DESERT FANTASIES
Jack Scribe
Chapter 21, THE FAT LADY SINGS
It was close to 11:00 p.m. before Spike was
permitted to leave the condo. Gus, the appointed spokesmen for Gallant Security,
focused on the activities related to the ground floor/garage area. He concocted
a believable story for Spike to tell the police concerning his involvement.
It was close to the truth…except Mario wasn’t involved. Spike told a detective
that a security detail had driven him back to the condo tower. And it was
Gus who initially called the condo to contact Jack while they were driving
back from the hospital.
The interview took place in the spare bedroom;
the den, dining room and kitchen were all considered active crime scenes until
CSI finished their work. The detective assured Spike that his name would not
be leaked to the press; nor would the police divulge the names of the people
who lived in the condo. Spike didn’t know until the interview that the condo
was registered as being owned by a Cayman Islands holding company. The official
word to the press was that the condo, a corporate apartment, was the scene
of an unsuccessful robbery.
The role of Gallant Security, accepted by the
police because of their stellar reputation, was emphasized as being the proper
procedure for a private security firm responding to an alarm. However, no
specific names were used: the close relationship that Gallian Industries and
Nick Maggiano had forged with the city was generally not known. Over the past
three years, friendships had been created and nurtured to allow ‘special consideration’
when requested. This was such an occasion.
A public relations Las Vegas Metro police lieutenant
told the press only about the fatality in the parking garage. The spokesman
dutifully issued a statement that confirmed the death of a burglary suspect
who had attempted to escape while being pursued by security. The suspect lost control of his getaway car
and crashed into another parked car in the garage. Further, it was noted that
police were unsure of the deceased’s identity at this time. However, the lieutenant
did say evidence suggested that the deceased was not a resident of Las Vegas.
In response to a question concerning how such a secure building could be breeched,
his answer was brief and believable: the suspect arranged entry through another
resident who thought he was receiving a package. The unidentified resident
had been tied up, but not injured.
The local television channels each had reporters
placed at the entrance to the garage for live, ‘breaking news’ remotes for
the late evening newscasts and their ‘top of the hour’ promos. Media reporters
were not told about the other bagged bodies brought down earlier in the service
elevator and placed in an unmarked morgue van parked at the back of the tower.
By the time the reporters were readying themselves for their remote live broadcasts,
three bodies were in the city morgue being examined by the medical team. There
was also no mention made of the two injured security men. Once they were examined
and cursorily treated for their wounds, EMS took them to a private clinic.
Because the original Gallant detail was still
being interviewed, a new security man was assigned to drive Spike away from
the scene and to Mario’s home. Spike watched the activity of reporters, cameramen,
police and bystanders from behind the dark, tinted windows when they left.
He could make out part of a crumpled piece of white metal that had been part
of his car’s exterior skin.
“Pretty crazy, huh?” the driver asked as he
skirted around the media circus. “Oh, Tom’s the name. And I know you’re Spike.”
“Hey, Tom. Crazy isn’t the half of it.” Spike
watched the condo tower as they drove out the gate exit and turned onto the
street. “12 hours ago it was just another quiet Sunday. Lou and I were going
to watch the Lakers game and call for some Chinese. Now, this.” Spike looked
at Tom and frowned. “Did you know Jack very well?”
“We’ve worked together on various jobs for
a couple of years. He was a friend and I’ll miss him. In fact, after I drop
you off I’m going over to see his wife. We were all very tight.”
“Is there…some sort of financial support that
Gallant has for situations like this?” Spike hadn’t thought about the different
ramifications that a young man’s death would have on those left behind.
“Yeah. Generous enough to make sure the family
– he had two young girls – are well taken care of.”
“Even though I just met him, please pass on
my condolences.” Spike made a mental note to send flowers on behalf of Lou
and himself. “I’m relieved the cops let me grab some clothes, my backpack
and dopp kit.”
“I think the excitement is over…for now. The
police will probably declassify the crime scene tomorrow. From what I understand,
the three stiffs are the same characters who blew up Mr. Maggiano’s house.
With due diligence, we can all breathe a little easier now.”
“Due diligence?” Spike wasn’t sure what that
meant and didn’t like his home being referred to as a ‘crime scene’. He studied
the features of the new guard and compared Tom’s military bearing with the
other men. ‘Another squared-away jarhead,’ he thought. ‘No wonder Gallant
can fight their battles so well.’
