Excerpt
I introduced myself over the phone as Fargo Blue, but she didnt seem impressed. Said she already had that piece of information. She was different. She called herself Pleasure and said she knew Uncle Leo. Intriguing. I was to visit her poolside at the MGM Grand, which is always a good way to start Monday morning. But I had a bad feeling, like the dice rolled a seven on your last ten spot. It just doesnt feel good.
I had met Uncle Leo when I was working homicide in south Vegas. Every time I made a good collar, they called their Uncle. He was the public defender learning his trade and fast becoming one of the most popular guys in Vegas. Now he is retired with more connections than he knows what to do with. And it was the connection to Uncle Leo that bothered me.
Im a full-time P.I. and part time treasure hunter. Its a passion where I can use my detective skills to track down the loot of the world. I wear a gold Hong Kong Jockey Club ring on my right index finger. I travel to Hong Kong every year to visit my sister, and on one trip helped a friend of hers. The ring was a gift, which I will always remember.
At six foot two, with thick almond brown hair, and somewhat on the lean side, I always look good in what I wear. Most of the time it was the same - a five-hundred-dollar sport jacket over a hundred-dollar shirt. But no ties - that is my concession to Las Vegas heat. The jacket hid my 9-mm Glock I always carry. Black, so it wont reflect light. Today it was under my arm, tomorrow on my leg or on my belt in back. Keep them guessing is all a part of the game. When things get tough I also carry a SIG .40 S&W, and a snub nose .38 in an ankle holster for extra protection.
I spotted Pleasure right away. She commanded the center of attention on the far side of the pool that was surrounded by palm trees. She was stretched out enjoying the sun. Its funny how some people have an aura about them. She had it. A pool attendant was delivering a second set of towels, probably just to get a closer look. A few hotel guests had arranged their chairs to get a better view. Male and female, I might add. I walked carefully around the pool and I approached her with caution. Sort of like handing bloody meat to a hungry lion.
Mr. Blue, I believe, Pleasure said as I approached. She extended her hand. We shook. Her hand was warm and comfortable. She held on longer than necessary.
Have we been introduced?
Youre Fargo Blue, the detective.
Fargo Blue Investigations at your service. She was around thirty-three and a delight to look at. It was all I could do to keep my eyes locked on her eyes hiding behind those dark glasses. A once-over would be too obvious. Her attitude told me to go ahead anyway. But I didnt. I was a tough guy. It was killing me, and she knew it.
Could you hand me that towel? She indicated the one by her feet. She was making it easy for me to check her out. I liked politeness. Theres not enough of it anymore in the world. I wasnt disappointed. She was tan and voluptuous, with hair the color of coal. She was built and she knew it. She wore a white two-piece with enough cleavage for everybody. A bead of sweat rolled down her breast and disappeared into her top. A guy in my line of business has to pay attention to the details. Im a real pro when I have to be.
Yes, Im Fargo Blue, and youre Pleasure...?
Pleasure ought to be enough for now.
I tried to keep a straight face, even though I suspected you could never get enough pleasure. How can I help you?
She slid her Ralph Lauren wrap-around sunglasses down her nose to get a better look at me. A chair appeared out of thin air and I was delighted to sit down. I was the doctor and she was my patient. I have a friend who needs help, she said.
Whats the name?
Jody.
Jody who?
Judith S. Barrett. Jody for short.
Why dont you have Jody call me?
Thats the problem. I cant find her. She arrived yesterday on the noon flight from New York. She picked up a room key, left her baggage in her suite, and vanished. Its not like her.
Call the police and ask for missing persons. They can help.
I cant.
Why?
She was carrying a great deal of money!
Whose money?
My money!
Are you interested in finding the money or her?
Do you want the truth? she answered coyly.
Lie to me.
My friend and the money.
Tell me about your friend.
Shes even more beautiful than I am. But Im not the envious type.
Ill file that away.
Might come in handy. You never know. She leaned over to reach for something under her lounge chair. My pool mates were getting jealous. She pulled out a small black gym bag. On the side was written MGM Grand in gold letters.
I didnt bring you anything.
She slipped her Ralph Lauren sunglasses down over her nose again, looked at me over the top of the rims, and ignored my comment. She didnt appreciate good humor.
Will you take my case, Mr. Fargo? I need private help, and I hear youre good.
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