Rude Awakening - Part 2

Later in the day, I headed over to Veterans Tribute Park. Exercise is another way to clear your mind. I need some activity to take my mind off these frivolous worries. As I walked around the trail, past the dog park when I saw an older gentleman with a German shepherd pup that just broke away dragging his leash. I could hear him yell, “Twitch, stop, get back here.”

As with children, the young dogs don’t listen. Twitch ran carelessly toward the street.  Since I was walking in the direction of his escape, I was able to grab his leash before he ran into the oncoming traffic at the park. The speed limit is fifteen, but to most people speed limits are merely a suggestion. The car was going at least thirty-five. Lucky for me the shepherd was a pup, because it’s doubtful that I would have been able to stop him if he was full grown. 

I walked back to the older man with Twitch in tow tugging on the leash trying to free himself. When he looked up, I was surprised to see . . .Rocco. I handed him the leash. Rocco nodded. “Grazie, amico.”

I smiled. “Prego.” I didn’t know much Italian, but I did know salutations.

“He hasn’t been fully trained yet, but he’s a smart dog.” He double wrapped the leash around his hand. “I’m Rocco. You have a good day.”

“I will, thanks, I’m Ben.”

He tipped his hat and we both went our own way. I continued my walk with a feeling of satisfaction. I couldn’t help but smile. Rocco no longer seemed scary. In fact, he seemed like me, normal. Then my brain did an auto-correct, you’re not normal. I laughed a little inside because I knew it was true. But what’s normal and how many of us are normal? Really, what’s so great about being normal.

Despite everything that happened or maybe because of everything that happened, I was feeling good. Positive things were headed my way. I drove home and as I pulled into the garage, I spotted a woman leaving Stan’s house. I did a double take and squinched my eyes to get a better look. The woman looked like Claudia, the psychic. No, that couldn’t be. I had to be mistaken. What the hell would she be doing at Stan’s? Just when things were going so well she turned up. After I parked, I sat in my car, watching through the rearview mirror. When she pulled away, I went over to see Stan.

I knocked on Stan’s front door. When he opened it, I said, “The woman who left your house looks familiar.”

“That’s Claudia. She’s a psychic who occasionally works cases for the police.”

“Fascinating.” What the hell Stan, she’s a scam artist! “So, are you back working cases part time?”

“Nah! I’ve known her for a few years. We started dating a month ago, now that I no longer work for the PD, there’s no conflict.”

Holy shit, she’s spying on me. “Oh! That’s great. I’m glad you’re getting on with your life after the divorce.”

“We’ll have you and your wife over for dinner next week. I think Claudia and Stacy will get along great.” 

“That would be nice.” Over my dead body. “I’ll be sure to warn . . .  tell . . . Stacy.”

I left, deflated after all that happened today. First I’m feeling good about my encounter with Rocco, then down finding out about Stan dating Claudia, the psychic bitch who was following me. I knew there was no proof of that. A coincidence, likely but it’s too convenient. When I got home, I went straight to the refrigerator for a beer. Sitting in the recliner gave me time to think, which is a good way to mull over the situation. Was I overreacting? Yes of course. That was my go-to reaction with most situations, but I rationalized the negative thoughts away with a little alcohol.

Stacy and the kids would be home tomorrow afternoon. She always has a calming effect on me. The day flew by quickly. I was busy at work, which occupied my mind with productive thoughts.

This was my last evening in an empty house. When I finished up after work, I popped by Mannino’s to get a bottle of cabernet. They also carry a selection of Kentucky bourbons. I don’t often drink bourbon, but I spotted a bottle called Rude Awakening. That name was too good to pass up, so I grabbed the only bottle left. Not wanting to cook, I called a pickup order into Mandarin Gardens for a General Tao Spicy Chicken entree and a side of Crab Rangoon. I arrived early and waited inside when in walked Rocco. He nodded in a friendly way, after recognizing me.   

This seemed like a good time to strike up a conversation. So, I asked, “How’s Twitch doing?”  

“He’s a pup, rambunctious as ever.”  

I laughed. “Dogs are great companions, but they need a lot of attention.” 

“Don’t I know.” He pointed at my order sitting on the counter. “Are you eating alone?” 

“Yes, my wife’s out of town with the kids. She’ll be back tomorrow.” 

“Bring your dinner over to my place. Break bread with me and Twitch.”  

I was taken aback, since our first meeting had not gone so well. “That’s very nice, but I don’t want to put you out.” 

“No, no not at all. Twitch and I love company. We don’t entertain much, so having dinner with a new friend would be nice.” 

Well, how could I say no to that! “Thank you. Much appreciated.” 

“Just follow me. My home isn’t far.” 

He didn’t know I knew where he lived. Now I felt a little guilty for following him after our encounter at Mannino’s. “Great, thanks so much.” 

It turned out to be a fun evening. Rocco was very interesting and hospitable. We drank the wine and even had a glass of Rude Awakening. Rocco held up his glass, “This bourbon is excellent, and I love the name.” 

“I’m not much of a bourbon drinker, but the name is what got me to buy it.” I stood up to leave. “Thanks, what a great evening. Keep the bourbon. It would take me years to finish it.” 

“Thanks, I’ll keep it for the next time we get together.”

I drove home and retired for the night. 

The next morning, I woke up well rested. I wanted to be home when my family arrived, so I only worked a half day.  

