Painted Black by Greg Kihn Page B

cigarette? The way he stands? That’s him for sure. That son of a bitch busted me between shows! I was out in the alley and I had just lit a joint, and here comes this big asshole with his stripper chick. He sees me and wants to impress her. Next thing I know, I’m in handcuffs and spending the night in jail.”
    Spangler pushed his hat back, and Clovis got a better look.
    â€œSee? That’s him! He’s got a tattoo on the back of his hand.”
    â€œWhat’s his name again?”
    â€œHis name is Bruce Spangler. I’d know that face anywhere. If an American narc is involved in the Redlands bust, you know something is rotten somewhere.”
    Brian had been watching over their shoulders.
    â€œWouldn’t you know it? That’s Nobby Pilcher standing next to him.”
    They all crowded around the TV.
    Anita said, “The News of the World ’s favorite detective sergeant.”
    â€œThe bastard,” Brian mumbled.
    Brian seemed on the verge of a nervous fit. His breathing had become rapid and shallow. His asthma flared. Sweat bloomed on his forehead. He twitched.
    Clovis said, “If those two have joined forces, it’s gonna be a very bad scene, man.”
    Brian rasped, “I must be next. We’ve got to get out of here.”
    Bobby tried to be the voice of reason.
    â€œBut where can you go?”
    The telephone rang, jarring them back to reality. When Brian and Anita made no move to pick it up, Bobby acted as valet.
    â€œHello?”
    The voice on the other end was instantly recognizable with its thick Scouse accent.
    â€œDust Bin Bob? What are you doing at Brian’s house answering the phone like a common career girl?”
    Bobby recoiled.
    â€œJohn? Is that you?”
    John Lennon’s voice could be incredibly funny at times, especially when he delivered his deadpan punch lines.
    â€œNo, it’s the Duke of Prunes, Dusty. I’m just checking to see if Brian’s getting enough fiber.”
    â€œI just happened to be standing here next to the phone. Brian and Anita are packing.”
    John cleared his throat.
    â€œGood, because it’s you I want to talk to. Thanks for hanging out with Brian. He hates to be alone and he’s too trusting of people. The cops are on the warpath lately. It’s a recipe for disaster. If he should get busted and go to jail, he’ll freak out. I believe he’s actually capable of suicide.”
    Bobby interrupted. “John, I understand, but really, I can’t be his minder twenty-four hours a day. I have my own life. Remember, as soon as the strike is over, I’m flying to Baltimore to be with my wife and son.”
    John waited a beat. “Please keep an eye on Brian while you’re still here. I sense something terrible is coming. Do it as favor to me.”
    Bobby let the words sink in.
    â€œI will. But I won’t be around much longer.”
    â€œMaybe Clovis could keep an eye on Brian after you’re gone. Everybody loves Clovis.”
    â€œWhy don’t you ask him? He’s standing right next to me.”
    â€œJolly good! Let me talk to him.”
    Bobby handed Clovis the phone.
    â€œIt’s John Lennon.”
    Clovis smiled and took the phone, half expecting it to be a joke. “There’s three words I thought I’d never hear.”
    He brought he phone to his mouth and pressed the earpiece against his head. “What’s up, Johnny?”
    John’s accent left no doubt.
    â€œWhen Dust Bin Bob goes back to Baltimore, would you keep an eye on Brian for me?”
    â€œSure, man. No problemo.”
    â€œYou saw what happened at Redlands. Let’s make sure it doesn’t happen to Brian.”
    â€œWill do.”
    â€œConsiderate it a personal favor to me.”
    â€œYou got it, pardner.”
    Clovis hung up and looked at Bobby.
    â€œEasy as pie, see?”
    â€œI hope you didn’t bite off more than you can chew just now. This