On a sunny London morning, a fancy red sports car pulled up near the
busy Calle del Soho, the driver's door opened and two legs emerged in white
trousers that matched a jacket and shoes of the same tone, the look on his
body, a broad, sturdy chest and sturdy shoulders served as an ideal hanger for
a sporty, equally white jacket. A black silk handkerchief concealed his neck
and met with long brown hair. Above, two blue eyes, like the sky of that
morning, were scrutinizing the street as the man advanced with long, safe
steps, accompanied by a long wooden staff with a golden hilt. He did not wear
it for practical purposes but rather as an element of ornamental distinction
more. The man entered through an alley annexed to the general bustle flanked by
elegant boutiques and shops of all kinds, the few people who met him
immediately greeted him very kindly.
-Good morning, Mr. Saint Join...
-I'm glad to see you, Mr. Saint Join, I hope you have a good day.
Mr. Saint Join expressed the same wishes to all those people,
or he greeted them politely with a slight bow of his head and a smile. The
alley extended to a slightly wider area and then twisted again. The man
continued walking until he came across a store, obviously of an elegant and
exclusive level, in keeping with the rest of the street. Without thinking he
opened the door and listened to the familiar ringing of the bells announcing
the arrival of a client, but in this case the clerk, a mature colored woman of
a somewhat fleshy appearance, recognized the owner and greeted him with a broad
smile.
-Good morning Mr. Saint Join, how are you this morning? ...
-l am fine, thank you, Peggy. -He replied in a soft, kind enough voice
to ask. - Any messages for me?
-Yes, Mr. Edgar called to remind you that him want you to find your
Louis XV style table ... and Mrs. Heard who wants advice on an
eighteenth-century three-branched candlestick to decorate his grand piano...
-An eighteenth-century candelabra on a grand piano. - He repeated with a slight tone between
disbelieving and reprobating. - What a trifling ordinariness! But there she ...
has Amanda called? -He asked in a way that could be understood as the most
interesting thing to know. -
Peggy said with another smile.
- No Mr. Saint Join. But I suppose she will...
-She is covering the meeting in Europe, it is quite annoying, but
ultimately it's her job, - he said resignedly. -
-And she likes to do it well. - Peggy said. -
-Like our work to us, despite the scandal that may result some customers
... but, what are we going to do ... -he sighed saying them looking puzzle! Did
we have this same before Conversation? ... It is somehow familiar to me...
-No, sir. - His interlocutor smiled. - At least not that I remember...
Saint Join shrugged reflexively and took a seat in a
leather chair in the corner of the room. He stopped thinking about it, since he
did not remember exactly. Maybe it was wrong or he had what was called a déjà
vu. Then he turned his attention to look around. Numerous objects of all kinds
were plastered there. All antiques of greater or lesser value, but generally
quite tasteful. Large bronze and glass chandeliers hung from the ceiling and a
multitude of carpets scattered on the floor of the tent. Some well stretched
and ready to be seen others rolled up and stacked to one side. Coffee tables of
all kinds of material and size and complements of any kind could be seen
arranged in a certain order. On a shelf closed by a thick bulletproof glass
were the most precious objects, gold and shiny watches with chain, cufflinks,
tie pins, letter openers and so on. All made in precious metals and with
ornaments of precious stones in many cases or exquisite drawings. Many with
capricious designs of famous artists that made them already cost a fortune,
regardless of the material. Saint Join was playing with a letter opener he had
taken out when the telephone rang. Carefully, he returned the object to its
place in the cabinet and before Peggy answered the call, he stepped forward.
-Yes, Classic Style Antiques Store, Nephrite Saint Join Speaking...
A velvety woman's voice replied in a familiar way.
-Nephrite, honey, I hope you're well, I'm calling from Brussels. It
looks like the conference will be over in about two days, I'll be here until then...
-I'm glad to hear you, Amanda. - He smiled as if his interlocutor could
see him. - You were slow to call, I suppose you've had a lot of work...
-You cannot imagine ...in order to get closer to the ministers juggling.
I have to get press releases, recommendations and endless things...
-But you sure have, you're pretty tenacious. - He assured her. -
-It's true, but you already know me ... I like to achieve everything I want...
-That's what you look like to me, and now I want you to come back soon.
-He whispered. -
-Be patient and I promise I'll bring you something you'll like. - She
replied with an interesting tone of voice. -
-What I would like most is you bringing yourself wrapped up in a great
bow and nothing else - smiled Nephrite as he was saying it. -
As if she had seen him, Amanda smiled in return as she answered.
-We'll see, even though I was thinking of something more conventional...
-I think it is fine, but I will not settle down without the other. - He insisted. -
-I have to hang up, the press conference will start in a few minutes and
I have to find a good place to get statements. See you soon Nephrite. - She
said goodbye. -
- Yes see you soon ... - he replied as he heard the sound of the
earphone cut off the communication. He gently left the phone, a gondola
intricately decorated and made of silver with gold ornaments. – Well, well,
well. - He paused and sighed resignedly to say. - We'll have to get to work....
-I can tell you missed Amanda, and it's only been three days since she
left. - Peggy looked at him with a funny smile. -
- It have seemed three centuries to me. Since I met her I do not get the
idea of being separated from her, - admitted Nephrite. -
-If it is not indiscretion, how long have you been knowing each other?
-A couple of years, if I remember correctly. I met her when I came to
live in London, those were a few days moved.
-The robbery of the diamonds? You knew her because of that? - Peggy
guessed. -
-So it's ... it's a long story, well, it's always said the same about
the stories. But in this case of course it is true. In fact, it starts some
time before, when I lived in Japan.
He looked at the door, attracted by the ringing of the
bell. There were two people, a man and a woman of distinguished and somewhat
older appearance. He got up and took care of them, once they were gone, a young
man entered and Peggy dispatched him. During the following minutes other people
were entering, some to look at, others to ask for prices. Nephrite did not take
care of them personally, he let his employee take over. She was very good at
her job and could handle herself with no difficulty in advising clients or
selling anything. She had learned very effectively since she came to work at
his service. He meanwhile thought. Peggy's questions had led him went back a
little. He remembered the first days of his return to Japan. Right after
defeating the demons...
-Yes, they were really entertaining days. - He thought.-
Nephrite celebrated the victory feast with his
friends, they already had their plans made and the fortune of having some
wonderful women who were waiting for them. Roy had been able to join Bertie.
Sapphire was hugging Petz again, his love of always. Even Diamond told them
that he would not stop until he rescued Esmeralda, a girl who served him in his
time as the prince of Nemesis. As he had once confided to them when they were
both training in the Corner of Soul and Time. What was more, Landar had assured
him that he might be able to rescue her from where she was. Nephrite himself
alongside the others, cheer the prince up. In fact, he and Diamante had become very good
friends. As Roy used to say when he joked with them or he wanted to pull their
legs. “Your highnesses the little princes”. He still remembered amusing the
time when they introduced themselves, when Diamante, in a rather bombastic
manner, said to be the prince of Nemesis and Roy, sarcastically replied that he
was prince of Bel-air. Diamond was certainly from that dark outer world, but
Nephrite was from Earth, direct vassal of Prince Endymion. One of the princes
of the Four Heavens. Although he could no longer use that title, at least
officially. He only used it to sign things for friends that are very
trustworthy. But of his bizarre friend ... Of course he and Diamond were
astonished, and the prince of Nemesis himself took an interest in that place
called Bel Air. Then, as it happened, Roy busied himself with the laughter of
other friends of his, like Tom, to set up a television set and tell them where
he saw that. Now he smiled, remembering those antics. The truth is that along
with Diamond, his younger brother, Sapphire, Ail, a rather peculiar alien, and
Roy, he had trained and fought, developing an excellent friendship and
camaraderie. Sadly their paths were to separate and each of them faced a new
life. At least his companions had their girls or the promise of one waiting for
them. That led him to his original reflection. When it was over and he could
talk to the sailors. In fact, the first thing he did was to ask them about
Naru. Surely she would be older now. Honestly speaking she was just a girl when
they met, but he fell in love equally. Thanks to that girl and her goodness he
deserted from the ranks of evil, although paying a high price. He was dead
trying to protect her. He hoped to have gone to hell for his life full of evil
deeds, but to his surprise he reached Heaven. There he met that magician,
Landar, who told him that love was precisely what had redeemed him. Then he
offered the possibility of training and fighting against evil, so he could live
again. He accepted without thinking twice. Nevertheless, things did not go as
he had imagined. When Sailor Moon told him Naru's situation she made it very
clear. He still remembered those words of the warriors...
-I cannot deny it. It hurt me more than any attack. - He sighed thinking
about it. -
He remembered it. On that battlefield everyone
was very intrigued but it seemed that they should still wait, however, Nephrite
chose to ask something more personal.
- You must tell me everything that has happened in the world since I was
murdered. How is Naru? - He wanted to know with much interest. -
- Well, now she is with a boy. - Sailor Jupiter told him in a little stiff way to
unveil him - after the final battle against the Kingdom of Darkness. Well, it
is long to explain. We all lost our memory, as I say is a long story. I do not
even know you. Although - she sighed thoughtfully - You remind me a lot of an
old...
-Boyfriend you had? - Smiled her companion Minako to say amused. - Girl,
you're always with the same thing!
Although this time Sailor Jupiter did not laugh with
the others and if she insisted with a surprised and confused gesture.
- I don’t know. In this case there is something, but I do not remember...
The truth is that he also gave a curious look to this
young woman. Makoto as they said she was called in her civilian identity. He
felt some strange familiarity about her, but then he forgot about it when
another of the sailors intervened.
- You will see. - Ami said to Nephrite, who was still looking at Jupiter
with some discomfiture. - The truth is that since you died many things
happened.
-Yes, it's a long story, - said Rei, adding with distress. - And some of
my mates do not even know who you are. They had not yet emerged as warriors
then. Or they do not remind you of their past lives. In fact Naru herself does
not know who you are. For her to know you, we should give her back the memories
she lost when Usagi purified Earth by destroying Metalia and that could be very
painful for her.
- Now she has a solid and stable life and it would be very hard to
change that for her. - Ami said with the same regret. -
-I understand - Nephrite said slowly, lowering his head and adding with
resignation. - Maybe it's better to leave things as they are. Anyway, I'll go
with you. I want to know everything that has happened and start a new life
there, in Japan.
-Yes, I guarantee you that is for the best. I'm glad you understand. - Usagi stated,
placing one of her hands on the boy's left shoulder, who nodded.
In spite of himself Nephrite understood. Even
though he loved her, or precisely because of it, he did not want to make Naru
anything like that. He decided to sacrifice himself. Life would really start
from scratch for him. He returned to Japan with the warriors and opened an
antique shop. He was lucky. Some representatives of the various governments of
the world gave him and his friends all kinds of facilities in return for their
work. Without even realizing it, he started the business and things went very
well. He was always very talented at negotiating and choosing valuable and
ancient objects. Although there was one thing, at least one, that he did not
give up. It was that old promise he made to Naru. Although he could not recover
her, he could try to honor his word, even if the girl did not even remember it.
