The Mentor, Chapter 2
An Evening Out
Once they were underway, Tommy glanced at Zahra in the rearview mirror.
"So Zahra, I think for the first several days you can just observe the two of us, especially Barbara, and how we operate. You will have your own partner in the future, and you'll need to be able to work together like a well-oiled machine. I don't like to brag, but Barbara and I are so attuned to each other, we work like a single entity. Isn't that right Barbara?"
"Hmmmm" Barbara replied, sipping her third coffee of the day. She was going to make Tommy work today. She thought to herself…. at least this car is much more comfortable than Tommy's "classic" Bristol. It feels like we're driving on a cloud. I could get used to this ride.
Barbara had to admit the day went pretty smoothly, although she did think Tommy was going out of his way to make Zahra feel welcome. On several occasions she caught a gooey-eyed Zahra hanging on Tommy's every word. In Tommy's defense, when he turned on the charm, he was pretty hard to resist, Barbara knew how hard it was.
Tommy had nudged her with his elbow a few times today so she would actually interact with Zahra, but she was finding it hard to consider herself a mentor to anyone, let alone this beautiful young DC. To Zahra's credit, she kept up with them very well, she even seemed to quickly comprehend their bantering. Reluctantly, Barbara had to admire Zahra's poise on her first day on the job.
They had several people of interest to track down and question in regards to the current investigation. Smartly, Zahra took Tommy's advice and stayed in the background and took notes. Barbara wondered if Zahra was too scared to interject, or if she was just too overwhelmed. Barbara felt a little sorry for her, she remembered how frightened she was on her first day in "the old boys club". The big difference between her and Zahra was that Barbara never stayed in the background and never kept her mouth shut. Something she had done since day one with Tommy. It wasn't always an easy relationship, but she and Tommy had developed a mutual respect and affection for each other.
Back at the office, Barbara told Zahra to take a seat beside her at her desk. She explained about the software program they used, how notes and information were entered on a case, and how to access the CCTV tapes.
Barbara was impressed that Zahra took copious notes and was extremely attentive. She didn't partake in small talk and asked intelligent questions. As much as it pained her to admit it, Barbara was impressed. She could see why she had graduated head of her class at the academy.
When it was time to leave for the day, Zahra thanked Barbara and made her way to the lift and Barbara walked to Tommy's office. She stood in the doorway and watched him as he intently read a report in front of him. Barbara knocked on the door frame. He looked up and smiled.
"Come in and sit down Barbara. Well, how do you think your first day went as a mentor?"
She raised an eyebrow and gave him a slight smirk. "Ok, I guess. She kept herself low key so she wasn't really a bother. She picked up on the software program and report writing quickly, so she's no dummy."
"High praise from you sergeant. I know compliments don't spring from your lips lightly."
"Ha-ha, very funny Sir. Now grab your coat, it's your turn to buy the pints."
They settled into their usual booth at the tavern and were half-way through their first pint before they paused to talk.
"Well, what do you say Barbara? Do you think Zahra can make a go of it? I know it's hard to assess someone's ability on one day's work, but I'm curious to hear your thoughts."
Barbara took a long draw on her lager, set the glass down on the table and looked Tommy in the eye.
"I think she'll be alright. To her credit she kept a low profile today, so she must have taken your little speech this morning to heart. Of course, you did turn on the charm, so I'm not sure if she was really listening or was just mesmerized by your regal good looks and suave personality."
"Touché Havers. I can see your haven't lost your caustic tongue. Hopefully none of that will rub off on her while she's your charge. When you feel the need for your unique brand of sarcasm, think twice about how your training will affect Zahra's future partner."
For a few seconds Barbara stared at Tommy….then they both erupted in laughter.
"Cheers Sir". They clinked glasses and got down to business discussing the fine points of their current investigation.
Zahra turned out to be a quick study. She had an intuitive knack for getting a suspect to talk. After shadowing Tommy and Barbara for the past eight months, Barbara felt comfortable sitting in the background while Zahra carried out an interview.