After the long car ride and my wife was tired and as expected, the kids were wired. Stacy asked me to pick up a pizza for dinner. I placed an order with Imo’s. One large pepperoni and a medium four cheese. The kids only ate cheese. Stacy called while I was at Imo’s, requesting another pizza, a large Canadian bacon and pineapple, for our drop-in guests.  

Agreeing I said, “You know, Canadian bacon isn’t real bacon. It’s just ham, and pineapple is for fruit salad.”   

“It’s not for you. Just place the order.” She hung up before I could ask who our guests were. 

Finally arriving home with the takeout, who do I see sitting in the kitchen with Stacy? My neighbor Stan with his new girlfriend Claudia. Super, just freaking super. “Hi, what a surprise.” I patted Stan on the back. “Nice to see you again” Stalker… “Claudia.”

She seemed as surprised as me, but she nodded and fake smiled. “You too, Ben.”  

Stacy opened the cabinet and took out some plates. “I didn’t know you knew each other.” 

“We don’t really. We had a brief encounter at Panera’s a few days ago.” 

“Well, this is great.” Stacy said with excitement. “Did you know Claudia is a psychic?”  

“Yes, I am aware of that.” Too hard to find a real job!. “Very interesting.” Now the pineapple pizza makes sense.

“I guess you can tell Ben’s a skeptic.” Stacy sat down next to Claudia. 

“I’m not surprised. There are many.”

  Just then the kids ran in to grab a few slices. They were oblivious to those in the room. All they wanted was pizza. But my wife wanted them to grow up properly, so she introduced Claudia. 

They both said, “Hi.” 

She explained, “They’re not much for conversation.” Stacy handed each of them a plate. “Claudia is a psychic. Isn’t that fascinating?” 

The kids looked at each other then, both answered, “Cool.” 

Stacy said, “It is. Do you know what a psychic is?” 

Ben Jr. responded, “Yes, some kind of scientist, right? 

I looked at my wife. “Are we still paying for private school?” 

Stacy and Stan laughed, then we shooed the kids out of the room. 

After we ate, and our surprise guests left, we put the kids to bed. I sat down next to Stacy on the couch and commented, “You and Claudia have become fast friends. What’s your fascination with the psychic?”

“Isn’t it obvious. She’s smart, interesting to talk to, and has a great job.” She turned toward me with a puzzled look. “Your paranoia is starting to show. I know you’re suspicious about her job, but just because you don’t understand doesn’t mean you can judge her.”

I let the conversation drop because I knew it was futile and went to bed. I needed some rest. Perhaps a good night's sleep would improve my view of Claudia.

I woke up the next morning, but my opinion of Stacy’s new friend had not changed. 

Throughout the next few weeks, the more time Stacy spent with Claudia the more worried I became. Now, since Stacy and Claudia seemed to be attached at the hip, I conjured up a plan to protect myself. I was so paranoid that I even suspected my wife. I considered hiring a bodyguard so I went online and set up three interviews. 

I decided to meet a few potential bodyguards to get an up-close-and-personal feel for their style. The first two didn’t impress me. They seemed uninterested in my concerns. No enthusiasm at all. They were only interested in a paycheck. Today was my third and final interview with a bodyguard. I’d meet him at Starbucks. 

I was early. I’m always early. As I sat sipping my brew, a guy walked over to my table and asked if I was Ben.

“Yes.” I smiled, “Are you with Shaker Security Services?”

He stuck his hand out. “Jersey, nice to meet you.” He sat down. “Let’s get into it. How can I help you?”

I liked his name. A good name for a bodyguard. Actually, that shouldn’t be important as long as he was qualified, but it was to me. He was confident and listened, unlike the other two I’d met. I explained in general terms my concerns but didn’t go into extreme detail because of my paranoia.

“Ben, don’t worry I got this. We’ll figure it out. I’ve been doing this for years and have many contacts in the area.” 

“Contacts? I’m not in a position to pay others.”

He waved his hands. “No, no, everything is covered in my contract with you.” 

His name was strong and fit the job. He worked alone and lived locally. Jersey had a vibrance and a confidence that impressed me. I was feeling good about my choice. 

Just then Claudia walked up to our table. “Hi Stew. I haven’t seen you around much lately.”

“I’ve been busy, but I was going to call you later about a case I’m working.” Jersey/Stew looked at her then me. “I’d like to introduce you to a new client of mine. This is Ben.”

Claudia nodded. “Hi Ben. Great to see you again.”

Jersey said, “I didn’t know you two knew each other. Claudia is one of my sources I spoke about earlier.”

“Good to know.” Stew Baby. I stirred my coffee. “I met Claudia” Psycho “a week or so ago.”

“Well, I don’t want to interrupt your meeting. I’ll talk to you later, Stewart.”

“Small world,” Jersey commented.

“Yes it is. Do I call you Jersey or Stewart?”

“Either works for me. So, shall we get this contract signed?”

“I want to hold off a day or two” Stewie the bodyguard, what the hell? “but I’ll call you as soon as possible.”

“Thanks, really nice meeting you.” Stew waved. “Talked to you soon.”

I held up my coffee cup. Well, this went sideways quickly. Why the hell would I hire a guy named Stewart as a bodyguard? This isn’t working for me. His combined name could be a soup. Give me a small cup of Jersey Stew with a croissant.