Disclaimer: All the characters of in this story are of my own creation. Any physical
resemblance the people in this story may have to real people is coincidental and no
infringement on anyones rights is intended.
Subtext Disclaimer: This story contains references to physical relationships between
consenting adults, who may happen to be of the same sex. If this offends you, or you are
under 18 years of age, or you reside in an area where this type of material is illegal,
read no more. There is plenty of general fanfic out there for you. Go find it.
Paradise Series #3.
Storyline: Hustle, bustle and headaches abound on a fictional Caribbean island as a
recently, nearly completed resort is brought to life and we follow the lives of the people
who are trying to make it happen. In the middle of it all is a closer look at two
strangers, two women, who are thrown together by outside forces and struggle to contend
with the problems they will have to share if the Paradise Beachside Resort is to open on
time, and their own emotions as strange happenings make them question themselves, and each
other.
Please send any comments to asdease1@gte.net
Enjoy, I hope.
WELCOME TO PARADISE
Chapter three
Written by FlyBigD
The trip down the mountain was interrupted six times for each time Holly bumped her Land
Rover into the back of Teddys, whatever it was. Some kind of hybrid atrocity that
barely resembled a vehicle, she was supposed to be following it at a safe distance so she
wouldnt go careening through the trees. Regrettably, the roots covering the path
proved as slippery as Teddy had predicted and though Holly did not go careening, she
couldnt seem to stop as quickly as she always intended. Im sorry!
She would yell out the drivers side to Teddys glowering reflection in the rear
view mirror. A perilous trip indeed, it did end safely and Holly was greatly relieved when
the path flattened out at the base of the mountain. Still too narrow to pass, she
wasnt surprised when Teddy pulled to the shoulder, once they had gotten to the paved
road. Ready to offer a genuine, heartfelt apology, she parked behind the thing
and got out. Stopping being her first mistake, the second one, the getting out of the
vehicle one, was soon exposed for what it was when Teddy did the same thing, though
apparently not in a forgiving mood. Im really sorry.
Where the hell did you learn to drive? In a barn? Teddy shouted, arms held
outstretched at shoulder height as she approached her boss. Whats the matter
with you? You could have shoved me into a tree! I told you to keep it in low gear and keep
constant pressure on the brake!
I did what you told me to do! Holly shouted back, for no other reason than she
had been shouted at first. It didnt work!
It worked for me! Smacking herself in the chest. And a good thing it
did, or else we would have both been dead by now!
Holly rolled her eyes. We would not. Youre just mad because I dinged that . .
. what was it again?
A 1953 M37 in mint condition until you came along with your Cracker Jack drivers
license. Teddy said through pursed lips.
Only a few paces between them, Holly erased one. Is that your answer for everything?
Does everybody, who doesnt meet with your expectations, get their permits in Cracker
Jack boxes? Is that the best you can come up with?
Another pace gone, Teddy put her hands on her hips. I call em like I see
em.
Well, why dont you pull your head out of your ass so you can see better?
She smiled and rammed her finger into Teddys chest. Hello! Earth to Teddy!
Youd need a fucking tank to get down that, that, that slip and slide you call a
road!
Teddy looked down at the finger, then back up at Holly. You wanna keep that
attached, you better move it.
Her face twisting into an evil smirk, Holly twisted her finger into Teddys chest.
Move. Move. Move.
A dark eyebrow went up slowly, then Holly went up quickly as Teddy threw her over her
shoulder. I warned you.
Hey! Put me down! Kicking her feet, she pounded on her abductors back.
Teddy! Put me down!
Oh, Im gonna put you down alright. She proclaimed with a wicked chuckle.
In the nearest puddle I can find.
Teddy! Dont you dare! Teddy! Holly shouted and squirmed, and did
everything in her power to get loose. Teddy! Ugh. Teddy!
Mess with me. Teddy mumbled under the shouts. Ill show you who
youre messing with. Now, wheres a nice deep puddle? Spinning around, she
stalked towards the back of Hollys truck. Come here, puddle, puddle, puddle.
Come to Teddy. Ahhh ha! Perfect. Hefting her load, Teddy headed for a healthy
looking body of water a little further down the road.
NO! Teddy! Putting more effort into getting away, Holly swung around to try
and see what had gotten Teddys approval. Teddy! Put me down! Teddy! These are
new shoes!
Just consider this your morning wake up call. Giving Hollys butt a good
swat, Teddy spun around ten times before tossing her boss in the puddle. Welcome to
paradise, Holly!
Teddy! Oof. Landing on her butt, Holly sent a tidal wave of mud over the edges
of the puddle, then sank into it as she flailed about. Teddy!
Teddy dusted her hands of the whole matter and turned around. Now, seeing the old adage of
what goes around, comes around has its merits, this meant that it was now Teddys
turn to make a few mistakes. The first one was in turning around, thereby placing her
unprotected back to the enemy, which was promptly covered with mud from a hastily thrown
wad from Hollys hand. Teddys second mistake was in stopping when she got hit,
because this allowed Holly to muster all the energy it was going to take to drag Teddy
into the puddle with her, which she did after a slippery struggle. Get off me! Let
go of my leg, you witch! I said get off me! Hey! Hey! Hey! Let go of me!
Feet planted firmly in a foot of mud, Holly had her arms wrapped around Teddys calf
like two reticulating pythons and she used her U.S. Grade A pistons to shift the tide in
her direction, and Teddy in the direction of the puddle. Growling as she pulled, she
inched the one foot Teddy was hopping on closer and closer, until, at last she sank her
teeth into meaty flesh for the all important distraction.
OWWWWWWWWWW! Whooooooooooa. Splat. Yes, a royal belly flop perfectly executed,
Teddy went face first into the mud, but she didnt stay face down for long. Leg
throbbing where she had been bitten, she was up on all fours in an instant and ready to
kill the first thing she could get her slippery grip on. Where are you, you
hussy?
Needless to say, Holly had no intention of being that thing. Releasing the leg, she then
went for the jugular from behind and pounced on Teddys back, her hands trying to get
a hold of the womans neck. Eat dirt, wench!
