Warning: This story contains adult language, graphic violence, attempted
rape, attempted suicide, and sexually explicit themes. Reader's discretion
is advised.
Rating - R.
Disclaimer: I do not own Newsies or any of the Newsies characters. Apollonia, Giselle, Checkers, and other miscellaneous characters are all mine.
Chapter 25: Santa Fe, My Old Friend
Daybreak hit as the sky was lit up by the New Mexican sun. The city that means "Holy Faith" had finally welcomed them.
Jack's eyes opened up to the new vision that was New Mexico territory. What a sight it was! No skyscrapers, no factories, no smokestacks, no clotheslines running from building to building, no polluted air to inhale. This was it; a clean, crisp, picturesque setting for a young man and his love to start new lives together. His anticipation heightened as the train pulled into the station.
"Baby, baby, wake up. We're here!" He said as he softly nudged her as she still had her head leaning on his shoulder. Apollonia groggily woke up to the sight of a train station and the shine of the Santa Fe sun. Jack happily smiled as his eagerness to disembark the train intensified.
"This is it." He whispered. "We're here." He kissed the side of her head, giving a spark to her morning.
As they proceeded to get off the train, Jack looked around happily at his new environment. His heart was racing several beats a minute upon setting foot on the platform. He turned around to help Apollonia step down safely from the train. He then turned to the conductor.
"Excuse me, sir, but can you tell me what hotels are around here?"
"There are several hotels, but the one most people like to stay at is the La Fonda. If you take a coach, it should take you there in no time."
"Thanks." Uttered Jack. He and Apollonia looked around taking in the aura of the city.
He had never guessed that the people were so friendly, so kind. They just appeared to be pleasant and sociable. It was as if time stood still for these inhabitants and they were completely naïve about the atrocities of the world outside Santa Fe. Their lives seemed simple, yet satisfying.
After their arrival, they finally made their way to the La Fonda Hotel, a place with almost as much history as the city itself. Jack politely walked up to the desk where a middle-aged Mexican man was writing something in a ledger. As Jack approached the desk, the gentleman cordially looked up and acknowledged him.
"Uh, hello, there. Uh, I was wondering if there are any vacancies in dis place."
"Ah, a room, Señor? Yes, Señor. I will have your bags sent up right away." He cheerfully stated as he motioned to two teenage boys to gather Jack and Apollonia's belongings. In a far away corner stood a woman who was polishing a table in the parlor area of the hotel. She smiled and nodded at her as she kept up the fast pace of performing her duties. Apollonia joined Jack at his side as they followed the caretaker to their room. Upon entering their new, temporary domicile, Jack turned to the innkeeper.
"How long do you plan to stay, Señor?"
Jack ran his hand through his thick, brown hair. "Uh, a few weeks, I guess. As soon as I find a place ta stay permanently."
"Bueno. I will go back to the desk to figure out how much a month's stay will cost and you can pay at the end of it. Is that okay with you?" He said with his heavy Spanish accent.
"Yeah, that's fine. I'll see ya at da desk." The concierge then gestured to the two teens to leave the room. "I will have the maid come and bring you fresh water for your baths soon."
He left the couple in complete privacy. Apollonia eyed the room with wonderment. This certainly was a new experience for her. She looked around at the clean, mid-sized room in the large adobe hotel. A high, four-poster bed commanded the room. A beautiful Indian design on the bedspread was bright and colorful. She walked towards it, anticipating a good night's rest after spending several days sleeping on a train. She then looked over the rich, dark wood of a lady's dresser with a medium-sized mirror attached to it.
She quickly sprinted over to a large window set in the thick adobe wall to look out at the busy scene outside. She saw many people of varying types walking through the streets. Same as New York, but different from New York. She saw a young woman walking at a fast pace to keep up with her small child. She then took notice of an older woman, strolling in a brisk and dignified manner as she held her head high, her sheer, black mantilla adorning her head and shoulders. She smiled at the sight of such. She turned around to be met by a smiling Jack, who was standing in the middle of the room with his arms folded. She quickly walked up to him.
"We did it, baby. We're here." Jack reached down and sealed her tight within his arms, against his firm chest. He lifted her from the ground briefly in their close embrace. Releasing her, he looked down into her dark eyes, with a questioning in his.
"Are you happy that we did this?"
"As long as I'm with you, I will always be happy, Jack. You know that." They shared one, final hug before giving themselves a well-deserved rest.
~
Santa Fe was always a small but bustling trade city, but the influx of outsiders had made it somewhat more cosmopolitan. There were plenty of different types of people in the town, reminiscent of New York, but friendlier.
