made some good
investments, and now I'm reaping the rewards.'
She nods, gently biting her lower lip, then turns and smiles at him
again. Her eyes probing deep into him. She is obviously flirting, but
is it his body or his money that turns her on? Terry is tired but
feels suddenly alive, recharged. A new world awaits and he can't wait
to start exploring.
As the Toyota pulls into the
steep drive leading to the rental cottage the rain stops. Within
seconds, hot sunshine is pouring across the lush green landscape. The
beauty of the place is too much - he starts to cry. 'Are you
okay?' Sera asks, putting her hand on his arm with a mixture of
tenderness and hesitation.
'Yes. It's just I've been dreaming about this since I was a boy. To be
truthful, I never thought it would happen, never imagined I'd make it
here in one piece.
Now I'm here, I feel overwhelmed.'
'It's a beautiful place. Sadly, I've never left Fiji, so it's difficult
to compare.'
'Believe me, Sera. You're not missing much. London's gone to the dogs.
Full of immigrants...' Terry realises what he's just said, 'No offense
meant.'
Sera laughs, 'None taken. You're am immigrant yourself!'
'I suppose I am. Then again, sometimes it felt like I was in the
minorty in London too!'
Terry lifts Danny from off the back seat and emerges from the plastic
grey plastic interior of the Toyota into his new life amid birdsong
and flowers. As
he watches Sera sashay her way upto the wooden house, her hips
describing perfect curves, he realises he
has much to do to fully recreate himself. Maybe through painting, he
can find
the silence he craves. But Terry fears the new world will see through
the thin veneer he has hastily fastened to himself; expose him and
ridicule him; find the thug lurking below the surface. But then again,
he knows the thug was a creation too; a creation to protect himself
from other violent men. Whatever happens, this new world will
decide who he really is, and he must be ready to accept its decision.
Eddie Acton is sitting
comfortably on his large leather sofa. He looks relaxed but his eyes
betray the anger that has swollen within him. Opposite him is Tanya.
She is holding a gin and lime limply in her left hand. There is a
cigarette in her right hand, several more stubbed out in the onyx
ashtray on the large coffee table that separates her from one of the
most violent and dangerous men in London. She is crying and cannot look
Eddie in
the eye. 'Let me run this by you again, Tammy', he says calmly, 'It
seems your Terence has gone walkabout with your boy. He's also pissed
off with a large amount of my money. I am not a happy man, Tammy. I am
not a happy
man at all. You can understand that, can't you girl?'
'Yes, Mister Acton.'
'So, what I am asking you is... is that if Terry contacts you
at all, and I mean anything at all, you
tell me about it without delay. My boys are making enquiries as we
speak. I can twist a few arms here and there to find out where he's
holed up. All I can promise you is that your son will be safe. But you
ain't ever going to see your Terry again. Not if I find him. And I will
find him. No one gets the better of me. I have my reputation to
consider. You understand that, don't you girl?'
'Yes, Mister Acton.'
Tanya is shaking as she leaves Eddie's house and heads to her mum's place in Shadwell. She feels such a fool. She should have gone with Terry. Why didn't she listen to him? Now she's never going to see him again - not alive anyway. And what about little Danny? The thought of losing him for ever is impossible to take. She needs her mum. She needs a cuddle, she needs a Valium and a drink. This is a nightmare, a complete effing nightmare.
Eddie is making calls. He has a few favours to call in. Trouble is, he can't let on that one of his own boys has shafted him. That would do his reputation no good. It would be seen as a sign of weakness by some of his enemies, and this is not a good time to be a gangster in London. What with the Turks, the Albanians, the Russians, The Yardies, the Chinese, London is awash with rival gangs. So far, his part of east London is still his personal kingdom, but the foreign gangs are beginning to crowd in. Already, a few of his boys have had run ins. The last thing Eddie needs are rumours that his firm is breaking up from within. So he has to be careful what he says to whom, very careful indeed. Eddie is not a happy man. He goes to the boxing gym and spars a few rounds to let off a bit of steam. His sparring partner leaves with three broken ribs.
The first few weeks of life in Fiji have been passed so quickly. Terry is busy, far busier than he ever was in London. There have been so many things to do: getting the house into a habitable state; registering himself with the authorities; registering little Danny, sorry Daniel, with the local health clinic; buying suitable clothes for them both; and most significant of all - cooking dinner for the lovely Sera on no less than three occasions. She was surprised to find Terry was such a great cook, and he impressed her with his mixture of masculine confidence and artistic sensibility. She found it an enticing combination. On their third date, contrary to her better judgment, she spent the night in his bed. She was undeniably impressed with his lovemaking too. However, despite her new found happiness, Sera has some lingering doubts about her new man. Why is he so vague about life in London, and about Daniel's mother? What is he hiding? She also has the problem of telling her three brothers about Terry. They will be none too pleased when they find out.
Terry sets up his easel in the garden on the east side of the house. It's a beautiful morning with a fragrant offshore breeze filling him with a sense of purpose. This morning, Terence Adamson is to begin his first oil painting. Trouble is, what should he paint? He hadn't envisioned lacking inspiration, but he is in paradise, unable to choose a subject for his art. Danny is playing on the grass, inspecting fallen leaves and colourful insects, so Terry joins him, face to the soil. It is strange being at grass-level. He has forgotten what is was like to explore and discover nature eye to eye. He's done his fair share of exploring women, booze, and the occasional recreational drug over the years, but the joy of studying a simple leaf, somehow opens a door inside him that had been locked since he was a child. He cries for the second time. Danny, oblivious to his father's epiphany, seems to be talking to an ant. Terry hears his son speak for the first time since they arrived. It sounds like 'Mummy gone.' It's a sad but magical moment for the reinvented minder. Tears fall without hindrance, releasing years of bottled-up tension.
