PULP – PART 1 – Sequel to THE PIER

ON THE FIRST INSTALLMENT OF …

PULP

BEFORE…

THE OASIS 

If you know where to look, you’ll find one bullet hole buried deep in the wall – slightly off to the right of the doorway. The one shot dead center, never made it to the wall. That one was the kicker. You’d agree if it were you – trust me. Had anyone cared to investigate, the neighbors would have confirmed hearing two shots fired, even if it was the stormiest night San Francisco had seen in a long time. They would even have told you a black car was seen driving – like a bat out of hell – away from The Oasis. But no one came poking around asking questions and the neighbors weren’t about to stir any trouble either.

They say some things just happen. While some things happen for a reason. At least that’s what they say.

CASE WORK

Each day begins as the sun rises in the east. Its bright rays pierced through the blinds at 207 King Street and caught Eddy still in bed, Luke purring at his feet. He chose this side of the building, not for the breathtaking view of the ballpark in China Basin or the money view of the Bay. Though when the ladies came over – their jaws dropped and so did their panties. It happens. Don’t get your knickers in a knot. Eddy got the place for the ceiling to floor windows facing east. Loved rising with the sun each morning – never knowing where life will take you. As long as he rose with the sun, Eddy felt he had some kind of authority over his destiny. Silly fool.

After a long hot shower, Eddy Case was getting ready for another Thursday morning, the start of his week; his religious hangover just starting to prime. Life wasn’t easy for Eddy. Though a good man, even better detective, Eddy was just a lost little boy at heart. We’re all lost, aren’t we? But you’d never know by the looks of him. Tall and handsome, fierce green eyes, conservative hair except for one long auburn lock which made the ladies swoon and the guys at the station love him like a son. It was so easy.

Today of all days, the sun was shining in San Francisco and he thought it was a sign of a good day. Like I said, you never know where the day will take you. Had no clue what life had set into motion.

After a quick shave, scan the front page, wolfed down a protein shake – he took his motorcycle and cruised down the five blocks of Townsend towards the precinct. Didn’t even hit one red light. Didn’t like being late, out of respect for the Captain. His Pop was a Captain; he was on time for Pop. Wished he was there.

If wishes were horses, we’d all be riding.

Since Eddy thought he was having a good day, free cup of coffee to boot, it didn’t come as a surprise when a sexy redhead was waiting for the elevator just has he strolled up. Dressed in a pressed black suit, her pink high heels didn’t go unnoticed. “Good morning” he grinned. She let out a huge smile, lightly scratching the side of her neck. A natural instinct being that she was so beautiful and he was so, well, feral and masculine. Unknowingly she was broadcasting her availability. Pheromones taking over. He noticed. Loud and clear. It was, after all, his lucky day. Her left hand so subtly void of a ring. Neck arched and exposed, completely a subconscious reaction. Neither had any choice but to be attracted to one another. In the wild, this would have proceeded much different.

“Going up?” He motioned to the elevator like a moron. Again she unleashed a wicked smile. “Yes.” She grinned. It wasn’t like her to be so flirtatious, her first day on the job and all. For all she knew, this guy could be her boss or her worst enemy. Right, on so many levels. Usually much more guarded and cautious. Wasn’t her fault. The air in San Francisco really mellows you out. So different from her native city.

“Beautiful day out.” Eddy couldn’t believe he was this corny. “It is.” She gave another smile and Eddy just about kicked his feet. “Names Eddy.” Switched his coffee cup and stuck out his hand. “Julia. Pleasure to meet you.” He grinned, “All mine.” And it truly was. Heads facing the closed elevator door. From the corner of their eyes they were pawing at each other. You could feel it. She – biting her lip, he – slipping his coffee. The silence was deafening. Their eyes doing all the work.

Then a booming voice woke them both from their little game. “Case! Perfect timing!” The Captain’s voice caught both their ears, turning in unison to greet him as he strode up. “Just the man I wanted to see.” He turned to beautiful Julia. “Detective O’Shaughnessy.” He addressed her, Eddy froze. He knew he was to meet the detective today; it never dawned on him she’d be a goddess. “I’d like you to meet Detective Edward Case.” Their eyes met again. She suppressed a wide grin, he didn’t suppress anything. Hands extended. The chemistry was palpable. The Captain started up. “Eddy, Julia’s here from New York – brought in to finish off Sammy Detroit.” The elevator door opened, both gentlemen allowed her to walk in first. Their eyes not as gentlemanly. “I think you two will work great together.” Eddy caught her giving him a slow once over from her corner. Averting her eyes when he caught her. They would work great together, Eddy didn’t doubt that. “Between the two of you, I expect results.” That was her line. But Eddy would deliver. “You two are going to head up the surveillance team, now that Sammy’s back in town!”