Several days after settling in, they made their plans to explore their new surroundings. They started up the narrow street, really more of an alley, toward the crowded market plaza. The couple made their way easily through the bazaar, taking a look at everything around them. Jack smiled happily, taking in the full Mexican flavor of this southwestern American city. The clean, crisp air, the smell of authentic Mexican food, the sounds of poncho- wearing men singing and conversing in the cantinas, the women buying and selling wares, the children running back and forth through the streets without a care in the world. These scenes were reminiscent of New York, but with a much more carefree and laid-back atmosphere. Apollonia was pleased with her experience and very pleased with the decision of coming to Santa Fe. She knew that Jack would not steer her wrong. And that this is what he wanted, including her.
The passed by a huge cantina, filled with men and women who were living their day in a carefree environment. Several brown-skinned Mexicans gawked at the new arrivals as they passed by. They especially took notice of Apollonia. One woman slapped her boyfriend for staring so hard at her. Further down the way, they came across a smaller saloon that had a number of women leaning out of the windows smiling and waving at the many passersby that strolled in front of the establishment. Based on the heavy makeup and lingerie the women were wearing, it was obvious what kind of business was conducted there. Jack quickly placed his arm around Apollonia's shoulders and held her close to him.
They came across dry goods stores, clothing stores, and other enterprises of trade. Ultimately, they came across a livery stable. A gangly, old man sat on a chair outside the place, gnawing on a wooden pipe. He appeared to be at least 50 years old and had wrinkly, leathery skin. His white hair stuck out beneath the black cowboy hat that sat on top of his head.
"He looks happy." Jack said as they passed by. He made a mental note to himself to visit the stable for a horse. He wanted to start plans on building his ranch as soon as possible. With the help of Apollonia's compensation money, he felt that they should not have any problems finding land. Apollonia received $5000 recompense from the Manhattan Steel Mill due to Spot's death. All surviving families of the men who died received such monies. She never touched it until she and Jack made the move to Santa Fe. She kept it in a strongbox for safe keeping in her bedroom closet. Only Giselle knew of its existence.
In the distance, a man was yelling loudly at something running away from him. "Pancho, Pancho! Come back here!" A long-haired collie ran right past them, holding a piece of dry meat in its mouth. Quickly closing in on the canine was a man approximately 30 years in age. He was running with all his might until he reached the dog, which stopped right in front of Apollonia and seemed to take a liking to her. She smiled as she reached down and petted the friendly canine that appeared to have an instant liking to her. He slowed down as he got closer to them. Jack and Apollonia smiled at the dog and its owner.
"This dog has caused me as much mischief as kid caught with his hand in the cookie jar!" Jack looked back at the dog, thinking to himself how much he wished he had a dog when he was a child.
"Well, you folks look like you're not from around here. The name's Tristan. Tristan McAllister." He said extending his hand.
"Jack Kelly. And this is my girlfriend, Apollonia."
"Mam." He said acknowledging her with a tip of the hat. "You two just arrived in Santa Fe?"
"Yeah, we've been here for a few days and we're trying ta get ta know da place as much as possible."
"Well, you've run into the right person. I know this place like the back of my hand. I can give you a tour of the city if you like."
Without opposition, the three made their way through the central plaza and down the streets of Santa Fe. Tristan told them everything they needed to know, from the most reputable businesses to the best cantinas. Jack took in everything his new acquaintance told him.
Tristan was a tall and strapping man, as tall as Jack. His long, light blonde hair stuck out from beneath his cowboy hat. Tristan was originally from Texas and learned how to operate a ranch from watching his father and brothers work on ranches. They primarily dealt with horses, sheep, and cattle. After years of training, he made the move to Santa Fe to own and operate his own dude ranch. He offered to assist Jack in showing him the ropes of being a cowboy, which Jack happily accepted.
After the exploration, the trio settled in a little Mexican bistro not far from the La Fonda. The New Mexican bar mirrored the many bars in New York, but with a southwestern flair. El Coyote was the place where some of the best Mexican dishes and best Tequila was served. They discussed in detail with Tristan their reasons for moving to the New Mexican territory. He seemed to be in awe of the both of them.
"So, do either of you speak Spanish?"
"Not me." Said Jack.
"I know a few things, but I know considerably more French than Spanish." Added Apollonia.
"No problem. I've been living here for eight years and Texas used to be part of Mexico, so I know enough to get by. I'll teach you a few things, Jack."