He still had in mind the words of that girl told him when, after rescuing her
from the henchmen of Zoisite, who had kidnapped her to blackmail him. He was
wounded but despite of that he carried her in his arms when she sighed
gratefully.
-You came to save me, thank you very much.
-Do not thank to me. I do not know why I did it.
He could reply,
that he was certainly baffled by his own course, and more so when, in spite of
his own amazement, he confessed.
-I've been fooling you all along. At heart I am a villain, I have always
been and that is something that will not change.
-I do not care - the girl smiled, leaving him even more surprised when
she added sweetly. - While I'm by your side I do not mind being cheated.
He left her standing on the floor, staring at her in
amazement. The girl followed him smiling in that special way, that she reached
inside his heart, sweeping away any other kind of feeling, even the negatives
he had as Metalia general. Then Naru looked in several directions with a
worried gesture, near was a park and she took him by a hand guiding him inside.
They sat down on a tree. The girl tearing part of the jacket of her own pajamas
and told him uneasily when she saw traces of his greenish blood.
-You've been hurt because of me. I'm so sorry! And those wicked ones can come
back.
-Do not worry - he smirked. – This is nothing.
As a fighter, he was used to worse things. Although
Naru was good at wrapping that scratch and he was able to move his arm freely.
-Thank you very much. - The boy could say, truly recognized as surprised
by the degree of care and affection she had placed in that emergency cure. -
- Mr. Saint Join - replied the girl in a timid, almost embarrassing way.
- They make a delicious chocolate dessert here. And I was wondering. Do you
like chocolate?
-Yes, I like it, - he could say doubtfully, did not really know what
that was. -
Although the girl noticed at once since she replied softly but at the
same time convincingly.
- You lie. But you do out of kindness and elegance.
-I am so sorry. - He could say.-
Nephrite really did not know how to talk to others
without lying. This was so consubstantial in his realm, where he always had to
be suspicious of others and cover his back, which to his regret was sometimes
difficult for him to speak the truth, even in such trivial matters.
-Do not worry, I do not care. - She smiled coyly, adding. - You will
see. I had thought that if we could ever go you and me to eat that chocolate dessert
that would be very nice. Do not you
believe so?
-Yes, - he answered firmly. - We'll go sometime.
-You really mean it? - She said hopefully. -
- Do you think I'm lying to you now? - He could reply and this time
being able to express what he really felt. -
-No, I know you really don´t. I am so happy!
The boy looked at her in surprise. That young lady
could read in him as if he was an open book, he realized that he could no
longer be able to deceive her. Besides, he did not want to do it anymore. And
the truth is that then he thought why not keep his word. After what had
happened it would be best to leave the kingdom of darkness. Abandon those
evildoers who now disowned and even join Sailor Moon to fight them. He could be
of great help. He knew their location and their plans, and what they wanted to
do with that world no longer seemed so adequate to him. Especially if that
threatened good people like Naru. The irony of it all is that he himself wanted
to use it as a trick. Deserting to join the enemy was a lie that he himself had
told this little girl in the hope that she would reveal who was hiding behind
sailor Moon. Now he wanted it to be possible and for real. He meditated about this
when the girl looked at him candidly and asked him curiously.
-In your world is there a day when you do not have to work because it's
holidays?
Nephrite was surprised. He had never heard of such a
thing. He had to laugh without being able to avoid it to the satisfaction of
the girl who made him notice.
- You have laughed! What nonsense! I laugh and cry at the same time!
It was then that the henchmen of Zoisite caught him
off guard and mortally wounded him. They had no pity and cruelly mocked him.
Despite everything, he fought to protect this girl, saving her even from a
subsequent attack in which he ended up losing his last reserves of energy. In
the end Sailor Moon arrived in time along with her allies and they avenged to
him. Nephrite agonized in the arms of the traumatized Naru who was crying
disconsolately. As he addressed his former enemy...
-Well, Sailor Moon... apparently your identity will remain a mystery
after all...
-Do not die, man. - She was able to reply sympathetically with the
assent of her other two companions. -
-I'm sorry ... - he could now say to the distressed Naru, as he felt how
life was leaving him in an unavoidable way. - I won´t ... go with you ... to
that date...
-No! - She sobbed, trying to hold him in her arms. - You promised to go to
eat chocolate dessert with me ... Do not leave me ... please ... Nephrite!
And for him it was all darkness. Then he reappeared in
Heaven and when everything happened. After the victory against the demons, the
sailors informed him of everything. He remembered that with a bit of
bitterness. He also thought when he was already in Tokyo and settled in to
visit Usagi Tsukino, or rather, to whom before his death he could discover that
it was the civil identity of Sailor Moon. And he asked her for a favor. When
she heard him she was surprised, and even moved.
-Would you do that for me? - He asked, not certain of it. -
Fortunately, some tear fell on the girl's face as she nodded.
-Of course! It is a very beautiful thing...- she admitted. - I´ll do it
gladly
And without even losing an instant that girl called
her friend Naru. Adopting her characteristic jovial tone she proposed her to
meet in the park, near the kiosk of the chocolate desserts. Luckily that day
Umino was an extracurricular activity in a computer class. Of course as part of
the Usagi plan, she did not show up. Surely her friend would blamed her for
always being late. So Naru waited sitting on a nearby bench. There Nephrite saw
her and approached. He was surprised. The girl was much older now, even more
beautiful than he remembered. Waiting in a light green dress and a nice matching
bow in her hair. That made this even more painful to him. But trying to master
that feeling and gathering courage he came up to the girl. She did not notice
his presence until he was right next to her and started to talk.
-Forgive me if I frightened you. - He excused himself. You see, I'd like
to ask you a favor, miss.
- A favor, to me? - She pointed herself, looking surprised...-
The young woman stared at that handsome, brown-haired
fellow, up to his shoulders, not without some mistrust, since she was used to
similar situations. For his part Nephrite decided to go quickly to the point, he
did not want to frighten her without need. So, as it was the last time they
met, he spoke with sincerity, appealing to the heart.
-Sorry, I did not introduce myself. My name is Nephrite Saint- Join.
-Naru Osaka, nice to meet you. - She replied in a rather dubious but
polite way. -
-You'll think it's silly, but you'll see. A few years ago I made a
promise to a young lady as young and beautiful as you. She proposed that we eat
here a chocolate dessert. I accepted. Unfortunately I could not keep my word
and I lost her. The truth is that seeing you sitting here, next to that kiosk
... - He was silent for a moment to gather enough courage and a little hurried
confessed. - You remind me of her a lot and I believed, well. That if you
accepted that I invited you to one of those desserts that would be very nice.
-It's just that… I… well, I was waiting for a friend - the bewildered
girl was barely able to reply. -
-I beg you. It is very important to me - he pleaded. -
Naru looked stunned, but being as good-hearted as she
was, she could not help but get excited and pitied that man. Maybe that was a
trick to try to connect with her, it would not be the first time some handsome
boy tried a thing like this for unseemly purposes. But looking at that stranger
in those blue eyes, something inside her, perhaps a sixth sense, or a strange
sensation that came from the depths of her heart, told her that he was sincere.
Possibly that poor man lost his beloved in a tragic way. And if what he asked
for could help him, the truth is that it was no sacrifice at all.
-I'll be glad to accept. - She smiled now more broadly. -
He smiled back, something inside seemed to have lit up
and gave him a sense of great happiness. The girl got up and together they sat
at a table. They asked for that dessert and when she tried it, the girl looked
at him with some concern.
-Are you alright?
At first Nephrite did not know what she meant, but
soon he realized that he was crying and his tears were pouring down the table.
-Yes, thank you, I'm sorry. - He could say as he savored that to add
with emotion. - It's true, it's delicious. She was right.
-I must confess that it is my favorite dessert. I had just been made an
appointment with a friend to take it here. But she is very unpunctual. Quite
frankly. She's always late! - She smiled, looking at that man with careless,
more than anything else trying to cheer him up. -
-Life is full of coincidences. Thanks to that I was able to find you
here. The same as that girl who liked to come to this park so much. I told you
that you remind me of her a lot. You look alike! She was charming and full of
kindness. She saved me in every way that one can be saved - he said that with
emotion. -
-She must have been a great girl. - Naru commented also carried away by
the emotion, replicating now with modesty. - I do not think I'm worthy to
compare myself to her.
-Of course you are worthy. You are just as wonderful as I remember her and
I wish you all happiness. For me it has been a privilege to be able to replace
your friend today. And believe me when I say that you have made me very happy.
I assure you, I will never forget it. - He was smiling broadly while he
sentenced adding tears. - Now I understand what she felt on that occasion. It's
funny, it's the same for me. I laugh and cry at the same time!
Naru looked at him, her own eyes were wet now. That
poor boy had to love that girl a lot to be affected like that. She wanted to
know something more about his life and asked what he did, he replied that it
was antiquarian. They talked a little longer and finally Nephrite said goodbye.
Gently taking one of her hands of Naru in his own, he kissed her aristocratically
and after taking out a business card, he handed it to the girl.
-If you ever need anything. Any object of art or any other particular,
do not hesitate to call me. Anytime and anywhere. It has been a pleasure to
meet you Miss Osaka.
-Call me Naru, please, and thank you very much for the dessert. - She
answered him kindly. -
-Thank you for your kindness and your good heart. Goodbye dear Naru, I
wish you all the happiness, you deserve it. - He smiled full of affection and
joy, wiping at last the tears -
And Nephrite walked away from there, bowing his head
deferentially to the girl. Then he turned and did not want to look back.
According to what Sailor Moon and the others told him later, the young woman remained
seated watching him as he lost herself among the crowd that was walking there.
When he was far enough he came to a point that he had previously agreed with
Usagi. She was waiting with her warrior friends, although they all wore their
civilian clothes. The first thing that the boy did was to approach and in a
felt and very recognized way, he said.
-Sailor Moon, warriors, thank you. Thank you so much for everything.
-How was it? - Rei became interested. -
- I have been able to fulfil my promise. - He smiled brightly. -
-How much I rejoice for both of you! - Ami said at the strange gesture
of Minako and Makoto who had not met Nephrite nor knew what was going on. -
-I think you should go with her now. - Added the boy trying to recover
the joviality between so much emotions when he commented. - She must be very
angry for waiting for so long.
-Do not worry! - Laughed Usagi stating without shame. - I always do the
same to the poor girl, although this time it has been for a good cause.
-You know what? - He said, sighing optimistically. - Now I think I'm
ready to start my new life.
And the girls
nodded, pleased for him. Nephrite remembered that with nostalgia. He really
came to London not only to expand business or to improve his products. Although
he told himself that he really wanted to get away from Naru's memory. He knew
that there, in Japan, it would be much more difficult for him to do it. Now
luckily things had changed and he overcame that. Lost in his thoughts he did
not realize but at last, it was lunchtime and they were granted with a little break.
Then, as she pulled out a sandwich with a thermos of tea Peggy picked up the
item Nephrite had parked.
-Then what happened? Why did you come here to London?
