‘That’s blackmail. You could go to prison for that,’ said Sharon.

‘True, but do you think those guys, with their skeletons in the cupboard, are really going to report us to the police? I don’t think so.’ Tony gave a smug grin.

‘How are you going to get them installed without anyone knowing?’ said Jake. ‘That Mathers guy knows everything. God, he probably knows the last time I farted!’ Jake was both shocked and surprised at Tony’s suggestion, but he knew Tony hadn’t liked being snubbed, and now he had an angle on their weaknesses, he was going to use it to show them who was boss.

‘Electricians, sorting out the wiring. No big deal. Workmen have already been there, and you, Sharon, the good and trusted friend of both of them, are going to be on hand.’

‘You’ve got it all worked out, haven’t you?’ Sharon didn’t sound at all pleased. ‘You’re an evil bastard, at times, Tony, you really are. So, I’m to keep them both busy, while you’re installing your porn cameras, am I?’

‘Tell her, Jake.’ Tony looked at Jake for approval. ‘I don’t care who you’re friends with, Sharon, it’s always been us three.’

Jake nodded. ‘He’s right, Sharon. It might never be needed, like the stuff we get from the VIP booths, but it’s insurance, should these guys ever start revoking gaming or club licences because something is not to their liking. I see that now. At the moment it’s all goodwill and their little whims are being pandered to, but what about when the shine wears off? Do it, Sharon, for all of us.’

Even she had to admit there was some sense in it. If the going ever did get tough, they would drop the three of them like hot coals. ‘Okay. You sort out your workmen. I presume they’ll be people you know, who are discreet?’

Tony nodded. ‘All in hand; nothing for you to worry about. Just be there, drink coffee and laugh and joke with them both, as always. By the way, does Mathers ever laugh?’ Tony was now trying to raise the mood. He knew it was an underhand thing to do, but he had to think of himself. He wanted no ill feeling, but the club members thought they had the upper hand, and were laughing at this gangland boss who thought he had his finger on the pulse. Now it was time for him to show them he did.

‘There is one more thing,’ said Sharon. She looked uncomfortable, and her eyes darted around the room. She had something on her mind, and was contemplating whether to say it. ‘Oh, well, here goes. Our friendly accountant is on the members’ list, and he’ll be at the “Fun Night”, as Ashley is calling it. Well, you two, have you ever seen him with a woman?’

Silence filled the room; they all looked at each other. Sharon was biting her bottom lip. She felt she had betrayed a trust. She had only mentioned it because Tony was insisting on going.