Jack took a sip of his Tequila that he was thoroughly enjoying. It was giving him a buzz that he hadn't had in a long time. He looked over at Apollonia who was casually dining on her enchiladas and sopapillas, smiling at the two. Tristan became instantly attached to the couple. He admired their spirit and determination to make the long trek from New York to Santa Fe together. He was a bachelor and, even though he has had his share of women, he always found himself scared of commitment. However, looking at Jack and Apollonia, he realized that commitment couldn't have been bad.
After a lengthy and eventful afternoon, the three decided that it was time to take a load off and retreat. Tristan walked with them back to the La Fonda hotel. Sighing heavily, Apollonia looked up at both men. "Well, I have had a lot of fun today, and I am in dire need of rest. Not to be rude, Jack, but do you mind if I go to the room and wash up before you?"
"Not at all, sweetie." She kissed Jack and turned to Tristan. "Well, Monsieur, I'm glad that we have gotten the opportunity to meet a veteran cowboy. You've certainly made Jack's day." She said winking at him. "It was my pleasure, Mamacita." He said as he kissed her hand. Jack just rolled his eyes, but not out of jealousy. He could tell that Tristan was a decent guy that wouldn't openly flirt with another man's woman right in front of him. At least, he seemed to give off that demeanor. After watching Apollonia depart, Tristan then turned back to Jack.
"Tell me something, Jack? How did a New York City guy like you manage to lasso a New Orleans beauty like that?"
"Magic." Jack replied slyly.
Apollonia had a wonderful time during her tour of the day. She sat down on the edge of the bed, with her head knocked back and eyes closed, she needed what would make her fully refreshed and revitalized - a hot bath. She heard a knock at the door, which slightly startled her. When she opened it, she was met by a young, teenage girl.
"Pardon me, Señorita, but Senor Vega wanted to know if you needed anything before retiring tonight?"
"Yes, towels and hot water. I am in dire need of a bath."
"Yes, Señorita, I will come back with towels and hot water pronto."
"Very good. What is your name, cherie?"
"Rosario, Señorita."
"Gracias, Rosario." Rosario smiled as she turned on her heel to retrieve the toiletries that were ordered.
Apollonia was grateful for the pretty, sweet-natured servant girl's presence. She felt very fortunate that she and Jack to attract nice and hospitable people. Shortly, thereafter, she began disrobing. The long dress that she had worn was a little too fancy to sport around in a place where the sun practically leaned on someone. However, the nights were rather cool and inviting. And snow would cover the southwestern ground in the fall and winter seasons like a blanket in a baby's crib. She heard the door open and shut while she continued to undress behind a sheer dressing screen. "Just put everything on the dresser for me, Rosario."
She was met with silence. She found it odd that Rosario didn't make any noise coming in with buckets of water, towels, and bath salts. She cautiously peeked from behind the screen only to discover that Rosario was not in the room. She didn't know what was going on. She screamed as she was met with the attack of tickling fingers on her half naked body by a mischievous Jack.
"Jack, I could kill you!"
Jack just laughed at her scolding him while she laughed continuously. He continued to tickle her until they were met by the Mexican maid that came into the room.
"Oh, hola, Rosario. Um, just put the towels on the bed."
"Yes, Señorita." She said as she smiled to herself at the hilarious escapades she had walked in on with the fun-loving couple.
After the tub was filled, Jack and Apollonia took a nice, long bath together. Amazingly enough, the tub was big enough to fit the two in nicely together. Completely wet and relaxed, Jack sat soaking in the bathtub with his darling.
It was satisfying.
~
Well-kept, terrifying, dangerous, colossal, inhibiting, silly, errant - all terms that could be used to describe the plethora of secrets upheld in New York City. In the scores of bars and dance halls that dominated Manhattan were the breeding grounds for violence and corruption. The smoke-filled bar was packed with wretches, losers, and other dregs of society wishing to drink their miseries away or plan their next criminal act. The bartender was kept busy as the pub's customers repeatedly asked for refills. The waitresses were equally occupied as they tried to bring their male clients drinks while trying not to be molested by the sexually-excited men in the bar.
Sitting at a large table, Snyder and his associates assembled together in the location of choice. Wainwright, Banner, and the others sat quietly as Snyder told them in detail what the strategy was.
Wainwright, a middle-class rogue, was Snyder's right-hand man who seemed to be the most educated of the group, next to Snyder. He occasionally was in cahoots with Banner, an extremely rugged, scruffy-looking man with one eye. He wore an eye patch over the area where his left eye should have been. They sat in the bar discussing matters of the dark heart which revolved around one word: revenge.
"Okay, Snyder, what's the deal? We don't have forever to set this plan into motion. We do have other "clients" that we are committed to."
