Sudden Death (13 page)

Buck’s car and driver were outside, waiting. When they arrived at the stu dio, Tom Davis met them at the car and brought them in. They entered a nondescript building through an unmarked black metal door. Without Davis, they never would have found it.

They rode a freight elevator to the third floor. “What a dump,” Reid commented on the way up. Tom smiled, but said nothing. As the elevator door opened, they all realized how wrong he was.

They entered a lobby that could best be described as futuristic: clean, bright and stark. White walls surrounded chrome and glass tables and counters; oversized white leather couches formed a big U in the waiting area. The eye was immediately drawn to the only source of color in the room: a huge, blue neon ‘One’ on the wall. As they approached the receptionist, she said, “Welcome to Studio One. Mr. Freedman and Mr. Hyman are waiting for you in back. I’ll buzz you in, then just follow the hallway. I’ll let them know you’re coming.”

They walked through a long, white, tunnel-shaped hallway lit by a mixture of fluorescent lights and blue neon. As Reid reached for the knob on the huge door at the end of the tunnel, the door slowly swung away from them, opening automatically. What they saw blew them away. They were in a cavernous, seven-story room that spanned almost the entire floor of the building. From across the room, Carl was waving them to a table in front of a massive object. The structure behind him was shrouded in haze. As they got closer, they saw the set. It was amazing. It looked like a tee box, fairway and green in the middle of a glacier. The flag on the pin was embroidered with a picture of a frozen golf ball with the word FREEZE underneath. Next to the tee box was another huge ice golf-ball, similar to the sculpture at the party in Augusta. This one, however, had big blue letters frozen inside, spelling FREEZE. Carl walked over to them, and Buck introduced him to Jay. Carl, in turn, introduced them to David Freedman, the owner and creative mind behind Studio One. David was tall and thin with dark curly hair, a goatee and an earring. He was dressed surprisingly conservative for a creative guy, wearing freshly pressed khakis and a button-down Polo shirt. They also met Aimee, the creative director from the advertising company, who had developed the whole campaign. Aimee was a pretty girl with a big smile. Her outfit was professional yet provocative, revealing enough to stir Reid’s imagination without being too seductive. She wore a revealing, clingy, azure blue blouse and low-slung tight jeans. Her four-inch stiletto heels, while elegant, resembled lethal weapons.

“So what do you think of the set?” Carl asked, jarring Reid from a mes merizing stare. “Truly unbelievable,” Reid said, thinking, and that’s with her shirt on. “Amazing,” Buck said. “Wow!” Jay exclaimed. “Great, that’s exactly what we’re looking for,” David said. “Let’s spend a few minutes discussing the schedule we’ve set up. Go ahead, Aimee,” Carl said. “Well, first we’re going to take enough stills for the magazine and bill board ads, then we’re going to film the commercial,” Aimee said. “Wow,” Reid said. He had never really thought about the extent of a huge advertising campaign. He was trying to picture himself on a billboard. “
Me
on a billboard? Now that’s a scary thought.”

“A little overwhelming, Reid?” she asked. “Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it. I’d like to do the stills tomorrow and start the commercial as soon as we finish, if that’s okay with you guys, of course. Reid, you need to take your scripts home and memorize them. There’s not much to them, just a few lines, but it’s extremely important that you know them cold. This is an expensive shoot, so the less time we spend on re-takes the better. Okay?” He nodded. “Sure, no problem.” “Okay,” Carl said. “Guys, I’ve got a surprise for you, but first you have to promise to keep this absolutely confidential. You all heard me explain the other night that our next ball is called Heat. Well, take a look at these.”

He reached into his pocket and took out a sleeve of balls and handed one to each of the guys. Each ball had a streak of flame on two sides with the word
Heat
underneath.

“I like it,” Reid said. “I have one question, though. If I’m standing on ice for the Freeze campaign, what will I be standing on for the Heat campaign?” “You’ll see in a few weeks,” Aimee said coyly. “I can’t wait,” Reid said with sarcasm. “If we’re done for today, I have one last request,” Buck said. “Would you mind taking a picture of me on the set using my camera?” They took some quick pictures of Buck and then of all four men together. “Carl, we’re going to a party later at Ross Misrok’s. Do you want to come?” Buck asked. “
Misrok’s
? Sure, should be fun. Thanks, Buck.” “Where should we pick you up?” Buck asked. Carl gave them the address of his brownstone. “We’ll pick you up around 9.” “Great,” Carl replied. “Thanks, Aimee. Thanks, David. See you tomorrow,” Reid said. “Gentlemen, before you leave,” Carl added, “may I have my balls back?” Rolling his eyes, he added, “Sorry for the pun. It’s hard to avoid them in my business.” They all chuckled as they gave him the balls. “See you in a while,” Carl said. “Adios,” Reid said.