-To expand my business, - he replied, taking a sandwich. - Things in
Japan were good for me, but I wanted to come to Europe. The best antiques and
the best experts are here. I had capital and decided to come and try my luck...
-But, Amanda, how did you know her? - Peggy wanted to know, looking very
interested -
-You see ... I came to London and I met the previous owner of this
premises, who introduced me to some very important colleagues, it was then...
Nephrite waited in a spacious hall for the arrival of
the owner of a shop he was interested in buying. He intended to open an antique
shop, although he was not alone there, several people were waiting as well. At
last the owner entered through an adjoining door.
-I'm sorry to have kept you waiting - he said to the group of people - please
come and go by appointment to my office and we will discuss your matters.
There was a slight murmur among the attendants, at
last the one who appeared to be the first went to the proprietor and entered
with him into the adjoining room. Nephrite sat on a brown leather couch that
creaked at his weight, beside him a young, attractive blond woman, with short
hair down to the base of her neck and intensely blue eyes set to sit as well.
-Is it free? - She asked, addressing Nephrite. -
-Of course - he replied, stepping aside to leave her more room and
offering with courtesy. -Sit down, please.
-Excuse me for the inconvenience. My name is Amanda Thompson ... sir...
-It's no discomfort, miss. - He smiled, holding out her hand. - I am
Nephrite Saint Join, pleased to meet you.
-I do not want to be indiscreet, but what brings you here? - Inquired
that young woman with an undisguised tone of curiosity. -
-See, I'm an antiquarian and I'm going to open a shop here in London. I
want to buy the place from Mr. Collins. And you? What is the reason of your visit? If I may
ask.
-I'm a journalist, I want to interview Mr. Collins. He is a reputed
jeweler and now that it is the anniversary of the crown jewels, we have asked
him to make an expert assessment of them in terms of their artistic sense.
-It's a very interesting subject. - Nephrite said politely, though he really
thought it. -
After a few moments, a well-dressed individual
appeared through the door in front of them. He named Amanda, she got up and said
goodbye to Nephrite with a new handshake and a smile. After about twenty
minutes the young man saw her leave. The same man who had called her called his
name right away. He got up and followed the man toward the door. He motioned
for him to enter, and Nephrite went into a spacious office, which was decorated
in a very traditional manner, with fine woods and two leather armchairs facing
each other separated by a large oak table. There was a tall, elegantly dressed
man with dark hair and a mustache. He greeted the newcomer by taking his hand
and invited him to sit down with a gesture at the same time he declared.
-I am glad to see you, Monsieur Saint Join, I was waiting for you with
great interest.
-Well, if you'll excuse me, I'd like to get to the point. - Nephrite
replied saying bluntly. - I'm interested in acquiring one of his premises near SoHo."
-Very good. I am sure we will agree on the price. You will suppose that
the place where the building is located is one of the most elegant and
expensive of London.
-I am aware of it, - Nephrite replied with a wide smile. -
-On the other hand, and despite of that - added Mr. Collins. - I am
willing to lower the price. -
-I thank you, but ... why do you have such a generous gesture?
-I know that you are a reputed antiquarian and that you are an expert in
jewelry. I would like to know your opinion about some diamonds that I have
purchased. To tell you the truth I am concerned about their safety and I want
to know if they deserve the maximum precautions...
-I'll be delighted, whenever you want - offered Nephrite. -
-Then we agree - said the guy who, offered his hand which Nephrite
accepted shaking it.-
So they arranged the price of the payment for the
premises in a much lower sum than the fortunate buyer had expected. His
interlocutor then asked.
-Please. Come tomorrow afternoon, at about six o'clock, the diamonds will
be here already.
Nephrite agreed and said goodbye to Mr. Collins. It
was already dark and he thought of going to a nearby restaurant for dinner.
When he left, he met Amanda again.
-Well, what a pleasant surprise. - He said, I thought you'd have left...
-And I did - she said with a charming smile, - but I forgot my block and
I had to go back. Now I was going to have something to eat.
-We had the same idea, let me invite you to dinner, so we'll talk a bit more...
-I do not know if that is appropriated Mr. Saint Join, we just met. -
Amanda objected with feigned caution. -
-More reason to know us better at dinner ... - he replied with another
captivating smile. -
She accepted without hesitation then and they both
went to the restaurant for dinner on a pleasant evening. During the
conversation, Nephrite told Amanda what Mr. Collins had asked him to do.
-Then you are also an expert in jewelry, you have many skills! - She
declared in a tone of admiration. -
-Tell me something about yourself ... - Nephrite asked. - I have talked
too much and said many things and you must be bored with my conversation.
-Not at all, I find it very interesting. I'm glad to meet a man who had
travelled the world. –
-Please, - inquired the young man again with his piercing blue eyes, for
he was also curious. - I'm at a disadvantage. Now it's up to you...
-It's fair enough. - Amanda conceded. - You see, as I told you, I'm a
journalist. I work for the culture section of the "Times" and I would
be very interested to do a story about Mr. Collins and the valuable objects he collects...
-Is he an art collector? - Asked Nephrite, somewhat surprised, for he
was not aware of it -
-Art and anything valuable - she replied. -He loves to boast of his collections
at society meetings...
-Truth be told. I'm impatient to see him tomorrow. I want to see those
diamonds, they have aroused my curiosity. - Said he.-
-I understand you very well ... anything related to Collins deserves to
be taken into account. Will you tell me something about them as soon as you see
them? - Asked Amanda obviously very interested -
-I do not know if Mr. Collins would like that, - replied his companion,
weighing this circumstance with little optimism. -
-I beg you - she insisted, fixing her eyes on his with much interest, -
it may be a fine report. -
-You put me in a difficult situation. - Nephrite objected. - I do not
think it's correct without Mr. Collins's express permission.
Amanda pulled a card out of her purse and handed it to
her interlocutor while informing her.
-It's my address and my phone number in the city of London ... please
call me if you can tell me something.
-I'll call you, that's for sure ... although I do not know if it will be
only because of the diamonds...
-Do it anytime. There are
diamonds or not - she reassured her with a mischievous smile. -
He corresponded by writing down his number to the girl. They finished
dinner and after a brief conversation as they paid the bill they left. Nephrite
and Amanda strolled down one of the streets away from the crowd, chatted for a
while longer and then he accompanied her to her car. When Amanda got in the
vehicle she peeked out the window and told him.
-I hope you do not forget to call, I think you're even more interesting
than a diamond.
Nephrite was amused and could not help answering.
-I have a friend who would doubtless disagree with you.
-Your friend does not do you justice. - The girl who started the car smiled and
walked away.
The young man smiled faintly as he remembered the
prince of Nemesis, and turned away from the streets to his apartment. The next
day, on his appointment, he went to Mr. Collins's residence. He was announced,
and the butler rushed past him through. Inside the house reigned confusion,
numerous police strapped the area. Mr. Collins wandered nervously, seemed out
of his mind. As soon as he saw Nephrite, he exclaimed.
-Mr. Saint Join, they have stolen them, they have stolen the diamonds!
The questioner approached with quick steps and tried
to calm the hysterical individual.
-Well, try to calm down and tell me what happened, slowly...
-You see - replied Collins, who was barely trying to control his
nervousness. - I was waiting for the shipment this morning. It was early,
before dawn, when the diamonds had to arrive ....-
At that moment he paused for a long moment, and he did
not seem to continue to speak.
-And they did not arrive, did they? - Asked Nephrite trying to get the
words out. -
-No, the diamonds arrived at the hour, I checked them and they were all.
There was no problem at delivery.
-Then when did it happen?
-I deposited them in the vault, dialed the key with the lock, and went
to bed. I only slept for a couple of hours but when I woke up, when I went down
to see them in the morning, the camera was open neatly and the diamonds were
not there. I became very nervous as you will understand and I called the police.
-This must be the work of some professional sniper or someone who knew
the combination of your security chamber - said Nephrite, putting a hand to his
own chin in a thoughtful gesture. -
-No one knows the combination, it is only me who knows it. - And I change it daily. I write it every night
in an address book that I keep with me.
- Did you miss the agenda?
- No, nobody knew that I have that habit. - Replied the man more and
more uneasily. -
-Then it is clear that it was the work of a professional –Nephrite guessed
-
-The police have no clues, I do not know what I can do ...- howled his
desperate interlocutor. - Maybe I´ll offered a reward.
- Do not rush yet. I will try to help you. I find this very interesting.
- Nephrite said, trying to cheer the
nervous owner of the diamonds up. -
-Would you? It would be magnificent, I wish I could get them back before
the press learned. If this was made public it would be a serious blow to my
prestige. At the moment Scotland Yard has assured me that the robbery will be a
confidential matter.
- I do not promise anything. - Nephrite said when he explained. - I have
some practice in investigating cases like these. The first thing is to see the
area where the diamonds were kept.
-I'm afraid that's going to be impossible for now - replied Collins,
head down, - it was sealed by the police as a place of deed...
-That's true, that will numb us enough, but in spite of it, I hope to do
something. I have to think, you do not worry. I’ll call you when I have
something to help you.
The uneasy owner nodded in the hope that it would.
Nephrite left the place, there was too much confusion to make anything clear.
He returned to his apartment and set the answering machine. Among some
inconsequential calls he had one of Amanda's.
-Hello, Mr. Saint Join, I would like to ask you about the diamonds. Call
me, we could eat together. - The sound of a telephone hung on the ring and
concluded the message. -
Immediately he dialed Amanda's number, after a few
moments when the phone gave the signal, she answered.
-Yes ... Amanda Thompson speaking. Who is calling?
-I'm Nephrite Saint Join, I just heard your message...
-What's up? .... Have you seen the diamonds already?
-I'm afraid not, but I have something to tell you, shall we meet at the
restaurant on the street ten at two o´clock?
It seemed that the girl hesitated but finally accepted without
reservation.
-Okay, I'll be there at two, but what is it about?
-I'd better tell you in person, it's a delicate thing to talk about on
the phone. See you at two o´clock. Nephrite said as he hung up. –
Amanda was pricked by her curiosity, she did not think
Saint Join would want to see her if nothing unusual happened. He looked like a
serious man, not a friend of the informality or prone to wasting time. If he
wanted to see her to speak, he would surely say something remarkable. Maybe
suitable for a good article. It would be interesting to find out what Saint
Join knew. So she was smarten especially well for the occasion. At two o'clock
they met at the door of the restaurant.
-Delighted to see you again. - Nephrite greeted in an elegant navy blue
suit with a red tie and white shirt, shaking hands with Amanda, who held his
hand gently. -
-My pleasure. - She replied. -
And the young woman was very attractive, with her
short hair tucked into a bun and a very elegant red dress that fit like a glove
to her body. In addition to high-heeled shoes to match.
-Please, - Nephrite asked as he opened the door for the girl. -
After entering and taking a seat at a table Amanda's
curiosity fluttered, with her inquisitive blue eyes studied Nephrite at the
same time she asked.
-You will say to me now what is so delicate that cannot be said over the
telephone?
-Before I tell you, you must promise me that, for the moment, you will
not make it public or tell anyone...