"Keep your shirt on, Wainwright." Said Snyder. "You'll get your chance to go back to your life of selling yourself to the shady business owner who wants you to set fire to his competition's business or the next politician who wants you to knock off his opponent."
Wainwright just gave an impious smirk. Banner, sitting quietly, just looked on as the two skilled villains engaged themselves in a power struggle.
"Well, Snyder, it wasn't that easy trying to break into a bank and knock off a couple of night watchmen who couldn't guard a bank if God Himself gave them a sword and shield just to grab a few thousand dollars." Snyder only looked at him with a sinister glimmer in his eyes. He did not want to seem grateful to a career criminal for bribing city officials to release him from prison on the down low.
"Well, let's get down to business." Snyder said, leaning toward Wainwright as he interlaced his fingers on the table. "My business proposition deals with a certain young man by the name of Francis Sullivan. You may have heard of him."
"Can't say that I have."
"Well, let me give you a brief history. Francis Sullivan was a juvenile delinquent who was under my care in the House of Refuge years ago. He had a problem with authority and made several attempts to escape. In due time, he succeeded. I eventually found him in the streets watching a fight in front of a restaurant. He obviously obtained a job as a newsboy, given the number of newspapers he had under his arm. For weeks I tried capturing this fugitive, but I failed. At long last, he was detained at a newsboy rally and worked for Pulitzer for a short period of time. I thought that I had finally had the handsome son-of-a-bitch once and for all, but due to his rising popularity and ability to persuade the powers-that-be, it all backfired and I was incarcerated. I sat in a cement hellhole while that aberrant walked the streets freely. That is, until now."
Wainwright just looked at Snyder with a haughty grin. "So, this is about revenge. You want to kill the kid who had you jailed."
"Kill? No, I want him to suffer. Death is much to kind for him."
Wainwright puffed on his cigarette as Banner decided to enter the conversation. "We need details, Mr. Snyder. What this kid looks like, what's his background..."
Snyder looked over at Banner in disgust. He did not want to conduct business with a man who clearly was an enforcer and not a full-fledged leader like Wainwright. He had the muscle, but not the brains.
"These are the facts. His name is Sullivan. He has dark blonde hair, hazel eyes, tall, good-looking, has friends in and all around the city. I can obtain a picture of him from when he led the strike back in 1899. I'm quite sure he looks the same. He's probably bigger in body weight, but still unchanged in the face."
Wainwright and Banner nodded as Snyder eyed them. The other cronies were listening while they drank to their hearts' content and tried to flirt with the waitress who served them. One of them, the one with a beer belly, grabbed the wrist of the young woman as she served the drinks. "Hey, lady, why don't you and me go somewhere and have ourselves a little fun? How about a little jerk before work, huh?"
"If you want that type of fun, take a bath, you dirty filth!"
"Well if I have to bathe, then I'd rather do it to myself." She yelled as she wrenched free from his grasp. The men around the bar laughed as she stormed away from her molester.
The men varied in age and appearance. Rumill, a short, bleary-eyed roughneck, seemed to be the oldest. He appeared to be in his forties. Next to him was Walsh, a handsome blonde in his early thirties who delved into the world of unlawful activities when he hit his late teens. Next to him was Flynn, a red-head originally from Brooklyn who also had a thing for the criminal underworld. He and Brandt, a nice-looking, brown-haired rogue, made a living breaking and entering into wealthy houses in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the surrounding boroughs. Rape was also a favorite hobby for them. They settled in Manhattan after they raped the sister of a man in Harlem who almost caught and castrated them for their dirty deed. They hadn't been back since.
After a few moments of thought, Wainwright thought of the perfect solution. "Here's the deal. We'll help you find this Sullivan guy on the account that we do things my way. That is we go around town questioning who might know who he is and where to find him. Once we locate him, you can do whatever the hell it is you want to do with him. Sound alright?"
Snyder agreed with a tilt of the head. His day of vengeance was finally going to come to ahead. For years he sat in that wasteland of a buttress fantasizing on how he was going to payback Jack. He admitted to himself that would not have been satisfied with seeing Jack lying dead in a casket. He wanted Jack to suffer as much as he had, and more. There was no way in hell Snyder would let what happened to him go unpunished. He pictured himself strangling Jack, squeezing his neck until his vision blurred, his skin turned blue, and his breathing ceased. It was an exquisite dream for him. Killing ones enemies was a sin Snyder felt no remorse for. If he could go to heaven and ask for forgiveness, he would probably let that sin slide from heaven's ears. He had come too far in the ranks of authority to have some snot-nosed felon to take it all away from him within a matter of seconds on August 2, 1899. That date will forever burn in the mind of Nigel Snyder, the man who vowed to be the ruination of Jack Kelly.