How long the muddy battle had been going on before the headlights of a dark gray Austin
came into view is debatable. However, suffice it to say that when Rolando slowed down to
investigate the two parked vehicles, his ears drew him to the dirty pair, rather than his
eyes, because in truth, until they opened theirs to look at him, he had no idea they were
human. Standing on the road in black leather loafers, dark blue argyle socks, navy twill
trousers, his standard starched, white, cotton, long sleeve shirt, holding his
commemorative Golden Eye umbrella, minus the lethal accessories, he stared at a pair of
bright blue and bright green eyes. His own a dark blue, they did recognize their
counterparts and he addressed the people in the mud pit accordingly. Ladies, if I
may interrupt a moment? The screaming and clawing slowed, so he continued.
Yes, thank you. Um . . . not to dissuade you from your activity, however, I would
put forth as a reminder that there is a group of people gathering in that direction, who,
I believe may wish the pleasure of your company, when its convenient. Also, in case
your time pieces are no longer functional, I might also remind you that the hour is past
due for your arrival.
Eat shit, Rolando. Teddy growled as she dragged and crawled her way out of the
mud. Covered from head to foot in brown ooze, she slung it off her arms as she stood.
Im taking a shower and going back to bed. She said as she placed a muddy
hand print in the chest area of his clean, white shirt. Adding a shove to the artwork, she
began the sloshing, limping journey back to her dinged 1953 M37.
Slacker! Holly shouted as she slipped from side to side on the road, before
scraping enough mud off the bottom of her new shoes to gain an unsteady balance on the
surface. When she did get a decent hold, she started for her Land Rover.
Bite me, bitch! Shouting over her shoulder, Teddy slid into the drivers
side and slammed the door.
Fuck you, asshole! Slamming her door, Holly started the engine.
Revving the old engine, Teddy spun the wheels as she made a swerving u-turn to yell out
the window. Only in your dreams, shorty! Swerving again, she aimed for the
path between the trees that would take her home again.
Holly shot her a bird as, she too, spun the wheels in acceleration, but she didnt
make a u-turn. Once she got going, she kept going down the paved road.
Rolando, left standing alone in the road with his umbrella, watched the two women depart
and shook his salt and pepper head. My, my, my, this is much more serious than I
originally suspected. Sighing, he felt a warm wet feeling soak through to his skin
and looked down at his shirt. It is a good thing I keep a spare in the glove box for
occasions such as this.
007 is always ready for anything, ya know.
**********
Teddy, true to her word, did not go into work that day. She drove up the mountain to her
home, discarded her ruined clothing, showered off all the mud and went to bed to get the
sleep she hadnt gotten the night before.
Holly, though she had no word to be true to, did the same thing. She drove home, to her
pastel stuccoed condominium on the beach, discarded her ruined clothing and new shoes,
showered off all the mud and got dressed again. Having gotten a good nights sleep the
night before, she cleaned out the Land Rover before getting back in it to drive to work. A
changed woman in more ways than her fresh set of clean clothes, her general demeanor was
noticeably different when she walked through the glass doors of the Paradise with
briefcase in hand. More confident in her stride, she strolled past people covertly
checking their watches and exchanging curious glances, but there was no explanation from
Holly for them to nibble on, so they cranked up the rumor mill of speculation.
Ignoring all this, Holly went into her office without a word to do some of her own
cranking. Gears turning in her mind, she was ready to hit the ground running with the
information and insight Teddy had given her, which she did an hour later. After going over
her notes thoroughly, to commit most to memory, she emerged from her office and wrangled
the first manager that came her way. Claire, were having a staff meeting today
in the second floor conference room at lunch. Make sure everybody knows and tell them to
expect to be there awhile. Ill see what I can do in the way of food, so they
wont have to bring their lunches with them.
Holly, I have a lunch engagement. Claire told her with a smile that faded when
Hollys eyebrows went up. Ill cancel my plans and spread the word.
She said more solemnly.
Thanks for the help, Claire. Holly smiled and gave the womans arm a
squeeze, then held onto it. Would you happen to know where I can find Rolando?
She asked, turning Claire around so they were both heading for the lobby.
Claire chuckled. I havent seen him lately, but my guess would be out by the
pool. He lives out there.
No surprise with the tan hes got. Shaking her head, Holly let go of
Claires arm. Thanks again, Claire and the meet starts at noon sharp. If
youre late, you starve and tell everybody to hold off with their problems until
then. Ill go over whatever they have at the meeting. She said as she walked
away from the support manager.
Ill pass the word. She waved and then began the quest given her. Waving
at another blonde, she got Jennifers attention. Staff meeting at noon in the
second floor conference room. Be there, on time, no excuses and Holly is providing the
fare.
Ive got plans for lunch. Jennifer protested with a frown.
Not anymore you dont. Claire told her in passing. And Holly said
to save your problems for the meeting. Oh and Jenn, she said to expect to be there for
awhile, so if youve got a hot date, Id put it on the back burner if I were
you.
Jennifers frown deepened into a scowl. Now, whats gotten into her?
Yesterday she barely knew we existed.
Youll have to as her that. Smiling because she liked the idea of ruining
Jennifers day, Claire shrugged as well. At the meeting.
The papers in Jennifers hands got thrashed about in her frustration, but she
didnt say anything more. Going on her way, she moped back to her office to call of
her lunch and dinner dates. Doesnt Holly know how hard it is go get a date
around here?
Holly was well aware of the feathers she was ruffling, though she wasnt aware of
that particular detail and it didnt cross her mind as she walked from the patio bar
to the pool area.
The double Olympic sized hole in the ground quite empty, there were safety chains around
the perimeter to keep people from accidentally falling in, until it was to be filled in a
month and as Holly walked around it, she watched the men inside install the multi-colored
tile she had selected to simulate the blue/green of the Caribbean. Though dusty and
incomplete, the muted colors still brought a smile to her lips at the thought of her dream
coming true perfectly. Getting a few whistles and winks as she went, she waved to the
beefy men below who she had come to know on a first name basis since their arrival and
told a few that shed pass what they told her along to their wives, which got a round
of hooting going at the husbands. Then she came across the man that had brought her out
there.