-Well, that's something I'd like to decide after knowing what you have
to say - she replied, somewhat perplexed. -
-Trust me, I assure you, it will be worthy to wait. - Will you promise
me? ... I'll be willing to keep you updated in the future.
-Okay - Amanda said after a moment. - I promise, this will be
confidential. -
-The diamonds - Nephrite told her, swallowing some saliva, - they have
been stolen today. I promised Mr. Collins that I would help him get them back...
-That's an impact news! - She exclaimed with a great look of surprise. -
- I'm going to start with the inquiries tomorrow ... for the moment I cannot
investigate at the scene of the robbery because it is sealed by the police.
-Do you know if they have any clues? - Amanda asked, interested enough.
-
-No, Mr. Collins says they do not know where to begin. The camera has
been opened without violence and there are no prints. I think it must be the
work of a professional and one the best, I have no doubt.
-It seems very serious, if you need my help, I'm at your disposal ... -
offered the girl who gave a big smile and then sipped on her glass of wine. -
And so after a long and interesting evening, which
this time she was determined to pay, Nephrite accompanied Amanda to the taxi.
Then he went to the place where he had acquired Mr. Collins building. Strolling
through the streets adjacent to Soho, he soon arrived at the place. He smiled
with satisfaction, it was big and was in a magnificent place. He could
certainly put a thriving business. Then a noise of rubble distracted him. He
turned his head and discovered a young black boy coming out of the room through
an opening between the wooden boards that covered the door, the boy, a
teenager, having seen that elegant guy, ran out.
-Wait, - Nephrite shouted. - I'm not going to do anything to you.
That boy ignored his calls and followed his run-over.
The owner preferred to let him be, the first thing that interested him now was
to call a group of workers to arrange the premises and then bring merchandise.
Meanwhile he decided to start his research. First thing was to call Collins.
When he got on the phone he asked him to go to the local. There, while the
workers would restore and prepare the building, he asked some questions.
-So - Nephrite wanted to know as he opened a block and was about to
write down the answers - who knew anything about those diamonds?
-Well, as far as I know, you and those in charge of bringing them here-
-And you have not been able to tell anyone else? Maybe you said it
without realizing it, or they could hear you as you said it to me. Please, try
to remember.
After a pause, Collins shook his head. Nephrite had to
admit he was lost, but he did not tell the owner. He tried to bring the
conversation to other directions.
-What's the name of the company that brought you the diamonds?
-Starlight Associated, - he replied quickly. - But they are a company of
great international prestige. They have transported much larger quantities in
diamonds than mine. They would not have to defile their reputation by this
smallness. At least from their point of view.
-It could be that someone of the company thought it was time to retire -
the boy guessed -
-It could be. - Collins conceded, but then he objected, - but that would
not explain how they were able to open my vault so cleanly. And why not take
them before handing them to me?
-True, it would have been easier. - Nephrite admitted. - There must be
some explanation. Then he came up with an idea. - Could I see your room?
-Sure, but what do you expect to find there?
-I do not know - the young man smiled, - at least not yet. The best
thing is that we do not waste more time, as you say here, it is gold.
Collins agreed, he took Nephrite at his home and
showed him his room. The guest began to register it methodically. He searched
without knowing what, but he felt that something would be found. And indeed, it
was, behind the bedside table next to the bed he noticed something with his
finger, it seemed metallic. He carefully moved the table aside and saw that it
was a small transmitter.
-I'm surprised, - he said in a slow voice, - so it looks like someone
has been listening to you very closely during this time.
-Damn! - Said Mr. Collins, turning red and repeatedly banging the table
with his fists. – Damn it!
-Relax, - Nephrite cut him off the table. - This transmitter can only
pick up sound. I cannot explain then how he could find out the combination of
his camera, unless ... –
But he was interrupted by Collins, who hastened to
explain to him with a reproachful tone to himself.
-When I write a combination I repeat it aloud to memorize it. In case I
lost my notebook, these is my routine...
-So the person or people at the other end of that microphone just had to
write it down the numbers as you said them. - Nephrite deduced, with one hand
mesmerizing his chin, - how come the police have not discovered this
microphone? - It is in a very accessible
place.
-They did not look there, - Collins replied rather disgustedly, - my
room was not part of the scene of the robbery.
-It's an incomprehensible mistake in Scotland Yard. - Nephrite said,
convinced of that and at the same time astonished. - We have to make this
finding to their knowledge, but before that, I would like an electronics expert
to see it. Maybe it can give us some clue about its origin and its possible
users.
Collins nodded, after this unexpected find he still
seemed to rely more on Mr. Saint Join's ability to resolve the case. They
called this technician and it was not too long. That collector was a good
customer for the company in which that expert worked and they wanted to be
attentive to his minimum request. When Nephrite showed him the microphone, he
examined it with a whisper of approval and declared.
-The one who put this on him knew very well what he was doing. It is a
very sophisticated model, with great hearing ability. But do not fear, I have
already disconnected it.
-But that will make the owner know that we have discovered him, - said
Nephrite, somewhat annoyed. -
-From the moment you snatched it from his place, sir, it sounded an
alarm to its place of reception, the one who put it on knew it, - the
technician explained. -
-And what can you tell us about this micro that will help us locate the
possible thief? - Collins asked visibly impatiently. -
- Well, - the technician took a few moments to answer and commented -
this microphone is very advanced and is not sold in stores, the one who has put
it must be a real professional and be very aware of new technologies. ..
- Where could we find someone like that? - Nephrite wanted to know. -
-In some electronic component design company that works for the
government. But I doubt they will allow you to investigate that.
-Then we are as before we were. - Collins sighed. - What shall we do
now?
- You have to be patient. I'll
come up with something - Nephrite assured him, still weighing that information.
-Well- he said, addressing the technician. - Now I would like to get one like
this, the original must be given to the police.
-You will, do not worry, but it's expensive. I have already told you
that it is difficult to achieve.
-It does not matter, - Saint Join replied immediately, looking at
Collins with the certainty of finding his approval.-
-Yes, - the aforementioned corroborated decidedly, I'll pay you whatever
it cost...
The technician left promising that he would have it as
soon as possible. Nephrite also left, wanted to finish fixing his local. When
he arrived he saw the same boy of the last time, but now he approached him in
silence. The boy came out again through an opening in the temporary wooden
door, he was sure no one had seen him, but so unfortunately for him he was
wrong. Suddenly he met that man. He tried to escape again but the owner of the
shop grabbed his jacket and grabbed an arm of his.
-Let me go! - The boy shouted. - I was not doing anything wrong ...
-Calm down, boy, - Nephrite asked calmly. - I'm not going to hurt you...
-Do not denounce me, please - The boy implored with a look of fear in
his eyes. - I'd be put in a boarding school...
-I'm not going to report you if you calm down a little and answer my
questions - answered his interlocutor with patience. -What if you start by
telling me your name, and why are you here? ...- the boy's face reflected his
doubts between running and accepting. Nephrite made him decide with a
reassuring smile-come. - I invite you to a hamburger and you tell me...
He let go of the boy who finally trusted him, or
possibly he was even hungrier than his ragged image conveyed. Actually he was a
colored boy dressed in a worn brown jacket, some red pants and some sneakers,
certainly in poor condition. Nephrite made an inviting gesture with one hand to
accompany him and that boy followed, this time in a docile way. They both went
to a nearby Burger and ordered some burgers with fries and an ice cream. The
boy ate really as he was at the brink of starvation and his companion let him
finish not disturbing him. Then, looking at him questioningly, the boy answered
his questions beginning with the ironically made about if he had a name.
-My name is Travis, Travis Tucker ... I like to go to that building to
be alone. You see it’s my corner. When I saw you, I thought you'd be a junior
squad officer...
-Did you do
anything to get the police to find you? - Nephrite asked. -
-No, no sir, - denied the boy who explained. - But since that place is
private property I was afraid, are you the owner?
-Yes, I bought it recently. I'm antiquarian and I'm going to set up a store,
stop by whenever you want and we'll talk...
The boy sketched an immaculate smile that contrasted
with his dark features. Saint Join said in a slightly more serious tone.
-I suppose you will not like the school to be around here now - he said,
adding in a more casual tone, - but that is none of my business.
-My mother went abroad to work, I live with my aunt. She is also looking
for a job, she is a very good secretary, so I help her as best I can.
-I would need someone to help me with the store. Tell your aunt to come
by in a couple of days, when I have everything ready...
-You will not regret, sir. - Travis smiled again, who in a more abused
way burst out to report. - I'm also very clever, I get the electrical
appliances right, I even put light on the premises, I also made a radio...
Nephrite listened intently, he was very interested in
what the boy was saying. Maybe it could be useful if all that was true. At that
moment he came up with an idea...
-Where did you learn that? -He asked him first. -
-In class of practical work and reading some manuals, I like it very
much, - the boy smiled. -
-Could you make a microphone? - Nephrite asked, quite aware of him. -
-Yes, of course! - He answered confidently. - With the right pieces, it
is not difficult.
- I think you can help me, boy. Now go to your house and tell your aunt
to go in two days, at three in the afternoon, if you can… - and to confirm that
even just in case, he gave him a card .- Here is my number, in case you have
any doubt. I am Nephrite Saint Join...
-Thank you, Mr. Saint Join. - Travis was able to say that he smiled
again and ran back home. -
His benefactor returned to the store, where the place
was ready and only filled with merchandise to do business. Once there, he inspected
the results of the works with satisfaction. He wanted to call Amanda so he went
to a nearby cabin. She had the telephone number of the newspaper and called her
there. After a few moments she answered the phone.
- Amanda Thompson speaking.
-Hello again - Nephrite said in a jovial voice. - I have news of my
investigation. Can you have lunch with me today?
-Of course, - she said cheerfully, too. - I go out to eat at two. I
usually go to the restaurant on the corner with my newspaper, but come and pick
me up if you want in my office.
-Agreed, I'll be there ... see you later.
Nephrite ordered a taxi and stood in the newspaper's
offices. He asked for Amanda and one of the concierges indicated the place
where the girl worked. He climbed a couple of floors and came to the door of
her office. There she was, she seemed busy writing on a computer. He knocked on
the door and she raised her head with a smile, gestured him to enter.
-Hello, - she said cheerfully. - Sorry if I keep you waiting for a few
moments, but I have to finish an article.
-Do not worry, - he replied. - I have time, finish what you have to do.
Amanda wrote for a few more minutes. Then she put that
on a floppy disk, turned off her computer, and declared.
-It is done, let's eat...
In only a few minutes they were seated face to face at
a restaurant table. Amanda, her hands clasped together to support her head,
looked at Nephrite questioningly.
-Well, tell me what it's all about. What did you find out?
Nephrite told her about the microphone, she seemed
surprised. Even more when he finished explaining what he thought.
-Then I think the thief knew the combination perfectly. The difficult
thing is to know who could have access to that room and to be able to put that
microphone.
- Sure, - she agreed, looking a bit pale. - Do you have any clue?