Disclaimer: I do not own Newsies or any of the Newsies characters. Apollonia, Giselle, Checkers, and other miscellaneous characters are all mine.
Chapter 25: Santa Fe, My Old Friend
Daybreak hit as the sky was lit up by the New Mexican sun. The city that means "Holy Faith" had finally welcomed them.
Jack's eyes opened up to the new vision that was New Mexico territory. What a sight it was! No skyscrapers, no factories, no smokestacks, no clotheslines running from building to building, no polluted air to inhale. This was it; a clean, crisp, picturesque setting for a young man and his love to start new lives together. His anticipation heightened as the train pulled into the station.
"Baby, baby, wake up. We're here!" He said as he softly nudged her as she still had her head leaning on his shoulder. Apollonia groggily woke up to the sight of a train station and the shine of the Santa Fe sun. Jack happily smiled as his eagerness to disembark the train intensified.
"This is it." He whispered. "We're here." He kissed the side of her head, giving a spark to her morning.
As they proceeded to get off the train, Jack looked around happily at his new environment. His heart was racing several beats a minute upon setting foot on the platform. He turned around to help Apollonia step down safely from the train. He then turned to the conductor.
"Excuse me, sir, but can you tell me what hotels are around here?"
"There are several hotels, but the one most people like to stay at is the La Fonda. If you take a coach, it should take you there in no time."
"Thanks." Uttered Jack. He and Apollonia looked around taking in the aura of the city.
He had never guessed that the people were so friendly, so kind. They just appeared to be pleasant and sociable. It was as if time stood still for these inhabitants and they were completely naïve about the atrocities of the world outside Santa Fe. Their lives seemed simple, yet satisfying.
After their arrival, they finally made their way to the La Fonda Hotel, a place with almost as much history as the city itself. Jack politely walked up to the desk where a middle-aged Mexican man was writing something in a ledger. As Jack approached the desk, the gentleman cordially looked up and acknowledged him.
"Uh, hello, there. Uh, I was wondering if there are any vacancies in dis place."
"Ah, a room, Señor? Yes, Señor. I will have your bags sent up right away." He cheerfully stated as he motioned to two teenage boys to gather Jack and Apollonia's belongings. In a far away corner stood a woman who was polishing a table in the parlor area of the hotel. She smiled and nodded at her as she kept up the fast pace of performing her duties. Apollonia joined Jack at his side as they followed the caretaker to their room. Upon entering their new, temporary domicile, Jack turned to the innkeeper.
"How long do you plan to stay, Señor?"
Jack ran his hand through his thick, brown hair. "Uh, a few weeks, I guess. As soon as I find a place ta stay permanently."
"Bueno. I will go back to the desk to figure out how much a month's stay will cost and you can pay at the end of it. Is that okay with you?" He said with his heavy Spanish accent.
"Yeah, that's fine. I'll see ya at da desk." The concierge then gestured to the two teens to leave the room. "I will have the maid come and bring you fresh water for your baths soon."
He left the couple in complete privacy. Apollonia eyed the room with wonderment. This certainly was a new experience for her. She looked around at the clean, mid-sized room in the large adobe hotel. A high, four-poster bed commanded the room. A beautiful Indian design on the bedspread was bright and colorful. She walked towards it, anticipating a good night's rest after spending several days sleeping on a train. She then looked over the rich, dark wood of a lady's dresser with a medium-sized mirror attached to it.
She quickly sprinted over to a large window set in the thick adobe wall to look out at the busy scene outside. She saw many people of varying types walking through the streets. Same as New York, but different from New York. She saw a young woman walking at a fast pace to keep up with her small child. She then took notice of an older woman, strolling in a brisk and dignified manner as she held her head high, her sheer, black mantilla adorning her head and shoulders. She smiled at the sight of such. She turned around to be met by a smiling Jack, who was standing in the middle of the room with his arms folded. She quickly walked up to him.
"We did it, baby. We're here." Jack reached down and sealed her tight within his arms, against his firm chest. He lifted her from the ground briefly in their close embrace. Releasing her, he looked down into her dark eyes, with a questioning in his.
"Are you happy that we did this?"
"As long as I'm with you, I will always be happy, Jack. You know that." They shared one, final hug before giving themselves a well-deserved rest.
~
Santa Fe was always a small but bustling trade city, but the influx of outsiders had made it somewhat more cosmopolitan. There were plenty of different types of people in the town, reminiscent of New York, but friendlier.