“The security detail is still going to be tight
but we think the worst is behind us.”
“What can you tell me?” Spike asked with a
furrowed brow. “I know about Mrs. Gallian in New York plus the stuff that
went down in Vegas.”
“Someone’s pissed at the Gallian family and
close relatives. All this corporate hocus pocus is something I don’t get into.
My M.O. is strictly security and doing the best job I can for Gallant’s clients.
Maybe Mr. Cirillo can shed some light on the situation after I drop you off.”
“Maybe.” Spike silently looked at the familiar
buildings out of the corner of his eye as they made their way down Pecos Road.
He knew Tom was being deliberately evasive but didn’t fault him. ‘It’s part
of his job…nothing more than that.’ When the SUV turned onto Mario’s street,
Spike felt a little relief. He was back in familiar and secure surroundings.
“Here we are,” Tom said as he drove into the
driveway, stopped and turned off the headlights. He slid out of the Tahoe
and smiled while Spike grabbed his meager possessions. Tom left the driver’s
door open and positioned himself by the front bumper.
“Thanks for the lift.” Spike closed the passenger
door and looked around. Across the street was an identical black SUV. “One
of yours?”
“We’ve got all bases covered. You can rest
assured that this will be a safe place.” Tom turned at the sound of a door
opening by the side of the house in the shadows. He waved when Mario came
into view. “Mr. Jensen – Spike – good luck in all this.”
Spike walked around to join him. “Thanks, Tom.
Maybe when all this is over, Lou and I can have you and your associates over
for a drink.” He grimaced at the thought of the condo’s current state.
“It would be an honor to get to know you and
your friend ‘off hours’ after this is behind us.” Tom backed away a little
as Mario approached.
“Long time, no see.” Mario wrapped his left
arm around Spike’s shoulders and squeezed. At the same time, he extended his
right hand to shake Tom’s hand. “I appreciate your help in this mess.”
“And anxious to finish it successfully. Gallant’s
New York office is coordinating the other areas of concern.” Tom shook Mario’s
hand and continued, “I’ve gotta go on some personal business and then file
a few reports.” He nodded, returned to the SUV and departed.
Mario lifted Spike’s bag and they walked back
into the kitchen. “How about a beer before we hit the sack?”
“Maybe something stronger like a double vodka
and tonic? I need to mellow out a bit.” Spike set down his backpack and frowned.
“The personal business Tom mentioned is him going over to visit with Jack’s
widow.”
“That’s tough – he was a good man. I think
I’ll make that two drinks,” Mario replied as he opened a cabinet and retrieved
a full bottle of Absolut. “You grab the glasses and ice. I think there’s some
Schweppes in the fridge.” He cracked the plastic seal on the bottle and turned
the cap loose. While Spike held a glass under the ice dispenser, Mario fished
out the tonic. He poured out a double shot of vodka in each glass and topped
them off with tonic. “Let’s sit down and talk.” He motioned Spike to join
him at the table.
They raised glasses and took a quick gulp.
As if on cue, both released a loud rush of air, smiled and set down the glasses.
Spike stuck his finger in the glass and silently stirred the liquid around
for a moment. “Um, does Lou know what happened at our place?” He looked at
Mario and licked the alcohol-laced finger.
“His security detail told him. He knows you’re
okay and the bad guys were eliminated. Lou was given a sedative and will be
in Never-Neverland until the morning.” Mario took a smaller sip of his drink
and continued, “The plan is for you to get some rest and be taken over to
the hospital early tomorrow – say eight-ish. That way you can spend some time
together before he is discharged and driven to the airport. He and Nick are
taking the Gallian jet to New York.”
“Does he need clothes or anything?”
“Already handled. The guys back at the condo
were permitted to remove some clothes for travel. Lou has enough stuff back
at the house on Long Island. He’s going to be gone through New Year’s Day
to help his dad with things.”
“Yeah, I guess I expected that. We were going
to celebrate New Year’s Eve back here.” Spike held up his glass and shrugged
sadly before drinking a long sip.
“And now you’re going to celebrate it in New
York,” Mario replied with a smile.
“Nouveau York? Moi?” Spike asked as his eyes
opened wide. “You mean…”
“Exactly. You two can work things out when
you see him. I’m told that he wants to fly you out after Christmas to spend
some time with him and party back there. Apparently he wants you to meet his
old man.”
