ND/Enter Marty Riordan

From Create Your Own Story

'You've heard of me,' he says.

You nod. You have heard of him. You won't find many people within fifty miles who haven't heard of Marty Riordan. Especially not if they're in your line of work.

'Good,' he says. He pauses and looks at you keenly. 'I came looking for a friend,' he says.

'I'm afraid I don't know you well enough,' you reply.

Riordan smiles. 'Luckily for you I like wise guys,' he says. 'It keeps me on my toes. Just don't get too wise.'

'You see this friend of mine,' he continues. 'She's in a bit of a mess. Now I offered to help her with it, but she wouldn't have any of it. She insisted on doing something stupid.' He leans forward. 'I don't like that, Mr. Horne. I don't like it one bit.'

He stands up. 'Now I'm going to take care of this matter for her. And I would appreciate it if I was left alone to do it.'

'If I see your friend I'll be sure to let her know,' you say.

Riordan leans forward and picks up the still hot cigarette that the blonde had left in your ashtray and stubs it out. 'You do that,' he smiles. Then, he turns and walks out of the door. You hear the waiting room door slam as he leaves.

You sigh in relief and let the blonde out from under your desk. Somehow she's managed to put her dress on without being heard. She gives you a cool smile. 'You've got a good head on you,' she says. 'Most men would have panicked.'

'Maybe you should have mentioned that this little job of yours involves messing with Marty Riordan.'

She laughs. 'Why? Too dangerous for you Mr. Horne?'

'Lady, I've had enough danger to last me a lifetime.'

'Just tell me exactly what Marty Riordan has to do with this.'