Lying in a personal lounge chair under a large resort umbrella was Rolando. In his spare
shirt and the rest of the clothes hed had on, his shoes were off with his argyle's
catching the breeze when Holly walked up to pinch a big toe. Ive got a mission
for you. She told him when he opened his eyes.
Ahhhh, the swamp creature has arisen. He smiled and adjusted his chair to a
sitting position. What mission do you have for this lowly loyal servant?
Holly swatted his feet till he moved them so she could sit down. Ive scheduled
a staff meeting for noon in the second floor conference room. Im going to need food
for seventeen people delivered there before the meeting begins.
Sixteen. No, Theodora Rolando corrected, then he scratched his chin.
Thats quite a bit of food on such short notice, Holly.
I know. Thats why Im giving the mission to someone whose both smooth and
resourceful, James. She smiled. Just get the food there and put the bill on
the resort account.
Clicking his tongue, he shook his head. I believe cash would get better
results.
I believe getting their name in big bold letters with a high recommendation in the
tourist information brochure would get me a lot more. Switching her grin to a
knowing smile, she winked at him.
Hmmmmm. Smiling in appreciation, Rolando nodded. I can see that
youve spent your time with Theodora wisely. Ill make sure to congratulate her
on her instructional skills. Leaning forward, he wiggled his toes. So tell me,
Holly. Did the beautiful Theodora also tell you to temper wisdom with courtesy?
Another switch and Hollys smile became a sly one. Play it close to the vest
and keep the snipers on their toes. I know, Rolando and Im not going to come out
guns a blazing. Im just going to address some loose ends and do some constructive
delegation. Moving her hand, she scratched the bottom of his foot. And
speaking of Teddy. Whats the number to the phone by her bed?
Rolando shook his head and shook a finger at his boss. Oh, no Ms. Curtis.
Thats Theodoras personal, private line. Ill be happy to give you the
number of her cell phone, but if you want her other number, youll have to extract
that information yourself.
Holly stuck her tongue out at him, then smiled. Ve have vays of making you talk, Mr.
Bond. Very unpleasant vays. She said and did her best to put on a Russian accent.
Unimpressed and laughing, he stretched out his legs, placing his feet in her lap.
Please continue. I was quite enjoying the torture. He said in his bad British
accent.
Scoundrel. Holly grumbled in her own voice and lifted his feet off her lap as
she got up. Gimmie the cell phone number. She demanded with an out stretched
hand.
Ahhhh, the impatience of youth. Rolando sighed as he proceeded to write the
number down on a pad he kept handy. Tearing the page out of the pad, he handed it to
Holly. Should you need me, Ill be twisting a few arms in the local
quarter.
The paper went in Hollys pocket, then she bent down to kiss his cheek. Thanks,
Rolando. Youre a dream.
So I tell my wife every day. Chuckling, he waved her away so he could get his
shoes from under the chair. Off you go. Im a man on a mission.
And nothing too, too spicy, Rolando. I want them fed, not fried from the inside
out. Issuing the additional instruction on the fly, she took the long way back to
her office, going around the east wing of the resort to where the landscaping
contractors trailer was set up. The resort itself was finished, but the plants and
the pool hadnt been started until after that so they wouldnt get damaged in
the buildings construction, and having to ask crane operators to drive around a pool
that size was explained as out of the question when she had already put in the stipulation
that they were going to have to maneuver around the indigenous flora she wanted untouched.
A battle of wills that had been and she suspected that changing specifications on the
landscaping at this late date was going to be one also. Especially when the plants she
wanted couldnt be carefully plucked from the countryside, like almost all of the
others had been. What she wanted was going to have to be imported, a four letter word in
landscaping terminology.
You want what? Bruce, the landscaping foreman asked Holly when she told him
the changes she wanted.
Holly covered her eyes with one hand. Roses. She repeated with a cringe.
Have you lost your marbles? Slamming his meaty hand down on his desk, he
stared at her as though she had lost her mind. Do you know what Im going to
have to go through to get roses down here, this time of year?
And night blooming jasmine. She said, peeking between two fingers. I
want jasmine, too.
Well, honey. You want in one hand and crap in the other and tell me which one fills
up first, because you cant import night blooming jasmine to this island. They
stopped allowing it in ten years ago. Hands on hips, Bruce came around the desk.
The roses I can get, but its gonna cost ya, big time and dont expect
them to be blooming. Theyll come in all gnarly and chopped down to the quick to keep
them alive for the trip. Unless . . . He left dangling and gave her a certain look
of his.
Unless what? Holly asked timidly, lowering her hand.
Looking around at the people in the trailer, he took Holly by the elbow. Come
outside for a minute.
Dwarfed beside his mountainous body, Holly went outside with Bruce. Being led further
away, she waited until he felt comfortable and stopped before she looked up at him with a
questioning stare. Unless what?
I have some friends. Bruce said quietly. Friends who might be able to
get you full grown rose bushes and your night blooming jasmine, for the right price.
Bruce. Holly sighed. Im not asking you to break the law. I just
want a couple of plants. If you cant get me what I want, Ill get them from
someplace else.
A little insulted, Bruce stood up straight. Like where?
I have friends too, ya know. She told him with a confident smile.
Friends with the kinds of connections that dont include smuggling or
extortion. Now, folding her arms across her chest, if you can get me what
Im looking for above board and within reason, Ill take it and youll get
some pocket change, but if you cant, Ill jingle somebody else's pockets.
Steely gray eyes narrowed as Bruce bent down to look into Hollys green ones.
How much pocket change are we talking about?
I want three full grown rose bushes, blood red blooms and three medium sized night
blooming jasmine bushes. On delivery, with legitimate import documentation, Ill pay
you an extra hundred dollars per bush, over what it costs to get them here. The
Teddy clone said calmly.
How soon and where are they supposed to go? He asked, turning his head
slightly to the side.
Youve got thirty days to get them here and theyre going to replace the
majesty palms in the patio bar, and Ill need a trellis built with an arbor.
Smiling again, Holly arched an eyebrow at him. How soon will you know if you can do
it?
Bruce straightened to scratch his bristled cheek while he did some thinking out loud.