“Well, now. Except for Lou being released tomorrow,
that’s the first good thing I’ve heard.” Spike felt happy that Lou would think
– with all the shit flying around – of introducing him to Mr. Gallian. “Guess
that kinda makes me a son-in-law.”
“In the meantime, you can stay here.” Mario
reached over and squeezed Spike’s arm. “You still going to have your brother
visit from L.A. next week?”
“Oh, shit. I’ve forgotten all about it. He
was looking forward to checking out the town again and getting together with
Cray.”
“I don’t see that being a problem. Lou is going
to be out of town and there doesn’t appear to be any more of a threat to any
members of the family. I understand that as soon as the police are finished,
a crew has been assigned to your condo and will do a complete rehab: cleaning,
painting, carpet…whatever’s needed. When you return in a couple of days, it’ll
be good as new. Even better.”
“Give me a chance to think about it. Everything
is really spooky right now. But my bro is looking forward to visiting.”
“The only other matter to settle is where you
want to sleep tonight. You can either be alone or bunk with me.” Mario shrugged
and finished the rest of his drink.
“Bunk with you? The other choice isn’t even
an option.” Spike looked at his former boss and expressed his ‘thank you’
with just a twitch of his facial muscles and shy smile. It didn’t have to
be said that this was a night for Spike to be with a trusted friend. “Damn,
I’m asked to sleep with the hottest man in Vegas…and that’s all we’re going
to do…sleep.”
“There might have been a time when…” Mario
grinned and rolled his eyes.
“Yeah. But those times are behind us.” Spike
stuck out his tongue and added, “Come on, Stud, let’s get to bed. I got a
busy day ahead of me.” He stood up and sighed. “I’ll settle for some serious
snuggles. Fair warning.”
“Warning noted.”
*****
The cookout with Bud Turner’s new friend –
still too early to upgrade to ‘boyfriend’ – was a success and the two teens
were on their best behavior. Michael appeared delighted that his dad seemed
to be dating a ‘keeper’, while Cray quietly observed the ritual played by
the adults. ‘Not that different than Michael and me,’ he thought, ‘except
for bigger words and more patience.’
The group initially spoke in generalities around
the patio table before the dinner topic centered on the explosive drama earlier
in the day. Cray spoke with only vague knowledge derived from earlier prompts
and the newscast. The boys promised to clean up so Mr. Turner and his friend
could go elsewhere to ‘see a few other friends’. After the men bid a proper
but warm farewell, Cray and Michael adjourned to the bedroom for a study session
and some video games…leading up to their ‘main event’. They diligently got
their homework out of the way and zeroed in on a game of “Lair” on Michael’s
Playstation.
Michael said with a snicker as he turned off
the TV, “Dad and I will both be in a good mood after our cobwebs get cleaned
out.” He had won two of the three battles playing the game.
“Cobwebs? I think I do a pretty good job making
sure that’s being taken care of with you.” Cray winked and pulled off his
shirt. As soon as Michael did the same, he reached over and squeezed Michael’s
exposed nipple.
“Ouch,” Michael squawked as he jerked back
a little, smiled and wiggled out of his cargo shorts.
“No cobwebs there.” Cray’s shorts joined the
other clothing on the floor. “And I assume that if I’m not around, you take
things into your own hand.” He licked
his lips and made the universal jerking fist sign.
“A couple of times a day. Just so I can stay
in practice.”
“I wonder – if ya don’t mind me asking – does
your dad do the nasty by himself? I mean, he’s kinda old to be jerkin’.” Cray
was naturally curious and knew Michael wouldn’t be defensive. ‘I suppose beating
off is something just young guys do,’ he thought.
“This isn’t exactly the thing a father and
son would talk about, doofus,” Michael said with a frown-grin. “I dunno. Jeez,
he’s almost 40, but I suppose men his age still do it if they can’t get laid.”
“Do you think that’s what he and the professor
are up to?”
“God, let’s pray that’s true. It’s time Dad
had someone in his life.”
They both had a good laugh and were ready to
remove their tented briefs when Cray’s cell phone chirped the Kelley Clarkson
ring tone. He had promised he’d leave on his phone just in case Drew or Bob
needed to reach him. Cray raised an eyebrow as he reached down to pick up
his phone. He flipped it on, saw who was calling and brought it to his ear.
“Hi, Drew, whazzup?”