Several days after settling in, they made their plans to explore their new surroundings. They started up the narrow street, really more of an alley, toward the crowded market plaza. The couple made their way easily through the bazaar, taking a look at everything around them. Jack smiled happily, taking in the full Mexican flavor of this southwestern American city. The clean, crisp air, the smell of authentic Mexican food, the sounds of poncho- wearing men singing and conversing in the cantinas, the women buying and selling wares, the children running back and forth through the streets without a care in the world. These scenes were reminiscent of New York, but with a much more carefree and laid-back atmosphere. Apollonia was pleased with her experience and very pleased with the decision of coming to Santa Fe. She knew that Jack would not steer her wrong. And that this is what he wanted, including her.
The passed by a huge cantina, filled with men and women who were living their day in a carefree environment. Several brown-skinned Mexicans gawked at the new arrivals as they passed by. They especially took notice of Apollonia. One woman slapped her boyfriend for staring so hard at her. Further down the way, they came across a smaller saloon that had a number of women leaning out of the windows smiling and waving at the many passersby that strolled in front of the establishment. Based on the heavy makeup and lingerie the women were wearing, it was obvious what kind of business was conducted there. Jack quickly placed his arm around Apollonia's shoulders and held her close to him.
They came across dry goods stores, clothing stores, and other enterprises of trade. Ultimately, they came across a livery stable. A gangly, old man sat on a chair outside the place, gnawing on a wooden pipe. He appeared to be at least 50 years old and had wrinkly, leathery skin. His white hair stuck out beneath the black cowboy hat that sat on top of his head.
"He looks happy." Jack said as they passed by. He made a mental note to himself to visit the stable for a horse. He wanted to start plans on building his ranch as soon as possible. With the help of Apollonia's compensation money, he felt that they should not have any problems finding land. Apollonia received $5000 recompense from the Manhattan Steel Mill due to Spot's death. All surviving families of the men who died received such monies. She never touched it until she and Jack made the move to Santa Fe. She kept it in a strongbox for safe keeping in her bedroom closet. Only Giselle knew of its existence.
In the distance, a man was yelling loudly at something running away from him. "Pancho, Pancho! Come back here!" A long-haired collie ran right past them, holding a piece of dry meat in its mouth. Quickly closing in on the canine was a man approximately 30 years in age. He was running with all his might until he reached the dog, which stopped right in front of Apollonia and seemed to take a liking to her. She smiled as she reached down and petted the friendly canine that appeared to have an instant liking to her. He slowed down as he got closer to them. Jack and Apollonia smiled at the dog and its owner.
"This dog has caused me as much mischief as kid caught with his hand in the cookie jar!" Jack looked back at the dog, thinking to himself how much he wished he had a dog when he was a child.
"Well, you folks look like you're not from around here. The name's Tristan. Tristan McAllister." He said extending his hand.
"Jack Kelly. And this is my girlfriend, Apollonia."
"Mam." He said acknowledging her with a tip of the hat. "You two just arrived in Santa Fe?"
"Yeah, we've been here for a few days and we're trying ta get ta know da place as much as possible."
"Well, you've run into the right person. I know this place like the back of my hand. I can give you a tour of the city if you like."
Without opposition, the three made their way through the central plaza and down the streets of Santa Fe. Tristan told them everything they needed to know, from the most reputable businesses to the best cantinas. Jack took in everything his new acquaintance told him.
Tristan was a tall and strapping man, as tall as Jack. His long, light blonde hair stuck out from beneath his cowboy hat. Tristan was originally from Texas and learned how to operate a ranch from watching his father and brothers work on ranches. They primarily dealt with horses, sheep, and cattle. After years of training, he made the move to Santa Fe to own and operate his own dude ranch. He offered to assist Jack in showing him the ropes of being a cowboy, which Jack happily accepted.
After the exploration, the trio settled in a little Mexican bistro not far from the La Fonda. The New Mexican bar mirrored the many bars in New York, but with a southwestern flair. El Coyote was the place where some of the best Mexican dishes and best Tequila was served. They discussed in detail with Tristan their reasons for moving to the New Mexican territory. He seemed to be in awe of the both of them.
"So, do either of you speak Spanish?"
"Not me." Said Jack.
"I know a few things, but I know considerably more French than Spanish." Added Apollonia.
"No problem. I've been living here for eight years and Texas used to be part of Mexico, so I know enough to get by. I'll teach you a few things, Jack."
Jack took a sip of his Tequila that he was thoroughly enjoying. It was giving him a buzz that he hadn't had in a long time. He looked over at Apollonia who was casually dining on her enchiladas and sopapillas, smiling at the two. Tristan became instantly attached to the couple. He admired their spirit and determination to make the long trek from New York to Santa Fe together. He was a bachelor and, even though he has had his share of women, he always found himself scared of commitment. However, looking at Jack and Apollonia, he realized that commitment couldn't have been bad.
