The Avignon Legacy by Daniel Lorti

Author:Daniel Lorti
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: suspense, mystery, religious fiction, catholic church, action adventure, action suspense, romance fiction, lost treasure
Publisher: W & B Publishers

Chapter Three

Wednesday Evening, February 15 – Day 1

Marina del Rey, California

Jim drove along the coastal route to D’Angelo’s Fish Market; a landmark adjacent to fashionable high-rise condominiums, accentuated by large picture windows behind extended terraces overlooking the marina lined with rows of multi-size boats. An awning stretched from the valet stand to the gray-painted wooden building’s entrance.

Walking past the bar he found Joseph, the maître d’, who promptly seated him at a private corner table next to a window overlooking the bay.

“Mr. Pierce, I believe you favor this table. Will Ms. Lansdowne be joining you?”

“No. I’m expecting a rather tall, bald, well-dressed gentleman with a unique moustache.”

Joseph lowered his voice, “Would you be referring to Mr. Mancini?”

Jim could hardly keep a straight face. “Why, yes. I believe that’s what he calls himself. Please have the waiter bring me my usual.”

The drink arrived and Jim sipped his straight-up Tanqueray gin martini with a lemon twist while he studied the room. Before long, heads began to turn. The diners were glancing at a man sporting a Fu Machu and making his way to the corner table. Jim chuckled and stood up, shaking hands with Lou Mancini.

“Lou, you’re looking unusually well and rakish tonight.”

Mancini gave a thin smile and raised his hand. The waiter quickly came to the table.

“The usual.” When Mancini saw the waiter was perplexed he said, “Ask someone.”

The waiter scurried off. Within minutes, another waiter returned with a lemon-drop martini, set it in front of Mancini and made a quick exit.

Mancini took a swallow and glanced at Jim with raised brows.

Jim recounted the morning’s attempted robbery and the police findings. When he concluded, he took another sip of his drink and asked, “What do you think?”

“I’m surprised St. Louie Brews is involved with something like that. He knows enough to stay out of my territory. I’ve heard of Rosen, though. What’s so special about that book?”

Jim shrugged. “It’s a 14th Century volume written in old French script.” He stopped to take a breath. “You have anything pressing right now? Those guys had to be set up to it. I’d like to nip it in the bud before it happens again.”

“I have time. Probably have to pay a visit to St. Louis to track it down.”

“Standard payment plan?”

Mancini nodded. “Do you want in on what or who they know?”

“Lou, I’m always anxious to add to my education. Besides I’m very interested in the information. Whoever it is knew about my place and was particular with his demand. Those two guys were not about to leave witnesses. I have a feeling this isn’t going away.”

“Then time is of the essence. We can go tomorrow. You carrying?”

“One in the car and a couple at home; the police took my bookstore’s gun.”

“Better have one as a close companion. How about an ankle gun? If not, borrow mine.”

“Thanks. I’ll be all right. Now, how about ordering?”

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