Tony spoke first. ‘Fair point, Sharon, I’ve never known him be with a woman, but then, you surprise me that he actually takes that calculator out of his hand.’ He was surprised. Bloody hell, Sharon seemed to know everything that went on in that club.

‘I’m only telling you because I didn’t want it to come as too much of a shock when you see him there. I’ll be telling him that you’re going, too. Also, I don’t want him falling prey to your little recording plans; he’s one of us. We’ve all worked together for a very long time.’

‘You’re right, Sharon. Jake and I are not homophobic, you know that. A lot of the people we know swing that way, and it doesn’t bother me, it’s how people treat me, that’s what I’m interested in.’

‘What, Tony? And you’re smarting a bit, because those well-to-do guys haven’t fallen at your feet, like all those women in the club, and worshipped the ground you walk on? Hurt your ego, has it, Tony? Grow up.’ Sharon looked at him, disgusted.

His face went red; he was now beginning to get angry. His temper was rising, not only because Sharon had shouted at him, but also because of the fact that she was probably right – he didn’t like the way some of those men snubbed him.

‘I’m an adult, Sharon, that’s why I’m taking out this extra insurance. They don’t care about me, or you, or even Jake. They shake hands with you both and they talk to you, but mark my words, if the shit ever hit the fan, they would be the first to denounce you to save their own skins. I’m just protecting our own interests. As for the accountant, thanks for telling me. I couldn’t hurt him even if I wanted to, though. Don’t forget, he also works for Ralph Gold and Don Carlos. He has powerful friends who could ruin me in minutes.’

They all agreed to disagree. Whatever happened, they were in it together, as they always had been.

14

A FUN NIGHT

Ashley’s ‘Fun Night’ was upon them, and Tony wanted to look his best. Jake was still moaning about having to go with him, but he’d agreed to it.

Sharon had told the accountant that Tony and Jake would be attending, and that she had told Jake he was a member and was possibly going along himself.

‘What did they say when you told them, Sharon?’ The accountant, as always was straight-faced and never showed any sign of emotion, although Sharon could see he felt embarrassed.

‘They didn’t care, although they appreciated being told; it saved all that awkwardness on the night, didn’t it. Don’t be ashamed of who or what you are.’ Sharon leaned over and kissed his forehead.

The club seemed to be a real mixed bag. A few of the members, who were obviously straight, sat in one of the lounges discussing the day’s business, while ogling the scantily-clad waitresses in their satin costumes. Down the hallway, it was a whole different ball game. On opening the entertainment room door, they saw that it was buzzing. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the members were laughing, smoking their cigars and drinking their large brandies.