After a lengthy and eventful afternoon, the three decided that it was time to take a load off and retreat. Tristan walked with them back to the La Fonda hotel. Sighing heavily, Apollonia looked up at both men. "Well, I have had a lot of fun today, and I am in dire need of rest. Not to be rude, Jack, but do you mind if I go to the room and wash up before you?"
"Not at all, sweetie." She kissed Jack and turned to Tristan. "Well, Monsieur, I'm glad that we have gotten the opportunity to meet a veteran cowboy. You've certainly made Jack's day." She said winking at him. "It was my pleasure, Mamacita." He said as he kissed her hand. Jack just rolled his eyes, but not out of jealousy. He could tell that Tristan was a decent guy that wouldn't openly flirt with another man's woman right in front of him. At least, he seemed to give off that demeanor. After watching Apollonia depart, Tristan then turned back to Jack.
"Tell me something, Jack? How did a New York City guy like you manage to lasso a New Orleans beauty like that?"
"Magic." Jack replied slyly.
Apollonia had a wonderful time during her tour of the day. She sat down on the edge of the bed, with her head knocked back and eyes closed, she needed what would make her fully refreshed and revitalized - a hot bath. She heard a knock at the door, which slightly startled her. When she opened it, she was met by a young, teenage girl.
"Pardon me, Señorita, but Senor Vega wanted to know if you needed anything before retiring tonight?"
"Yes, towels and hot water. I am in dire need of a bath."
"Yes, Señorita, I will come back with towels and hot water pronto."
"Very good. What is your name, cherie?"
"Rosario, Señorita."
"Gracias, Rosario." Rosario smiled as she turned on her heel to retrieve the toiletries that were ordered.
Apollonia was grateful for the pretty, sweet-natured servant girl's presence. She felt very fortunate that she and Jack to attract nice and hospitable people. Shortly, thereafter, she began disrobing. The long dress that she had worn was a little too fancy to sport around in a place where the sun practically leaned on someone. However, the nights were rather cool and inviting. And snow would cover the southwestern ground in the fall and winter seasons like a blanket in a baby's crib. She heard the door open and shut while she continued to undress behind a sheer dressing screen. "Just put everything on the dresser for me, Rosario."
She was met with silence. She found it odd that Rosario didn't make any noise coming in with buckets of water, towels, and bath salts. She cautiously peeked from behind the screen only to discover that Rosario was not in the room. She didn't know what was going on. She screamed as she was met with the attack of tickling fingers on her half naked body by a mischievous Jack.
"Jack, I could kill you!"
Jack just laughed at her scolding him while she laughed continuously. He continued to tickle her until they were met by the Mexican maid that came into the room.
"Oh, hola, Rosario. Um, just put the towels on the bed."
"Yes, Señorita." She said as she smiled to herself at the hilarious escapades she had walked in on with the fun-loving couple.
After the tub was filled, Jack and Apollonia took a nice, long bath together. Amazingly enough, the tub was big enough to fit the two in nicely together. Completely wet and relaxed, Jack sat soaking in the bathtub with his darling.
It was satisfying.
~
Well-kept, terrifying, dangerous, colossal, inhibiting, silly, errant - all terms that could be used to describe the plethora of secrets upheld in New York City. In the scores of bars and dance halls that dominated Manhattan were the breeding grounds for violence and corruption. The smoke-filled bar was packed with wretches, losers, and other dregs of society wishing to drink their miseries away or plan their next criminal act. The bartender was kept busy as the pub's customers repeatedly asked for refills. The waitresses were equally occupied as they tried to bring their male clients drinks while trying not to be molested by the sexually-excited men in the bar.
Sitting at a large table, Snyder and his associates assembled together in the location of choice. Wainwright, Banner, and the others sat quietly as Snyder told them in detail what the strategy was.
Wainwright, a middle-class rogue, was Snyder's right-hand man who seemed to be the most educated of the group, next to Snyder. He occasionally was in cahoots with Banner, an extremely rugged, scruffy-looking man with one eye. He wore an eye patch over the area where his left eye should have been. They sat in the bar discussing matters of the dark heart which revolved around one word: revenge.
"Okay, Snyder, what's the deal? We don't have forever to set this plan into motion. We do have other "clients" that we are committed to."
"Keep your shirt on, Wainwright." Said Snyder. "You'll get your chance to go back to your life of selling yourself to the shady business owner who wants you to set fire to his competition's business or the next politician who wants you to knock off his opponent."