After feeding, Danny falls asleep and Terry finally puts brush to canvas. He has read a few books on technique, but the reality of applying paint is still a shock. By lunchtime, there are some broad strokes describing the sky and some more detailed areas representing the plants and trees of his garden. It's a mess. This is not going to be easy. He has already run out of Permanent Sap Green and Cerulean Blue and mixed too many colours together into Dog-poo Brown. He will have to go online and place an order this afternoon; god knows how long it'll take to get stuff delivered. Still, on the positive side, Terry has a good feeling for space and colour. In fact, on second thoughts, he is quite pleased with some parts of the canvas. And the beauty of oils is you can rework them or even paint over. All in all, it's been a good day. Now, it's just about time for an ice-cold beer. Terry picks up his still sleeping son and walks towards the house. Just as he reaches the door, a white pick-up swings into the drive and parks. Out step three Fijian men. Terry immediately knows who they are. After years of violence, he goes into automatic. After placing Danny safely inside the house, he picks up a hammer from the kitchen table, which he stuffs down the back of his trousers; and a small knife, which he hides in his right sock. It's always best to be prepared.
Sera is in her office. She is distraught. Twenty minutes ago she made the mistake of telling her brother Jonah about Terry. She knew he'd be against any relationship with a foreigner, but she never expected him to be so angry with her. Why can't he let her have her own life, and make her own decisions? Sera is debating whether to call Terry at his house, just in case Jonah pays him a visit. Jonah rushed out of the office in a blind rage. When he's like that, he's capable of anything. She decides she'd better go in person, flipping the sign in the window to 'Gone to lunch'. She picks up the keys to her car and runs out, hoping she's in time to prevent any trouble. The street is almost empty of traffic, as per usual, and within minutes her Toyota is motoring along the small road towards Terry's new home. It's another lovely day in this tropical paradise, but Sera knows only too well that paradise is an illusion created by rich white people with more money than sense; it doesn't exist. At least it never has in her life. There is always a black cloud threatening rain to wash away any progress she makes.
The sight of Jonah's pick-up
parked at the entrance to Terry's place makes her heart miss a beat.
She breathing heavily and sweating with fear at what she might find.
She hopes little Danny is okay. Running up the slight hill to the house
she hears the sound of talking and laughing. At the back of the house,
Terry is sitting with her three brothers, drinking beer and laughing.
They all stop and look at her. 'Are you all right sis?' Jonah asks her,
'You look a little upset.'
Sera can't believe what she's seeing. 'Sera', says Terry, You never
told me what a good family you had.'
Looking at their smiling faces, Sera can't understand what's happening.
'I.. I.. came to.. well..
'Sit down, you look exhausted. I'll get you a drink. Iced tea okay as
you're driving?'
Terry offers.
'Err.. Yeah, that would be nice...
Thanks.'
Terry stands up and heads into the kitchen to fix her drink. He is
limping. Sera turns
to Jonah and whispers angrily, 'What is going on? I thought you were
coming here to make trouble.'
Jonah smiles and puts his large hand on Sera's bare shoulder, 'Don't
worry little sis. This Terry is a good bloke, he's a laugh. We've all
taken to him.'
'I thought you were going to put him in hospital!'
'I had thought about it, I must admit. But we discovered he's more like
one of us than some stuck up Brit. So we've made our peace.'
Sera looks at her brother George and notices he is bleeding slightly
from his
nose. Her other brother Ratu seems to be in pain too, rubbing his ribs.
'What happened
here?' Sera demanded.
George speaks, 'As Jonah said, we have come to an agreement. We
understand his point of view, and he understands ours. We've agreed to
make peace and be mates.'
Terry walks out with a tray,
carrying a long glass of iced tea with a slice of lemon and a sprig of
fresh mint. 'I took the liberty of adding some lemon and a bit of mint.
I hope you can drink it.'
As he passes Sera her tea, she looks deep into his eyes to see if she
can work out what has just happened. She sees nothing but warmth. It
scares her that Terry has the ability to hide his feelings this well.
If he can hide what has obviously been a fight with her three large
brothers, then what else can he hide? She must be careful with him. Her
heart is fragile enough without having issues of trust to test it. And
if her brothers like him, then maybe he's a bad choice. This is not a
good day. Terry notices she's upset and touches her arm, 'Everything
will be okay, I promise you Sera.' his smile warms her a little. But
not enough to prevent her from drinking her tea too quickly. making
slurping noises. Jonah laughs, George laughs. Soon, Sera cracks a smile
and softens. So it looks like it's five friends together from now on,
she thinks.
She decides she'll tell Terry more about her brothers when they are
alone. He definitely needs to know what he's getting himself into,
getting matey with the Meli family.
Tanya ushers Eddie Acton into
the apartment and takes him through to the lounge. Eddie sits himself
down on the
leather sofa, looking dapper in his Ozwald Boateng suit 'So,
Tanya, what do you have for me?'
'Mister Acton, Eddie, if I can call you Eddie. Well, you see, I was
going through Terry's wardrobe, sorting out some clothes and such like,
to get rid of, and in one of the back pockets of his jeans I found
this.' Tanya holds out a folded-up piece of paper. 'Have a look, it's
got a message on it that don't make sense, but might be important.'
Eddie takes the note from
Tanya's shaking hand and unfolds it. 'Do us a favour, girl. Stick the
light on. I can't see nothing these days. Now let me take a butcher's
at
it. "To do... Get Koro flight times".. This is just what we needed,
this is. Good
girl.' Eddie sat back. 'Well, well... he's left us a clue.'
'Where's Koro, Eddie? Panama?'
"I haven't the foggiest, to be honest, but I'll get one of the boys to
google it, and
"hey Presto!" I think we'll find your Terry and pay him a little visit.'
'Please bring little Danny back, Eddie. Please.'
'To do that, you'll be coming with us. You're his mum. You can bring
him back.'
'I don't want you yo hurt Terry to much, though. Give him a kicking,
but don't top him, Eddie. He's not a bad man. I should have listened to
him, or come to you sooner.'
'It's a bit late for "ifs" and "buts", it's far too bleeding late for
that, girl. But I promise you, your son will be fine. Now if you'll
excuse me, I have some calls to make. Make yourself scarce for an hour
or so, there's a good girl.'
