Donovan's Rose

                                                                                  Chapter 1

The control van pulled into a distant parking space at the nightclub known as the Corner Pocket. You could hear the sounds of the live music roaring, even at the long distance away. Frank Donovan was preparing himself to go inside.

“Cody,” Frank spoke, “are you sure the electronic signals from the music equipment won’t interfere with transmissions?”

“I have over-checked the system through thousands of frequencies,” Cody said confidently. “Trust me it won’t fail.”

Donovan glared at Cody, not amused by this, then turned to agent Cross. “Alex, keep your distance from me, but keep a tight surveillance on the area.” He looked at agent Shaw. “Jake, stay here!” Jake looked at Frank, concerned for his use in this case, and stated, “Boss, let me in. I can do this.” Frank returned with a stern tone, “No, stay here and help Cody monitor the situation. That’s an order!” Jake, somewhat angered at his boss’ response, sat down and mumbled something incoherent under his breath. “Jake!?!” Frank demanded in a low tone. “Yes, sir,” was Jake’s final reply.

                                                                                      ~*~

Frank and Alex stepped out of the van and Frank motioned Agent Cross to the side to wait. Donovan walked to the club’s entrance and asked for a ticket. As he walked inside, he began scanning the area. He stopped at the figure standing on stage in front of the band.

“Cody?” Frank asked.

“Yeah, I got ya loud-n-clear.”

“Are you sure she’s the one?”

“Gorgeous blonde, fronting the band, makes you want to shiver with lust? Cody stammered out in one long burst. “Yup, that’s her – Rose Fare.”

“Goddamn, she’s hot!” Jake mused, glued to the monitor from Frank’s shirt cam.

“Ok,” Donovan answered. “Alex, you in position?” Alex’s reply came quickly into Frank’s ear. “At the bar.” Frank found her sitting away from everyone else at the bar sipping a martini. “Good,” he said. “I’m going into the crowd; make my way to the stage.”

Donovan found his way through the packs of drunken, partying people to a table ten feet left of the stage. He sat down and began observing. He watched closely as Rose stepped up to the microphone. How could a woman be so breathtaking, he thought to himself. She couldn’t be a day over 23. The sound of her voice broke into his thoughts.

“Is everyone out there having a good time?” Rose rang into the microphone.

                                                                                      ~*~

Frank studied her closely; her jeans molding into every curve in her body, her half shirt exposing her hard flat stomach, and her breasts rounded out to perfect points. Beautiful long blonde hair flowing halfway down her back, absolutely breathtaking.

“Hell Yeah!” came the reply from the anxious crowd.

“Ok,” Rose called back. “It’s time for the part of the show you’ve all been waiting for.” She paused. “For those of you who don’t know, I have a talent for impersonating Stevie Nicks. Close your eyes, you’ll see, let the music flow through you and listen to me.” The crowd began to cheer at an ear piercing level and the lights were dimmed.

Frank was especially interested in this as he is a long time listener of Stevie Nicks. Are her vocals as good as her looks? We’ll see, he thought.

The chilling sounds of the guitar began to ring out the riffs from the song Rhiannon. A spotlight lit up Rose, she had changed into Stevie’s signature style clothing and began to sing . . .

Rhiannon rings like a bell through the night
And wouldn’t you love to love her
Takes to the sky like a bird in flight
And who will be her lover

Chills ran up Donovan’s spine, if he hadn’t known better, he would have sworn it was Stevie Nicks herself. His eyes were glued to her. This was going to be a very interesting case, he thought to himself.

The show came down to the ending song and Frank patiently waited for his chance. “Good night everyone,” Rose stated to the crowd. “It has been a wonderful evening! Drive safely.” All the lights in the room were flipped on and Donovan began to move to the stage.

Rose looked in his direction and smiled. Frank felt a shiver arise as her green eyes sparkled at him. He smiled back. “Miss Rose Fare?”

“Yes?” she asked as she looked at this fine man standing in front of her. She didn’t have to bend over far to look into his dark eyes as his 6’2” frame approached her.

Frank began, “Donnie Johnson told me you are in need of a bass player. Is the position still open?” Smiling Rose replied, “Yes, it is. Big’un over there.” She pointed at the current bass player. “Is leaving us tonight. If you want to audition, how’s tomorrow around 6 p.m. sound?”

Wow, Frank thought, Monica was right; she’s very outgoing and doesn’t waste any time getting down to business.