~~~ “Lots. But I figured you should hear it
from me, first. There’s been another incident but I wanted you to know that
none of our friends have been harmed.”
“Where?” Cray asked after he let out a small
gasp. “Michael and I haven’t watched or heard any news since late this afternoon.”
~~~ “Someone broke into Lou and Spike’s condo.
Fortunately, the intruder was spotted before Spike got home and is no longer
a problem. The guy was killed when he tried to get away.”
“Spike is okay?” Cray frowned and started breathing
a little faster. ‘This death stuff is getting too close to home,’ he thought
while he listened.
~~~ “Fine. He’s staying at Mario’s place for
a few days. There was some…damage at the condo and it needs to be repaired.
I’m rushing through this cuz I’ve got a few more calls to make. FYI, Lou will
be released from the hospital tomorrow. He and Nick are traveling back East
as soon as that happens. Spike’s going to meet Lou at the hospital and accompany
him to the airport. Then I’m told he plans on going to his classes and needs
to take care of a few personal things. You might try calling him tomorrow
afternoon; this whole thing has shaken him up a little.”
“It shakes me up more than a little. You’re
sure there’s nothing I can do?” Cray didn’t know what that would be…but he
wanted to support his good friend.
~~~ “Just give him a call tomorrow after you
get out of school. By that point, Spike will have a better idea of what’s
happening. One thing is important. Except for Michael, don’t mention to anyone
that Lou or Spike’s condo was involved. The police aren’t releasing any names
and as far as anyone knows, it’s owned by a corporation.” Drew stopped talking
for a moment and then added, “Gotta run, buddy. Bob or I will talk with you
tomorrow. Love ya.”
“Back at you.” Cray sat stunned for a moment
as he mulled over the telephone call. He folded the phone and placed it back
on the carpet.
“Looks like you need some cuddles,” Michael
said to break the silence. “Wanna talk about it?” He stretched out on the
bed and held out his open arms.
“Yeah. Good idea.” Cray reached over to turn
off the lamp and crawled into Michael’s arms. He placed his head on Michael’s
chest and lay back. “Drew wanted me to know that there had been a break-in
at Lou and Spike’s condo and the thief was killed when he tried to escape.”
“Crap. That’s heavy duty, man. Are the guys
okay?”
“Fortunately, they weren’t there.” As much
as he wanted to, Cray couldn’t tell Michael about Lou Gallian’s injuries from
earlier in the day. “Guess Lou needs to fly back to New York tomorrow morning
for his mom’s funeral and Spike is going to stay over where he used to live,
for a few days at least. There was some damage to their condo that needs to
be repaired.” Cray shivered a little at the news as he replayed it.
“Probably it’s best that you’re with me.” Michael
put his free hand on Cray’s stomach and lightly stroked the hair below the
navel. His fingers passed over Cray’s flaccid cock, slipped under to the ball
sac and then moved up to the abs.
“I think I’ve got a bad case of the ‘wet noodle’
down there. The last thing that’s on my mind is messing around. Sorry, babe.”
Cray took the hand that Michael had resting on his stomach and squeezed it.
“Don’t worry about it. There’s a lot of weird
shit going on and you’re allowed to be concerned about your friends. I’ll
know when you’re ready.” Michael held Cray’s hand tightly and twisted his
head so he could kiss Cray’s forehead. “So, you going to school in the morning?”
“No reason not to.” Cray rolled over on his
side and nuzzled up against Michael’s chest. The slight underarm odor was
comforting but not the usual turn-on. “Just so you know, the police didn’t
release exactly who lives in the condo that was broken into. For security’s
sake, they just said it was a condo owned by a corporation for entertaining
without naming names. Drew said it was okay for you to know…but it goes no
further.”
“Loose lips sink ships. Wasn’t that something
we learned in history about World War Two?” Michael took Cray’s hand again.
“I’m not goin’ to sink any ships.”
“I know you aren’t.” Cray leaned in and licked
Michael’s chest. “I love ya, Mr. Turner. Everything about you.” He moved up
and nibbled Michael’s lower lip. Without a prompt, he slowly slid his tongue
into a willing, waiting mouth. ‘Perfect,’ he thought, ‘just perfect.’ He smiled
to himself as he felt his groin respond. ‘Not a wet noodle, anymore.’ He pressed
his growing cock against Michael’s leg and started rubbing it. “Urghh,” he
groaned as Michael’s tongue tangled with his. It just felt right as he became
completely hard and started oozing his natural lubricant. He reached down
and aggressively grabbed Michael’s equally hard member. ‘Gotta let him catch
up.’ He slowed down his pelvic thrusts and started jacking his lover. It felt
so right to have Michael’s erection in his hand.