The door opened again, a herd of noisy reporters rushing in, nearly toppling Julia over. Eddy caught the small of her back, leading her safely out the door. No one else seemed to notice his gesture. Only Julia. Sent electricity up her spine. “Meet you in the conference room Eddy, Detective O’Shaughnessy – if you’d follow me, I have a few people I’d like you to meet.” That Captain was being so formal today; and just like that she was walking away. Didn’t mind watching her walk away one bit. Sway Sway.

So, his day was going well. Eddy was in a bit of a trance now. A goofy grin on his face. How lucky could he be? Reaching his office, messages were piled up on his desk along with a new cup of coffee. Thank you Morgan. Sifting through the mess a colleague burst through the door. “Did you see the babe the Cap is parading through the office? Ohhhh Ahhhhh!” Brice was making naughty gestures with his hands. This woman was bringing the primal out in everyone. “Close the door Brice and watch it.” Eddy was already taking the defense.   “She’s a detective out of New York and my new partner. Zip it. Show some respect.” His slow wide grin wasn’t lost on Brice. “You son of a bitch. You fucking son of a bitch, you are one lucky fool.” Threw a wadded up piece of paper at Eddy and left his office. Yes, Eddy was one lucky man. Luck be a lady, sometimes a bitch.

Gathered in the conference room, a spread of morning pastries strewn in the middle of the long table – wasn’t a good sign. This would take a while. Everyone had grabbed a seat; Eddy was forced to sit in the back, perfect. Prayed his aspirin would kick in before noon. Still on fire, the Captain dragged the station through more formal introductions while Eddy kept his eye on Julia the whole time. She’d catch him watching and return the favor. Sometimes adjusting her coat or crossing and uncrossing her legs. They were behaving like two hot and bothered teenagers. Or at least he was.

Julia finally took the podium and introduced herself. Keeping the chit chat to a minimum she jumped right into her assignment. Beauty and brains, he loved that combo. Her voice was soothing and rich. Eddy was ever so distracted. He couldn’t keep her clothes on. This could prove to be a problem.   A problem he had never encountered at the office before. Loosened his tie just a bit. “Let’s get this straight.” Julia was campaigning. “I’m here to work with you. Let’s catch these sons-a-bitches in the act and lock ‘em up!” She got a hoot and a holler from all the boys in the room. Wasn’t the first time either. Julia knew how to command an audience.

The room didn’t clear out like it usually did after the morning meeting. Everyone was sticking around to welcome the new detective. Never before had such a warm welcome been extended to a colleague. Julia just brought out the best in everyone. Brought out the best in Eddy’s imagination too.

It wasn’t until half past five that Eddy got a moment alone with Julia again. Don’t get me wrong, they were together all afternoon discussing surveillance options and delegating teams. All through a working lunch they discussed possible associates and bi-coastal criminals. The Captain was pleased everything was running so smoothly. If the SFPD caught Sammy Detroit on his watch – the Cap was a shoe in for Commissioner. That would make him one happy man.

As the last associate got off the elevator, Eddy and Julia found themselves alone. Finally. Both eager to change the subject. If only for a moment. “Wow, what a day huh?” Eddy had reverted back to the awkward adolescent she met this morning. He looked away, gave a little stretch, more of a flex and started again. “So… you ready to get some real work done?” He paused to slide her a grin. “Clock in for Happy Hour?” Julia gave a short laugh. “Great minds think alike.” Flashed a wicked smile. “Meet you outside in five?” The elevator stopped. “Sure.” Eddy responded as she jetted from the door. Alone he traveled the 4 floors down. Gave him just the time he needed for one important phone call.

Eddy strolled outside to snag a quick smoke. He truly didn’t like this flaw in his character, but then again, so did most people. He swore to only smoke when he needed to. Nothing bought time like a cigarette. You can light up and loiter where ever you want. Right now he wanted to watch Julia walk over to him. God, the things you do to stroke your ego. The elevator door opened and Julia emerged, Eddy nearly swallowed his cigarette. Literally, let her hair down. A wake of men stared behind her as she walked thru the doors. She was a force to be reckoned with alright. Walked right up to Detective Edward Case – he took in every detail of her body. Logged it in – saved it for later. You never know when a detail could come in handy. You just never know. It really was his lucky day.

Distracted Case dropped his lighter. She bent down to pick it up. Eddy was careful not to let her catch him watching the curve of her… his mind was completely inappropriate. Gave himself a shake. Set him straight – she was an equal, a partner. To be respected. Not materialized, though worship was another alternative. Shake Shake.