-No, in that sense only Collins could help me. But he has not told me
anything about it. Perhaps he meant that the thief came in without him
noticing. It is difficult to solve, I am in a dead end. - He admitted.
-You'll come up with something. - Amanda said, smiling again to advise
him. - I think you should ask the company that brought them here.
-The company that brought the diamonds? - He asked and Amanda nodded. -
But they had no reason to do so. That cargo is a trifle compared to many others
that carry.
-It may not have been them, but perhaps something strange happened to
them, something that seemed strange to them when they brought the diamonds. And
still they didn´t pay attention. - She guessed. -
-You're right, I could try that route. - I'll call you when I get back
to the store. Thanks Amanda, you've helped me a lot.
-No, - she smiled, looking at her watch to declare in a disillusioned
tone. - Lunchtime has flown by. It's a shame but I have to go back to work ...
you'll call me again if you discover something new, right? ...
-Yes, of course ... - He assured her that he smiled with his seductive
skills and added, - and if I do not find out anything, would you mind if I
called you anyway?
-Of course I wouldn´t - she said, emphasizing her reply. - And what's
more, I hope you do.
Amanda got up from the table and Nephrite did the
same, after asking for the bill and paying it back with the newspaper meal
ticket. He returned to the store and called the company as the young woman had
told him. He learned that on the day the diamonds arrived in London, there was
a blackout in the block where Collins's house is located. The workers of the
company had problems when entering the diamonds because, without light they did
not know if the alarm systems were disabled. When this one came back, some of
them were still working and they were scared. Nephrite began to think ...
perhaps the thief could wait for the operatives to leave and open the vault
that had no light without any difficulty. But the blackout as reported, only
lasted a few minutes and they were there when the current returned. No, he had
to discard that route. He was like at first. They also told him that one of the
security guards who accompanied the envoy believed he saw a shadow near them.
It was not more than two seconds. The boy thought that shadow might be the
possible thief. He decided to ask Collins but he told him not to know anything
about it. He knew about the blackout, but he knew no one who could have reached
his room. Nephrite decided to think of a plan that would allow him to clear
things up. He was thinking that day and the next two, so, being in the shop, a black
woman appeared and greeted him.
-That was me - Peggy cut in, interrupting the story and smiling broadly
to affirm, - that part I already know. I told you that Travis had told me about
the job in your store and we talked for a couple of hours, by the way, I
noticed you absent then.
-That was because I was thinking of a plan, I had my head elsewhere. But
thanks to that I was able to discuss something that helped me to solve the
problem. I finally found the key to the matter. It had been in front of me and I
had not seen it until then.
-And what was it? - Peggy asked, quite curious. -
-Now I'm going to that it, listen ... - he asked her to continue telling
the story. -
Since the situation did not seem to be resolved, he
thought they might bait the thief. He talked to Collins and he said there would
be no problems. They agreed with the police to request another shipment of
diamonds that was insured. Nephrite called Amanda and told her, they were
talking on the phone and he suggested.
-It would be interesting if you put an ad in the paper, saying that Mr.
Collins has bought an even more valuable collection of diamonds to replace the
one he has stolen. Although of course,
you will publish that is to extend the one that he already has.
-Well, - she said, valuing the idea. - That would not be bad, no one
knows that this collection has been stolen except for the thief. But it will
only be a cover, a farce to capture the author of the robbery. If he tries to
steal it again, which I think is improbable. He will not be so stupid, he will assumed
that security has increased.
-It will not be a farce, - replied Nephrite, leaving her stunned to
reveal it. - It will be real diamonds and this time carved and not rough, its
value will be even greater.
-I see, - she replied. - The risk would be worth it ... And what would
happen if the thief made fun of the police and robbed the diamonds?
-That will not happen, - said Nephrite. - There will be continuous follow-up,
and I will also watch.
- I'll call that announcement, I think we're going to have fun. When
will the diamonds come? - Amanda wanted to know. -
-In three days...
-And what if the thief did not try to steal them?
-Then Collins might decide to keep them and buy them for real. As I've
already told you the diamonds are authentic, so, He could truly supply his
collection.
-Tell me the exact time they arrive, I also want to be there to have the
exclusive. - She asked for it with patent interest. -
-I will, but we have not fixed it yet. Well, now I must leave you.
Affairs in the store reclaim me. Then Amanda hung up and he smiled, telling
himself. - Well, the bait is already launched, now we just have to wait.-
In fact, the three days passed, the arrival time of
the diamonds was set for nine at night. Nephrite told this young reporter that she
went with him to make sure she heard the news. The announcement had been posted
and they hoped the thief would have read it. Why not! The other time she must
have done it, because it was only in Amada's newspaper that the first cargo
arrived. A large group of police and other security measures surrounded
Collins's house in several concentric circles that spanned a couple of blocks.
Although only a few were visible and, once the delivery was made, they left.
Leaving that to the camouflaged units there. The diamonds arrived, were
unloaded and taken to the camera, all without any novelty. This time there was
no blackout as on the previous occasion. Nephrite thought the thief might try
that night. So they watched in turns for twenty-four hours a day, but nothing
happened. Amanda half asleep, told her waking companion somewhat disappointed.
-I'm afraid that guy is smarter than we thought. He must have known it
was a trap.
-I think so, but how did he know? The whole police device was hidden, we did not
know more than you, me and Collins. Apart from the company itself.
-Well, we're same at first ...- she replied. -
-Maybe, yes, maybe not - Nephrite replied cryptically. –
-What do you mean? - She asked in surprise. - I do not see that anything
has changed...
-Maybe it's my stuff, - he sighed. - The truth is that I have tried to
find a solution and I did not find it, much to my regret I'll have to tell
Collins that I quit the investigation.
Again Peggy interrupted Nephrite, looking at him with a gesture of
disbelief, she said.
-But you did not abandon the quest of the thief, did you?
-Of course not, - he replied with his characteristic smile of triumph. -
I had the situation where I wanted. I forgot to tell you that I had talked to
Travis and after buying him what he asked for, he had made a microphone
camouflaged in a pen. Of course your nephew has the talent for that. And the
pen I gave to…
- So you gave it to Amanda, because you suspected of her, did not you? -
Peggy anticipated with a mischievous smirk. -
-No, - he denied to his interlocutor, - I gave it to Collins as an
apology for leaving the case, and it was certainly worth it. I discovered
something very interesting...
-That he had prepared everything, he had stolen himself to collect the
insurance. - Peggy deduced with another smile, proud of her ability. This time she
could not be wrong, but Nephrite took care of that enthusiasm. -
-Wait a little, it was not exactly like that. You see, Collins had no insurance
in the first shipment to cover a burglary inside his own home.
-Then who? - Peggy asked, completely lost. -
-I'll tell you about it now ... - He smirked, watching her audience's
bemused expression. -
Travis entered the store at that moment interrupting the story.
-Hello Auntie Peggy, Hello Mr. Saint Join
-Hello Travis. - Nephrite replied kindly. -
-Should not you be in school at this time? - The woman asked, somewhat
annoyed. -
-No aunt, we did not have a class today. Our teacher was sick and they
did not send a substitute.
-I hope you do not lie to me, Travis, you know I can call your school to
find out. - Peggy threatened. -
- Of course, I know, do you think I'd come here if it were not true? I
would have gone somewhere else so you would not see me. - His aunt seemed to
hesitate, and Travis added to Nephrite. - What is it, Mr. Saint Join? You
believe me, do not you?
-That's the word, of course. - The antiquarian then said, smiling
broadly to the bewilderment of his two interlocutors. -
-Well, all right - Peggy agreed convinced, - stay and listen. Mr. Saint
Join was telling me how he solved the theft of the diamonds.
-I helped him a lot. - Travis boasted. -
-It's true, - said Nephrite, who continued his story. As I was saying,
Collins had no insurance. It could not have been him, or maybe yes ... things
are not always what they seem. In fact, it was a mess. I had two possible
solutions, but both were just as convincing. I decided that I had to bet on one
of them and unroll the skein until the end.
- Tell us, please. - Peggy asked
more than impatiently.-
-Okay, this is what happened. - He remarked that he took up his story
with Peggy and Travis listening with great attention. -
Nephrite went to see his client and handed him a small
rectangular package at the same time he said in a rather dejected tone.
-I'm sorry, Mr. Collins, but I do not feel able to find out who could
steal those diamonds. I do not usually give up very often, but I confess that
this case goes beyond my ability. I trust in minimally compensating for your
time with this little gift.
The astonished individual looked at the package and
unfolded it, looking at a fancy fountain pen that he liked quite a bit.
-Do not worry, Mr. Saint Join. This was not necessary, you have done
everything possible. Even the police have not been able to solve it yet and
that they have many more means than you. It's me who should apologize for your
wasted time. But do not worry, if it is for the local, I will keep my word.
-No, that's not why. - Nephrite replied somewhat annoyedly. - I just do
not like to fail, especially when I compromise my word. Question of principles,
I suppose.
-Forget it, you've done everything you can and I thank you. - His
interlocutor smiled and looked at the pen again with interest. - It is very
nice, I will take it with me for my most important signatures.
And that said he put it in one of the pockets of his
jacket with obvious satisfaction.
-I thank you, - smiled the antiquarian. - Much more than you think, and
now I'm going. I do not want to steal your time any longer. - He said goodbye
very politely as he used to and left the house. - Now we'll see if my
hypothesis A is correct. - He said expectantly. -
Nephrite adjusted a small headset that was connected
to the pen microphone. He did not have to wait long, Collins called. He could
hear him talking.
-Yes, Saint Join has given up. I knew he could not discover anything.
It's a shame but, on the one hand, I'm glad. He was getting too close. He even
discovered the decoy microphone that I put on my nightstand, not even the
police thought to look there. He's a smart guy, no doubt about it.
-Thank you for the compliment, - thought Nephrite with a half-smile. - You
do not do it badly as an actor either ... - Although Collins kept talking and
that made him focus and pay attention. -
-The only drawback of the matter is that the thief is still loose, and
that is the bad thing. I cannot get rid of the diamonds I have now. I would
arouse too much suspicion. It was also a damn coincidence that someone was
ahead of us.
Nephrite was surprised, he had been right in part, it
was clear that this guy had wanted to steal the diamonds himself. Although he
still did not know why. If he had no insurance, it was absurd, but surely there
would be another cause. Collins himself got him out of doubt when he heard him
say.
-My clients in the US would have paid me very well for them. I do not
know who they are but they especially value them. In addition to being able to
whiten money from the bets. We even had the Dutch carver ready. Now with these
diamonds already carved we cannot repeat the business. Apart from what I have
already told you before, it would be too suspicious.
-So that's why, - thought Nephrite happily, as the pieces began to fit
together, - He'd make money by carving the diamonds and getting them out of the
country without paying taxes. In addition to laundering illegal money. A very
skillful maneuver. But then who the hell would have stolen them if not him?
