Scent of Gardenia (Scott Tucker Series) Page 2

  The only suggestion I could have made was to have the coffee area closer to our offices rather than near the main reception area. However, it gave me a chance to talk with Colleen.

  I smiled, remembering when she first met Mercedes Strong, who was one of the other members of our earlier task force. Mercedes’ entrance that first day made a lasting impression on Colleen. I caught Colleen with her skirt hiked up to mid-thigh, realizing later she was mimicking how Mercedes dressed. From that day on, Colleen made an attempt to dress to be ‘noticed,’ and was doing remarkably well.

  Mercedes had an impact on me as well, just after we met. We were stranded in a cabin together. I tried to be faithful to Lisa, maybe being too much of a gentleman. However, I will always remember Mercedes’ Christmas present to me at the cabin. ‘You’ll have to forgive the wrapping, it was all I had’ she said, as she had removed the small towel partially covering her body. That image, along with others, seems to be haunting me more recently.

  I also can’t forget I owe Mercedes my life.

  Unfortunately, Mercedes and I have not stayed in touch. I guess I fear my inability to control myself if I was with her. She knew how to push my buttons. One day she might just push the wrong one…or maybe it’s the right one. She also graduated from Harvard, now working for the FBI, as a profiler. In a way, I wish she was a short, ugly, and a non-descript gray-haired old woman, but her red hair, long legs and gorgeous figure are just the opposite. I think I’m going to give her a call.

  Chapter 3

  “Good morning Scott,” Colleen said, surprising me. “You look like you’re miles away. Are you okay?” she asked, with a concerned look.

  “Good morning Colleen. I was thinking about something, and never heard you come in. I’m sorry, but I’m okay,” I replied. Her frown quickly disappeared. “You look nice this morning.” I checked out her high-boots, black skirt and white sweater and added, “Mercedes would be proud of you.”

  She immediately blushed, pulling at the bottom of her sweater. “Thanks Scott. You always notice. I’m glad we’re still working together. Do you ever hear from Mercedes?”

  I looked down at Lisa’s picture, thinking about how long she’d been gone. “No. However, I’m going to call her in the next day or so, to see how she’s doing.”

  She smiled, starting to leave. “Please say hello to her for me. She must be doing pretty well in her new job. It must be exciting working for the FBI.”

  “I will do that. It might be interesting to see what she’s wearing these days.” I realized that didn’t sound right.

  She put her hands on her hips and announced, “I guess I wasn’t the only one looking at how she was dressed.”

  I smiled, feeling my face turning red. It wasn’t what Mercedes was wearing that made an impression…unless it was that towel that was much too small for the task. Now I knew I had to call her.

  I could tell Colleen noticed my reaction, but she just smiled, heading to her reception desk. There were only two women in my limited love-life, Lisa was one of them and Mercedes could have been the other. Mercedes wanted to date following the cabin encounter, but we never did and I married Lisa. I still hesitate seeing Mercedes. I guess I fear not having the strength to resist her. So, now that Lisa has been gone for two years, why am I still keeping my distance from Mercedes?

  *.*.*

  I heard Paddy and Mike’s voices as they said good morning to Colleen. I put my feet up on my desk, opening a folder.

  “Well, don’t you look comfortable?” Mike announced, standing at my door.

  Paddy was looking over his shoulder and added, “Can you get any more comfortable?”

  “Well, glad you guys could finally make it in this morning. I hope you brought doughnuts,” I said, rubbing in my early arrival.

  “You know Scott; we never should have made that agreement about the last one in buys doughnuts. It seems no matter how early we try to make it in…you’re always here before us,” Paddy said, smiling.

  I moved my feet off the desk and replied, “Paddy, I’m surprised. You always were a stickler for timeliness…I’m just trying to be punctual. However, if you would like to change the contest to who stays the latest, we can work that out as well.”

  Paddy looked like he was going to reply, but just waved his hand and headed to his office.

  Mike stepped into my office and sat down. “What’s on your agenda for today?” he asked.