She rose slowly, catching the soft outline of etched initials at the bottom of his polished silver Zippo. “T L C II?” Her pale green eyes caught his.   Nodded first. “It was my father’s lighter.” Oh she nodded, set it in his hand. “Got another one of those Detective Case?” She motioned to his smoke. Grinned and handed one over, slowly lighting the tip. Inhaled slowly, exhaled even slower. “Don’t usually smoke, but you make it look so good.” He laughed. She looked good. Eddy would have to behave. She’d have to behave. Neither were in the habit of behaving, neither in the habit of making anything easy. “The Mars Bar is right around the corner. We usually start out there.” Julia gave a nod, started walking in the right direction.

The city was busy. Everyone who clocked in this morning were now just clocking out. The streets were thick with slow moving traffic; the wind off the Bay had a crisp chill. It was a lovely summer in the City. With ease Julia moved through the sidewalks. Never to falter or sway on those Manhattan stilettos. Amazing woman. Eddy broke the loud silence. “So where they got ya holed up?” He regretted asking. Was that appropriate? Probably not. He shouldn’t be thinking of her sleeping.   Given the chance, he wouldn’t let her sleep. She broke his train of thought, it was better that way. “Actually, I splurged – I’m staying at The Rex on Sutter.” She paused; the name was lost on him. “It’s a boutique hotel in Union Square, beautiful.” Boutique ran a bell – chick joint. “Figured, I’ve never been here before, and if I’m to stay her indefinitely.” He liked the sound of that. “Might as well live in luxury.” She nodded with authority. “Julia.” It was the first time he said her name. She loved how it rolled off his lips. “There’s no denying you, when you’re right.” A burst of laughter. Eddy wouldn’t deny her anything and with that he opened the door to the bar. Too bad it was such a short walk.

Greeted by the same faces she’d met during the day. A pitcher of margaritas, on the house, reminded her – this was the after-work crowd. Like a bee to honey, every prick in the joint swarmed to her. Queen Bee relaxed with all the buzz. Eddy held his spot and watched each one step up to the plate and strike out. 1,2,3. Next.   1,2,3. One more. 1,2,3. Went through a whole season in only a matter of hours. Would they ever give up? Eddy grew anxious, wanted to get the hell out of there. It was getting late and there was work to do in the morning. He’d like to do her in the morn… this was too much. He’d never cross that line. They say… never say never.   Brushing off boys like leaves from a porch, Eddy rose and parted the crowd for Julia to follow. Hailed a cab, he’d make sure she got home all right.

Too bad it was such a short ride, a few blocks past Market Street. Grateful for the impossible left turn. Had to drive around the block, a few extra moments together. They were quite.   He’d been by her side all day – yet never alone with her long enough. Suppose he had plenty of time, they’d be working very closely together. Very. Eddy turned to her. There was just something about her. Gave a laugh, she’d been staring too. Julia leaned in and tapped the cabbie on the shoulder. “Would it be ok if I shared a cigarette here with my partner? It’s been a long day.” Nodded a yes. She leaned back and swatted him on the thigh, gave him a naughty little grin. With one motion he pulled out his pack, his Zippo, handed one to the cabbie, lit two, handed one to Julia. She grabbed it slowly and wrapped her lips around it. Gave a long inhale. It was delicious. The window was down, the air blowing through her hair, the moonlight bouncing off her skin. If he didn’t know better, this was the start of a really good late night movie.

The car stopped. Someone honked their horn. They were outside The Rex Hotel. Julia cracked open the door. “See you tomorrow partner.” One leg out, one leg in – showing a lot of skin. “See you then.” Was all he could muster. Out the door she went. How he loved to watch her go. Neither slept a wink.

BREAKING NEWS

The next day, Eddy was up and out bright and early. Pulled out the good black suit, pressed white shirt, long thin tie and donned his dark shades. If looks could kill. Bang Bang. He’d leave a wake. Skipped the breakfast. Took the cruiser. Ran the sirens and lights, got to the precinct in minutes flat.   At 9am sharp Morgan buzzed his desk. Detective O’Shaughnessy was there to see him. Finally.

The door cracked open. Morgan had two cups of coffee and some pastries, complements of the Captain. This was getting ridiculous. Behind her was Julia. Bang Bang. A silk grey suit pressed against her body. A crisp white collar peaked from under her coat. Unbuttoned just right. Her long hair was pulled back at the nape of her neck. Subtle earrings danced on her lobes. Everything about her made him stare. Morgan new better than to interrupt. Closed the door delicately as she left. In the wild, this would have panned out much differently. Meow.