It was clear that hypothesis A was true in part. But the most important
one was missing. And even if it displeased him he would have to think again about
the hypothesis B
-Well, I'll go to the second part of the plan, - he said with
determination. -
Meanwhile, that guy hung up the phone, He would not
give him any more information at the moment. It was time to move to find out
the truth. Nephrite decided to wait for the night and went to Collins's
mansion. Using his powers to circumvent the alarm systems waited until he got
the answer he was looking for. He had to watched three nights and sleep in the
afternoons, but finally his perseverance won his reward. On the third night he
heard the sound of muffled footsteps heading toward the house. Suspended in the
air he waited. A slender figure dressed all in black and with a balaclava of
the same color was stealthily avoiding security measures. With the help of a
few cables he climbed the wall facing the vault and groped for a nearby window.
At that moment there was a slight drop in light, not only in the house but also
in the adjoining lighting.
-The famous blackout - thought Nephrite, feeling that everything make
sense to him now. -
The figure took the opportunity to cut the window with
a diamond. Then, very skillfully with a suction cup, he spread a wide circle
and slipped inside. He closed the window again, and after a couple of minutes
he came out again in the same way, but this time with a bag that seemed full
and weighing enough, judging by the efforts he made to hold it. He climbed the
ropes and left the plot that surrounded the house. Nephrite followed him. The
figure headed for an adjacent street where one had a parked car. He positioned
himself on top. He could not distinguish his height well because it was dark
and that suit was not allowed to see the subject clearly but in spite of that
he already knew who it was. When that figure opened the car and threw the bag
inside, he took off his balaclava. It was then that Nephrite made no sound at
all to land on his back and, holding him by the arm, greeted him (or more
accurately her), with his polite and serene habitual tone.
-Goodnight Amanda ... you've made me wait long enough, but I'd know
you'd come.
The girl turned obviously surprised, her blond hair
released from the balaclava was shaking, accompanying her efforts to release.
When she saw that it was not possible she surrendered and relaxed asked
Nephrite in a surprised tone.
-But how could you know?
-Well, I did not know for sure at first. I had two choices. One, that
Collins was for some reason. Two, who were you, you were the only one who was
aware of my movements. Besides having been with him the day I went to buy the
place.
-You are very clever. I have to admit. But ... this is not what it seems
- she defended herself. -
-What? - Nephrite grinned sarcastically. - So what is Amanda? It seems
to me that you are disguised as "Cat's Eye" stealing the diamonds
from Collins. Do not tell me you got the wrong house and you came in like this
because you had no keys.
-Maybe you're not as smart as I thought ... after all - she replied,
strangely more calm now, with a mocking smile. - Yes, you surprised me by
stealing the diamonds, but you do not know why.
-I suppose because you like expensive jewelry or because you will earn a
lot of money by selling them. Or it may be your hobby to relax after a hard
day's work. - Nephrite said with a sneer. -
-You are deadly wrong. It's not because of that. - The girl was
interrupted in her response when she heard the sound of a couple of cars
approaching. When they arrived, they stopped and a group of people dressed as
Amanda got out of them. -
-Police, do not move. - They ordered, showing identifications and
pointing their weapons at them. -
-You'll have to explain it to them, - said Nephrite, who actually regretted
his sentence. - I'm sorry, you're a really fascinating woman as well as pretty
and smart. I do not like things to end like this...
Amanda burst out laughing when she thanked him for the
compliment and motioned her interlocutor to watch the agents. Before the
astonished look of Nephrite the cops pointed only at him! Then, one of them
told the young woman.
-Can you tell us who this guy is? If we do not intervene, the operation
would have sunk.
-What does this mean? - Exclaimed the stunned boy as they tried to wrap
him up. - No, not that. I have enough of
this comedy. You are going to explain to me right now what this means.
He shuffled furiously freeing himself from two of
these guys with one push, throwing them against one of the cars. The others
pointed at him again, but Amanda intervened, ordering them to lower their
weapons.
-He's on our side, though he does not know yet. Do not worry ... She saw Nephrite still stunned and explained to
him smiling.- I am Amanda Thompson, journalist and also special agent of the Foreign
Office. What you think is a simple robbery is actually a secret operation of
Her Majesty's government.
The rest of the agents lowered their weapons. The girl
ordered them to leave. Nephrite recovered enough from his surprise to ask.
-What the hell does this mean? When has the Foreign office been
dedicated to stealing jewelry? It is your budget that bad? - He inquired,
regaining his characteristic sarcasm. -
-I told you it's not what it looks like ...- Amanda replied patiently. -
It's part of an operation to get evidence against Collins.
- Yes, I have realized that this guy is not reliable, he was my first
suspect. I thought maybe he would steal those diamonds himself to collect
insurance, but then I discovered that he did not have them. That baffled me
until I found out that I wanted to resell them illegally without going through
customs and whitening money from bets.
- Of bets, international traffic of arms, drugs, etc. - Added Amanda who
explained to him. - We've been tracking him for three years. But he has
everything so tightly bound that it is impossible to prove anything. Not even
Interpol has been able to catch him. But we had contacts in Amsterdam who knew
about diamonds. Then we plotted a plan, stealing them and avoiding he could
sell them. We also thought that this would lead him to make a mistake. But it
was not like that.
-Then I appeared. - Nephrite said, and Amanda nodded. -
-Yes, at first you were a nuisance to our plans, but I thought you could
be very useful and indeed you were. To be honest I met you out of pure chance,
that day I had gone to ask Collins for an interview, I wanted to extract some
information from him.
-Well, - said his interlocutor, - that would fit if you had put that
microphone in your room. But I heard him say he put it on himself.
-And so it was, - she corroborated, - but that microphone in question
was disconnected. It was a fake clue if the police searched his room. In that
case he had had an alibi. What he did not imagine is that I discovered it. As
you say, I entered that room, I had to make him see my interest in his art
collections, some of which he kept there. I even asked for permission to take
some photos. He, of course, insisted on accompanying me there, I took my
pictures and then we left.
-So how did you see the microphone? - Nephrite asked, somewhat
disconcerted. -
-Thanks to you.- Answered Amanda, explaining to him.- When we finished
and we left his room his secretary told him that you were expecting him. I was
very interested in talking to you and excused myself in the hall in order to
came back to that room. I quickly fabricated something, told him that I had
left the notepad in his room. I asked his secretary to allow me to pick it up.
She had no problem with accompanying me back there. We both started looking.
When I did not find it, I told the secretary that I might leave it in the
bathroom, for I had come in for a few moments. She went to look, meanwhile I
took advantage to quickly register the room and saw that microphone that was
there precisely to be easily discovered when the police will look at that place.
-But of course not being part of the scene of the robbery , Scotland
Yard did not check in that room. - Smiled Nephrite.-
-It was not for that, they knew what I did, they should not register
anything, you see. Collins saved me the trouble of putting mine, what I did was
plug it in and change the frequency to adapt it to ours. In the meantime, he would not suspect
that it was his own microphone that worked for us.
-What about the notebook? - He asked in disbelief. - As you said, I
suppose you would put it as an excuse, because I cannot believe that a real
journalist will leave it forgotten. So I did not notice it because I did not
have to, but now it misses me. And thank goodness Collins did not think so.
Besides, it would be seen right away.
-And that's why I did not forget that. - She answered. - I had it all
the time in my purse. When the secretary left the bathroom saying that she had
not seen him, I had thrown it carelessly under the bed, making sure that only
one corner was seen, as that man looked closely to see if he located him and
noticed where he was and hurried in give it to me. I, of course, thanked him
over and over and left. Good thing this guy was not as smart as you. - She
laughed again. -
-Now I understand why I came back to see you on the way out.- Nephrite added, - you were just about to get
back from that room again. Well, then tell me, why did you take so much
interest in me? That I kept you informed does not seem reason enough ...
-You are a very mysterious guy, Mr. Saint Join ...- she replied, smiling
rather maliciously. - For both a journalist and a secret service agent. After
meeting you I asked for a report about you. You must not being surprised. I ask for a report about all those who were
around Collins. I assumed that some of them might be a link of his operation.
The funny thing was to discover that we had nothing, it seems that about three
years ago you did not even exist. We thought you'd be the CIA or something. Or
maybe a secret agent of more rank than me. But the CIA itself denied knowing
you and having no connection with you. Of course, they often tell us that and is
not always true.
-Well, this time you can believe them because they do not have it -
smiled Nephrite, who elusively changed the subject, - but I do not like to talk
about my life. Tell me one thing ... are you really a journalist or have you
just faked it as well? ...
-I am truly a journalist. - She affirmed. - Collins has a good network
of information, and we were not sure that an undercover agent would deceived
him.- I am a real journalist, I have been practicing for almost five years,
since I graduated. They could verify it, only by throwing of newspapers they
would read articles of mine. The Foreign Office chose me for this mission and I
accepted. I've always liked adventure.
-The blackouts, then, were yours, were not they? - He guessed, and
Amanda nodded. -
-It was the only way to avoid the alarms. We cut the general network of
the district, - she said. - Fortunately, Collins had not installed auxiliary
electricity. He was not as detailed as he thought to steal himself! I guess he
doesn´t want to put so many difficulties to himself! - She smiled, amused at
her own occurrence. -
-You still do not tell me why you were so interested in my inquiries ...
- Nephrite insisted. -
-It's plain to see - she replied
wearily now. - We did not know why you were helping this guy. Even if you were
an agent or an accomplice, I do not think Collins knew. Nor would I have found
anything about you that would go back more than three years. But since I knew
about your antique stores and that you had stood out as a prestigious
specialist at that time, I suppose you would be trustworthy. Or at least I
would have you reasonably in focus. By the way, you covered me. And you proved
to be a very good detective, I thought you might even get us the job done.
-But instead, I discovered you. - Smiled Nephrite with some
self-sufficiency. - Why did you risk stealing the diamonds again? These could
not be sold.
-No, I could not, but so we may make it a false step and give it away.
Collins was not interested in this happening again. The police might suspect
it, but on the other hand, it provides him with the alibi of the obvious. Who
would be so stupid to try to steal their diamonds a second time having already did it before?
-It does not convince me too much, - replied Nephrite, gesturing
thoughtfully. - Collins is very smart, he only has to report the robbery. These
diamonds are indeed secured and he will earn money without moving a finger. It
is not a smart move from you.
-Do you think so? - Amanda replied, somewhat disconcerted. - We believe
that now he can buy back fake diamonds with that money and try to carry out the
operation.
-I heard him on the phone, he would not be willing to do it for the
second time, so I would not speak for a third.
-Then what do you suggest we do? That we give them back to him? - Amanda asked
that while she had an expression of total bewilderment ...
-It's a bit late for that - Nephrite replied, indeed the dawn's clarity
was beginning to be felt. - We'll have to think of something that will allow us
to take advantage of this situation. – And taking a thoughtful gesture, he
said. - I have a plan, it may be a little crazy, but maybe it will work out.
First of all you should take me to the presence of your superiors, I could help
them.
-It's something irregular, but I think it's worth it, - she agreed. - Get
in the car and I'll take you.
So Nephrite got
in and Amanda did the same in the driver's seat, she drove and headed for her
headquarters.
Peggy was stunned, she repeated with an exclamation.
-Amanda is an agent of the Foreign office? ...