“Sounds good,” Frank said. “By the way, I’m Nick Vincent.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Vincent.” She eyed his masculine form, his tight Levis spoke of a wondrous body and his t-shirt clinging to his chest made her begin to sweat. “Are you familiar with the Danville area, Mr. Vincent?”

“Yes, I am.”

“Good, meet me at the McDonalds on US 150 By-Pass - 6 p.m. sharp.”

“Great, see you then.” Nick extended his hand and she took it for a shake. The chills started to flow through them and an ember began to glow.

“Good night then,” Rose said as she flashed him a smile and fluttered her eyes seductively.

Frank made his exit with Alex not far behind. “Alex,” he spoke into the transmitter, “what did you pick up?” Alex came back quickly, “Nothing unusual; drunks yelling, pinching the waitresses and beer bottles flying. Typical night club behavior.”

Donovan stepped into the van and Alex came shortly behind. “It won’t be much longer, the game has just begun,” Donovan stated.

Monica broke in, “You won’t get the information from her easily. She knows what Johnson is doing. She has seen deals go down many times. She doesn’t want to be involved in any of it, she feels if she keeps her mouth shut and stays out of the way, then she’s okay.”

“Smart player,” Jake put in. “She thinks, ‘If I act like I don’t know, then it’s not a problem’.”

But it is a problem and she’s our only way in,” Frank added. “First I must earn her trust, which won’t be easy. Music will get my foot in the door; then hopefully we can get a bond going.”

“Yeah, good luck getting there,” Monica came back. “She lost her live-in boyfriend of 3 years to a freak accident six months ago. She’s still recovering from the heartache, one wrong move and you’re out the door.”

“Why can’t I go in? She might confide in me quicker,” Alex asked.

“Not really,” Donovan interrupted. “She has a history of having one girlfriend to ten or so male friends.”

“Rose has had a lot of bad luck with female friends in her life,” Monica finished. “She probably won’t even acknowledge your existence.”

“Ok,” Alex said, not amused. “Where do Jake and I fit in?”

“I will need you to set up surveillance camera’s and listening devices for now,” Frank commanded. “I will fill you in later. We need to get moving.”

                                                                                 ~*~*~*~*~

                                                                                  Chapter 2

5:55 p.m.

Frank Donovan sat in his ’00 Black Firebird waiting for Rose to arrive. He was running through thoughts about the case when Cody broke in. “She’s here; red ’98 Mustang Cobra convertible!” Frank looked up and saw the car entering the McDonald’s parking lot. “Okay, I see her.”

As she got close to the area where he was parked, Donovan flagged her down. She looked like a movie star with the top down on her car and her hair in a French braid down her back. You could almost see a golden glow around her face.

“Hi, Nick, are you ready?” Frank shook off his thoughts. “Yes, I’ll follow you,” Nick said smiling. “Where are we going?”

Rose began to laugh a little and said, “Way back in the boon docks.”

“What?” Nick said, a little startled from her blunt sarcasm.

“You’re not from Kentucky, are you?” she asked, noting his expression.

“No, I’m from Los Angeles,” he said.

“Giggling, she remarked, “That explains it. You ready?”

She put her Mustang in reverse and turned around to lead the way. Jake, Alex, Monica and Cody kept their distance, following by the tracking device in Frank’s car.

                                                                                  ~*~

Donovan couldn’t help thinking about Rose while he was driving. He knew what he must do, but she is such an intriguing woman. Beautiful. He shook it off, again, and got back to the task at hand. “Cody,” he spoke. “I need you to be ready. When I cue you in, send Jake and Alex to bug the perimeter.”

“Got it,” Cody said.

                                                                                   ~*~

Rose and Nick arrived at her home where the audition was being held; they walked inside.

“Hey everyone, this is Nick Vincent,” Rose introduced. Smiling and waving, the group called back introductions. “Nick will be auditioning tonight for bass guitar,” Rose continued. Rose looked at Nick. “You can unload over there,” she told him, pointing to a chair in the circle of members next to the drums. “We’ll get started when you’re ready.”

Jade, the only other female member, spoke up, “Hey Rose, bathroom; now!”

They went down the hall to the restroom and closed the door behind them. “Girl, you told me he looked good, but . . .” Jade paused to catch her breath. “Damn, he’s fine! He makes me wanna quiver all over!” she said frantically rubbing her arms fighting off the goose bumps.

“I know,” Rose shrieked. “I thought I would pass out when he introduced himself last night!”

“You gotta hire him,” Jade broke in. “I don’t care if he doesn’t know a bass guitar from his ass. I’ll play the bass, God, girl just hire him!”

