Mafia Together

Tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear, I gathered the dirty dishes from the table along with my lousy tip. Trotting off toward the kitchen in a rush, I eyed the clock hanging over the register. Two more hours I thought and I'm outta here.

As I deposited the soiled dishes in the pan Pete yelled out to me. "Order up Gabriela".

Rushing to grab my customer's food, I skirted around the register and saw a group of young men enter. Rolling my eyes I pray they wouldn't be seated in my section. Guys like this flocked to Vegas, blew all their cash in the casinos, and laid up with prostitutes. Most would hit on me, talk vulgarly, and leave shitty tips if they left one at all. Then they left their table as if a team of toddlers had been eating.

I sighed in relief as my best friend Isabella set them elsewhere. Turning she gave me a wink and I mouthed a huge "Thank you".

I was born and raised on the outskirts of Vegas by both my parents. They were hard workers and provided well but college wasn't in the cards for me. After graduation, I headed to the city for a job which isn't hard to come by in the city of sin. With all the casinos, hotels, restaurants, and shows, there are jobs aplenty. I worked in a snazzy hamburger joint that boasted of grease and was home to the twelve-dollar burger. I've been here since I was eighteen and I'm twenty-two now. I eke out a decent living, have my pad and a decent enough used car. It gets me where I'm going.

Mostly I make killer tips, especially when the business executives pour in or the old, rich horny men. However, I have to indulge in their flirting and advances but I'm tough. I've only had a few that actually tried to grab at me but Pete quickly escorted them out.

Which I find it strange all these men hound me. I'm not that pretty, mostly I'm plain. My hair is wild and I'm too pale. Besides, I'm taken anyways. Yes, Jared and I have been together for almost two years now and plan on building a future together. He works the blackjack tables at one of the casinos.

I took my next customer's order and made my way to the back. Sticking the slip of paper in the spin dial, I gave it a quick turn as Pete called out. "Damn it, Gabriela, I've told you not to do that. The orders get out of line".

Winking, I sassed. "You still love me though".

Shaking his head he laughed. "Like one of my own".

Seeing that I had a moment to rest, I walked farther back where a table was set up for our breaks. Flopping down in the chair, I grabbed my water bottle as Isabella joined me. I fanned my arm as Isabella lit her cigarette and inhaled deeply. "You really should drop that habit".

Shrugging her shoulders, she exhaled. "Gotta die of something".

Knowing there was no need to argue, I closed my eyes for a mental break. "Hey, you coming with me tonight. I'm going to check out the scene at that new club".

Looking down at this ridiculous uniform we were made to wear I laughed. "Absolutely. I'm sure this blue checkered hoop dress will just dazzle, not to mention my cheeseburger perfume. Besides I've got to work the breakfast shift tomorrow so straight home for me".

"Damn it". Isabella stamped her foot. "I never get the breakfast shift. Your lucky. All the horny drunks wander in at night".

"Sorry babe". I chuckled as I got back up.

The remainder of my time sped by and I couldn't wait to get home. My feet were killing me and my bubble bath awaited. I had to walk a ways to my car, but it was a nice night. The parking lot was still full but no one was in sight. As I unlocked my car, I heard a moan as if someone was hurt. Dropping my bag onto my seat I listened for the sound again.

Thinking it was my imagination I started to get in my car then heard it again. Defiantly someone was in distress and I should help, but a tiny part of me kept replaying every horror film I'd seen in my mind. This could be a trick and someone is trying to lure me out. Against my better judgment, I followed the soft moans. They led me near the staircase. Slowly I peeked inside the corridor and gasped.

A young man in a fine suit was lying on the ground covered in blood. Falling to my knees beside him, I asked. "Are you okay?"

Instantly I felt stupid. Of course, he wasn't okay. "Okay, I'm calling for help now. You'll be fine, just hang tight."

As I waited for the ambulance his eyes cracked open. Even covered in blood it was obvious he was handsome. "What are you wearing? He asked in a slur. "You look like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz."

Gee, thanks buddy, I'm just saving your life and you're tossing insults at me. "You smell like cheeseburgers".