-Do not say too loudly, - Nephrite smiled, - she would not be grateful
if she found out that you knew, you should be silent and not tell anyone.
-Do not worry Mr. Saint Join. - Travis said nonchalantly. - Keep telling
the story, please. - He smiled as he invited him to continue.
Nephrite nodded
and he resumed the story when the car arrived at one of the headquarters
of the British Intelligence service. Amanda went downstairs and motioned for
her companion to follow. As they reached the front door, two guys apparently
appearing out of nowhere came up. She showed them her accreditation and spoke
for Nephrite.
-He comes with me. - She pointed out at the same time as she gestured to
his companion to continue, the two guys crossed their steps without asking
anything else. -
They entered through several security checkpoints,
Nephrite was given a visitor's card and they both came to a large room where,
faced in a long mahogany table, sat many individuals, some in military uniform.
The one who presided over the table, an old man with gray hair and a
well-mustache, was scrutinizing them with inquisitive blue eyes. Amanda turned
to him, seemingly ignoring everyone else.
-Sir Charles, this gentleman is Mr. Nephrite Saint Join. I think he can
help us with the Collins case.
-Did you tell her about that case, Miss Thompson? - Asked Sir Charles,
incredulous to see that man there. -
-No sir, he has discovered almost everything. I must say that he is very
intelligent. That's why he can help us.
-Very well, - agreed Sir Charles, now examining Nephrite with his sharp
gaze and asking to the new comer - Will not you be the famous Mr. Saint Join
that no one has heard of before these last three years?
-The very same, sir. -Smiled Nephrite retorting in his ironic way - I'm
glad you have not heard of me ... and I will not waste your time on matters
relating to me. I just came here because Amanda told me. I could help you, if
you want.
-First we'd like you to tell us what you do think you know. - Asked to
him a guy in one of those military
uniforms, specifically a long jacket that looked like a vintage aviator from
the forties -
Nephrite, gave an indolent glance at that dark-haired
blue-eyed fellow who should be in this forties.
-Do not worry, Captain. Sir Charles said. - We'll take care of this. -
And turning to his guest asked him more cordially. -You would be so kind to
tell us what you know. Please, sir.
-That's the British education I like so much. - Nephrite smiled –
And he went on to tell what he knew. All members of
the meeting listened very carefully. After a short pause, before finishing, he
added.
-I have a plan, I've been thinking about it, but I'll need your help.
Sir Charles nodded as he listened. At last he spoke and told Amanda with
approval.
-You did very well to bring him here. He will be very useful. - He went
to Nephrite now to want to know with a clear interest - and tell us Mr. Saint
Join, what is your plan?
Sketching a rather mischievous grin, he let them know,
not before asking Amanda if she would accept. This one was satisfied saying
yes. So once the last details were profiled, he and the girl left of there and
returned to the scene of the facts. Nephrite called Collins's house holding the
girl with one arm and the other with the jewels.
-Here I bring you your diamonds, Mr. Collins, - declared the antiquarian
in a triumphalist tone to the astonished face of his interlocutor, - with a
present ... -
-Miss Thompson? What does this mean? - He asked confused. -
-Do you remember that I told you I was leaving? - It was a lie, but this
young lady had listened to me. I noticed it and not wanting her to find out, I
thought of using her to my advantage. She listened to our conversation and
thought she would have her opportunity. She is a journalist but also a
white-gloved thief.
-You're magnificent! - Collins said. - I'll call the police right now. I
did not dare to do it anymore. I thought they would not believe me.
-I beg you not to do it, at the moment, - asked his interlocutor who
happened to unveil him ... - she does not work alone and this would alert the
rest of her band. In exchange for some favor treatment, She could tell us where
the other diamonds are. I think they still have not been able to get them out
of the country ...
Collins's thought seemed to be elsewhere, but after a
moment he agreed with Nephrite.
-Yes, I will do what you say, you have solved the mystery, and I am
convinced that your plan will succeed.
-I hope so. - His interlocutor smiled, but thinking of a different plan
than Collins meant. -
-Then let's go, - Nephrite snapped at Amanda with feigned hardness
clutching her arm. - Miss Thompson, who are your friends?
The girl smiled maliciously and kissed Nephrite on the
lips for any answer ...
-Don´t you prefer that we talk less and do something more interesting.- She replied in a feigned, honeyed voice. -
-No thanks, we have more important things to discuss. - He insisted with
indifference or at least tried to convey to insist again - who are your
contacts?
-I won´t answer that ...
-We'll have to call the police.- Threatened Collins. -
-That does not suit us. - Nephrite whispered. - We'd better convince her
to give us back the diamonds. We'll have to offer her immunity. - Collins tried
to reply, but his companion continued.- Believe me, it's the best thing, I
could retrieve the diamonds ... and have captured her band.
-Yes, you're right ... I left this thing in your hands ...
Nephrite turned to Amanda again and said in a more
conciliatory tone.
-You see, miss, we're not interested in you, only the diamonds that were
stolen the previous time. If you tells us where we can find them, I give you my
word that you will have immunity.
-Your word? That is funny. What
guarantee do I have of that? - She asked with a tinge of distrust. -
-I always keep my word. - Nephrite said in a serious tone. - I promise
you can get away, but we want the information. Where are those diamonds? - He asked
more harshly .-
Amanda took a few seconds to respond, at last,
pretending to be intimidated, she said almost dictating the information.
-In Bristol, at the loading dock ten, warehouse twelve, that's all I
know. I do not know if they will still be there.
-It's more than we needed to know, - smiled Nephrite. - Thank you very
much.
-We can go immediately, - Collins said quickly. - I can charter a plane
that will take us there in a short time.
-Do it, I'll take care of her until we leave. -The boy replied, taking
Amanda by the arm again. -
-You said I'd stay out of this if I told you where those damned diamonds
were. - She said furiously,
-And so be it. But first we must see if it is true what you have told
us, it is not that I distrusts of a Lady, but. You will understand me. Put
yourself in my place.
-I can give you my word. - Amanda smiled as she stroked the boy's chest
with one of her fingers in a honeyed attitude. Would that be enough? - She
added with some sneer. -
- That is not enough for me. - Collins said abruptly. - I do not care
about a thief. Please Mr. Saint Join.
Take her and lock her until we leave - he took the keys from his house and gave
them to Nephrite indicating him - put her in one of the rooms.
- Come on, Miss Thompson, - said the man with a sneer. - Come with me to
your suite. - And again he pulled her arm. -
Amanda made a slight resistance but at last she let
herself go. Once they entered the house Nephrite surveyed the ceilings in
search of some chamber. She then wrapped her arms around his neck, but he
stopped her gently and whispered in her ear.
-We have to continue with the performance, it may have hidden
microphones. - Then he added aloud. - Stay still and do not try to do anything
weird ... I'll be watching you ... – Then he left leaving Amanda locked,
Collins who indeed was listening, smiled pleased - ...
A few minutes passed until they confirmed the arrival
of the flight. The owner of the house again called his contacts this time.
-Yes, I know where the diamonds are. The thief has given us the address.
We will go there, we will recover them and we will eliminate the witnesses, her
and that Saint Join. Although in his case it's a shame. He's a really bright
guy. Too bad we could not hire him! – he laughed at his own occurrence. -
Nephrite smiled contentedly, he had a recording and
listening equipment that he had been provided at the Foreign Office. That idiot
Collins had given them a good accusation against him on a silver plate. He also
thanked him for the compliment he had given him. But, he had to finish the
task, kept his mini-team and listened as that guy approached. He smiled again
and greeted him.
-When are we leaving? - He asked, pretending impatience, - that woman is
very clever and could try to escape, it makes me nervous.
-We can go now, we'll use my car ... I thought you'd better bring
her. We together will keep her under
surveillance.
He obeyed and went to Amanda taking her by an arm. The
two of them went into the back of Collins's car and he started. Soon they
arrived at the airport, took a jet that was waiting and in an hour they planted
in Bristol, again they travel in a rental car until arriving at the agreed
dock. Nephrite came down with the girl beside him, now without holding her.
Collins was following them.
-Take us to that store ... - Nephrite demanded with some urgency. -
Amanda walked swiftly to the right spot. The door was
closed, everything seemed calm. Nephrite asked her to open the door, but she
shrugged.
-I do not have the keys, I just told you I'd take you here.
-Do not worry. My friends will take care of that, - Collins said at the
same time as he pulled out a cell phone and dialed a couple of numbers. -
Then three cars came out of nowhere. Lighting their
headlights in the misty night of the port, they approached them and brake.
About eight armed individuals descended. Collins beckoned them and fired the
rusty padlock at the door. Two of them pushed open the door that creaked
agonizingly slowly
-Somebody put some light on this.- Collins said impatiently.-
One of his minions brought a flashlight and pointed it
inside. Inside could be seen innumerable canvases that covered lumps of a
considerable size ...
-It's under one of those canvases - Amanda pointed out. -
-All right, start looking. - Collins said to his men. -...
These guys began to lift the tarps and examine the
sacks beneath them, his boss looked at Amanda with a menacing gesture.
-If you've lied to us, you're going to wish the police had arrested you
...
-Sir, - interrupted one of the minions, - there are here! - He showed
Collins a sack full of rough diamonds.-
He smiled and then laughed with satisfaction. He
looked at Nephrite and Amanda as he motioned for one of his men to close the
door.
-Well, well, well. Thank you very much for all miss Thompson and mister Saint
Join.
-Do not turn away from me, - Nephrite whispered to Amanda when he had seen
the diamonds. - We've solved the mystery, - he said in a satisfied voice, now addressing
Collins. -
-Yes, and you have been very helpful. But I am sorry, you are not useful
anymore. And You have seen too much. -He said, gesturing to his men who pointed
to the antiquarian and the journalist with their weapons.-
-What does this mean? - Asked the boy, pretending to be surprised. –
-It means we do not want witnesses. You see, these diamonds are going to
leave the country as planned. The thieves are going to take them, you surprised
them and they killed you. Doesn´t that sound good to you? - He looked at each
other's faces and replied with a funny expression.- No, I do not think so.
-I am afraid this is going to sound even worse to you. I'm a Secret
Service agent. -Amanda said. - You're being arrested for theft, illegal smuggling
and attempted murder. You are surrounded, our men watch the area. Surrender now
and avoid major problems ...
Hearing that Collins laughed as he shook his head.
-That was fine, but it will not work. I must admit that she has a lot of
imagination, miss, it will be a shame to kill you.
-That's right, - Nephrite said with a grin to say. - We can make it easy
or difficult. I would recommend that you surrender or the SAS are not going to
find anyone able to do so when they enter.
- So the SAS are the difficult part? - Collins sneered at him with
contempt. -
- No, those are the easy part. - Affirmed his interlocutor adding with
visible joy. - I'm the hard part.
All Collins's men, burst into laugh. He laughed too as
he stared at Nephrite in disbelief. He finally reacted by pointing to his men
the targets to be executed.
-Kill them now and let's get out of here.
-Do I understand that as a refusal on your part? - Inquired the
antiquarian with patent sarcasm.