Blood red isnt going to be easy, but it can be done in a month. The jasmine,
though. Above board means Ill have to apply for a waiver and a waiver means red
tape, if theyll let them in at all.
If you can talk the authorities into allowing them in, Ill take care of the
paper work. Holly offered.
Hmmmm, medium size, you said? He asked and switched cheeks.
Preferably, but they arent slow growers and they bounce back fairly quickly
with the right care, so if I have to take them pruned for shipment, Ill live.
A minor concession, it was better than getting down on her hands and knees to beg Teddy
for clippings from her garden, which is what she thought it would take to get the woman to
part with a single leaf. Nobody who puts that much effort into creating that kind of
beauty wants to see it trifled with.
Hmmmm. Bruce murmured again. Now, before I agree to anything, Holly. You
know those roses and that jasmine are not going to like being in the shade. Thats
why we picked the majesty palms for that corner. The only thing you get over there is
indirect sunlight and not a lot of that.
Oh, I dont know, Bruce. Youve got some pretty creative guys hanging
around. Im sure they could figure out a way to cut a hole in the roof to put the
arbor in. Waving her hand in a figure eight pattern, she played the feat off as
something simple. You know, like an open skylight with rafters to let the rain
in?
Bruce narrowed his eyes again. You know good and well we are not construction
workers, Holly Curtis. If you want a hole punched in the roof, youre gonna have to
get somebody else to do it. Well put in the arbor, but we aint getting on the
roof. No, maam.
Drat. What a bunch of weenies. Alright then, when will you know about the
plants? She asked and tucked her hand back under her arm.
The roses I can do, but give me till Monday afternoon to do some fast talking about
those jasmine bushes. The itch gone from his face, Bruce scratched his big belly.
Monday afternoon it is. Holly smiled and put out her right hand. And do
you know anybody who can punch holes in roofs?
Get away from me woman! Tossing Hollys had away after he shook it, he
stormed back to the trailer.
Damn. Theres never a construction worker around when you need one.
**********
All I want is a hole in the roof. Holly told the floor as she sat with her
forehead resting on the edge of her desk. The desk itself was covered in Rolodex cards and
business cards from every construction company she knew of, of which none of them had
jumped at the opportunity to put a hole in the roof of the patio bar with only thirty days
to apply for permits, bring in personnel, bring in supplies and finish the job. These
problems and a couple more being obstacles that could not be surmounted by throwing money
at them, she rolled her head back and forth on the edge of the desk trying to think of
someone she hadnt thought of yet. No one coming to mind, she raised her head when a
knock sounded on her door. Come in.
Smiling his pearly whites in victory, Rolando stepped in. The food has
arrived. He announced, then lost his smile when he saw the line going across
Hollys forehead. Are you alright, Holly? What is that? He asked of the
line, pointing to his own forehead.
Im fine. She said sadly. Do you know anybody who can put a hole in
the roof of the patio bar?
A hole? Curious, Rolando came the rest of the way in and closed the door
behind him. Why do you want a hole in the roof of the patio bar? He asked as
he sat down across from her.
A stupid idea really. Sighing, Holly flopped back in her chair. I want
to put roses and jasmine in the corner by the outside wall, but they wont grow
without direct sunlight.
Roses and jasmine. He said knowingly. Ahhhhh ha. Theodoras garden
has seduced you, also?
Me also? Holly stared at him.
Yes, yes. My wife loves to sit out there with the wonderful fragrances. He
smiled with fond memories. Sometimes, after Theodora started her home, Maria and I
would take our vacations on this island, just so we could go sit out there for hours on
end.
Holly sat up, a smile replacing her sad expression. I know. Have you ever sat out
there in the rain?
Rolando laughed and slapped his leg. Si, si! Once by mistake and we enjoyed it so
much weve done it three times on purpose. It is a rare treat indeed.
Getting all dreamy eyed, she propped her chin on her fist. Yes, it is.
And very romantic. He added with a wink. Have I shown you pictures of
our youngest?
Rolando. Holly groaned and rolled her eyes. Have you ever heard of too
much information?
That got another laugh out of him, then he stood and offered his hand to her. Come,
come. You dont want to be late for your own meeting.
Regretting that shed scheduled it, Holly got to her feet grudgingly and took his
hand. So, she said as she started leaning towards sad again, do you know
anybody who can put a hole in the roof of the patio bar?
Hmmmm, not my field, Im afraid. Saw dust is death to a good manicure. He
shook his head, then smiled. Although, you may consider asking that question of the
person who you gained your original inspiration from. Theodora has a wider range of
connections than I do, but hush, hush, you understand. He warned. That is her
garden, if you understand my meaning?
I get it, Rolando. Teddy likes her privacy and Ill respect that. Smiling
warmly at him, she wrapped both her arms around his one. How long have you known
her, anyway? You ranked at the top in her personnel dissertation last night.
Out of her office now, Rolando lowered his voice to answer. Ahhhh, yes. She and I
have a different kind of friendship than she has with the other people she has worked
with. You could call it a father/daughter relationship, though I would never dare to
assume such a respected position, but, from time to time, when she wants advice she
doesnt feel her family could assist her on, she comes to me and I do my best to
remain objective. He said as they stepped onto the elevator. She doesnt
always listen, mind you, but she knows that I am merely looking out for her best interest,
which she does not always do for herself.
So Ive heard. Holly nodded. She could have been executive vice
president by now, if she didnt like being a bartender so much.
This is true. She chose happiness over power. He smiled. Like someone
else I know?
Holly gave him a strange look. What? Me?
If Theodora wasnt going to fill that chair, I did hear rumors that another
beautiful woman was being looked at with a careful eye. Patting her hand, Rolando
chuckled.
Stepping off the elevator, she turned around to face him. Who told you that?
Who else, but the only person who could make it happen. Rolando replied with
naming any names.
Shaking her head, Holly sighed. Let me guess? You call him by his first name,
dont you? Does everybody do that besides me?
Dont take it to heart, Holly. I started with him when he was still referred to
as the junior Mr. Patterson. Taking her by the arm, he guided her toward the
conference room. He and I have a close relationship that isnt representative
of our stations.
