Terry grabbed his bag from the carousel and headed to the long-stay car park to pick up his car. He was glad that the job in Monaco was over. He hadn’t liked it much. The owner refused to listen to half his suggestions and, because several things hadn’t been immediately implemented, he had been robbed for a second time.
Terry had felt bad because, despite his being on site, the casino still lost a million euros. At least after that the guy had to listen to him before his two-bit head of security took him for a bigger ride. The security cameras had worked a treat and he had been caught. He was now in the hands of the police.
Terry had quickly got everything into place so he could accompany Cressida to the party – not that she knew anything about that. He had decided it was about time he showed his face. Last year had been really hectic and Cres had needed him, but he couldn’t face going.
He wondered whether he should phone her and tell her he was back or simply turn up and wait for her there.
He mulled over his problem on the way home and after another hour of travelling he pulled into the start of his drive. When he clicked his remote the wrought-iron gates slowly opened, and he parked the car in front his luxurious home just off millionaires’ row. Terry had bought it for Scarlet. The gated driveway guaranteed more privacy. The house was extremely spacious and had more than enough room to raise a family in.
Why had he done what he had to her? She was beautiful, amazing, so full of fun and happiness. Scarlet had become his world and he idiotically let her go. He’d had too much to drink; they were all having fun. Why didn’t he just go home when Scarlet did instead of staying? It was strange how all he could actually remember doing was kissing Jade. He couldn’t really remember how it had all started.
After dumping his bag in the hall, Terry wandered aimlessly around the house. He hated being here alone. Maybe he would go to the office and catch up on correspondence. Yes, he’d do that; he would go to the office. As it was only dinner time, everyone would still be at work. People to talk to. Even listening to the office gossip was better than wearing out his living room carpet.
Snatching his car keys from the kitchen counter, he left and locked his front door behind him. He drove the ten minutes to the office, pulling into the car park, which was packed with his employees’ cars as usual.
He’d write a report on his trip to Monaco and see if there was any more business that needed his urgent attention – anything that would keep him at the office until late. Then he would be too tired to care he was sleeping in an empty house after the party.
Terry had tried to create luxurious offices his clients would feel happy visiting. Cool lines and stunning architecture. Taking the lift up to the top floor, he thought about the patent that was about to come through for his alarm system. He must remember to ask Cres if he could test it properly. Terry was sure that it had a few kinks, which would need ironing out.
Arriving at his office he was met by his ever faithful secretary. “Mr Moore, did you enjoy your trip?”
“Thank you, Margaret, I did. Damn, I bought you a gift, but it’s still in my suitcase.”
“Don’t worry, sir, and thank you.”
Terry shook his head in mock disgust. “What have I told you about calling me sir or Mr Moore? My name is Terry.”
“Sorry, Terry.”
Terry laughed heartily. “Make that mistake again and I will demand one of your special cherry cakes as punishment.”
Margaret wagged her finger at him. “You don’t need to threaten me! I will bring one in tomorrow.” She stood up from her desk and walked to the filing cabinet. “Whilst you were away, one of the Worthing nightclubs has been in touch. Apparently they are not too happy about one of their guards.”
Terry was a little confused. “How so?”
“Lets just say he is enjoying himself too much with the female clientele. Married too by all accounts.”
“Have they made an appointment or would they like me to contact them?” Terry asked.
“Here is the number,” said Margaret, holding out a piece of paper. “I did inform them that you would be away until after Christmas.”
“That was my intention, but I have had enough of casinos to last me a lifetime.”
Terry went into his office and called the nightclub people. This would be the second nightclub he could add to his résumé. Usually he did security for offices and international businesses. Nightclubs generally sorted their own things out.
He agreed with the owner to supply several security guards for a Friday and Saturday night. Terry left it to the owner to let the other company know he was placing some people on the doors.