*****
School was no problem the next morning. The
news of the violent ending to the condo break-in was accepted as just another
day in Vegas. Most watched the activities around the Strip with detached amusement.
Except for the possibility of Elvis re-appearing at the Hilton, no one paid
much attention to that plastic-fantastic world.
During lunch hour, Cray was able to reach Spike
on his cell. He was assured that his friend was fine and arranged to meet
Spike after school. He also told Spike about his temporary living arrangements.
Cray didn’t understand why Spike was driving a rental car but decided to go
with the flow. The plan was to look for a gray Pontiac Vibe out front when
school was over. Michael understood that Cray needed to spend some time with
Spike and didn’t push the point. They agreed to see each other at Michael’s
home before 9:00 p.m. Then Cray called Bob and told him about the plans. The
only concern was for Cray to keep his cell handy and be back at the Turner
home on time.
The crowd in the front of the high school had
thinned out by the time Cray got out of his last class. The car pickup lane
was still populated with a few parents waiting for their offspring and some
cliques were still mingling together. He spotted the Vibe across the street
and waved as he carefully dodged traffic to reach his friend.
“Cool wheels,” Cray said as he opened the passenger
door.
“Yeah…if you’re 50 years old.” Spike winked
and squeezed Cray’s leg. “I’d give you a big smooch but…”
“You don’t want to get arrested for molesting
an innocent teen.” Cray wiggled his eyebrows and closed the door. “All this
shit yesterday had me going. Then, when I heard about what happened last night
– whoa. You doing okay?” He looked into Spike’s eyes and knew his friend had
been through a lot. ‘My pal looks very tired,’ Cray thought as he closed the
door and fastened the seat belt.
“I’m doing better. Fortunately, I wasn’t directly
involved with the violence. Lou is okay…under the circumstances.” He turned
on the ignition, placed the gear into Drive and slowly eased out into the
street. “We had a long talk this morning on the way to the airport. He’s invited
me to come out to New York after Christmas to meet the in-laws.”
“Cool. If you need a flower girl, I’m ready.”
Cray laughed and patted Spike’s thigh.
“Like I’d need a flower girl with an eight-inch
dick.”
“Good point and accurate if you start the measurement
at two-inches.” Cray rolled his eyes and asked, “Where we going?”
“Buy a car. I’m sorta without one cuz the Honda
was demolished last night. The asshole who broke into our place crashed into
my car in his attempted escape. Did you see the late news on TV last night?”
“No. I went to bed after Drew called and gave
me a rundown of what happened. Except for Michael, I was told to tell no one
about the details.”
“Just as well. My car was the star of the late
news. As you are aware, however, the press wasn’t given any names. I think
that if I lie low for a few days, it’ll blow over.”
“Can’t the press track you down from the plates?”
“The security detail conveniently removed them.
Unless someone wants to crawl around the wreckage for a VIN, there’s no problem.”
Spike turned east on Sunrise and continued, “Now you know why I want to buy
a new car. Henry is still coming out for a visit and I need wheels. Didn’t
I meet a friend of yours whose dad owns the Lexus dealership? Lou bought his
SUV from the guy.”
“Benny Boren. At the pre-opening party.” Cray
decided to let the news about Spike’s younger brother coming over for a visit
take a pass for a few moments.
“Then let’s head there. I was researching a
neat smaller Lexus on the Internet that’s really cool. Can you call Benny
and ask him to tell his dad we’re coming over? I love those cars and would
feel better knowing who I’m dealing with.”
“Sure. I just left him and he’s probably on
his way home.” Cray opened his cell and ran through his address book. He highlighted
Benny’s name and hit “Dial”.
~~~ “Yo, dude. Whazzup, buttercup?”
“Nothing you’d be interested in.” Cray always
cracked up at his friend’s sense of humor. They had become tight in the last
couple of months.
~~~ “Like anyone notices that little pecker
of yours,” Benny replied with a laugh. “What’s going on? I just said ‘goodbye’
to you.”
“Remember the guys you met at the Barcelona
party? Lou and Spike?”
~~~ “Hell, yeah. Lou bought a bitchin’ SUV
from us.”