Tommy watched the dynamics between Zahra and Barbara. Barbara could be savage with her criticism, but only when it was warranted. Zahra took it well without too many repercussions, but she wasn't afraid to question Barbara when she was adamant about something.
Tommy was very pleased to see the comradery that was developing between the two women. It made him feel good to see that Barbara was obviously developing a friendship with Zahra, not just a working relationship. On several occasions he had witnessed the two of them engage in a giggling fit, as well as pulling faces behind the backs of some of the more pompous detectives on the squad.
Tommy and Barbara still had their regular pints at the local pub and he still enjoyed their close relationship, but he was beginning to notice Barbara as a woman and not just his partner. Her friendship with Zahra was having a good influence on her. Until Zahra came onto the scene, he, Winston and Stuart had really been Barbara's only friends. Obviously Zahra was good for Barbara's self-esteem.
Tommy had noticed lately that Barbara was paying more attention to her appearance. She had started wearing a little make-up. Even though she looked fine without any, he had to admit she really was very pretty with a little lipstick and mascara to accent those amazing eyes of hers. Her wardrobe had improved as well. He knew that she and Zahra did things together outside of work, and that made him happy, if not a little jealous.
His weekly reports to Hillier were very positive. For her benefit, he made sure that all of these commendable reports went into Barbara's file. Hillier also let Tommy know that he appreciated all the work that he and Barbara did in the last eight months to assimilate Zahra into the department. Overall, everyone was more than pleased.
Zahra bounced over to Barbara's desk. "Barbie, what are you doing this weekend?"
"What I do every weekend, a whole lot of nothing…why?"
"I was just wondering if you wanted to join Trevor and me for a night out. You might even want to invite DI Lynley along too. I think the two of you would enjoy what we have planned."
"And what exactly do you have planned, you're being awfully mysterious."
"Nothing big, just an evening out. Dinner and then onto a pub where Trevor's mate Duncan's band is playing. Trevor has been dying to meet DI Lynley after all the stories I've told him."
Barbara could just imagine. Zahra's boyfriend Trevor must be curious. Barbara had met him on several occasions, but she knew he had never met Zahra's boss, the legendary DI Lynley. It might be interesting to see the dynamics. Besides she and Tommy hadn't been hanging out as much as they used to, and she was missing him.
"Sounds like fun, I'll ask the boss if he wants to join us."
Tommy had gladly accepted Barbara's invitation to join Zahra and her boyfriend for the evening. The rules at the Met were not nearly as strict as they used to be. It was accepted that colleagues had relationships outside of work, just not romantic relationships.
Saturday night arrived and Tommy picked up Barbara at her flat. They met Zahra and Trevor at a trendy gastro pub in Notting Hill.
Tommy enjoyed the company and found Trevor a good match for Zahra, They were obviously very much in love. He noticed them gazing into each other's eyes, and even exchanging a few little pecks on the lips during dinner, but he was more interested in Barbara.
She looked beautiful tonight. He had made sure to tell her she looked lovely when he picked her up, but she had just tutt-tutted. She had on a pair of black jeans with a fitted emerald green silk blouse that accentuated her eyes perfectly. She was wearing a pair of strappy black high heels. Tommy wasn't used to seeing Barbara looking like this and he found himself having decidedly lascivious thoughts.
They had a lovely dinner with an excellent wine. They all enjoyed the lively conversation and company. After their coffee, Trevor looked at his watch and said it was about time to get going to the pub to see his friend's band.
Tommy insisted on paying the bill for his and Barbara's dinner. She was taken aback but didn't protest, she was having too much fun and didn't want to ruin it by arguing with Tommy. She smiled and thanked him.
The pub was close by, so they decided to leave the Bentley parked where it was and walk the few blocks to the pub.
Trevor's friend Duncan had saved them a table close to the stage. Tommy and Trevor seated the ladies and went to the bar to get their drinks.