You chose happiness over power, too? She asked and leaned into him.
Rolando shrugged. To me, there is no substitute for sunshine, Mother Natures
beauty and fresh air.
Holly chuckled softly. Now I know why you and Teddy get along so well.
And who is going to great pains to have roses and jasmine put in the patio bar,
hmmmm? Smirking, he looked at her sideways.
Her expression soured at the reminder. Not unless I can get somebody to punch a hole
in the roof.
The conference room dead ahead, Rolando pulled gently on Hollys arm to bring her to
a stop. A moment. He said quietly.
What? Holly asked in the same hushed tone.
I have not talked with Teddy about how she intends to list her place of residence,
so perhaps it would be best if no one knew where you spent the night last night and to
keep wondering minds off the subject entirely, I would make the suggestion of pretending
not to know why she did not come into work today.
Is she that paranoid or are you that protective? Adding a strange look to the
question.
Rolando sighed. As much as I hate to think such thoughts, there are people who would
gladly go out of their way to cause Teddy harm, just because of who she is and those
people would jump at the chance to point out preferential treatment if they knew you had
been let into her inner sanctum when they had been denied.
Holly rolled her eyes and sighed. Rolando, youre giving me a headache. Could
you put that in straight English, please?
Rambling off something in Spanish, he shook his head in frustration for what he
couldnt say. People have tried to get close to her in the past to use her to
get what they wanted and failed because they thought they knew her, when they didnt
and some of those people are in that room. And, as Im sure youve already
realized, Teddy is not what she always appears because she is a direct line to Max, and
everyone knows it. This puts a lot of pressure on her and it limits who she lets in, and
who she trusts. So, to be seen as having achieved that inner sanctum would only shift the
pressure to you. She has very few true friends, Holly, because of who she is and I think
she would be very unhappy to lose you.
Nodding in comprehension throughout, Holly looked up at Rolando with the last statement.
Lose me, how? You dont think Id use her, do you?
Quite the contrary, Holly. Rolando smiled. However, it is not my opinion
that matters in this instance. He said and turned to look down the hall at the
conference room door.
So what am I supposed to do, Rolando? Pretend like she doesnt exist?
No, no. Shaking his head, he began walking toward the conference room.
Merely make an inquiry as to her whereabouts and continue on with the meeting.
Smiling, he turned to look at her. Remember, they dont know the mud monster
sleeps, so why tell them you do?
Giving him another peculiar look, she couldnt help but smile. Youre
enjoying this cloak and dagger business, arent you?
It is no different than a well played game of chess, of which I happen to be
exceptionally fond.
I knew it. Youre loving it.
**********
The rain that had lulled her to sleep was gone by the time Teddy woke up hungry, close to
sunset. Another shower to wake her up and a can of ravioli later, and she was ready to do
absolutely nothing. Rested, but in a lazy mood, she wandered around the house doing minor
chores that werent too strenuous for a couple of hours, then she called her parents
to get a dose of guilt and then it was Max, to make sure he knew that she had gotten her
dose of guilt and for a dose of his unique humor. Chuckling over his laments of
parenthood, she poured herself a brandy to enjoy under the arbor and stare up at the
stars. Feeling as if she was home at last, she listened until her aching sides could take
no more, then she went inside to pour herself another brandy for the last call of the
evening. Sitting in a particular chair out on the deck, she dialed a number she
hadnt tried to memorize, but it seemed to be there anyway. Cell phone to her ear,
she listened to four rings and a click as an answering machine came on.
Phtttt. She said to the electronic device and hung up before the message
finished playing.
A half an hour of sipping brandy and star gazing later, Teddy tried the number again. The
same results coming from the distant end and hers she left the deck to finish the
brandy as she walked around shutting off the lights. Dark and darker the house became
until the only light left on to keep ones toes safe from furniture was inside the
massive aquarium. The gray mini-blinds bundled close to the ceiling, Teddy watched the
paper cut-out fish hang still in their glass house from her bed. Two brandies worth of
relaxed and two unanswered calls worth of perturbed, she rolled over on her right side to
bring the other phone from inside the nightstand to the top of it. Grumble, grumble,
mumble, mumble. She thought as she stared at the instrument because she didnt like
answering machines any more than she liked electronic leashes, but she had had enough of
the former to make her resort to using the latter. The remote handset in her hand, she
dialed another first time number as she rolled onto her back. Laying on top of the
bedding, she watched her toes wiggle for a few seconds, then she had to concentrate as she
punched in her number and pushed the pound sign. Listening for the electronic your
message has been sent she gave it a raspberry and hung up to watch her fish while
she waited.
In the middle of an important shipment scheduling strategy session with Jennifer, Holly
was sitting behind her desk, leaning way over it to point out conflicting dates on some
paperwork when her pager went off. The little purple box flashing and vibrating on her
hip, she raised her arm and stopped the show with her other hand as she glanced down at a
strange number. Frowning, she unclipped the pager to stare at the number in a more
comfortable position.
Something wrong? Jennifer asked, more nosy than concerned.
I dont know. Hang on. Holly replied as she put the pager down to pick up
the phone on her desk. Dialing nine first, she waited for the next dial tone before moving
her eyes to and fro between the pager and the phone as her finger jumped around the
keypad. The receiver wedged in between her shoulder and her ear, she put the pager back on
her hip as the other end picked up.
Hey there, puddle buddy Teddy chuckled. What ya doing?
A smile came immediately to Hollys lips as she sank back into her chair. Hey
there, yourself. The pager back in place, she took the receiver in her hand.
Im working. What are you doing?
Watching my fish. Wiggling her toes too, Teddy curled her arm behind her head.
I think I need to put a fan in the tank or something. They dont look right,
just hanging there.
Holly laughed softly. I noticed that, but I didnt want to say anything. Maybe
you should try real ones instead of just blowing those around.
Ya think? She asked with another chuckle.
Um hmmmm. A nod, a smile and a chuckle.