Tanya pulls on her coat and leaves Eddie in her apartment alone. Her
mind is racing. She has a plan, and if all goes well, she'll get both
of her boys back safely. Eddie thinks she's thick, but she can be a
smart cookie when needs be. She already knows exactly where Koro is;
she's been doing some goggling of her own.
Eddie impatiently instructs his
minions to find out everything they can about Koro. It doesn't take
long before calls start coming in. 'Fiji? He's in Fiji, is he? I bet he
thinks he's got far enough away to be out of my reach. He's going to
learn that no one gets one over on Eddie Acton. Now find out how we get
there. I want to be on a plane within a few days.'
Eddie pours himself a whisky from the drinks cabinet and stares out
over Thames. This is his city and he can almost do what he likes, but
going halfway round the globe is a chastening thought. He'll have to be
a bit careful, and they'll need be go tooled up. Guns are out of the
question, so they'll have to buy knives and axes locally without
arising suspicion. However, logistical questions apart, Eddie is
looking forward to a little holiday, and looking forward to a big
helping of revenge. He might even get a tan. All things considered, it
should be a good trip; as long as Tanya doesn't do anything stupid.
She's a bit of a live wire, that girl and the last thing they need is a
woman cocking it up. Still, a promise is a promise, and he gave his
word he'd get her kid back for her. They can top Terry after she's back
on a plane to London. Terry is unlikely to be a pushover, so things
could get messy, and he'll
have to take three of his best boys with him: Don, Big Phil, and
Ricky. Another question is, how does he get his money back from Terry?
Again, Terry is unlikely to simply write him a cheque. He'll have to
have a think about how to use Tanya to get it. This will take a bit of
thinking about.
Taking all the right
precautions is what Eddie's logistics guy Ali does without fuss. Five
tickets on separate flights out of
Heathrow. Then after arriving in Sydney or Auckland, the five
travellers board two different flights to Nadi International
Airport, 23 kilometres from downtown Suva. Three different hotels were
booked, with Eddie and Tanya on the same floor of the same hotel, but
with Tanya having instructions not to
speak to him in public. So far, it was all going like clockwork.
After check-in, Eddie takes a long hot shower before opening the
mini-bar and
fixing himself a drink. The view from the balcony of the Warwick Fiji
resort is pure tropical heaven. Eddie relaxes and lets the warm breeze
blow across his heavily-tattooed, heavily-muscled chest. Paradise! What
a pity he has a
serious
job to do. Maybe Carol would like to come out here for a real holiday -
they haven't been away for ages.
Then again, maybe he could have more fun without her. His thoughts
turn to Tanya. She's a fine looking girl with great figure on her,
and if you could get her to shut her gob once in a while, she's
pretty tasty. Eddie feels himself stirring at the thought of Tanya
sitting astride him as the sun sets over the South Pacific, but thinks
better of pursuing that particular fantasy for the moment. There is
work to be done.
In another room, but lit by the
same setting sun, Sera slips
gracefully from under the thin cotton sheets and pads
into the bathroom. Terry is still asleep and little Danny has not yet
stirred. Standing naked, she looks at her face in the mirror, 'This is
it, my girl,' she says to herself, 'finally, you got yourself a man who
is everything you want and need.'
But as her full lips form the words, she can see the doubt in her face
in the mirror. She still feels unsure about Terry,
no matter how much she tries to convince herself otherwise. There is
something he is keeping from her, and she wants to know what it is.
He is still avoiding her subtle questions about his background and
about Danny's mother. Her brothers, on the other hand, seemed to trust
him implicitly. That was more than a little strange given their usual
overly-protective stance when any man sniffed around her. Sera turns
and looks through the white-louvred door at the naked man sprawled on
the bed. 'Who are you Terence Adamson? Who are you?'
Sera kneels softly on the bed beside him and plants kisses on the back
of Terry's
neck, across his strong shoulders, down his beautiful back. Terry
stirs and turns over. Sera continues her kissing.
Plans are plans, and Eddie
knows that cock-ups happen depite dotting all the i's and crossing all
the t's. This far from home, he can afford no slip-ups. So when he
enters the bar and finds Tanya asking the waiter if she's seen an
Englishman and his young son in town, Eddie is livid. It goes without
saying, that he hides this fact from the young waiter, but Tanya
understands by the iron grip of Eddie's right hand on her arm that she
has already said too much. 'Come on my dear, let's have a drink by the
pool,' Eddie says in his politest voice, 'It's a lovely evening.'
He virtually drags her outside. 'Please excuse us,' he says to the
bemused waiter.
'What to you think you're doing, you stupid dozy cow?' Eddie rips into
Tanya as he pushes her onto a sunbed. 'I said no talking to nobody
about nothing. I thought I made myself crystal. Please tell me you are
not going to do that again, Tammy.'
'It's Tanya, Mister Acton. Look.. look... I'm sorry. I just thought..'
'Don't think, girl. Don't think. You are not here to bloody think. You
are here to get my money back, and get your kid back. If you cock it
all up, I will not be a happy bunny, Do you hear me? Say that you hear
me.'
'I hear you, Eddie. I am really really sorry. I am just stressed out
about all this, you know. I.. I..' Tanya's eyes fill with tears.
Eddie sits close to her and puts his arm around her shoulder. 'Listen,
Girl. I'm sorry I shouted. We've all got a lot at stake ain't we? Come
here.' Eddie pulls the quietly sobbing Tanya to his chest. She holds
him tight. 'It's all gonna be all right. It's all gonna be all right.
Let Eddie give you a cuddle.'
Eddie starts stroking Tanya's hair as he rocks her. His hand finds
her cheek and pulls her mouth to his.
'Sera, how do you fancy a
little trip over to Suva. I'm itching to do some more painting, and
while I'm waiting for a delivery from the States, I might try to find
some paper, and watercolours in the art shop in town. We can take the
boat early tomorrow morning. I could do with some nice restaurant food
too. We could even stay overnight; I'm paying.'
'What about Danny? Shall we take him with us?'
'Well, I was wondering whether your mum could look after him. He's used
to spending time with his grandmother back in London, so he won't mind.
Do you reckon your mum would be okay with it?'
