Blood Money (chapters nine and ten.) (standard:Suspense, 3442 words) [5/18] show all parts
Author: Hulsey	Added: Sep 20 2011	Views/Reads: 2241/1685	Part vote: 0.00 (0 votes)
Continued.

9 

Chaplin rung the doorbell of the luxurious mansion and turned to face an
almost deserted Hyde Park. Even though it was the first day of March, 
there was no variation in the dreary, cold climate. Behind him, he 
heard the familiar Irish brogue escaping from the intercom. “Come on 
in, Mr Chaplin.” 

The entrance hall was impressive without being too grand. A selection of
landscapes of Ireland hung on the sage green walls and a large 
chandelier caught the eye. Carrying his briefcase, the nervous 
solicitor advanced along the corridor, his footsteps echoing as they 
pounded against the polished, teak floor. Chaplin halted at the open 
door of the study. 

“Punctuality, I like that in a man,” groaned O'Hara in a deep gruff
voice. 

The Irishman was seated on a large armchair that resembled a throne. He
was wearing a satin, burgundy smoking jacket and a large cigar was 
smouldering between his fingers. In his other hand was a large glass of 
brandy. 

“Help yourself to a drink, Chaplin. There's good Irish whiskey there,
but I don't touch the stuff myself. A brandy man, I am.” 

“It's a bit early for me, Mr O'Hara.” 

“Nonsense man. I hate to drink alone.” 

Reluctantly, Chaplin ambled towards the well-stocked bar and poured
himself a whiskey. His stomach rumbled and his mouth was dry. 

“Well let's see what you've come up with, Chaplin.” 

The Londoner settled down in a green leather armchair and opened up his
briefcase. He handed over the three files to O'Hara. It was a full five 
minutes before the Irishman spoke. 

“You assume that I'll approve of the three subjects? Perhaps you
misunderstood me, Chaplin, but you were to hand me a various assortment 
of hopefuls for my selection.” 

“I realise that, Mr O'Hara, but given the schedule you proposed, there
was hardly time enough for me to pursue a thorough worldwide search. 
You yourself demanded that I work alone... I think you'll find the 
subjects more than suitable.” 

O'Hara again perused through the files. “The Greek pilot, I like that,
but this Mukhtar fellow. I mean, he can hardly be described as 
underprivileged now could he? It says here that he lives in a house in 
Islamabad.” 

“He lives with friends. Mukhtar is unemployed and has no income. As you
can see, he lost his family in the earthquake.” 

The deep blue eyes of O'Hara studied the face of the solicitor. “I wish
to meet our three heroes here in London. Can you arrange this?” 

“Of course. Which date will be most convenient for you, Mr O'Hara?” 

“Let's say Saturday at noon shall we? I assume, you'll make the
appropriate travel arrangements?” 

O'Hara left his throne and wandered towards one of his landscapes. After
removing it from the wall, he fiddled with the dial of his 
old-fashioned safe. He counted out two large piles of money before 
locking the safe. 

“This I presume will cover the cost of the airfares and your expenses,
along with the hotel reservations for our guests. I trust they will be 
favourably accommodated in a top hotel. If it is not to your 
satisfaction, please let me know... I have forwarded your fee to your 
employers, but as promised, here is your bonus, one hundred thousand 
pounds... I don't usually hand over payment until the work has been 


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