“Hold on to your hormones, let’s see what he’s got, okay?”

“Whew,” Jade gasped gathering herself together. “Okay, I’m ready. Let’s get it on!”

The two walked back into the room where everyone else was waiting. “You two ladies through drooling and lusting over Nick? We’d like to play some music tonight,” one of the members joked. The others laughed while Rose and Jade turned red from embarrassment.

The music began with some short-but-fast riffs to see what Nick knew. A few basic instrumental layouts were played.

Donovan’s love for the bass has come in handy. He was working the strings like putty, and; slapping, picking, and thumbing all played in. The group, already impressed, decided to put the pressure on. More difficult songs were pulled out of the hat: Donovan ran through them like a breeze.

“Nick, I think we can all agree, you will make an excellent bass player in this band,” Rose began after the session was over. “You have a great knowledge of the bass guitar and easily fit our needs here.”

“You did one hell’uva job!” Bud, the drummer said. “Welcome to the group!”

                                                                                        ~*~

Outside, Jake and Alex had finished bugging the area and were getting into the van down the block. “Guys?” Cody asked. “Did anyone know our boss is a master of the bass?”

Before anyone could answer, Frank broke in. “Cody, I’m turning in to start the paperwork. Keep me updated.”

“Yeah, I’m on it,” Cody said. “Hey, where’d you learn to do that?”

“Do what?” Frank asked.

“The fancy-finger work: the bass?”

“I know a lot of things, some of which you many never know.”

“From that remark,” Cody said sneering, “I don’t think I want to know.”

“I heard that,” Donovan said.

“Sorry.”

                                                                                   ~*~*~*~*~

                                                                                     Chapter 3

One week later

“I think it’s time for you to make some kind of move,” Monica sneered at Donovan. “We are running out of time. She has built a trust for you, and she likes you; looks and talent.”

Frank glared at Monica. “Yes,” was all he would say. He realized he must up the ante; he made up his mind.

The doorbell rang at Rose’s front door. “Coming!” The doorbell rang again. “Hold your damn horses!” Rose yelled. She opened the door and Nick was standing there with a sly smile on his face.

“Hi! I was in the neighborhood and thought I’d drop by – see if you want to grab something to eat,” Nick asked.

“Umm . . .” Rose shrugged. “Yeah, sure.”

The hopped into his Firebird and drove to Reno’s Bar and Grill. He was on his best, most respectful behavior. He got out of the car and opened the door for her. He smiled and held his arm out for her to take.

“Mr. Vincent,” she smiled as she placed her hand inside his elbow. “Are you considering this a date?”

“Yes, my lady, I am.” He smiled and winked at her as they walked inside.

“Okay, slick, when we get a table we gotta have a rosebud,” Rose demanded while poking him lightly in the chest.

“Don’t tell me you eat those things,” Nick said as he grabbed her hand in his and locked their fingers together. Rose felt that chill again: across her body, as his warm soft hand locked with hers. She began to melt and feel guilty at the same time. The feelings of guilt and sadness began to overwhelm her and she spoke as she pulled her hand away.

I . . umm . . . I can’t.”

“Shh.” Nick placed a finger across her lips. He put his hands on her shoulders. “I’m sorry. I’m moving too fast. I . . . I like you a lot, but I will slow down.” Nick lifted her chin. “Let’s try this again, okay?”

“Okay.” Rose shook her head lightly and smiled. “So, you don’t like big onions?” Rose asked wanting to end the tension.

Nick shook his head, noting he should be more careful. Pushing too hard can cause major setbacks. “No,” he said.

“Don’t know what you are missing,” Rose giggled as the waitress ushered them to a table.

The talked and giggled as they sat waiting for their meals. Sparks flew, eyes twinkled and smiles glowed brightly.

After they ate and paid the ticket, Nick suggested they go to a club nearby to dance. On the way there, Nick decided to try getting some information from Rose. “How do you know Donny Johnson?”

“We grew up together,” Rose said. “Our fathers were very close friends. I’ve known him since I was about three.”

“Oh,” Nick mused. “I never heard him mention you before.” Nick began telling her how he met Donny Johnson. “We did ‘business’ together about two years ago. He’s a fine business man.”

“Is that right,” Rose commented trying to close the subject.

“Yeah. By the way, how’s ‘business’ going?” Nick asked. “I haven’t talked deals with him for a while.”

Rose thought for a second then said, “He’s backed up about four cars. Jeff, his head mechanic, quit three days ago.” Laughing, she continued, “He wants me to work on the two Chevy’s, but I have too much to do. Besides, I haven’t worked on a auto engine in two years.”