'I don't know, Terry. That would mean telling her about us, and I'm not
sure what she'd say. It was bad enough my brothers finding out, but my
mum can be even more scary than them. She twice their size too.'
'Is she? Well I hope you're not thinking of putting on too much weight!'
'Terry, maybe you haven't noticed but there are very few skinny women
in Fiji, so get used to it!'
I'll have to make an exception for you, but maybe I'll buy you a gym
membership. Anyway, all right, we'll take Danny along and just go for
the day. What
time does the seaplane
go?'
'We'll talk about my figure later, but tomorrow is Saturday, so it goes
at six-thirty. But you know I have to work.'
'What? Oh yes. Can't you get out of it? Tell your boss it's an
emergency. Or..
or.. tell him you need to escort me to see some stuff for my new house
- kitchen fixtures and that. He'd believe that. And I am officially
your client, don't forget.'
'I suppose I could; There's precious little else to do at the moment.
It's really slow in the office - the property market has taken a dive.
If it wasn't for your contract, we'd be in serious trouble. Anyway,
okay, I'll see what Paul says.'
'That's great. Now come here and give me a kiss while I can still get
my arms round you.'
'Terry Adamson, you are a very cheeky man!'
Don and BIg Phil are enjoying a beer and having a laugh. Today has been a fruitful one for them. They managed to acquire some building tools, no questions asked: three claw-hammers, two panel saws, two hacksaws, some pliers, two shovels, gloves and work-clothes - all a small team of men needs to erase a serious problem. Ricky is sitting on his own in a cafe a few metres down the street from his compatriots. He doesn't drink; never has. Drinking dulls the senses, fogs the thinking. For Ricky, professionalism demands a clear head at all times, and a strong body of course - that goes without saying. Ricky's years in the Marines have instilled in him a level of discipline and ability to follow orders that Eddie values more than any other. yes, he's a loner, and yes, he's a bit stiff, but the words "Job done" tattoed on his left forearm say it all. He is studying a map of Koro island, calculating times, distances, viewpoints, routes in and out - access and egress; it's his bread and butter. Eddie, meanwhile, seems to have has wandered a little off-task, and is lying on the sunbed on his balcony with Tanya asleep in his arms. But Eddie is no fool; he needs Tanya to do exactly what he wants. This physical interlude is merely part of his plan to ensure she is onboard when it comes to mission objectives. Of course, it's a highly enjoyable part of the plan, but a part of the plan nevertheless. He is smiling to himself as he looks down at the smooth-skinned woman draped across his chest. Valuable ammunition if he and Terry have a psychological battle. Although Don, Big Phil, and Ricky are unbelievably tough, Terry was his top enforcer and won't go down without a fight. Despite the numerical advantage, Eddie needs the element of surprise if he's to avoid a real bloodbath.
The South Pacific is home to
some of the most beautiful views anywhere, and a seaplane flight across
miles of turquoise sea studded with emerald green islands is as
picture-postcard-perfect as it gets. Sadly, the turbulance is making
Terry feel nauseous - he is sweating prefusely and gripping Sera's hand
so tight it hurts. 'Terry! Calm down! We'll be there soon. Keep
focusing on the horizon,' she advises while bouncing Danny on
her lap. Terry, however, is in no position to see sense, he
grabs a sick bag and throws up. The three other passengers look both
concerned and disgusted in turns. After losing his breakfast, Terry
nods an apology to his fellow travellers and promptly throws up again.
By the time they land, he has gained his composure. 'Sorry about that,'
he says sheepishly to his smirking girlfriend.
'I thought you were a tough guy. Well, maybe I misjudged you Mister
Adamson. I've never seen anyone so weak at flying!'
'It's not the flying. It must be food poisoning. I feel like death.
Let's go and have a sit down somewhere.'
But suddenly, Terry is running toward the seaplane terminal toilet.
Sera sits, trying to pacify
danny, who is bored with doing nothing. She is absent-mindedly
stirring her third coffee when a rather pale Terry Adamson wanders
across the small room towards her. 'You okay now. Was that a load
off your mind?' she jokes.
'Let's just get into town, get my art materials, and go home,' replies
a moping Terry.
'Come on then Mister Adamson. Take my hand and follow me. We can get a
taxi into town.'
'Sounds like a good idea. Lead on Holmes.'
'Holmes? Who's Holmes.'
'Sherlock Holmes. You know, the detective. Look... forget it. Just get
me into town before I die.'
'You're the boss! Come on.' Sera picks Danny up and the three of them
head out.
Suva is busy on this Saturday
morning. Tappoo City shopping centre is awash with people checking out
the latest fashions or mobile phones, but Terry feels
dizzy and confused. 'The aircon is too bloody high. It's like a bloody
icebox in here!'
Two elderly women frown at him. Sera nods an apology, 'Terry, mind your
language. This is Fiji, swearing in public is not acceptable. I know
you're suffering, but please don't make a scene.'
'Yeah, I'm sorry. I just feel like shi.. shi.. terrible. Now let's find
the art shop. I'll try to behave.' He manages a weak smile, but is
walking with his legs clenched unnaturally together. Sera laughs out
loud.
Ricky enters the shopping
centre. He has a few items on his shopping list. First stop is the book
shop. At the moment he enters, Terry and Sera step out from the art
shop with several large bags. Terry has Danny under one arm. In spite
of his bad stomach, and inspite of having his hands full, he catches a
glimpse of the back of Ricky's head. His heart skips a beat. 'No! It
cannot be.'
'What? What is it Terry? Is he a friend of yours? That's so lucky.
Let's go and say hello.' Sera takes a step toward the book shop, but
Terry drops his bags and forcibly grabs her arm. 'No. My mistake. I
don't know him.'
'Are you sure? Let's take a look.'
Terry looks angry now. 'No, Sera. Let's go.' He picks up his things and
pulls her roughly towards the exit at the rear of the building. 'Terry!
What is going on. I think I deserve an explanation.'
'Later. we need to get back sharpish. We'd better go to the airport'
Danny starts crying, 'Dada, Dada,' he grizzles as the three jog
towards the taxi rank with their shopping bags. 'Bula!' the friendly
driver greets them with a broad grin. They
jump in, 'Bula, bula.
