Rumple's Club

Doc's POV

"Everyone knows his name. He owns a club just west of Third Meadows."

"You think he'll talk? I heard he wasn't very open to people like us."

"Don't worry. If we don't get any answers, we'll take him across the bridge."

We pulled into the drive where the sound of beating drums could be heard. I stepped out of my side, reached into my pocket, and lit myself a Huff. The air got thinner every step I took. I slung the twin doors open just to see a wave of skin and trampy clothing dancing on a disco ball lit floor. Tables surrounded the somewhat small dance area, one in particular had a short funny looking man with gelled up doo and pair of pointed sun shades slightly covering eyes, and slipping off his long pointed nose. He gave off a nastily grin underneath the goatee on his chin. I slid into the booth, making just enough room for Jack to sit beside me. My feet escaped the floor as I planted my rear into the leather. I could feel the tip of his foot tap the toe of my loafers as I scooted over in position. My eyes met his, just as his was fixed on me and my partner. I noticed multiple grease stains on his white tank top, circling around to his back.

"What can do you for you officers?" He started, easing the awkward tension.

"We have questions to ask you." Jack muttered, a bit of nervousness in his voice.

Knowing that it was his first time investigating a murder, I leaned in and ask him to let me handle it.

"There was a girl that lived just a few blocks away from this place."

"What type of girl was she?"

I could tell by his remark he had something more than just answers on his mind.

"She was found dead in front of your place just a few days ago. You mind explaining that?"

"Of course, have the guy with the club answerin' the questions. You think you're gettin' anything from me? You're gonna have to guess my name first." He leans back, propping his arm up just above the booths back.

"We haven't got any time for your games Rump. Tell us be fried." The threat that escaped my lips made his eyelid twitch. His upper lip curled up, as the cigarette hung loose from his gritted teeth. He couldn't believe that a man like me could remember his name. But that is my job. If I forget at least one name then I'd be out my ear. I proceeded to tell him about the victim. How she was shot, who she was, the basic details. As his smoke cleared the air he his face in closer to mine.

"I'd check Appleseed."

"Appleseed?" The thought never entered my mind. After all, the victim did seem to have a thing for apples. I thanked Rumple as I left, and walked out to the car with Jack.

"To the Orchard?"

"To the Orchard."