“Well, Spike is in the market for a car and
he wondered if you’d call your dad. We’re on our way to the auto mall to cut
a good deal.” Cray thought this was a nice way to let Benny know he expected
a special consideration from Mr. Boren.
~~~ “I’ll call him right now. Dad’s usually
around during the week until they close up. I’ll tell him to offer the same
discounts as he did for Lou. I may not get my allowance this week, but old
Spike will get a good car,” Benny said with a laugh.
“Thanks, buddy. I’ll pass the hat for you in
the morning.”
~~~ “Fuck you.”
“I don’t think so, but thanks for the offer.
Tell him we’re maybe 10 minutes away. Bye.” Cray shifted his body around so
he faced Spike. “You goin’ to get a fancy SUV like Lou?” He decided not to
ask from where the funding was coming.
“No. A fancy IS 350 series, for poor people,”
Spike replied with a laugh. “It’s the smallest Lexus and just what I need…under
the circumstances. If we make a deal this afternoon, they can prep it and
I’ll pick it up tomorrow. You up for another driving mission after school?”
“I’m your man. But I have Tai Chi later on,
tomorrow night.” He wanted to help out Spike but still have his personal time
with Michael. “That okay?”
“More than okay.” Spike smiled and continued
down Sunrise.
“Now that’s out of the way, give me the scoop
on Henry’s upcoming visit.” Cray decided that this was a good time to find
out more about his friend’s return to Vegas.
“Sorry I didn’t mention anything earlier.”
Spike turned to Cray for a moment and shrugged. “Henry’s taking a bus over
on Friday by himself. There was a boyfriend in the picture for a while…but
that apparently is over. He’ll stay for a long weekend and I’ll take him back
for Christmas. All he’s been talking about is seeing you again and meeting
Michael.”
“Cool. We can all have fun together.” Cray
fondly remembered his first intimate experiences with a guy…Henry. ‘We both
learned a lot,’ he thought, ‘for future reference.’
“I know you will. And I don’t think Lou would
mind if Henry uses the SUV to get around.” Spike cleared his throat and continued,
“This is a dumb question but here goes. I’m supposed to move back into the
condo on Thursday…after all the repairs are finished. It’s just…I feel kinda
strange going back there by myself after all the problems. Is there a possibility
that you and Michael could come over, have dinner and stay over-night this
coming Thursday? I know this sounds like I’m being a wuss but it would be
a big thing for me if you’d do it.”
“I’ll give you a big tentative ‘yes’ right
now. Tentative cuz there’s parental permission involved. How about I let you
know tomorrow afternoon? Bob and Drew will probably be cool with it and Michael’s
dad is very reasonable. In fact, Mr. Turner might enjoy the opportunity to
entertain his new boyfriend without us around.”
“There you go – a good deed pays forward. I’m
planning on going in for work tomorrow. I’ll make it a point to seek out one
of your dads and let them know what’s up.” Spike made a final turn and entered
the auto mall. At the middle of the loop road was the large Boren Lexus dealership.
He pulled into the parking area and got out of the Pontiac.
“Whew. They have a large inventory.” Cray got
out and looked around. The late afternoon sun was losing its strength but
had not quite tucked itself behind the mountains. He put on his sunglasses
and looked around. “Nice rides.”
“Come on over to the area where the IS series
cars are parked. I’m sure some salesman has us scoped out and is ready to
pounce.” He led Cray over to a back row of smaller cars. “Here we are. If
you kick a tire, I’ll strangle you.”
“Yes, Daddy.” Cray smiled and rolled his eyes.
“I see what you mean. Smaller but still classy.”
“Here’s a hot one. I love the color.” He looked
at the sticker and frowned. “Smoky Granite Mica and $43,000. That’s a lot
of bread.”
“Speaking of bread,” Cray replied. “That man
walking up to us is Mr. Boren.” He watched as the distinguished older man
approached. Cray thought he looked pretty sharp in his Lexus golf shirt and
slacks. “Hi, Mr. Boren. Guess Benny got hold of you?”
“Cray, good to see you anytime, and yes, he
did. Please call me Ben.” He shook Cray’s hand and turned to Spike. “I understand
you’re in the market for a car?”
“Yes, sir, I am. I’m Spike Jensen. My old car
finally crapped out and I need something new. Spike smiled, extended his hand
and pressed firmly when Ben did the same. “I’m thinking of the smaller IS
350 series.”