Nausori, and don't spare the horses.'
In the back seat of the cab,
little Danny is now crying hysterically, Terry is deep in thought, and
Sera is as confused as hell. But one thing is for sure; it seems to her
that Terry's secret past has caught up with him. She tries to talk to
him, but he ignores her. His face looks tense, his eyes look wild.
'Terry,' she whispers, 'I am here for you, but you have to let me know
what's going on. I can't help if you don't trust me.'
Terry turns to his girlfriend. Her face is all frowns and worry. 'It's
a long story. I'll tell you when we get back to Koro. But maybe you'd
be better out of it, until I can sort out what's going on. I'm not
one-hundred percent sure, myself. But, I have to be cautious for your
sake and Danny's sake.'
The flight back to Koro is as
smooth as a new-born baby's arse, but Terry is in a cold sweat,
gripping Sera's hand tightly. Danny is beside him, oblivious to the
world uncoiling about him. When Terry chose to leave a
world of violence behind, he knew the transition would be difficult,
and in the back of his mind he half expected Eddie to come for him.
However, the big question is how far is Terry prepared to go to protect
his new life. Could he kill? The thought of it makes him feel sick
again. Is it fear, or is his stomach is still churning from the food
poisoning? Whichever it is, he
feels dizzy and weak. How many boys are here? Is Eddie with them? Of
course he
is! What will happen to Danny? And Sera? Too many variables in the
equation. Think. Think. Keep your thoughts clear Terry my son. Be
logical. Fight or flight? stand your ground or get the hell out?
'Sera,' Terry turns to his new girlfriend,
'my contract to build a house...'
'What about it? Having second thoughts?'
'I haven't actually put pen to paper yet. The plot is mine, but you
think I can opt out of the house-building part? and how much would I
lose? And what's the likelihood of selling the plot quickly?'
'Hey! Slow down! One question at a time, please. This is an extreme
change of plan. Please tell me what's going on. I might be able to help
you if you let me in.'
'Maybe, you should keep out of the way. I don't want you to get hurt.'
'Listen, Terry Adamson. Don't forget that this is my home, this is my
country. I might be just a woman, but I grew up here. I know everyone.
My brothers.. well, you know my brothers. Whatever trouble you are in,
you're not in it alone.
'Sera, the people after me are professional. They don't think twice
about hurting whoever gets in their line of fire. I can't expect people
here to help
me. I can't.'
'So what are you going to do, Mister Do-it-alone-guy? I'm not going to
turn my back on you.'
Terry looks deep into Sera's dark-brown eyes. He sees the compassion;
it's not something he's seen very much in his life. How
can he risk
her? But she's right. She's the local. She knows the ground, she has
contacts. They can get through this. They can.
'I need someone to go into Suva and do some discreet checking. Find out
how many there are here.'
'How many who?'
'How many London gangsters are here to take back their
money.'
Sera is stunned. 'You're a gang member.. a criminal? Please Tell me
you're not.'
'I was
involved, but I wanted out. I got out and brought Danny with me. I
don't want it no more. I'm not like them, I'm really not. Please
believe me Sera. I love you.'
Terry can see by the look on Sera's face - she's shocked.
'You what?' The words barely whispered.
'I told you. I was a gangster.'
'No. What did you say about me?'
'I said I love you, Sera. But I don't want to hurt you.'
Sera leans over and kisses Terry with such force, he forgets all about
Eddie Acton and the three-hundred thousand pounds he took. He forgets
all about the years of fury, the moments of terrifying violence in
which he did things he though he could never erase. Within this kiss is
the knowedge he has made the right choice, and that no one is
going to take his new life away from him.
A small group of
tourists has
chartered a boat with a crew of two. They are all on deck, catching the
sun and spray, flecks of sunlight sparkling on
the crests of waves as the wooden vessel motors across the sea between
Ovatau and Gau. The seventy miles to Koro will take all day, but no
matter, they are in paradise. Paradise with a crate of beer, and lunch
being prepared. 'I am so loving this!' Big Phil shouts at the top of
his voice while cracking open another can,
'We should do this more often. No, not more often - every bleedin' day!'
Eddie laughs, but to be honest, looking out over the vast blue Pacific,
he is starting to understand why Terry upped and left. Money-matters
aside, Life in London has become too stressful all round, what with DNA
sample analysis on the one hand, and crazy-arsed Albanians breathing
down his
neck on the other. What was the point in being king of a fat slab of
the East End if it's too unsafe for your kids to walk the streets half
the time? And for sure, Carol would really love it out here, and the
kids would too if they could bring their Nintendo Wii and CDs. There
must be good money to be made out here in property development. He
could even open a bar. Yeah, that would be sweet as, that would. He
could have a karaoke and sing Neil Diamond numbers. 'Excuse me, Eddie,'
Ricky rudely interupts Eddie's daydreaming, 'I've been thinking how we
are going to dispose of our problem. It might be possible to buy a tarp
on the island. After the problem has been divided using the saws, we
can pour battery acid over the pieces, wrap it all in the tarp, and
bury it below the low-tide line. That way, any fluids will seep
into the seawater. How does that sound?'
Eddie is strangely sickened by Ricky's clinical description of human
dismemberment. 'Ricky,
shut it. Let me enjoy the boat trip. we'll sort all that out when we
get
to Koro. Sit down and enjoy the sunshine. You're getting on my tits,
big time. You hear me, son?'
Ricky backs away, 'Sorry, Mister Acton. I was just trying to..' Ricky
stops talking. It is not a good idea to put yourself in Eddie's bad
books. Not a good idea at all.
Eddie settles back and lets the cool ocean breeze flick salty spray
onto his face and chest. Perfect! And now the smell from the gallery is
starting to waft up from below. Barbecued fish. perfect!
Ricky sits and studies the maps again. Is Eddie going soft? He might be
boss, but plans require everyone to be focused. If Eddie loses his
focus, the mission could be jeopardised. It might all go down the pan,
and that is not an option for Ricky; he has his sick mum to think of.