  I looked at the pile on my desk and replied, “I have to put the final changes to these Wang process flows and get them over for their review. What do you have cooking?”

  Mike picked up one of the sheets from my desk and looked at it. “Scott, I don’t know what all of these boxes stand for, but it looks impressive. You’re going to have to teach me how to make some sense out of this material. As far as what’s cooking—we completed our investigation yesterday on that missing husband; he ran off with his girlfriend. Oh, speaking of girlfriends—while you were out of the office yesterday afternoon, Mercedes called. She wants you to call her as soon as you can. I’ll get the phone slip with her number.”

  I could see the sign of a smirk. “You know Mike, I was thinking of her just a little while ago. She’s not my girlfriend.”

  He put the flow chart back down, looking at me. “You know Scott…talking as a friend, Lisa has been gone for a long time. You really need to enjoy things other than work. Mercedes just might get your mind off the past and…well…give you some other interests other than work. Of course I’m being selfish here—if you did have other interests maybe you would be buying the doughnuts every day.” He laughed, and added, “Besides, I miss having a beer or two with you both. If she can make it, why don’t you have her come to the pub after work one of these days? I’m sure she wouldn’t mind buying—she’s making more than both of us put together.”

  I thought about what he said and responded, “Please get me her number and I’ll return her call, and I’ll also mention what you said—the part about having a drink with us.”

  Mike nodded and stood up. “You know Scott, I think you’re forgetting about a lot of things when it comes to Mercedes…she was after your body a few years ago, but more importantly she did risk her life to save yours. She at least delayed her sister long enough for us to intervene.”

  I debated with myself whether I would comment. “Do you remember what my first impression of her was?”

  “Yes I do. It was something about how uncomfortable she made you…right?”

  “That’s right,” I answered, and trying to change the subject I added, “I wonder why her sister’s body never washed up on shore.”

  “You’re trying to change the subject. However, I’m surprised as well about that. Getting back to Mercedes—Scott you really need to see her, and just maybe she can get your mind off what happened to Lisa.” Then he added, “The tree of life has many branches and unfortunately Lisa’s ended prematurely. Don’t hide yours from the sun. As a friend, I’m trying to help you. Life’s short, but you still have many years ahead of you…don’t spend all of your time on the past—you can’t change it.”

  He was looking for my response. “Mike, I have something I want to share with you before I discuss it with Paddy.” Mike sat back down. “I’m sure you remember Charlotte Williams. Well, I received a letter from her yesterday. She’s still in Bermuda, but her brother went missing down there six months ago. She mentioned that he and several other men are missing.” I pulled the letter out of my briefcase and handed it to him. Thanks Mike. You’re right. Maybe you should be a shrink. I’ll call Mercedes to see what she wants, and I’ll ask her if she wants to have a drink with us.”

  Mike read the letter quickly, and then reread it without speaking. “Well Scott, if you’re thinking of following up on this—more specifically doing some investigation work in Bermuda—you can forget Paddy buying into that. First, your work on the business side of what we’re doing is much more valuable. Secondly, investigation work is not your special
ty. I don’t even think Paddy would go for anyone in our office pursuing what’s going on, especially since it’s out of the country. That’s just my opinion, but I want you to be prepared.” He folded the letter and handed it back.

  He stood up, leaned on my desk and whispered, “You know for a guy with a Harvard education, you still have some things to learn.” He studied me, and then added, “If I was your age, with your education, and had a hot redhead after me…well…it wouldn’t take me years to get my act together.” He stood, touching his finger to his temple several times and left my office.

  “Thanks for sharing the letter with me…good luck with Paddy. I would just let him decide what he wants to do about it, but I wouldn’t mention anything about your feeling obligated to follow up on it.”

  Mike was really the only friend I had. He was trying to be a true friend telling me what I needed to hear. I thought about what it would be like to spend some time with Mercedes. I could feel my heart racing. I realized I needed a coffee.