“Good choice. J.D. Power gives these cars the
highest marks.” Ben unlocked the car, opened the door and said, “Get in for
a feel of it.”
“Can we take this out? If you’ve got a few
minutes, that is.” Spike loved the smell of a new car interior and the feel
of leather. He reached in and touched the driver’s seat. “Or we could wait
for a salesman.”
“For a friend of my son’s? No problem. You
give me your license so I can take a picture of it. Just a formality…it’s
Nevada law. I’ll be back with the keys so you can drive it.”
“I understand.” Spike retrieved his wallet
and pulled out his driver’s license. After Ben left, he turned to Cray and
said, “This is exactly the car I want. Color, navigation package, satellite
radio, premium surround sound system, moon roof…the whole enchilada.”
“43 grand. That’s a lot of enchiladas,” Cray
replied. The thought of his arrival in Vegas five months earlier with $153.00
in his pocket and no place to go flashed through his mind.
“Before a ‘good guy’ discount. I’ve got an
idea of what these babies cost the dealer. And the money I received for replacement
is like an insurance settlement.”
“It is a sharp car.” Cray watched as Mr. Boren
returned. ‘Spike obviously has things covered,’ he thought. ‘I wonder if I’ll
ever know the real story behind this?’
“Okay, gentlemen. Let’s roll.” Ben Boren handed
Spike his license and the keys.
The three men got into the sedan. Cray sat
up front with Spike and Mr. Boren slid into the rear seat. He patiently explained
some of the features as they drove out of the lot and onto the busy street.
Spike asked a few technical questions and turned down the suggestion of taking
the IS 350 to the nearby freeway because he didn’t want to deal with the rush
hour traffic. 15 minutes later, they returned to the front of the dealership
showroom and got out of the car.
“Spike, whatdaya think?” Ben asked. He was
standing by the window that displayed the sticker with specifications and
listed price.
“I think you should tell me what you want and
see if we can deal. You did well with my friend, Lou, and I’m hoping for the
same thing.” Spike smiled with a ‘we both know what kind of a deal I’m expecting’
look.
“Fair enough. I can take four grand off the
sticker price to my invoice cost. Your talking around $39,000, prep costs
included.”
“Make it 38-5 with the taxes thrown in and
you’ve sold a car.” Spike looked at Ben with intense innocence and stood still.
“I assume you’ll need financing?” Ben looked
at the two younger men and then at the car. “I can help you there. But I need
39 just to break even.”
“No
financing. 38-5 is a cash deal. All we need to do is call the manager at Gallant
National Bank and he’ll cut a check or wire the money. I need a new car tomorrow.”
“This is the point where the manual says the
salesman needs to call the sales manager to see if we can make a deal,” Ben
said with a laugh. “But, as the owner, I’m allowed to lose a little money
every once in a while…even if it takes food off my family’s dinner table.”
“Hey, Ben, there’s always McDonald’s Happy
Meals.” Spike winked and extended his hand. “Deal?”
“Deal. Let’s go to my office and call the bank.
If they can transfer $38,500 to our account, you have a nice, new car.” Ben
shook Spike’s hand and they all entered the gleaming showroom and continued
to a large office in the rear.
“Here’s the business card with the manager’s
name,” Spike said as they all sat down. “He’s expecting a call.”
Ben punched in the telephone number on the
speakerphone and was put through to the manager immediately. He smiled when
the manager assured him the money would be transferred as soon as the sales
documents were faxed to the bank. After a few pleasant remarks between Spike
and the bank manager, Ben said everything would be faxed within the hour.
“Does that do it? I’d like the car prepped
and ready for pickup tomorrow about this time.” Spike smiled and turned to
Cray, “You like the car?”
“Absolutely super.” Cray was mesmerized at
the way Ben Boren and Spike danced the steps of a successful negotiation.
“Mr. Jensen, we just need to fill out a few
forms to complete the deal. And you can then go to your insurance man for
coverage. I’ll make sure you have your new Lexus ready in 24 hours.”
“Let’s get this over with, then.” Spike turned
to Cray and added, “Then I’ll buy us a little dinner.”
“I don’t have to be back until 9:00. How about
some steak?” Cray decided to be playfully pushy.
“Steak it is. Ben, let’s fill out these forms
so I can feed my young, hungry friend.”
_____________________
TO BE CONTINUED