If he gets banged up, whose going to look after her? Ricky realises he
needs to make contingency plans for Eddie bottling it. Per Mare, Per Terram
- by sea, by land - the Royal Marines' motto tattoed on his right arm
reminds him that professionalism is everything for a soldier, even if a
soldier is employed by a psychotic London gang leader retrieving stolen
money half-way round the world.
Tanya adjusts her Marc Jabobs bikini top. She can feel Eddie's eyes on her. Illustrating perfectly that nonchalance and subtlety are not close friends of hers, she pulls her bikini-top down as low as she can without showing too much - 'The way to a man's heart is through his flies' is her motto. She arches her back and looks out to sea through her Dolce and Gabbanas. She has Eddie right where she wants him. Older men are stupid and easy. They are all so desperate to get with a pretty girl, they open themselves to the easiest form of manipulation. She turns to Eddie and smiles at him, dipping her chin to wink at him over the top of her sunglasses. She licks her lips for added effect. Eddie nods and smiles back at her, but inside he knows she's a cheap conniving slut. Bearing this in mind, when he takes her to bed he'll make sure he gets his money's worth. He's no fool is Eddie Acton. He's got her just where he wants her, and as long as Carol never gets a whiff is his philandering, everything will be sweet as. Then again, it would be nice if it was Carol sitting in a bikini giving him the eye, just like she used to back in the day, when they used to spend a lot of time down in Marbella at the villa. Golden days, they were, and golden nights too, sometimes when he wasn't too drunk. It's a pity Carol lost her figure over the years, but to tell the truth, he's never loved anyone like he loves her. Never.
Terry is sitting alone in the
garden while Sera is on the phone making calls. On any other day it
would be an idylllic scene,
but his mind is racing, trying to weigh up all his
options. It goes without saying that a happy
ending with Sera and Danny
is his wish, but if it's just him and Danny, well, he can live with
that. Someone innocent getting hurt, is not an option, and losing his
money is not on the table either. How can he avoid
a showdown if Eddie and his boys come looking for one? There must be a
way out.
Suddenly, Terry stands up and runs into the house. In the kitchen, his
son is playing with lego at Sera's feet, oblivious to the drama in the
world of adults. Terry gestures for Sera to
finish the call. 'What is it?' Sera asks as she hangs up.
'I've got an idea. We're gonna buy a boat, a motor cruiser. It all
makes
sense. We'll cruise round the islands until my visitor or visitors from
London
have gone. Your brothers can put the feelers out and send us word when
it's safe to come back.'
'That's some plan! I don't know... it sounds... well, I suppose it
sounds okay. They can't stay here forever, can they? But how are we
going to
prevent them from finding out where you've gone? There's precious
little privacy here at the best of times - you know, Fijians just love
to talk. They might come after us.'
'I don't think it'll be a problem. Don't forget, whoever's come from
London needs to keep a low profile. They'll not gonna come in all guns
blazing. The'll have to be very discreet in whatever they do. They will
probably try to use Danny against me as leverage. They could use you or
your family
too if they find out. so hopefully they won't find out. I don't know
how long we've got, but I'd like you to look for a boat for sale as
soon as. It's a big group of islands. With all of us safely on board,
they can't touch us. They'll have to give up. at least for now.'
'I know what you're saying. It does make sense. Maybe you and Danny
should stay here this afternoon while I go down to the harbour and ask
around about
possible boats. Oh! Does this mean I'm going to lose my commission on
the house?'
Sera says, only half joking.
'Sorry, Babe. There's no choice. I'll make it up to you for all this
mess, I promise. I love you.'
'I know. You told me,' she says with a resigned smile. 'So now I
suppose I'll just have to stick with you
through thick and thin. Terry Adamson, you are definitely worse than my
brothers, and I don't have to tell you that's no mean feat.'
As Sera drives through the narrow leafy roads down to the harbour, she wonders if she's doing the right thing. But the fact is, she's always been surrounded by men who weren't totally straight and law-abiding. Terry is no different, and perhaps that's part of the attraction. On the way, she calls into her office and checks the answer machine. There's a message from a man who is intersted in properties. Sounds promising. Maybe she can sell him Terry's plot, and maybe even the plans for the house.
The harbour is quiet. It
usually is this late in the afternoon, although Sera spots an
unfamiliar charter vessel just preparing to leave, and there are five
white people omn the wharf, standing talking to the harbour
master. As he sees Sera approaching, he points her out to the leader
of the small party. They are all foreigners, Australians perhaps, she
thinks. Then it dawns on her. There are four men who all look like they
can handle themselves, and a woman around thirty who is barely-dressed.
They all look wealthy - nice clothes, Rolexes and Tags on their wrists,
but Sera knows that this is Terry's gang. And the problem is, the
harbour master seems to have said something about her. Damn! She hopes
he hasn't mentioned about Terry and Danny. She'd best play it as cool
as she can.
'Good morning Sera. That's great timing. This gentleman has flown in
from England, and is looking for property on Koro. I said you'd be the
one to talk to.' the harbour master grins from ear to ear, sensing Sera
will remember him when she picks up a fat commission on any sale or
lease.
'Well, that's right,' Sera smiles at the leader of the group, 'I hope I
can be of assistance here on Koro. It's a beautiful island. What kind
of property are you looking for, may I ask? We have beach-front and
forest plots for sale, new-builds and resale properties. We can even
arrange rental while you build yourself. It's best to personally
oversee all work.'
'Sounds like we're in luck bumping in to you Miss...'
'Please call me Sera. I work for Koro Paradise Properties.'
'It's a pleasure to meet you, Sera. Please call me Edward. And these
are my business associates: Philip, Donald, Richard, and Tanya.'
Bula! 'I'm very pleased to meet you all.' Sera smiles again and shakes
their hands, hoping none of them suspects anything. If they do know,
they are showing nothing.
'I was wondering,' Eddie continues, 'if there are any new
foreign residents, maybe from London like ourselves, who
recently came to Koro who we could talk to. You know, to get an idea of
the reality of investing here. Not that I don't trust you of course!