  Colleen smiled as I passed her reception desk headed to the coffee area. Her bright red nails on her typewriter reminded me of Mercedes’ long fingers and blood red nails.

  Back in my office; the two doughnuts brought a smile to my face. I took a large swallow of coffee, reaching for the slip Mike left with Mercedes phone number.

  *.*.*

  I was just about to hang the phone up since it rang five times when someone answered, “Hello, this is Agent Strong.”

  The sound of her voice put an immediate smile on my face. “Mercedes, hello it’s Scott. You called yesterday.”

  “Hi, Scott, can you hold for a second?” she asked.

  “Yes I can.” I could hear her talking with someone, but couldn’t make out what she was saying.

  “Sorry about that Scott…I was meeting with someone.”

  “I can call back if this isn’t a good time,” I said hoping.

  “No, it’s okay. I’ll catch up with them after I talk with you. How have you been?”

  “I’ve been okay. We’re keeping busy at Paddy’s office, having expanded the focus to business consulting. How are you doing?”

  “I’m up to my eyes in stuff at the present time. I would…” she paused. “I was hoping to have heard from you before now. I haven’t seen you since Lisa’s funeral.”

  I didn’t know what to say. I took a deep breath and replied, “Mercedes you’re right. Mike suggested I invite you for a beer or two at the pub. Can you make it one of these evenings?”

  She immediately commented, “You say Mike suggested it…what do you want?”

  This is exactly why she makes me feel uncomfortable. “I would like to see you too.”

  “Yes, but you couldn’t have picked up the phone and asked to see me on your own.” Neither of us said anything at that point. She added, “Scott, I’m sorry, that was way out of line. My hair trigger comes from working with all the testosterone here. Let me rephrase my response. I would be glad to see Mike and you for a beer, or two. However, I’m leaving for a few days on a business trip tomorrow. I need to talk with you about a potential business opportunity for you, and your office. Is there any chance we can make it tonight?”

  I paused before answering. “I’ll check with Mike and let you know.”

  “Scott…you can check with Mike, that’s fine. However, regardless of whether he can make it or not, can you?”

  Her words hit me hard. “Yes, I can make it. I should have said that to begin with. I’ll see if Mike can join us. How does six o’clock sound to you?”

  “That sounds great. Since Mike said your offices are still in the Harvard Square area, how about the Harvard Pub?”

  “That’s perfect. It will be like old times.”

  She didn’t immediately respond. “I’ll be there. Please plan on staying to talk with me privately about this business opportunity. I would feel more comfortable talking about it with you first. We can share with Mike and Paddy if you’re interested. Is that okay with you?”

  “That’s fine with me. I’m looking forward to seeing you again. It’s been quite a while.”

  “Scott, it’s been much too long. Thanks for meeting me on such short notice, but I did give you two years to pick up the…I’m sorry. It will be nice to see you again. See you tonight at six, goodbye.”

  I put the receiver back in its cradle and stared at the phone. I guess I should have called her before she called me. Tonight ought to be pretty interesting. I hope Mike can make it.

  I walked over to Mike’s office and stuck my head in the door. “I just got off the phone with Mercedes. She’s going out of town tomorrow and wants to know if we can meet tonight.”

  Mike immediately shook his head. “Scott my son has a class play tonight and I can’t miss it. You’ll just have to send my regards. Can you handle her by yourself?”

  I was a little slow answering, “Sure I can. She wanted to talk with me privately anyway. I can handle her, but I’m sorry you can’t be with us.”

  “Like I said, send my regards and see if she can make plans to see us again in the next week or so.”

  “Will do.” I headed back to my office and picked up one of the flow charts. Looking at the shapes on the drawing reminded me of Mercedes’ figure. I’m sure I can handle meeting her alone. I can, can’t I?

  Chapter 4

  I felt I needed to get to the pub and have a beer before Mercedes arrived. I took a seat at a tall table in the back and waited for service. I recalled the many times Mike and I came here while we were on the two task forces together. Mercedes even joined us several times.