With only half the conversation at her disposal, Jennifer didnt need to hear both
sides to notice the change the caller made in Hollys disposition. She had seen that
kind of reaction before. The smile, the quick switch to an easier way of talking, the
complete lack of interest in anybody else in the room. Hollys got somebody on the
side. Jennifer surmised with keen interest of her own. A demigoddess in the gossip mill,
she sat quietly, patiently and pretended not to be listening so she could gather as much
information as possible for distribution of speculation.
What kind do ya think I should get? Piranha, Barracuda or Japanese fighting fish?
Oh, maybe Ill get all of them. That way I wont have to spend any money on
food. Theyll just eat each other. Laughing at her own humor, Teddy heard a
groan in her ear. No? You dont like that idea?
No, I dont. Im not going to watch a feeding frenzy over a plate of
ravioli. Holly said with baleful conviction.
A date. Shes making a date. No wonder she changed her tune about doing everything
herself. Shes making room in her schedule for some afternoon delight, maybe?
Listening intently, Jennifer played with her fingernails.
Oh and speaking of hungry fish, how did work go today? Teddy switched subjects
with a slightly less jovial tone. Did you come out swinging?
You could say that. Hang on a second. Smiling more secretively, Holly was
reminded that she wasnt alone by the questions and covered the mouth piece with her
hand to speak to her operations manager. I think were done for today,
Jennifer. Why dont you go on home? Ill review the rest of the schedules
tonight and get with you about the discrepancies in the morning.
Are you sure? I dont mind waiting. Jennifer said with a smile.
I bet you dont. Holly thought and returned the smile. This is going to take
awhile and Ive already kept you too long as it is. Go home, get some sleep and
Ill see you in the morning.
Rats, rats and double rats. She thought about having to leave when it was just starting to
get juicy. Alright, if you insist. Jennifer said instead and rose to her feet.
Ill see you in the morning, Holly.
Good night, Jennifer and do me a favor, please. Swiveling her chair to the
side, Holly leaned it back to put her feet up on the corner of her desk one by one.
Would you close the door on your way out?
Sure. Be happy to. The operations manager lied with a smile. Getting dismissed
with a friendly wave, she walked out of the office and grudgingly closed the door securely
behind her. Now who has miss fancy pants got a fancy for, I wonder? She asked
herself on the way down the hall.
Holly counted silently to twenty before she removed her hand to resume her conversation
with Teddy. Im back.
And speaking of barra, barracooooodas. Teddy sang. How is Jennifer this
evening? She cant be happy about working late.
Shes not and from what I understand, she wasnt happy about having to
cancel her lunch plans for the staff meeting I called. Wiggling her butt to get more
comfortable, Holly leaned way back in the chair and closed her eyes.
A staff meeting, huh? Did my little puddle buddy come out slinging mud?
Chuckling the question, she heard Holly laugh. Is that a yes?
No. I didnt come out slinging mud. Winding down to a chuckle, she shook
her head at puddle buddy. I was cool, professional and well prepared,
thanks to you and you should have been there. I think Rolando wanted to give me a standing
ovation by the time it was over.
Oooooo, that good, huh? Im sorry I missed it then. Did ya do some constructive
delegation while you were breaking out the whips and chains? Teddy inquired trying
to envision the management staff huddled in the corner cowering while Holly cracked a whip
over their heads.
Yessssss, Teddy. Holly sighed. My little power monopoly has been
dutifully distributed for the greater good of the resort and my sanity.
Glad to hear it. You were looking a little frazzled the last time I saw you.
She said, then added an amendment. Well, I think it was frazzled. It was kind of
hard to tell with the mud and all.
Back to that, are we? Asking petulantly, Holly opened her eyes to stare at the
ceiling.
Are you still mad I threw you in the mud? Teddy asked hesitantly.
Are you still mad I dinged your M-whatever? Holly asked in return.
M37 and no. She answered with a smile. That old war horse has been hit
with a lot worse than your puny little truck.
Youre starting again, Teddy. Holly warned her.
So? Wadda ya gonna do? An impish grin on her face, Teddy lifted her head to
look at the bruise on her calf. Bite the other leg?
Holly winced at the memory. Sorry about that. I didnt really hurt you, did
I?
Chuckling, Teddy put her head and her leg back down. Ya left a nice set of dental
prints, but dont worry. I took some rabies vaccine before I went to bed. I stopped
foaming at the mouth about an hour ago.
Liar and I dont have rabies. She said with a glance at the ceiling.
I should see about getting a tetanus shot, though. There is no telling what germs I
picked up from your putrid hide.
Putrid! Putrid! Teddy shouted and started shaking a finger in the air.
Ill have you know there are a lot of people who would snap at the chance to be
where you were today, honey and nary a one would be worrying about getting germs,
either.
Is that right? Holly asked slyly. Do a lot of wallowing around in the
mud, do you?
Dont you worry about that. Thats my business and you just remember what
I said. Dropping her hand, she slapped her thigh. These babies are a highly
sought after commodity. I have to beat people off with a stick to keep them from drooling
all over them.
Must be hell. Holly laughed and shut her eyes to try to bring the image into
her mind.
It is. It is. You dont know what I go through. Teddy said in a serious
tone and kept on with the line she was shoveling out. People all the time throwing
themselves at my feet, begging me to just let them look at my legs and having to drag them
around when they latch on like some crazy person. Having to step over them when they
faint. Its a curse, I tell ya. Im cursed with these legs. People just
cant get enough of them.
Stop it. Holly begged with one hand holding her aching side.
Teddy didnt miss a beat. Thats why I work behind a bar, ya know. I have
to keep them out of site or Id have people grabbing at them every minute. Hey, you
think you can put some bobbed wire around the bar or maybe an electric fence? I might need
it if I have to wear shorts. Youre not putting me in shorts, are you? I cant
be held responsible if you do, ya know. There is no telling what will happen if I show
some leg. They might go crazy and come over the bar at me. Its happened before, ya
know. Thats why I had to leave the Dunes. They made me wear shorts once and they had
a riot on their hands. It was madness, I tell ya. I barely got out of there alive. I had
scratches all over my legs. Not a pretty scene. Not a pretty scene at all. She said
with sadness in her voice. I had to go to therapy after that. Ive just never
been the same since. Ending with a sigh, Teddy listened to the effects her tall,
leggy tale had wrought on her boss.