Just want to get the lowdown from an ex-pat before splashing the cash.'
Inside, Sera is panicking, and the harbour master looks like he has
Terry's name on the tip of his tongue, but she keeps her cool and he
keeps his mouth shut,
'Not recently, no. In fact it's a little slow.'
Eddie looks deep into her eyes but the Fijian girl seems to be hiding
nothing.
Sera smiles broadly and asks, 'May I know where you're staying, and how
long for? I can make
reservations for you if you need them, or we do have short-stay
properties that are big
enough for five adults.'
'That's kind of you. Perhaps we can come to your office and take a
look? It's getting late and we do need somewhere for tonight.'
'Of course. It's not far, but we'll need to make two trips in the
Toyota. So, who's first? Jump in.'
'Perfect! Lead on,' Eddie says cheerfully.
In the office, Sera has booked
some hotel accommodation for her guests for two nights, and Eddie is
looking through
the bumpf about buying property on the island. Pinned-up on the wall
are photos of existing houses, and drawings of designs for new-builds.
The gang are are perusing and look mightly impressed.
'This one would suit you Eddie,' Ricky pipes up, 'overlooking the
ocean, nice garden. I can imagine the barbecues and cold beers. How
much is it?'
Sera looks up. Well actually, that design was ordered by a... a...
a New Zealand gentleman a while back. But he had to pull out. In fact,
his plot of land is up for sale and already has utilities laid on.
Basically, it's ready to go.'
Eddie looks interested, ' But no English gentlemen have been here in
the past few weeks then?' he asks again, this time a little coldly.
'Not to my knowledge, Sir, but of course, I don't know everything.
There are a few other property developers on the island, you could ask
them.' Sera is playing a dangerous game, but has no choice. And the
thought of selling Terry's land and house-plans to his gang boss
excites her in a way that takes her by surprise.
'All in good time, all in good time,' Eddie flashes a smile. 'Now
perhaps we'd better get off to
the hotel. I could murder a gin and tonic at sunset. You've been very
helpful, and I'm sure we'll be seeing a lot of each other while we're
on the island.'
'And how long will that be, Sir?'
'We'll be going right after we attend to some business. Hopefully that
will be done quickly. But at the moment, I'd imagine a week or two.'
It's mid-morning after a
restless sleep and a lot of deliberating.
The garden again plays host to a family meeting. 'It's
a question of good timing
and keeping our nerve,' Terry informs the four siblings.
'You're the boss,' Jonah says sarcastically, 'but if even a single hair
on my
sister's sweet head gets put out of place, then I'm coming for you, you
got that?.'
Terry nods, 'I know, Jonah. I also know that I'm asking a lot from all
of you, and none of you
have to help. I tried to persuade Sera to keep out of it, but she's
determined to help me and Danny. But we need you guys, we really do.
Plans and couter-plans. Terry can only hazard a guess to what Eddie is going to do, but the gangster's usual modus operandi is swift, clean, and decisive action. They must be prepared and use every local advantage at their disposal. Sera's brother's have already been around the island spreading the word not to divulge any knowledge of Terry and Danny. Luckily, Terry has had minimal contact with any of the other foreign residents, so they can be assured that Eddie will have to dig deep to find anything quickly. But keeping their heads down is too risky - they must be proactive, keep a step or two ahead of the game. Ricky is with Eddie, and he is a handful at the best of times - cold and calculating, but the big problem is Tanya. Terry hasn't yet told Sera that Danny's mother is here, and hopes to God that she doesn't complicate matters. She is Terry's Achilles Heel, and Eddie won't shy from using her to get his money and to extract his revenge.
Ratu goes into the house to use
the toilet, leaving his two older
brothers and sister deciding what to do next. Jonah has a suggestion,
'Why don't we just tell the police they have an English gang here. Let
the police deal with them.'
'Yes!' agrees Sera, 'the police will just tell them to leave, and it'll
all be over.'
Terry looks puzzled but positive, 'Can you trust the local police?' he
asks.
'Well, yes, actually. My brothers have had a fair few run-ins with them
since they were teenagers, but basically the police are good guys.
They'll help us.' Sera assures him.
'It's worth a try. I know Eddie has a couple of minor convictions from
years ago. But, even so, even if the police contact Scotland Yard,
they'll have no legitimate reason to deport them.'
'Maybe not,' Jonah continues, 'but it'll give them an excuse to breathe
heavily down their necks and prevent them from doing whatever they want
to do.'
Terry nods. It does sound like a good idea. Although going through with
the boat plan will give added security. 'Okay... let's do it.'
Ratu returns from the house, 'Guys, let's get out of here, and leave
Terry to think,' he says.
'I'm staying here,' Sera says firmly, 'Danny and Terry need me.'
Ratu looks disturbed, 'No, Sera. It's best you come with us now. We can
do more for them away from the house. You know, keep an eye on our
visitors.'
After some deliberation, Sera reluctantly agrees with
her brother,
'Yeah, I do have
somr routine things to do at work too. And I need to check out boat
sales on the
internet. Terry - will you be all right here with Danny without me for
a few hours?'
'Sure. No worries. There's plenty for me to do. And Ratu's right - I do
need some more thinking time.'
Terry puts Danny on his shoulders and escorts the family to their
pick-up. After a few minutes the sound of their Toyota has faded and
all Terry can hear is the wind, the swishing of leaves and the
occasional colourful bird singing in the Baka tree in his garden.
Paradise, or so he'd thought only a short time ago. Perhaps there is no
such thing. Paradise Lost - now there's another book he has been
promising himself to read since he was a kid and first got interested
in life far away from London. Terry sighs, lifts his son down, and
kisses him on the
forehead. Danny smiles, his eyes every bit as sparkling as his
mother's. Has he done the right thing bringing Danny here, away from
his mum. Tanya isn't a bad person at all when truth be told. Is he
being selfish? as Terry reflects upon his decisions he hears the sound
of a vehicle approaching up towards the house. Immediately he realises
it
doesn't sound like Sera's Toyota returning. He remembers Ratu's
absence, his urgency to leave, and does the maths. He has visitors, but
the question is, how many and who?