After dinner, they went to pick up Carl. Reid was thinking about the next day’s photo shoot. He said, “Guys, I don’t want to be a downer, but I would like to leave the party early, so I can go home to study my lines.” They all agreed. It had been a long day. Misrok’s apartment took up the top two floors of an Upper East Side building. He greeted them as the elevator opened into his private lobby. His highlighted hair was gelled into a flip. He wore tight, faded jeans and a gray sleeveless t-shirt revealing his well-toned arms. “It’s about time, Buck. I thought you said you’d get here early.” “Good to see you too, Ross,” Buck said in an icy tone. He introduced

Reid and the others. Without even acknowledging the others, Ross said, “Reid, I couldn’t wait to meet you. Congratulations on the Master’s. I hear you’ve been pretty busy lately with the new endorsement.” He turned to Buck and whined, “By the way, Buck, when is it going to be my turn?” Turning back to Reid, he said, “Hey, what’s the deal with the wacko, anything new? I have some friends who would be happy to take care of him for you if you want. Just let me know.”

“Thanks, I think,” Reid answered. He had taken an immediate disliking to Ross. Could anyone be more obnoxious than this guy? he thought.

At that moment, a petite blond woman joined Ross. She was stunning: blue eyes, full lips, a tight body barely concealed by an even tighter short red dress. “I guess I don’t need to introduce the two of you,” Misrok said. “Everyone else, this is my girlfriend, Mikaela. She and Reid have a little history together, right, babe?”

“Yup,” she said with a slight nod, her eyes locked on Reid. “How’ve you been? It’s good to see you,” she said, a little too seductively.

Wow
, he thought. I don’t remember her looking this good. What a knockout! Maybe I should…nah, what am I thinking? She was way too flirtatious with other guys when we were dating. Kind of like she’s acting right now!

“You too, Mikaela,” he said a little cooly. “You’re looking good as always.” “Thanks, you too.” Just then, a friend of hers on the other side of the room waved her over. Mikaela said, “Excuse me, it was nice to meet you all. Reid, it’s good to see you. Maybe we can chat a little later.” “Sure, later,” he said, hoping he wouldn’t have to. “Gentlemen, there are bars on both floors,” said Misrok. “Enjoy yourselves. I’ve got to go work this party. Reid, I hope we can spend some time together. I’d like to get to know you.”

Reid nodded as Misrok went to greet some guests who had just arrived. Reid was already uncomfortable. He didn’t want to talk to Mikaela and he really didn’t want to “get to know” Ross. The guy seemed like a pompous jerk.

“What a nice guy,” Carl said facetiously to Jay and Joel. “I don’t think he even noticed we were here.” “Come on, guys, forget about him,” Buck said. “Let’s go get a drink.” Ten minutes passed and Reid was ready to leave. It seemed every prominent New York athlete, actor, musician and tycoon was there. Reid was approached by Mick, Alec, Donald and Derek. The party was the place to be if you were a New York celebrity. Reid was not in the mood to socialize. He was miserable, and it was obvious. He felt the party was ruining a great day. The longer they stayed, the more irritable he became. Women tried to make small talk with him and he practically growled at them. Buck was apologizing left and right for Reid, explaining that he wasn’t feeling well.

Just as Buck finally agreed to leave, a magnificent woman made an entrance. She was with a man who Reid quickly learned was a partner in a Wall Street boutique investment firm. He wore his slick black hair in a pony tail and was dressed in black from head to toe. He seemed to think he was too cool for words. As far as Reid was concerned, he was sickeningly chic. On the other hand, the woman with him was the ideal specimen of female splendor. Mere words could not do justice to her beauty. Her long ginger hair cascaded down her back in large swooping waves. The little makeup she wore enhanced her gorgeous features. A loose-fitting, white, silk tank top accented her olive-toned skin. Tight jeans revealed long muscular legs. Her spiked sandals showed off the crimson nail polish on her delicate feet. Top to bottom, this woman was a work of art, eye candy that would satiate even Reid’s sweet tooth for female perfection.

Noticing a quick change in Reid’s disposition, Buck said, “Okay, let’s go.” “Hold on. Not so fast,” Reid said. “Come on, you should go home and study your lines,” Buck said, sensing imminent trouble. “Leave if you want, I’m staying,” Reid said in a low voice. “Let’s get out of here before you piss somebody off,” Buck warned. Without drawing attention, Reid let Buck know to stop pestering him.

He was determined to meet this girl, now! He went to the bar and ordered a beer. Turning to watch her, he found it difficult to stop staring. He didn’t even notice as other girls approached him. One woman said hi to him and stormed away when he did not respond. Reid turned in time to see her walk briskly away. He had no idea that she was even upset with him. He was so focused on the other woman, he barely realized there was anyone else near him. When she finally looked his way, he made direct eye contact, gave her his best grin and slightly motioned with his head for her to follow him. The grin rarely failed. He ordered another beer and walked out onto the balcony, hoping she’d follow. The balcony was a huge wrap-around, full of potted plants and trees. It was an extraordinarily beautiful night, and the view was magnificent. At the edge of the balcony, Reid leaned on the railing, looking down toward midtown. He was lost in thought when someone appeared at his side. He turned his head to comment, but nothing came out of his mouth.
It was her
. For the first time in his life, Reid could not think of something clever to say. He quietly mumbled, “Hi, I’m Reid.” She reached to shake his hand. “Nice to meet you, I’m Shane.” Reid was tongue-tied. He wanted to make a good first impression, but couldn’t put two words together. After a moment of silence, he started to chuckle at himself. He thought, if I don’t say something soon, I’ll probably never have the opportunity again. She will think I’m some kind of nut.

