‘Christ Tony, I turn my back for one moment and you feel suicidal at the thought of having a drink with your employees. Come on, one drink, a few handshakes and we’re done. Put that bloody thing away will you? You’re making me nervous.’ Jake frowned, puzzled that Tony was acting so strangely tonight.

‘Ralph Gold called; he wants to meet us. Time and dates to be arranged. What do you think of that, eh?’

Jake’s jaw dropped. ‘Bloody hell mate, there really is a Santa Claus. He’s taken his time.’

‘I know his game Jake. He wanted us to be self-made men first. He didn’t want some young kids acting like tough guys. He wants men who can make it on their own and we have done that.’ Tony grinned.

Concerned at Tony’s cockiness, Jake spoke softly but firmly. ‘Don’t fuck it up Tony. Please don’t. Just do as he asks. He will have his terms, but I beg you’ – Jake held his hands together in a prayer-like fashion – ‘don’t fuck this up. You’ve waited too long.’

Flashing his charming smile, Tony put his gun back in the drawer and locked it. Standing up, he lifted his jacket from the back of his chair. He straightened his tie and swept his blond hair back.

‘It’s going to be a new year and a fresh start Jake. Come on, let’s see the party and have a drink. Suddenly I feel like one. I don’t even mind putting on a smile and meeting the hired help.’

Jake opened the door for Tony. ‘Well, it’s been a great start to the night and Father Christmas is in a good mood. Let’s see what’s behind this door shall we?’

‘Bloody right; nothing can stop us now. We own the streets and the people walking on them. Brothers together Jake.’ Tony raised his hand for a high five, making Jake laugh out loud.

‘You’re a lucky vain bastard Tony Lambrianu,’ Jake joked.

Tony’s mood brightened as they walked up the corridor towards the party. A fleeting glance of a woman caught Tony’s eye but she disappeared into the crowd before he could look twice. Frowning, he scoured the area, but she wasn’t there. Mentally, he thought his mind was playing tricks with him. He thought he’d seen his mystery woman, but that was impossible. What would she be doing at this private party? Gathering his thoughts, he pulled Jake to one side.

‘Let’s stay at the side in the corner for a while and watch the proceedings Jake.’ Ordering a drink, they stood at the bar, all the while Tony looked around at everyone dancing and drinking, enjoying themselves at his expense. Chinking his glass against Jake’s, he looked around the room once more. He felt sure he must have been mistaken – he couldn’t see the woman anywhere.

Ordering another drink, Tony took a sip and chinked his glass against Jake’s again. ‘Merry Christmas mate. To next year, Jake; let’s hope it’s one to remember!’