Wainwright just gave an impious smirk. Banner, sitting quietly, just looked on as the two skilled villains engaged themselves in a power struggle.
"Well, Snyder, it wasn't that easy trying to break into a bank and knock off a couple of night watchmen who couldn't guard a bank if God Himself gave them a sword and shield just to grab a few thousand dollars." Snyder only looked at him with a sinister glimmer in his eyes. He did not want to seem grateful to a career criminal for bribing city officials to release him from prison on the down low.
"Well, let's get down to business." Snyder said, leaning toward Wainwright as he interlaced his fingers on the table. "My business proposition deals with a certain young man by the name of Francis Sullivan. You may have heard of him."
"Can't say that I have."
"Well, let me give you a brief history. Francis Sullivan was a juvenile delinquent who was under my care in the House of Refuge years ago. He had a problem with authority and made several attempts to escape. In due time, he succeeded. I eventually found him in the streets watching a fight in front of a restaurant. He obviously obtained a job as a newsboy, given the number of newspapers he had under his arm. For weeks I tried capturing this fugitive, but I failed. At long last, he was detained at a newsboy rally and worked for Pulitzer for a short period of time. I thought that I had finally had the handsome son-of-a-bitch once and for all, but due to his rising popularity and ability to persuade the powers-that-be, it all backfired and I was incarcerated. I sat in a cement hellhole while that aberrant walked the streets freely. That is, until now."
Wainwright just looked at Snyder with a haughty grin. "So, this is about revenge. You want to kill the kid who had you jailed."
"Kill? No, I want him to suffer. Death is much to kind for him."
Wainwright puffed on his cigarette as Banner decided to enter the conversation. "We need details, Mr. Snyder. What this kid looks like, what's his background..."
Snyder looked over at Banner in disgust. He did not want to conduct business with a man who clearly was an enforcer and not a full-fledged leader like Wainwright. He had the muscle, but not the brains.
"These are the facts. His name is Sullivan. He has dark blonde hair, hazel eyes, tall, good-looking, has friends in and all around the city. I can obtain a picture of him from when he led the strike back in 1899. I'm quite sure he looks the same. He's probably bigger in body weight, but still unchanged in the face."
Wainwright and Banner nodded as Snyder eyed them. The other cronies were listening while they drank to their hearts' content and tried to flirt with the waitress who served them. One of them, the one with a beer belly, grabbed the wrist of the young woman as she served the drinks. "Hey, lady, why don't you and me go somewhere and have ourselves a little fun? How about a little jerk before work, huh?"
"If you want that type of fun, take a bath, you dirty filth!"
"Well if I have to bathe, then I'd rather do it to myself." She yelled as she wrenched free from his grasp. The men around the bar laughed as she stormed away from her molester.
The men varied in age and appearance. Rumill, a short, bleary-eyed roughneck, seemed to be the oldest. He appeared to be in his forties. Next to him was Walsh, a handsome blonde in his early thirties who delved into the world of unlawful activities when he hit his late teens. Next to him was Flynn, a red-head originally from Brooklyn who also had a thing for the criminal underworld. He and Brandt, a nice-looking, brown-haired rogue, made a living breaking and entering into wealthy houses in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the surrounding boroughs. Rape was also a favorite hobby for them. They settled in Manhattan after they raped the sister of a man in Harlem who almost caught and castrated them for their dirty deed. They hadn't been back since.
After a few moments of thought, Wainwright thought of the perfect solution. "Here's the deal. We'll help you find this Sullivan guy on the account that we do things my way. That is we go around town questioning who might know who he is and where to find him. Once we locate him, you can do whatever the hell it is you want to do with him. Sound alright?"
Snyder agreed with a tilt of the head. His day of vengeance was finally going to come to ahead. For years he sat in that wasteland of a buttress fantasizing on how he was going to payback Jack. He admitted to himself that would not have been satisfied with seeing Jack lying dead in a casket. He wanted Jack to suffer as much as he had, and more. There was no way in hell Snyder would let what happened to him go unpunished. He pictured himself strangling Jack, squeezing his neck until his vision blurred, his skin turned blue, and his breathing ceased. It was an exquisite dream for him. Killing ones enemies was a sin Snyder felt no remorse for. If he could go to heaven and ask for forgiveness, he would probably let that sin slide from heaven's ears. He had come too far in the ranks of authority to have some snot-nosed felon to take it all away from him within a matter of seconds on August 2, 1899. That date will forever burn in the mind of Nigel Snyder, the man who vowed to be the ruination of Jack Kelly.