Okay, that was it. I should've just left him to die. I looked down at his beaten face and instantly felt bad for that thought. His dark eyes closed then and I grasped his hand trying to reassure him.

Finally, the ambulance roared up and everything was a blur. I quickly filled them in on how I found him. As they carted him off another paramedic took my info in case there were any questions.

Once at home, I couldn't put him out of my mind. Poor fellow, I hope he makes it. After my bath I phoned Fabio and told him about it and just as I suspected, he told me how stupid I was. That it could've been a setup or anything. I should've stayed in my car and phoned for help there. Geez, a little sympathy for the guy would've been great.

My mind trailed off as he lit into his usual banter.... magic. Yep, Fabio ran to Vegas from Kentucky in hopes of being the next Chris Angel. That's right, he's a struggling magician. I love him and try to support him but honestly, he just stinks at it. Occasionally he'll score a gig at a child's birthday party, and even those little angels stare at him in confusion.

Hearing enough about his latest attempt to break free from chains I yawned. "Sorry babe, but after working and then discovering that guy, I'm pooped. I need to sleep".

"Oh, okay. Are we still on for tomorrow night?"

Shit, I thought. He wanted to drag me to some lame bar where they were having stand-up. This was his chance to showcase his talent, or so he says. We go to these stand-up talent nights often and he never wins. "Sure". I said with fake enthusiasm.

After I hung up, I went to the kitchen and poured me a glass of cheap wine. I could use this after tonight. Sipping it generously, I nibbled on some cheese crackers.

I didn't sleep as well as I had hoped I would. That stranger's eyes haunted my dreams.

Waking up late, I made a mad dash to get ready. Pulling my frizzy hair back into a ponytail I slid into my work attire and rushed out the door. Firing my car up I flew from the parking area and heard a ding-ding. Inwardly groaning, I looked at my gas hand. Yep, right on E as always. Shit, just let me make it to work I mumbled aloud crossing my fingers.

An Angel must have been by my side because I did make it there with enough time to spare myself a coffee before the breakfast crowd came rolling in. "Jesus Gabriela, are you sick?'

Pete asked.

"Gee Pete, that's just another way to tell me that I look like shit this morning".

Grinning he replied. "You, never".

"And no I'm not sick". I snapped as I dribbled coffee along my blouse.

Dabbling my blouse with a clean dishcloth I punched in on the time clock. "You want to believe the night I had after I left here'. I called over my shoulder.

"What? Did Fabio finally make himself disappear?" Pete said sarcastically.

Turning to face him I retortPete in a tight voice. "Ha Ha, Pete, real funny, but no."

They didn't dislike Fabio but they didn't exactly like him either. They found him a bit odd and a smidgen on the dwebish side. In truth he is but we get along well for the most part. He's a boy stuck in a man's body. His passion is magic followed by comic books and superhero movies. Yes, he's a nerd of sorts and my friends seem to think I'm wasting my time with him. Okay, so he'd rather game all night instead of make love but I'm fine with that. He was my first so I have no others to compare his bedroom skills to and he is a bit on the whiney side but for now, I'm happy.

Continuing where I left off I said. "I possibly walked up on a murder".

That got Pete's attention. "What? Where?"

I explained how everything happened last night and that I didn't know if the guy had made it. "Damn Gabriela, you should try to park closer".

Shrugging my shoulders I placed my apron on over my clown got up and set forth to start my work day. My mind kept wandering back to the mysterious man and I couldn't help but want to know if he made it. My shift ended after lunch and I stopped by for some gas and then made my way home. My curiosity was getting the best of me and I caved. Showering the cheeseburger scent from me, I threw on a pair of jeans and a plain T-shirt. Slipping into my flip-flops I headed to the hospital.

Upon entering the sterile lobby, I made my way to the information desk. The receptionist looked up boringly at me. "Can I help you?"

"Umm... yes. A man was brought in last night in bad shape. He was found in a parking garage".

"His name please".

"Umm.. I don't exactly know it. I was the one who found him".