Tears streaming down her face, bent forward holding her stomach, Holly couldnt speak
for laughing so hard.
Satisfied that she had played her part well, Teddy chuckled under her breath as she tried
to help Holly along in the same area. Breathe, Holly. Breathe.
Her imagination working against her, Holly managed to calm down enough to talk, after a
few minutes of sporadic bursts of hysterical laughter. Dont ever do that
again. She ordered between halted attempts at catching her breath.
What? She asked in amazement. You didnt like Dr. Teddys cure
all for what ails ya? Lots of people swear by it.
Dont start! Dont start that again. I cant take anymore,
Teddy. Wiping her damp cheeks, Holly took a couple of deep breaths to clear her
head.
Okey doke. Ill let ya off the hook for now. Teddy relented with yet
another chuckle. Hey, I just thought of something.
Oh, dear God. Holly groaned.
No, no. Its about work. She assured, then continued. What time am
I supposed to come in tomorrow? You never said.
Work. Ummm. Deep breath. Deep breath. Deep breath. Okay. Well, I usually
get here between 5:30 and 6:00, but you can come in whatever time you want. Oh, wait a
minute. She said and snapped her fingers. Ive scheduled a staff meeting
for seven tomorrow morning. Youll need to be here for that.
Teddy stuck out her tongue. Seven? Ugh, thats early. Why so early?
Ive got some projects I want to put on the table. Holly explained with
another wipe to her watery eyes. By starting early I can sort out any problems the
same day.
Sounds like a plan. Fluffing her pillow, Teddy sat up a little higher as she
slipped into manager mode. What projects have you got for me?
Getting those transfer requests signed, for one thing. If we dont get those
people here, they wont have any uniforms to wear and youll be putting the
stock away by yourself, which reminds me. Im going to need those order adjustments,
too. Drumming her fingers on the arm of the chair, she sighed. Jennifer is
already screaming about last minute shipments and David is bitching about having to redo
the expense reports for your department.
Teddy smiled. Im just a big old thorn in your side, huh?
Aim about a foot lower and youll be getting warm. Holly laughed.
Hmmmm. How about if I make it up to you? Teddy asked and got comfortable
again.
With what? Another cram session over a bowl of ravioli and a mud bath?
Chuckling the question, she shook her head at the day she had had with Teddy as hostess.
Nope. How about a meal served fresh from the grill on a relaxing picturesque landing
overlooking a tropical paradise. She offered in a hushed lilting tone, then switched
to her normal voice. And you can help me pick out what fish I should get for the
aquarium, since you didnt like my first suggestion.
I knew there was going to be work involved. Holly rolled her eyes.
When?
Well, I wont bother asking when is best for you, because all you do is work,
sooooo how about Saturday? You can come up early and we can go through the fish book
Ive got around here somewhere while I whip up something delicious on the grill
Ill have to haul up from the garage, and scrape all the rust off of.
Holly turned her head and shook it at the invitation that was going good. Was being the
operative word, of course. Im drooling with excitement.
You will be once the rust is gone. Im a whiz with open flames.
Alright. It cant be any worse than eating out of a can. Saturday, your house.
Ill be there.
With bells on?
With a fire extinguisher.
Funny.
I thought so.
**********
A gorgeous, clear sunrise was lighting up the sky in her rear view mirror as Holly drove
to work. Relaxed and unhurried, she took the road that ran along the beach, letting the
fresh salty morning air set the pace as the warm wind on her face washed away the sleep
two cups of coffee hadnt. Glancing at the sea from time to time, she watched the
dark waves roll in to break on the white sand and smiled. Ive got to come this
way more often. She told herself as gulls called to one another from shore to sky.
Her destination coming closer, she watched it grow larger through the windshield and noted
the way the aqua colored exterior blended with the morning sky. An unplanned feature on
her part, Holly wondered if it looked the same from Teddys deck. The thought
inspiring a heavier foot on the accelerator, she arrived at the Paradise not long after
and had a mixed reaction when she saw the M-whatever parked in the lot. Why so early
my ass. She said as she pulled off the road. Spinning the steering wheel one way,
then the other, the Land Rover was brought to a stop in the space beside the dinged
vehicle. Shutting off the engine and pulling the parking break, Holly got out of her truck
to check out Teddys. No layer of dew on the body told her the tall brunette
hadnt camped over night, so either she had been lied to or Teddy had been looking
for something to bitch about. Suspecting the last option, she removed her briefcase from
the passenger seat and set out on an altered course to her office that would take her
through the patio bar.
Deep into building a database for inventory control with a six month projected window,
Teddy sat on a stool at the bar, on the customer side, with the laptop, her coffee maker
from home, her briefcase, backpack, transfer requests, order adjustments and an insulated
Piper Shoals mug as her only company since she had arrived at the resort an hour and a
half before. Preferring the quiet and fresh air to the artificially cooled stuff swirling
around the room designated as her office, she typed sporadically on the keyboard,
inputting formulas and test data while drinking her breakfast. The monotonous sound of
waves in the periphery of her mind, another noise joined it and she looked up from the
screen to find a blonde woman staring at her. We dont open till ten. She
said and immediately went back to what she was doing.
Good. Jennifer smiled as she walked over to where Teddy was sitting.
That means Ive got you all to myself.
Lucky me. Teddy groaned. What do you want, Jennifer?
Nothing much. She said, moving a little closer. I just thought Id
stop to say thanks for Jeff. I didnt get the chance to do it properly the other
day.
Youre welcome and Im busy. Straight forward, Teddy couldnt
help but chuckle despite herself. What did you do to him this time? She asked
without looking up.
A little closer, Jennifer slid in beside Teddy to look over her shoulder. I told him
that if he ever messed with my shipments again, Id send his rich wife the pictures I
have of him and his secretary taking dictation on the beach in their birthday suits.
Where did you get pictures like that? Frowning, she glanced over her shoulder.
The man is an idiot, Teddy. Smiling wickedly, she put her hand on Teddys
shoulder. After he tried to harass me the last time, he took a business trip
to the Twin Dunes when I was working there. I took the pictures from my office
window. Shaking her head, she closed her eyes. I had to call in sick the next
day from an overdose of nauseating exposure. Then I burned my zoom lens.
