I pulled up the long, circular driveway. A gorgeous Latin valet boy opened my car door and I went up the red carpeted walkway to the main entrance.
Two large, muscular men in dark glasses and suits, stood at the doors.
I showed them the jack of hearts, they smiled, opened the doors for me and I entered Paradise.
I was handed a glass of champagne as I stepped into the main ballroom.
Giant crystal chandeliers were suspended over the large wood dance floor. On one side was antique mirrors. On the other side, a long, well-stocked bar.
Some of the most powerful people in L.A. were there.
Men and women milled about, making million dollar deals. Politicians wheeled and dealed with business leaders. Former movie stars talked to producers about their big comeback.
Two more guards opened another set of doors and Richard walked in.
The room went quiet.
Richard spoke.
"My friends," he started. "For those of you who are new, welcome. For you old timers, I'm so glad you've come back."
The light from the chandeliers dimmed and music started playing.
"Ladies and Gentlemen," Richard said. "Welcome to the Jack of Hearts. Where your every fantasy, every desire shall be fulfilled. Let the evening commence."
I was living one of Hugo's blind items.
ITEM: What gym rat was having naked fun with a hot young box office champ?
In another room. ITEM: What former sixties sex kitten was having her hedge trimmed by some old hag? All to get a guest spot on some lame sit-com.
Over in the corner. ITEM: What young right-wing senator gave a whole new meaning to "pumping the flesh"?
I needed a break, so I went and found Richard.
He was watching two men going at it, through a two-way mirror.
He pointed to the one on the bottom.
"That's my Pat," he said. "Now, Gregory. About the job?"
"A thousand a night?" I asked. He nodded. What did I have to lose? "I'll do it."
"Good. One thing, I'd like to impress upon you about our business arrangement. You're not to talk to anybody about what you're doing for me. I'm sure I can rely on your utmost discretion."
Absolutely.
