Kiss The Ring

Everybody who was anybody wanted an invite.
Gerard was way ahead in the polls now, the nearest rival a good ten points behind and the press talking of a one horse race. Frank had him seeing a shrink, determined that the bloodlust ignited by the bullet could be got under control. The party would further add to the campaign, make them just about unbeatable.
Ray had worked overtime to get this right and Frank was more than grateful. He often felt that Ray’s talents were neglected and under appreciated so had persuaded him to invite Sharon along. Frank knew that Ray had a crush on her and had decided to play a little cupid seeing as he had managed to invite Claire. The usual mix of politicians, celebrities and business associates made up the list and Frank had made sure to invite his enemy along too.
The fact that the feds had interviewed Frank had made the papers as had the fact that once again, no charges or indictments were likely to be forthcoming. Therefore to invite the head and deputy head of the FBI to his function was Frank’s own little fuck you and an opportunity to gain the press on his side.
He presently stood off to one side, watching his guests and friends. Gerard was holding court in one corner, talking animatedly as Mikey stook beside him looking both bored and bemused. James was dancing with Claire who looked stunning in a blue Versace gown. Being trussed up in a tux and forced to make polite conversation was obviously hell for both Mikey and James but Frank believed in subtle forms of torture as well as the obvious.
Sipping his drink Frank stared over to where the feds were sitting with the chief of police and their wives. The idle thought of just letting Mikey and James let rip flashed through his mind and he smiled. Entertaining and satisfying yes but not how it needed to happen, he idly looked back to the dance floor at Ray and Sharon now enjoying each others company.
A tall dark haired woman walked over to him, handing Frank a glass of champagne and kissing him on the cheek.
“You look good Frankie.”
“You too, been a while.”
The woman smiled, their history had been interesting to say the least.
“Can you do it Misty ?”
“Of course, can you afford it ?”
Frank chuckled, this was always the problem with hired help.
“You know I can. I want it very personal.”
“Very well, you know the deal. Once the money is in Switzerland, the job gets done.”
Misty smiled at Frank and walked away just as a large looking man in a bad suit approached. Frank recognised him as one of the congressman that had been so helpful to Gerard and he looked nervous, probably because he knew Frank knew about the little problem he had staying away from prostitutes. Therefore he probably wanted a favour, a high proportion of people in the room owed Frank in one way or another and this man looked about to join them. Frank greeted him with a smile.
“Good evening Mr.Dean, are you enjoying the party ?”
“Yes, thank you Mr.Iero. Can I discuss something with you ?”
Frank nodded and the two men headed away from the noise of the party and into Frank’s office. Frank offered the man a chair and then sat down.
“How can I help you ?”
The man was sweating and more scared than he would admit.
“There’s someone after me. A pimp. I got a bit rough and..”
“And now he wants money ? Or something else ?”
Frank watched Dean’s head drop.
“He threatened me and demanded money or he’ll go to the press. If that happens I’m ruined.”
Frank considered for a second. The guy was a prick but a very useful prick. While Frank couldn’t care less if he got a beating, a political ally was important.
“I can make this go away but it will cost you.”
The man looked back up, sudden hope in his eyes.
“How much ?”
“Four million. To me. Another two into Gerard’s campaign.”
Dean went pale, so much money. Frank smiled.
“It will be a permanent solution and will help you when Gerard gets the nomination.”
Greed crossed the other mans face and he nodded with a smile.
Frank picked up his phone and James appeared within a minute followed by a surly looking Mikey, fiddling with his tie. Once again Dean looked a little nervous as Frank stood up.
“Give the details to my boys. Job will be done once the funds are transferred, if you want it done in the next couple of days I would arrange things now.”
Frank left them to it, returning to the party. Gerard watched him, feeling more confused than ever. He loved Frank, admired him but things had changed and the fact that Frank had gone so mad over the incidents with Mikey rankled. Gerard had decided to do things his own way a little more in future. He continued to watch as Frank led Claire onto the dance floor, jealousy springing up a little too. Annoyed, Gerard had another drink and turned away.
“Are you having fun ?”
Claire was flushed and enjoying herself. Parties like this just didn’t happen back home and it seemed like a whirlpool of light and entertainment. People she had only seen in magazines mingled with her Mikey and James. Gerard had danced with her twice and now Frank was here. It was amazing.
“A wonderful time, thank you.”
Frank returned her smile, allowing himself to enjoy the moment and the fact that his latest little scheme was coming on nicely. Soon his enemy would be hit very close to home in a way that would strike just the right tone of terror. Plus the fact that another congressman would say the balance even more in Frank’s favour. He would make sure the boys did a good job on that one and collect cash for the satisfaction.
They had wanted a war, now they were going to get one.

Notes