"One moment please".

I looked around aimlessly as she made a phone call. Putting the phone down she spoke in her nasal voice. "Seems the nurse would like to speak with you. Normally we don't allow visitors unless they are family. Go to the fourth-floor nurse's desk and ask for nurse Claire".

Nodding, I thanked her and went on my way. Thankfully the nurses' station wasn't too hard to find but I was met by another receptionist. "Hi, I need to see Nurse Claire".

Nodding she spun her chair around and nudged a plump, red-headed older lady. The lady rose and greeted me with a smile. "I assume you are the one who found our mystery man?".

Agreeing with her she continued. "I was hoping you could help us solve this case as to who he is. He was robbed because no identification was found on him. No wallet, no phone, not even a helpful note in a pocket. He is alive but in a coma. We have no next of kin to call and there's been no reports of a missing man that fits his description. I was hoping you may recall anything that could help us".

It was so sad. Here he was lying on possibly his death bed and no family knew his whereabouts. He could have a wife or kid and they'd never know. He's suffering alone and my heart broke for him. Recalling the events from last night I slowly shook my head. "Sorry no. He was moaning when I found him and was halfway coherent. He managed to insult my work uniform and that's about it".

Giving a sad smile she mumbled. "Such a sad situation".

"Will he survive?" I blurted out with more worry than I should have.

"Seems to me he will. Someone clobbered him over the head pretty good and he has a few stab wounds. His attacker assumed him dead and left him like that. Thankfully you came along when you did".

"M-May I see him?" I stuttered a bit uncomfortable.

"It's against the rules but I don't see what it could hurt. He needs somebody".

She pointed her stubby finger toward his room and I thanked her before scampering off. I slowly peeked into the room and saw his still figure lying on the bed. Stepping further in, I neared his bed. Even though the bruises and scrapes on his face, there was no mistake that he was a handsome man. He wasn't like Fabio that's for sure.

Fabio was very slim and did not do much working out where mystery man's muscles seemed to bulge just a bit beneath his hospital gown. He was a large, tall man. His jawline could have been etched from marble as prominent as it was. Fabio's was more rounded and baby-faced whereas mystery man had a bit of nicely shaped scruff. His skin seemed so smooth and nicely tanned. Fabio was white as a ghost with a smackling of freckles to go along with his reddish hair. Mystery Man's hair was dark as night and without thought, I reached out and brushed it from his forehead.

Retrieving my hand as if I'd been burnt, I started to back out. I needed to get home so I could prepare for my date with Fabio at this talent show. Really, would it kill him to take me out to a fancy dinner just once? I felt like screaming every time he brought up magic and I knew that's all he would discuss tonight.

After leaving the hospital I went home to get ready for Fabio. Deciding to wear a cute summery dress, I wore my hair down. Not like it mattered, Fabio couldn't care less if I wore a trash bag. He just didn't pay attention to how I cared for myself.

Hearing him honk his horn, I grabbed my bag and skipped out. I climbed into his compact car and glanced in the backseat. I saw the long black box meant for sawing people in half and groaned.

"I'm not doing that again Fabio. No way, no how".

Pushing his glasses up he laughed. "Oh come on Gabriela, I need you".

"Do you recall what happened the last time you used me as a part of the act?"

"Uhmmm..... I may have caught your dress on fire".

"No Fabio, you did. I had to practically get naked in front of your audience to keep from going up in flames".

He snickered. "It was an accident Gabriela. Just a minor slip up. Come on, I need your help tonight".

Groaning, I crossed my arms over my chest. "Fine". I gritted through my teeth.

"But you owe me. I want you to take me out on a real date".

"This is a real date".

"No Fabio, it's not. Take me to dinner, dancing, even a movie will do. Just one night without magic or discussing magic. Got it".

"Sheesh Gabriela. You didn't use to be this difficult. What's crawled up your ass?"

Rolling my eye I sigh. "Look, I get magic is your passion, even hobby, but it's time to start acting a little more grown. All you do is magic tricks, trade comic books with your superhero club and your place is always a wreck. Be responsible, that's all I'm asking".