Chuckling silently, Teddy dropped her hands to her lap. Too much male flesh for
you?
God, it wasnt him. Throwing one hand in the air, Jennifer opened her
eyes. His secretary is hideous, I tell you. The man has absolutely no taste in
women. Just look at his wife! Miriam could stop an eight day clock with that face
shes got and youd think, with all her money, shed do something about it
to save us the misery of having to look at her.
Okay, Ill have to give you that one. Teddy remarked with a hint of
disapproval in her tone as she refocused her attention on the computer. Miriam
isnt much to look at, but shes got a good heart to go with her money and she
deserves better than Jeff.
Hmmmm, okay. Ill give you that one in return. Jennifer nodded and leaned
lightly forward into Teddys shoulder. Nobody deserves that pig. The
statement made, she received no response, to her disappointment. Being dismissed again,
she stuck her head over Teddys shoulder to see what she was doing. Whats
that?
Ready to be alone again, Teddy rolled her eyes. An inventory control database.
Something to latch onto, Jennifer leaned in a little further. We have those
already.
Really ready to be alone again, she turned her head to tell Jennifer this when she saw
another blonde in the bar. Holly. She said calmly, though with a look of
confused astonishment. I didnt hear you come up.
Holly? Jennifer asked and backed up two paces to put some breathing room
between herself and Teddy when she spotted her boss. Good morning, Holly. She
said nervously, fingering the top button on her blouse.
Good morning, Jennifer. Holly nodded. Holding her briefcase behind her back
with both hands, the leather case bounced against her legs as she started toward the pair
with no outward signs of emotional reaction to what she had walked in on a few moments
ago. Morning, Teddy. Hows your ankle. She asked as an acknowledgement of
Teddys presence.
Teddy really didnt know what kind of reaction she expected Holly to have at finding
Jennifer hanging all over her, but whatever she thought might happen, it didnt have
anything to do with her ankle. My ankle?
Slowing as she approached them, Holly looked down at Teddys feet. Yes. Rolando
relayed your message that you wouldnt be in yesterday because you had slipped on
some steps and twisted your ankle. Im hoping its better today?
Green met blue a moment later and Teddy was sure she saw a mischievous twinkle in
Hollys eyes. The blatant reference to Hollys comment about her needing
anti-skid on her stairs, she wondered how Rolando had come up with the story, but
didnt wonder long as she had to dive in head first to the smoke screen or risk
exposing it as a ruse. Much. Thanks for asking. She smiled insincerely to make
sure Holly knew the jab hadnt gone unnoticed.
Once the niceties where done and Jennifer figured she hadnt gotten caught at
flirting, she felt safe to reenter the conversation. Snapping her fingers to get their
attention, she peered at Teddys feet. Thats right. I forgot to ask you
about that. What did you do, trip over those size elevens again?
Happy for the chance to slip back into their hate/hate relationship to solve the one too
many blondes problem she was having, Teddy, gave Jennifer the merest of glances and an
unfriendly tone. Dont strain yourself with compassion, Jenn. You might break a
nail.
Holly hid her smile with a bowed head as she made a detour around her operations manager
to be on her way. Im glad youre feeling better. She said and kept
going until she was almost at the door leading into the resort. There, she stopped, after
losing a hasitly fought battle against being snotty. Maybe it was because she only had two
cups of coffee or because Teddy hadnt offered any of hers, but whatever the
case, Holly felt a little onry at the moment and decided to dish out some paybacks for the
mud bath she had gotten the day before, which had irreparably turned her brand new pair of
white spiffy tennis shoes a muddy brown. Snapping her fingers, to signify a sudden burst
of memory, she then turned around to point on of those fingers at her target and decided
to use Teddys reputation for self-sufficent independance as a stick to poke her
with. Teddy, did you get the transfer requests for your department filled out?
Asking with a managerial inquisitiveness.
She knows that. Why is she asking me that? Yes, I did. Ive got them right
here. Teddy replied with raised eyebrows and a hand on the documents.
Good. Then stop by my office before the meeting, so I can sign them. They need to
get into the system this morning. Holly instructed in a friendly, but not overly so
manner.
An odd smile on her face, Teddy shrugged. Sure thing.
Harpoon aimed and ready to be fired, Holly made the presentation of taking her leave
again, then did another about face and put on a mildy concerned expression. Are you
going to need any help getting around? I can have someone bring you a wheelchair, if you
think its going to be to difficult for you with that ankle. We have the motorizied
kind. You can put your things in the basket.
Jennifer slapped her hand over her mouth and turned her back on Teddy as her body began to
shake with silent laughter.
There was a short pause as the air around Teddy began to bristle with electricity. Then
her left eyebrow went up, her eyes narrowed to thin slits, her jaw clenched and her
congenial expression turned into a glower. That wont be necessary, thank you.
Ill manage. She snarled as her upper lip began to twitch.
As long as you feel comfortable. Holly sighed, shrugged and smiled.
Ill see you in my office and theres no hurry. Take all the time you
need.
Ill be there. To kill you, you little brat. Just wait till I get my
hands on you.
Good. Jennifer, youll be at the meeting? She asked and got a wave of
acknowledgement, though it could have been interpreted as a go away wave,
considering the woman was half bent over. Have a good morning, all. Holly said
as a farewell and left, whistling down the hallway toward the lobby.
A low continual growl following the departure, Teddy began picking the paper up off the
bar to angrily shove in her briefcase.
Do you need some help with that? Jennifer chuckled.
As an answer, Teddy turned a glare on the blonde and took slow menacing steps in her
direction.
Sucking her lips into her mouth to fail at hiding her smile, Jennifers eyes got
really big around as she backed up with her hands held in a defensive position.
Guess not. She laughed and bolted towards the door, her high heeled pumps
carrying her to safety.
Blondes. She cursed the species as a whole, though she knew Jennifer
didnt fall into the catagory because her hair color was curtosy of Lady Clairol, but
she didnt care. Blonde was blonde right then and she didnt like any of them.
**********
To be continued.
Thanks for reading.
FlyBigD