“What?” Nick interrupted. “Oh no. I was talking about his other business.”

“Sorry. Can’t help ya there,” was all she would say.

                                                                                           ~*~

Donovan decided to let it rest for a while and try again later. This would be a groundbreaking night; he would build a tremendous bond with Rose. He found himself getting anxious; he had butterflies in his stomach. What is this woman doing to me? Why am I getting nervous?

They arrived at the dance club; ordered a couple of beers, found a table and sat down.

“Hey, baby!”

Rose looked behind her; it was Jade. “Hey, sweetness! Wha’cha doin’?”

Jade smiled. “Chillin, getting drunk. Ya know, the usual.” Smiling, Jade asked, “Nick – will you excuse us for a minute?”

“Yeah, sure.”

Rose and Jade left the table and walked outside. “What are you doing, darlin’?” Jade demanded. “It’s only been six months since Shane died!” She paused to look at her friend with concern. “I know, Nick,” she continued, fanning her face with her hand and shaking her head. “Whew, is a fine man, but I want you to be sure you’re ready for this.”

“I don’t know,” Rose stated as her expression turned to sadness and fear. “He is so charming and handsome. I can tell he likes me; I could feel the tension when we first met.” She paused. “Jade, do you think the pain will go away?” Rose trembled and almost began crying, but shushed it away. “I don’t want to be alone forever. I can’t . . .” She broke off and began to cry, unable to hold it in anymore.

“Listen Rose, just take it slow. I love you and I know you are strong. Now,” Jade spoke with a smile, “get out there and dance with Nick – have a good time.” She sighed. “Okay.” She smiled and hugged Rose.

Rose wiped her eyes, “Thanks, I love you, too.”

“Rose walked to the table where Nick was waiting for her. “Sorry that took so long. Wanna dance?”

“Sure,” he answered.

The song began – Robert Palmer’s Simply Irresistible. Rose found that Nick is quite a good dancer. He twirled her around and pulled out some fancy steps. She let herself be happy that she’s out with a man again. The thoughts and guilt of Shane slowly began to fade.

She’s so fine
There’s no tellin’ where the money went

He was moving like a pro. The others on the dance floor even noticed his suave movements as he guided Rose around the floor. They gave Nick and Rose some room and watched.

She’s so mine
There’s no other way to go

Wow this guy is fantastic, Rose thought to herself. I really like dancing with him. I wonder where he learned to do this.

She used to look good to me
But now I find her . . .

He began dipping her to the beat of the songs ending drum riffs; and now the final dip.

Simply Irresistible

The audience that had gathered around them began to cheer loudly. Nick and Rose gave a little bow and left the dance floor. They sat for a spell and caught their breath. Eric Clapton’s Wonderful Tonight began to play.

It’s late in the evening
She’s wondering what clothes to wear

A few people got back up to slow dance and Nick asked Rose, “Would you like to dance this one with me?” he held out his hand and she took it. He pulled her in close to him and looked into her bright green eyes.

‘Damn, why does he have to be so . . .’ Rose was thinking when Nick broke in. “Rose, I’m having a wonderful time tonight. I want to do this again.” Rose slightly nodded in agreement and he continued, “You are the most beautiful and intriguing woman I have met – will you give me a chance?”

Rose began to tremble with thoughts of pain and feared the worst. She wanted to give this a try, but here is the pain again – the fear. ‘How can I do this?’ she thought. ‘If I let this happen, will I loose Nick, too? What do I do?’

Rose began to speak as her voice shook under her breath. “Nick, I like you, too.” A tear fell from her eye. “I’m scared, I can’t make it through another broken heart. I can’t get hurt again.” Nick put his hand on the side of her face and kissed the tear away from her cheek.

“He smiled and looked her in the eye. “I will not hurt you. Let me into your heart and I’ll show you how wonderful it can be.”

The sounds of Eric Clapton’s guitar rang through the night and Frank Donovan began to feel something inside him – something he hadn’t felt in years. He knew – at this moment – that he could not let this woman out of his life, but how can he do this job now? How can he pull this off now that he is so involved personally? He didn’t care; he would sort it out later. Right now, it’s just him, Rose and the dance.

“Please, Nick,” she broke in. “Promise me. Promise me it will be okay.” Rose began to shiver in his arms.

“I promise,” he said, pulling her into him. “I promise.”

Yes, my darling
You were wonderful tonight

                                                    ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

                                                     Donovan's Rose - Chapters 4 - Epilogue