Ninety seconds is all Terry
needs to prepare. He rushes into the kitchen and grabs as many
potential weapons as he can. Rushing through the rooms and out into the
garden, he deposits knives, hammers, and screwdrivers in places for
easy withdrawal; and Danny is put into his bedroom and the door locked.
He won't ever make the mistake of letting his son witness violence in
the same graphic way he had when he was a nipper. Violence begets
violence, and Terry shudders at the long distant memories of his own
upbringing: the sheer terror worse than than actual beatings. When
ready he returns to the garden and sits comfortably on a seat in the
shade, watching the driveway. The car engine stopped out of
sight, and now,two familiar figures are walking towards him in
the bright sunshine. 'Hello Terry,' says Tanya, 'I've come for Danny.
Terry nods slowly. 'and what have you come for Eddie?' challenges
Terry,
'Blood, money, or both?'.
His ex-boss smiles, 'Terry... Terry... we've come to talk, and maybe
sort this out without any trouble. You know I'm a reasonable man. And
you also know I want my three hundred back, pronto. But I know that you
are reluctant to hand it over. So I have a proposition. Listen to it,
tell me what you think.'
'Go on,' says Terry suspicious but interested.
'Well, here's what we're going to do. First, you're gonna give little
Danny back to his mum. No kid should be without his mum, and that's the
truth. Second, and it's a big second, so listen carefully, you're gonna
come with me alone
and go to the bank. No games, no tricks, you're gonna transfer two
hundred thousand into my account. we will then leave with out further
ado.'
'Two hundred? Why not the whole lot?' Terry is confused.
'Like I said, I'm a reasonable man. And besides which, you're very
unlikely to give me everything and leave yourself with diddly, are you.
This way we can both leave without losing face. You know what I'm
saying?'
'I hear you, Eddie. But it don't sound kosher to me.'
'Well let's just call the one hundred thousand you keep a pension from
the firm. With the promise not to return to London and darkened my
doorstep again... ever.'
Terry is confused. He hadn't expected this. But what about Danny? Can
he give up his son like this? What to do? What to think?
'Please, Terry,' Tanya implores him, 'give me Danny back. I'll take
care of him back in London. London's his home, ain't it? He belongs
there with me. His nan misses him too. You can get on with your new
life here.'
The seconds seem like minutes
as Terry ponders his next move. However, his heightened senses are
aware of noises and movement in the trees behind the house. Eddie
didn't come with only Tanya in tow. But again, who and how many are
lurking out there in the verdant green. What's Eddie up to? Is this
simply his insurance policy
against Terry going mental on him? Terry is in a corner, but as they
say, that's when even timid animals can become vicious. Think Terry,
think! 'Okay, Eddie. Let's do it your way. I appreciate what you're
doing, I really do. But what about the monkeys in the trees?'
Eddie looks confused. 'What are you going on about? What monkeys, what
trees?'
'You didn't come alone. How do I know I can trust a man I recently
shafted? If I were you, I'd want me dead. How do I know that's not part
of your plan as soon as I sign on the dotted?'
'I promised your girl, Tanya here. I promised her I wouldn't do you.
You know I always keep my word with family, don't you son.'
'That's true, I admit. But I don't feel easy with Ricky here.'
'He's not here, Terry. I promise you. Maybe it really is monkeys out
there. This ain't no double-cross; scout's honour, it ain't. Now what
do you say? Shall we go for a ride into town and finish this?'
Terry looks at Tanya, and
switches his gaze back to Eddie. Can he trust him? Maybe he has no
choice. 'Okay, Eddie. I hear you. I know you're a man of your word.
Let's head into town and I'll sign it over. Wait here, I need I need to
get my bank details.'
Terry turns, and strides into the house. He goes into the bedroom and
removes a small metal box from inside the closet and takes out his bank
card. Just as he is putting the box back, he feels metal by his
throat. From experience he knows it's a knife, and realises immediately
Ricky is standing behind him. 'Well, well, if it ain't Robin Hood'
Ricky
says coldly.
'Hello Ricky,' Terry says, his mind a blur of options, 'How are you
enjoying paradise?'
'Paradise? This shit-hole! You must be joking. Now stand up slowly.'
'Eddie know you're here?'
'The old man has lost the plot. Times are changing. Seems like the
family needs a new daddy.'
'You're off your trolly, Rick. Eddie will slit you from ear to ear if
you try to pull a fast one. I'm in trouble, but you, are about to feel
a whole world of pain.'
Suddenly, Eddie spins and knocks the blade to one side. Ricky swings
back at the kneeling man, but Terry ducks under the knife and sweeps
Rick's feet away using his leg. Ricky falls, the knife still in his
hand. Suddenly, there are three men fighting. Sera's brother Jonah is
on top of Ricky, punching him repeatedly. Blood sprays acoss the thhree
of them as Ricky's nose explodes from the force of the Fijian's blows.
It's all over. Ricky is unconscious. At the door are Eddie and Tanya,
'What the hell is going on? Eddie, explain,' commands his former boss.
'Ricky thought he's take things into his own hands. Jonah stepped in
and saw that he didn't.'
Eddie shook his head, ' What is the world coming to. I can't trust no
one anymore.' He looked genuinely distressed.
'Eddie, is the deal still a deal?'
'Yeah. Let's get this sorted.'
Terry Adamson lifts his bride off the floor of the small white chapel. He spins her around three times and kisses her passionately. The minister looks on, smiling but a little embarrassed. He coughs quietly and Terry gets the message. The faces of those come to see the wedding are all familiar and full of smiles and warmth. Older women nudge each other, as the happy couple walk arm-in-arm out into the sweet garden. Terry Adamson is an artist - he paints in oils and sells some to tourists over in Suva. Local people did hear some rumours about his life back in London, but well, he's a nice man, and whatever he did in the past is behind him now. His lovely wife, Sera, works at a local estate agent, but the little kicks inside her mean that job will be put on hold for a while; at least until their child goes to school. As they drive away in the white pick-up, Terry squeezes Sera's hand, 'I truly love you. You know that? I truly do.'