  Two arms circled me from behind and squeezed me so tightly I could feel breasts pressing into my back. I recalled the scent, realizing it was Maggie.

  I felt a kiss on my neck. “Scott, where have you been keeping yourself?” She came around the table, adjusting the top of her skimpy outfit.

  It was hard not to notice her ample bosom. “Well I’m still working with Paddy O’Brien and Mike Miller, but it’s been a long time since we’ve been in here.” I noticed the wedding band on her finger. “You’re still married, I see.”

  “Yes the little bugger finally got off his duff and made our sexcapades legal. He’s been after me to quit my dancing gig, but I’m still doing that and working here. That reminds me, you never came to see me dance.”

  “No I never did, but maybe someday.”

  “I’d really like to dance for you. You’re still as handsome as ever, but you look a little tired or worried. You okay?”

  “Thanks for asking. I lost my wife two years ago and I haven’t been the same. However, I’m okay.”

  “Oh, I’m so sorry to hear that. What can I get you? Is Mike coming?”

  “You can bring me a draft beer, but Mike can’t make it. Mercedes Strong, you might remember her…the tall redhead—she’s coming.”

  She shook her head. “You don’t need me to dance for you if you’ve got her.”

  “It’s nothing like that. We’re meeting for business.”

  She leaned across the table and whispered, “That is a real shame.” She shook her head, strolling away accenting her wiggle for my benefit.

  Everybody but me knows what I should be doing. What’s wrong with me?

  I thought about my conversation with Paddy about Charlotte’s letter. Actually I didn’t say much—Paddy did most of the talking. Without me saying anything he made it perfectly clear how important the business focus was to the office. He said he was sorry she sent the letter to me, but it’s really not up to ‘us’ to get involved down there. He even offered to send her a letter from the office explaining our situation. I owe him an answer as to what I want to do about that.

  The background noise in the pub stopped abruptly. I looked toward the entrance to see Mercedes heading my way. She looked more beautiful than I remembered.

  *.*.*

  I stood up and gave her a hug. She kissed me on the cheek. In one quick second my senses were rewarded with the sc
ent of Gardenia. I really missed that. Images flashed through my mind.

  “Scott, you look as handsome as ever,” she said, lifting herself onto the high stool. Her legs were still as long as ever. She must have noticed me looking. “Yup, they’re still attached to the rest of me, but you must remember those details, right?”

  “You don’t lose your touch, do you Mercedes?”

  “Is that something you’re asking, or is it research?” she said, leaning across the table. “I’m sorry Scott. I just love the way you react to me, and I just can’t help pressing your buttons. Why don’t we start anew…I’m glad you could meet with me tonight, and thank you for the compliment on my legs.”

  I could feel the immediate blush. Maggie’s arrival saved any further sinking on my part. “Mercedes, you must remember Maggie?”

  “Hello Maggie. Congratulations on your marriage,” Mercedes said immediately.

  Maggie looked at her ring. “You detectives don’t miss anything, do you? Welcome back Mercedes, what can I get you?”

  “A draft would be fine. Scott looks like he needs another to change his complexion.” Mercedes laughed, and Maggie added hers when she looked my way. Maggie nodded and wiggled away.

  Mercedes watched her motion. “You know Scott another inch and she might not be in that outfit. However, you hadn’t noticed that…or, had you?”

  “There’s no way I could have missed it. You know she’s an exotic dancer, and maybe she likes to advertise.”

  “Well I like what I’ve got; it’s not too much of a good thing.” She paused, adding, “Once again I’m sorry. My lips are going faster than my brain. I’ve had two years to think about our time together and honestly I have to ask you—why haven’t you called me?”

  Maggie brought our beer and must have sensed she was intruding. When she left I took a deep breath, trying to think of an answer. “Mercedes, for the life of me I don’t know why I haven’t called you. It’s not that I haven’t thought about you, as I have. Some images I can’t get out of my head.” I shook my head and she held her glass across the table.