"Oh Barb, I think that the fellows are getting along well. It's a little disconcerting to be out in a social situation with your boss, but DI Lynley is so much more relaxed and….oh what's the word I'm looking for…."normal" than he is at work. And he hasn't taken his eyes off you all night. That blouse we got for you on our last shopping trip was worth every penny. Your eyes look amazing tonight."
"Oh please" said Barbara. "I am having a good time. DI Lynley and I go out quite a bit, to dinner, movies and sometimes even a show in the West End. But this is a little different, it's almost like a double-date."
The two women had their heads together giggling when the men returned to their table with the drinks.
"What's the joke ladies?" asked Tommy.
"Nothing" they both chimed together….then there was more giggling.
Duncan's band was a traditional Irish group, they played a lot of old tunes, and a few newer ones. They were very good and Tommy was enjoying himself immensely.
After the first set break was over, Duncan took the microphone.
"Is everyone having a good time?" This was loud hooping and whistles from the crowd. "Good, glad to hear it. My best mate Trevor is in the house tonight with his lovely lady Zahra, and they've brought along two of Zahra's work mates. A little birdy told me that Zahra's mate Barbie was blessed with some heavenly pipes. I don't think it will take too much encouragement to get her up here to sing a few songs with us. Come on everyone, let's get Barbie on stage."
The crowd clapped and hollered loudly…."Barbie, Barbie, Barbie."
Ordinarily Barbara would have been mortified, but she had had enough gin and tonics to let her guard down…and besides she was having a great time.
Tommy placed his hand on her shoulder and smiled…"come on Barbara, I didn't know you could sing, I'd love to hear you,"
Barbara stood and walked up to the stage taking the microphone from Duncan. Thanks everyone. What would you like to hear Duncan?"
"Do you know The Auld Triangle?"
"Doesn't everyone?" shouted Barbara. The crowd whistled and shouted. The band started and Barbara sang out each verse in her pure soprano voice with the rest of the pub joining in on the choruses. Tommy was dumbfounded. Barbara's voice rang out strong and clear. His sergeant was full of surprises.
Barbara sang several more songs and ended with "The Parting Glass". The emotion in her voice brought tears to Tommy's eyes. Zahra watched him as he gazed at Barbara. She nudged Trevor in the side and inclined her head toward Tommy. Trevor looked over, smiled and nodded.
When Barbara returned to the table Tommy stared at her open mouthed…"I can't find the words….that was beautiful Barbara, you have the voice of an angel. I'm totally blown away."
Barbara blushed and smiled at Tommy. "I've never seen you speechless Sir, I like it."
After another round of drinks, Tommy rose from the table. "I think Barbara and I will take our leave now. We just don't have the stamina anymore you young folks do. It was very nice to meet you tonight Trevor. I would enjoy doing this again, I had a lovely time. I'll see you at work Monday Zahra. Good night to you both."
"Goodnight Sir" said Zahra. "We're glad you and Barbara came out with us tonight, thanks."
"No, thank you both. Barbara, are you ready to go?"
"Yes, I am getting a little tired, I haven't been out this late for a very long time. See you on Monday Zahra, and it was nice to see you again Trevor". Barbara leaned down and gave Zahra a peck on the cheek.
When they left the pub, Tommy took Barbara's arm and linked it through his as they walked back to the car.
"Trevor's a really great guy. He and Zahra seem very well suited, and they seem very much in love."
"Yes" said Barbara wistfully. She turned her face up to Tommy and smiled. Tommy squeezed her hand.
When they arrived at her flat, Tommy walked Barbara to her front door.
"I'm glad you asked me to come along tonight Barbara, I had a wonderful time, thank you for a lovely evening."
"You're welcome Sir, I'm glad you came too, I haven't had that much fun in a long time."
"Barbara, do you think you could call me Tommy? I think we've been partners and friends long enough for you to call me by my name."
"I'll try Sir, but it's going to be a hard habit to break."
Tommy smiled, bent down and gave her a kiss on the cheek…."Goodnight Barbara, sweet dreams."
"Thank you…and goodnight…..Tommy."
Tommy had a little more spring in his step on the way back to the Bentley.