"Geez Sandra, Gabriela. Must be your time of the month".

It was pointless. Fabio was hopeless. He will always remain a little boy, a child.

I helped him carry his magic equipment into the bar and managed to snag my dress in the process. What's worse is that I didn't even get so much as a thank you. It's not that Fabio is a jerk, it's just he lacks gentlemanly attributes. Honestly, he is sweet and has a contagious sense of humor. That's what attracted me to him in the first place. However, he lives in a cartoon-type world.

For once I'd like to be swept off my feet, surprised with a romantic night. Fabio's idea of romance is binge-watching Star Trek episodes while he explains to me every minor detail that may go overlooked by the normal viewer. Before it's midnight I'm already passed out on the couch from sheer boredom. Honestly, I don't think Fabio realizes he's doing anything wrong, he just doesn't know another way to be.

After we placed his belongings into a secure spot, I found us a table while he registered his act. While I waited for him to join me I surveyed the room and suddenly felt out of place in my cheap but stylish dress. Most everyone was dressed in dark glumy colors and I expected to hear one rattle off something by Shakespeare at any moment.

Fabio finally joined me after what seemed like forever. "Did you grab us a drink by the way?"

"Ah, shit. I got into conversation with a few other acts and it slipped my mind".

I waited to see if he'd offer to go get us a drink and when he continued to sit there I slid my chair back with enough force to cause it to screech on the floor. "No, Fabio. You just continue to sit there, I'll fetch the drinks".

My mood was quickly turning sour and I just wanted to go home. Upon returning, I sat the drinks down with a thud and Fabio glanced at me. "Damn chill out Gabriela. Look I'm sorry okay. You've been on a war path since I picked you up. What's up?"

Rolling my eyes, I motioned my hand around the bar. "This. I'm tired of always coming to these places and I don't like being your guinea pig in your tricks".

Leaning back in his chair he said with a hint of attitude. "Fine. I get it. If you'll at least pretend to enjoy yourself I'll take you to a movie next week. Will that satisfy you?"

I rolled the idea around in my head. Of course that would satisfy me but I felt like he was bribing me instead of asking me out. If I pretend to have fun he'll take me out??

I just as well take this deal while I can get it. I was about to say okay when he spoke. "There's a new sci-fi movie out I'd like to catch anyway".

Fucking I thought, but chose to remain quiet. Fabio was a lost cause, but at least it wasn't another magic show.

After a bit, I tried to strike up a conversation that didn't consist of pick a card, abracadabra, is that a quarter behind your ear mumbo jumbo. "So, you remember the guy I found in the stairwell?"

"Sure".

"Well, I wanted to know how he fared so I went to the hospital. Turns out he was mugged and is in a coma. They don't know who he is or anything about him. I feel so terrible for him and he seemed so alone in that room".

"Wait, you visited him?" Fabio asked in his high-pitched voice.

"Well yea, I mean he's in a coma after all and the nurse was glad I came, but I was of no help".

"Gabriela you shouldn't have gone there. For all you know, it could have been a drug deal gone bad or anything. There could be people watching him and you'll get yourself mixed up in some daytime television drama mess".

Taking a sip of beer, I laughed. "Don't be so serious Fabio. This isn't some true crime story you watch on the tube. I'm sure he's just an average guy who was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Besides, I felt like it was my duty to check up on him".

"Your duty Gabriela. No, you have to check up on me, not some random guy in a coma".

"Jesus Fabio, the man is in a C. O. M. A. It's not like we went out. What kind of a person would I be if I didn't at least make sure he is well?"

"The kind that minds their own business Gabriela. Well now you know his condition so there's no need to follow up again".

Gosh, he could be such an uncaring asshole at times. Would it kill him to at least show a fragment of compassion?

As I was in deep thought he nudged my arm. "Okay, we're up next".

Inwardly groaning, I rose and followed him to the back. I listened to him rattle off the routine to me for the thousandth time as I mentally prepared myself for the humiliation that was sure to come. Cheese and crackers, how did I get myself into this?