Collins laughed again and nodded. He sighed to sentence.
-I must admit that you are a man out of the ordinary. I admire you, I
really do. You know to live up to the circumstances until the last moment. It's
a shame. Goodbye, Mr. Saint Join. Miss Thompson, it has been a pleasure ...
And he beckoned to his men, and they pointed, without
hesitation, to their aims. Nephrite then reacted with tremendous speed. When
the henchmen began firing at them he interposed himself between Amanda and the
bullets and he rejected them with a barrier of energy. He protected the girl
with an impenetrable dome and then he put out of action in a couple of seconds
to six of them. Except Collins. Amanda's
mouth opened, she could not believe it. Nephrite smiled, the two remaining
tried to attack her but she punched several karate hits and keys. She fought well enough to be a
normal woman, he thought. Meanwhile, upon hearing the shots of the S.A.S, they
entered immediately pointing their assault rifles and deploying in guerrilla.
To the astonishment of those members of the special operations command who now
looked at each other, unable to believe what they were witnessing, all the
evildoers were out of action and Nephrite was holding Collins by the neck and
lifting him a foot off the ground with one arm. As soon as the police entered,
he let go of him, letting him fall to the ground. The agents arrested him and
he was immediately handcuffed and while dragging him outside he shouted.
-I want a lawyer, I have my rights, I will not say anything until I see
my lawyer!
When they had taken him out, Sir Charles came and
congratulated them both very cordially.
-They have rendered a great service to the nation. I will see to it that
they are rewarded. Do you want anything in particular? ...
-You can take us back home for now! – Nephrite laugh - Then, if you do
not mind, book a dinner for two in a really good restaurant, if the lady has no
problem, of course.
He looked at Amanda who nodded approvingly and then
gave him a look of astonishment to whisper.
-I think you have many things to tell me, Mr. Saint Join. To start with
I would like to know who you really are.
-Well, if that's all. Ok, I'll tell you, on one condition. If you know
how to convince me. - He replied with a half-smile mischievous-
Then Amanda turned to her boss and explained to him in
detail, referring to the dinner
-Make it very romantic, with a couple of candles and in an elegant place
and possibly very intimate and very expensive. - She added the smile back to
Nephrite. -Please…
-Very well, - said Sir Charles, with evident satisfaction, -leave it to
us. I think that after the service that both have lent us tonight, the
government of Her Gracious Majesty will be able to afford it. -And without
saying anything else he walked away and left those two young people alone -
Nephrite came up to her and hugged her gently, the
girl pulled closer to him and the boy, as he neared her face, whispered to her.
-I'd like to know if that kiss from before was only part of the
performance.
-I did not need a kiss for the performance, you must believe my word. - She
replied. -
-It's not that I'm suspicious, but. - He smiled as he brought his lips
closer to the girl's. -
-I agree with you, it's better to be sure, - Amanda agreed, and they
kissed long and softly. -
After that intimate evening in which Nephrite told her
some things and the girl corresponded with other stories no less interesting
returned to London a few weeks passed. Amanda rejoined her normal job and the
young antiquarian set up his shop altogether. He had no problem finding a good
number of customers. Sir Charles helped him a lot in that. Time passed and it
had been two years. Amanda was sent to Europe to cover a summit of the U.E. At
least that's what she said. This is how his story ended ...
-It's a very exciting story, but I think you have exaggerated a little
Mr. Saint Joint- Said Travis visibly amused.- A barrier of energy! Come on! There is no one to believe it!
- Yes. You put a lot of imagination on your story - agreed Peggy on
that.-
Of course the woman had grown more and more skeptical
as her boss recounted all those comic nonsense.
-Well, - he smiled, - it's more entertaining this way. But it happened,
at least most of the things. He did not want to insist on his powers, he
preferred to leave it like that and he said it was funny. - I was wearing a
bulletproof vest and a smoke grenade. Well, they actually caught that guy for
tax evasion and Amanda covered the news. I met her when we got together at
Collins' house.- He explained while her interlocutors nodded. -
-What about Miss Amanda as an agent of the Foreign Office? - Travis
asked. -
- As real as I am a super hero. - Nephrite smiled arguing. - At least
tell me if the story is good.
-Well, well. - Peggy said, looking at her watch with a sigh. - How are
you with your stories!, For a moment I have come to believe you. In short, it
is almost time to close. I must admit, yes, that with your inventions we have
spent a good time, and time flies.
-Yes, and so did I. Well, I think I'll go home.- Nephrite said. -
-Do not worry, I'll close. - Peggy said, smiling, - see you tomorrow,
Mr. Saint Join.
The boy, still smiling at that chain of inventions, at
least that's what he thought, also left Nephrite. However, once they were out
of the store, the antiquarian said with
a reproachful tone.
-Travis, do not ever skip classes again, or fool your aunt, it's not all
right.
-What do you mean? - Asked the boy with a surprised face to repeat. - I've
already told you that if I had skipped the class ...
But his interlocutor interrupted him with the gesture
of raising one of his hands to reply with skepticism.
-I know that story, you would not have come here. As I said before, it
is so obvious that it cannot be true. I would bet anything if we go to your
class and ask, surely no teacher has missed today. You do not want to use the
same trick as Collins, he had more experience than you and was much better
actor. However he couldn´t fooled those guys of the Treasury, of course. - He
smiled sentencing. -You still have to know how to do a good bluff, boy.
Travis did not know what to answer, at last he had to admit his deception, he strongly urged
Nephrite not to tell his aunt, but this one with a half-smile reassured him.
-Do not do it again or I'll tell her. Now I have to go, see you tomorrow. - He waved
softly at Travis's shoulder. -
-See you tomorrow, Mr. Saint Join. - Replied the surprised boy, who was
admiring this curious individual more and more. -
Nephrite returned the way he had come, got into his
car, and went out to his house. He arrived soon, had dinner and soon went to
sleep. The next day he had to testify in the proceedings of the trial against
Collins and his band that they were to celebrate after two years of waiting,
after doing so he decided to take the day off. This one happened and the next
day he went to the airport to wait for Amanda. The flight arrived half an hour
late but she was the first to come down. They hugged and kissed with effusion,
she asked him while Nephrite took her suitcases.
-Have you missed me so much?
-Of course, but to keep me entertained, I told Peggy and Travis the
story of how we met ...
-You're a case! You should not go there. Someone could believe it - she
reproached him with a funny smile. -
-You should not worry too much. There is nothing like telling the whole
truth with the right tone so they do not believe you at all. But of course it's
a good story.- He said funny. Although he immediately changed his conversation
to ask with interest. - By the way, what do you bring me?
In response Amanda took a small package out of her
purse and handed it to her. Nephrite opened it curiously but not in a hurry,
and discovered that it was a pretty tie-pin. He made a gesture of slight
disappointment, but she saw his face laughing with amusement.
-I have another gift, but it's a surprise, - she whispered. "I'll
tell you after dinner ...
-I hope I can bear the uncertainty. - Nephrite replied in his classic
sneer. -
-I assure you it will be worth to wait, - Amanda promised, wanting to
know. - By the way, you, too, would have to do something for me in return.
-What would you like? - Nephrite asked. -
-Tell me something about that mysterious life you had before we met. -
She added with visible interest. You brought me something, but in the last two
years I haven´t been able to know more about you. Of course except that you and
your super powerful friends have saved this planet on more than one occasion.
-Well, - he replied, gently rubbing her chin.- I'll do it one of these
days. If that captain of yours, dressed
in Second World War fashion, does not try to sign me for his team again.
-I've already told you that they have a very important mission. They are
such an elite group that even the government itself is not fully aware of how
they operate. It's an honor they would like to count on you. - Replied the
girl. -
Nephrite alluded to this military man who interrupted
when Amanda led him to the headquarters of the Foreign Office. Apparently that
guy was not from Earth either. And along with other agents of a group whose
name he could never remember, it began with Torch .. and then something else.
They defended this world of aliens. At first, he and his friends were
investigated. The same Amanda had been recruited by them shortly before meeting
Nephrite and then she revealed that, in addition to the matter of Collins, she
had being ordered to watch over him. Such rough diamonds of such importance
were not for purely economic value. In reality they must have been
extraterrestrial minerals with a high power. But the important thing was that,
when they saw that Nephrite's group of friends were on the side of humanity,
they tried to have at least the boy join their ranks. He thanked them for the
offer but made it clear that he worked better alone or with his friends. But he
promised to cooperate and give a hand if that was the case. The same thing he
assured to that strange captain. In fact Nephrite brought his friends Diamond
and Esmeralda, who already lived in Paris, to London to talk to them and they
decided to do the same thing. It was agreed that Amanda served as liaison. Now
the boy was smiling to say.
- I hope that that captain and his group do not bother us with any of
his crises of little importance. By the way, how looks at me that guy! - He sighed with a face of circumstance.- I
had to told him that he is not my type.
- Do not worry about him now. I have already told you that in these
matters you are also all mine. And I'm the one who wants to know more. -
Insisted the girl. -
-I'm afraid you'll still have to wait a little bit more - he assured
her, in a relaxed manner. -
And in fact he was very secretive about his personal
life. Paradoxically he had told Amanda how he and his group of friends had
fought demons and how they trained. She had had occasion to meet them and even
share some adventure at that time, and of course she was amazed at their
powers. But what Nephrite, for example, had never told her, and possibly
perhaps never did, was his story with Naru. This was for him a treasure that he
kept in the depths of his heart, and although he was now in love with that
young "journalist" it would still take more time for him to open
himself to talk about that and his past as a general of darkness. He sighed
trying to leave these reflections apart as he cheered his expression with a
jovial gesture as he listened to the girl.
-You're a big stubborn! - she
reproached him laughing - but in that I will have more patience than you with
the gift.
-I'll make it up to you right now with something you'll like. - He said.
-
-It was time you said something interesting! - Amanda exclaimed, taking
him by the arm, and they both left the airport.-
They went to his house, Nephrite invited her to a
romantic dinner that they both liked so much. After the desserts, the boy reminded
her again with an undisguised impatience ...
- And your gift Amanda? ... it's time ...
-You're right, - said the girl asking with a funny smile.- Wait a
moment, please ...
She got up and took from a bag a package she had
brought from the airport and went to hide behind a screen decorated with
Chinese art motifs that he had in his dining room. Without losing an instant, she
stripped off her low-cut evening dress and set it on the screen. Then Nephrite
heard the sound of the pack opening. At last, and after a few seconds, Amanda
came out from behind the screen and stood before him. The dim candle light
partially illuminated her magnificent naked body. Only a large red ribbon
covered her breasts and intimate parts. Nephrite smiled as he scrutinized her
carefully.
-Is not this what you asked of me? -She said, smiling in turn, as she
came up to him in a provocative way, wiggling in a way that threatened the hold
of the lasso. -
-It's the best gift you could give me. Of course it's what I like the
most. And I'm eager to open it. - He answered as he began to throw off his
suit. -
And when Nephrite
was almost naked, he only had to pull the loop to untie it and blow off the
flickering candlelight. That was really a night to remember…
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