Mike's Ford Raptor stopped at saloon. Black Mercedes SUV stood outside.
- Fine carriage, Arthur said.
- Yeah, he has some money. Lots of money. Hopefully we can get our share.
- Let's hear him out, then.
They walked in. They knew the bartender. He looked at them and a worry shade glimpsed on his face.
- I don't want any trouble, partner.
- Don't worry, mate. We are here doing some business, and it seems there's no dickheads this time, Mike said and gave a telling look.
- Ah, mister. Partner, these gentlemen are with me. Here, take what you want. Please, be my guests.
Bald, Roman nosed man talked with British accent. He had a black suit and a striped tie. Arthur's hand touched instinctively boulge on his back. Personal guard was there, ready to shed some lead if necessary.
- Sir, we are simple men. Even simpletons, kinda. So, we talk straight. You had some job opportunities for us?
- Ah, yes, yes, I certainly have. Have you heard of security counselling?
- You mean private security?
- Yes, some people call it like that, especially here in America, but we prefer security counselling. Less... Bad press, I suppose.
- We don't care about bad press. Someone has to do the job. Even if it's dirty.
Man smiled.
- You sound just like men I need. More?
- No thanks. We do business only sober.
Man laughed heartily.
- Of course, of course! Now, sir, if you don't mind, I suggest we move to my car. I have some... Calm place to discuss about business.
Arthur and Mike looked at each other.
- Fine, let's go.
They started walking. Before front door Arthur grapped Mike's arm.
- Listen. You think this is a good idea?
- What other choices do we have? And you have that Austrian on your belt. Don't worry, mate.
They continued and got inside car. When man was about to start the car, Arthur touched man's shoulder.
- Lest go anywhere. Talk your business here.
Man looked Arthur into eyes through backmirror.
- Alright, sir. However you wish.
Man leaned back and turned.
- You both were in the army?
- Yes, in the same unit. We've been in Iraq and Astan.
- For how long?
- Three rotations. Both of us.
- Why did you left the army?
- I left because I got a good offer from my brother to join his construction company, Mike said.
- And why are you here?
- My brother's an idiot. He did some bad business... And angried wrong blokes.
- Is there a price for your head?
- For my head? No, not at all. My brother was in charge. He was forced to sell his company and I was fired.
- How about your silent partner?
Arthur coughed.
- I was discharged because I didn't get the promotion in time.
- Honorable or dishonorable?
- Honorable. I wasn't just intrested to babysit idiots.
Man laughed.
- I like your partner. Honest chap. Although one has to wonder why he's carrying vest and gun.
- He is a good soldier, Mike assured.
- I bet he's. But we are not doing just soldiering. We are operating in the shadows. Under radar. If you get into trouble, there will be no cavalry to save the day. You have to fend on your own.
- We can do that, Mike smirked and laughed. - We have been in bad places. We aint some greenhorns.
- Well, we shall see that. If you are still interested, contact this number after couple of days, man said and gave a plain card with only a phonenumber. - If you're answered, you've passed. Now, gentlemen, I wish you farewell.
Mike and Arthur looked at each other.
- Okay... we'll make a call. Thanks. I suppose.
They hopped from the car. Man started the engine and drove away.
- Quite a feller, Mike said.
- Dandy little bastard, Arthur grumpled. - Seemed a bit too fancy, if I'm honest.
- Don't worry. We'll make it. Surely.
They headed back to saloon to have some pints.
*