He said, “I’m so sorry, I feel like an idiot. Honestly, I’m tongue-tied. You probably think I’m a total jerk.” She nodded in agreement. “I guess it’s obvious that I’ve been staring at you since you walked in. I can’t remember ever being at such a loss for words. I wanted to meet you as soon as I saw you. Please excuse my childish behavior; it’s not the way I usually act.” “That’s not what I’ve heard,” she responded. “What?” he blurted out with concern. “I’m only kidding,” she giggled. “Oh my God, I thought you were serious,” he said with a laugh. “Well, I have read some interesting things about you, but I believe in giving everyone a fair chance. You have quite the reputation as far as the press is concerned. Should I trust them or my instincts?”

Reid was quiet once again, unable to respond. He knew already that he had never met anyone like her. No woman had ever made him this nervous or self-conscious. He was completely embarrassed and absolutely smitten. “Can we leave this party and go someplace where we can get to know each other?” “
No
,” she said, “I’m sure you noticed I’m here with another man.” Coincidentally, her boyfriend was just making his way toward them, claiming in an obnoxiously loud voice, “There you are. I finally found you!” Shane introduced Jamie and Reid to each other. “Shane, Reid Clark needs no introduction.” Jamie slapped Reid on his shoulder and said, “Congratulations on winning the Master’s, what a tournament! Reid, I have an incredible opportunity for you. Give me some of those winnings, and I’ll double them for you. What do you think?” Again, he slapped Reid on the shoulder. “I think if you slap me on the shoulder one more time I’m going to throw you over the railing.” Reid grinned after he said it. Jamie looked at him for a minute, then said loudly, “What a sense of humor. Let me go refresh our drinks and we’ll talk some business.” Seeing an opportunity to make Jamie disappear, Reid said, “Great,

Jamie, I’ll have a beer.” With the prospect of having Reid Clark as a client, Jamie almost ran to the bar. As he left, Reid quickly said to Shane, “That was too easy. Can I have your number before he gets back?” When Shane hesitated, Reid said, “Look, if you’ll see me again, I promise not to act like the idiot I’ve been tonight. Just give me one more chance. Please?” He couldn’t believe he was almost begging.

Shane slowly reached into her handbag and handed him her business card with her cell number on it.

“I’m going to call you tomorrow,” he said and leaned in to give her a quick peck on the cheek. “I’ll be waiting,” she replied with a smile. “Goodnight, Shane.” “Goodnight.” Reid quickly headed in, but away from the bar. He found Buck who looked at him inquisitively and asked, “Where the hell have you been?” Reid dragged Buck and the others out the door before Jamie had a chance to find him. Reid’s change in demeanor was obvious; he emanated happiness. Buck looked at him inquisitively and said, “You didn’t? Oh my God, you lucky bastard, you screwed her, didn’t you? I can’t believe it. I take my eyes off you for 20 minutes and you screw the most beautiful girl in the world. You dog, you!” he slapped Reid on the shoulder.

Another
slap on the shoulder! Reid didn’t know whether to yell or laugh. “Slap me again and I’ll kick your ass. And to answer your ridiculous question, no, I did not have sex with Shane.”

“Shane, huh? Nice name. Okay, when are you two getting married?” Buck kidded.

“Cut it out Buck, I mean it. I’ve never felt this way about any girl before and it scares the hell out of me.” They all got into the car and Buck told the driver to head to Reid’s apartment. When they got there, Reid and Joel got out.

“Joel, call Stu,” Jay said, “I want him with you tonight. This guy is close, I can feel it. Also have Bill and Keith head over to Joan’s house. I’ll redo the schedule; I think we’re going to need two more teams. I’ll call Lance and Beebs. You call Greeny and Mench. And Joel,” he emphasized, “stay alert.”

Buck chimed in, “See you at the studio at 9 a.m. They need you in make-up and ready to shoot by 9:30 a.m. Goodnight.” “Make-up?” Reid groaned. “
Damn!”

Reid was about to open the door to his apartment when Joel said, “Hold on, not yet.” Joel reached down to his ankle and unholstered his 38-special. Gun in hand, he slowly stepped inside, combed the apartment and came back. “Come on in.”

Reid had been surprised by the gun. “I feel a little stupid; I didn’t even realize you were carrying. Dumb, huh?” “Tools of the trade.” “I think I’ll stick with golf clubs.” “Smart… Hey, enough gun talk. That was some babe you were hit ting on tonight. She was the most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen.” “Was I that obvious?” “Uh, yeah!” Joel said mockingly. “The only one who didn’t realize it was the guy she came with.” “Really? Well, he was too interested in my money to care anyway.” “All the better for you. Hey, I know you’ve got a long day tomorrow. Don’t feel like you have to entertain me. I’m going to watch TV and wait for Stu.”

“Make yourself at home. There should be some chips and cookies in the pantry.” “Thanks, I’ll find what I need. Goodnight.” “G’night.”