“Just wanted to speak to you before the meeting.” Put her briefcase down, grabbed a cup, found a seat on the corner of his desk. Eddy nodded his head in agreement, took a swig of coffee to hide his gaping jaw.   Burnt his tongue. “I know I am out of line.” He liked that in a woman. “But Captain Gilmore has me scheduled in meetings all day today.” Julia paused to compose herself. Puckered her lips and blew, the coffee steamed.   So did he. “What I am trying to say.” She was trying. “Is that I am a… hands-on kind of detective.” Woman, Eddy heard – hands on woman. His mind wasn’t helping. Took another sip of the piping hot coffee. “I don’t want to read reports about what happened. I make things happen.” She was getting riled up. Eddy could see she didn’t know he understood. Time to act like Detective Case again.

“Detective. Say no more. I understand. I’m a hands-on kind of guy myself.” Probably the only time he could say that without being accused of harassment.

“Thought so.” Her head cocked coyly. She’d never file a complaint against him. Ever.

Stood up, pressed down this tie. Back to work. “Sammy’s crew receives shipments all hours of the day – thought we’d start out at the piers – see what we see.” Walked around his desk and took the day on like a bull.

Outside, the morning was still shrouded in fog, but it would burn off by lunch. They agreed the black Town Car was best suited for the job. Fit right in if Sammy showed up. Maybe even charm out a couple of snakes. With Julia at the helm, they cruised down the Piers on 3rd Street. Not much action. At least not at this hour. Julia was the first to break rank.

“So Case. Tell me about yourself.” A bit surprised by her question. Sarcasm kicked into overdrive.

“Well, I’m a Detective with the San Francisco Police Department.” He stopped. Took her a second to realize he was joking around with her. She gave him a slap on the thigh. “Come on. Where you from, stuff like that…” She twirled her wrist, tell me more – tell me more. Eddy gave a grin, settled in for a bit. By the looks of it, no one was working any of the docks; they had a drive ahead of them. “Ok. Well. I’m a local kid, I drink too much. I shouldn’t smoke and my Ma’s pissed I never visit.” She gave a laugh and started up.

“My mom’s nuts, I drink too much and when you’re smoking – I want your cigarette.” The message wasn’t lost on him. Ping Ping. Eddy reached inside his coat pocket and pulled out his private cell phone. Answered it quickly. “Case – talk to me.” Julia couldn’t make out the other voice. It was a one way conversation. “Sure, what time? Usual spot. See you then.” Off the phone in seconds flat. Untraceable. Dialed in the radio. “Brice, finish up the docks and poke around at the wharf. We’re gonna check out of few other joints.” “Roger Boss. Out.”   Turning to Julia, Case began. “Make a left on to 20th – we’re going to Dolores Park.”

Parked on Church, Case left his badge in the car along with his piece. Julia was confused. “Wait here. I gotta meet a … friend of mine. He doesn’t do well with strangers.” She gave a nod – he was out the door and across the street in a flash.

She watched him. He moved swiftly. Though it was a bit windy, his pomp didn’t sway. When he reached a small grove of trees, out emerged a skinny Punk Rocker. Bumped fists, turned to face the park as they spoke. Each with an eye in the opposite direction. Eddy pushed his tie down as it fluttered in the breeze while the Punk’s spiked blue hair defied it. In a hurry they were done. Case making his way back to the car. Julia turned the engine. Not sure how much she should ask.

Eddy jumped back in. Julia decided whatever he did in plain sight was open for questioning.   Didn’t miss a beat. “Who’s that?”

Case gave a smile. “A kid who owes me.” The car in park, still waiting for directions Eddy proceeded. “Caught him my first week on the job trying to break into a car. Didn’t have the heart to pop him, he was only 15, so we made an arrangement. He’s been my eyes & ears on the street ever since.” Julia was impressed, even if it broke the rules.

“What’s the scoop?”

Case replaced his weapon. “Checked in with him yesterday – he noticed a couple new faces at The Bottom of the Hill. We should take a look.” Took a glance at her, she was looking out the windshield, a small grin forming at the corners of her lips. “They claim to be New Yorkers, been starting shit with the locals.” Her eyes lit up. Sounded about right. “His band is playing tonight, perfect excuse to drop by.”

“Perfect.” Julia replied. “What time you picking me up?” Eddy was impressed with her tenacity.

“Ten.” Running his fingers through his lock of hair, cracked his neck, Eddy tried to focus. His mind firing off in all directions, the thought of being alone with her, at night, was intoxicating. Had to keep it in his pants. “Let’s knock out the chop shops and call it a day.” Didn’t have to tell her twice. Peeled onto the street. Strange excitement pumping through her body.

TO BE CONTINUED… Part 2

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Happy Tales! xox Pulp Paige

My name is Paige Turner and I write Pulp

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