A Reason for Living Part 6
Meeting Mr. Maxwell

"Hello darlin'." Marquis Welige called as he leaned around the open door.

Dorothy seized Marquis arm and hauled him into the office. "What in the hell are you doing here?" She lowered her voice then glanced anxiously up and down the hall before closing the door.

Marquis leaned back on Dorothy's desk. "It's all right no one saw me come in. I used the back stairs."

"I've had enough of your recklessness. What do you want?"

"I thought that you might like to take at look at this." Marquis announced, proudly producing a square silver box from his pocket.

Dorothy's eyes widened, "Are you insane! You know better than to bring that here." she snapped grabbing the box from his hand. "I said nothing was to leave the lab and I meant nothing."

"Relax, I know what I'm doing." Marquis declared as he rocked closer to Ms. Catalonia.

Dorothy's nose wrinkled in a disapproving manner. "I think the only thing you've been doing is drinking."

"Just celebrating. In a few days we're going to be richer than Khushrenada.

"Well, it's not a few days yet." Dorothy stated. She sat down behind her desk. "The transaction could still fall through. Between you waltzing around with the merchandise and Septum bringing in all kinds of scum, it could very well go sour."

Marquis rocked forward again then slapped a steadying hand on the desktop. "You worry too much. The way you set up this whole deal right under the boss's nose you could end up running the company then we would be sitting pretty."

Dorothy's bracelet hit against the box's side as she nervously turned it over in her hands. "I wouldn't use the term "we" too loosely. If you mess up any part of this deal, you and Septum will dance" she promised, "Do you understand?"

Suddenly more sober Marquis nodded "yes".

"Take this," Dorothy ordered shoving the box into Marquis' hand, "and get back to the lab."

Clutching the silver box Marquis weaved as he began to leave. His lips parted, no doubt to issue some smart-ass retort, but the words came to an abrupt halt as the office door opened.

Duo Maxwell peered in, "I'm sorry, I didn't know you were busy." he apologized.

"It's all right." Dorothy smiled as she quickly moved to place herself between Duo's line of sight and the mysterious box.

Duo caught a glimpse of silver just before Marquis dropped the box in his pocket. "I have work to do." Marquis stated cutting his eyes back at Dorothy.

Duo stepped aside. Marquis swaggered pass being sure to brush against Duo as he left. "One day," Duo thought to himself sidestepping a groping hand, "Welige's habit of touching is going to get him punched out."

When Ms. Catalonia and Mr. Maxwell were alone, Duo handed Dorothy a thick folder. "Here are the diagnostic reports on the system modification."

"Thank you."

Duo paused at the door. "Why were you and Welige so chummy? I thought you didn't have much use for him."

"I don't...it was nothing." she lied. Her reply was halting and choppy and Duo sensed nervousness in reaction to his simple question.

"We were discussing the minor details of a new project." Dorothy added as if her answer needed more creditable clarification.

Duo nodded, "I declare you're getting as jumpy as Welige."

"As Welige? I don't know what you mean."

"I was working late last night," Duo explained, "Welige was in the main computer room and when I came in to pull up a file he nearly jumped out of his skin."

"He never was too steady." Dorothy stated. The corner of her mouth quivered slightly, "Do you need anything else?"

"Not unless you want to tell me what Welige is up to with his late night prowling."

"I believe he's experimenting with several new concepts but none have reached the developmental stage."

Duo raised his eyebrows but said nothing more. The silence seemed to last forever. Then finally to Dorothy's relief, Duo moved into the hall. "I'll see you at the reception tonight."

As soon as Dorothy was sure that Duo had left she punched up a number on the outside telephone line. "Welige was here with one of the control boxes." she informed the person on the other end, "When he gets back there I want him watched and I mean closely." she ordered, "He's getting too damned cocky for his own good and if he persists with his insolent attitude I won't hesitate to make him disappear."

*********

"I hope this isn't going to become a habit." Ross laughed when he heard Heero's voice on the phone. "What do you need?"

"A car. The one I rented at the hotel is fine for cruising but I need something..."

"With more power and speed." Ross cut in.

"Yes, something like that."

"I'll see what I can do. Did you learn anything worth knowing at Khushrenada Electronics?"

"Not much but I did spot Mr. Maxwell as I was leaving. I don't have anything concrete to report but I do have an idea that might improve our information deficiency."

"You can fill me in when I deliver the car." Ross stated, "I'll be over in forty minutes."

*********

Heero's next call was to Khushrenada's complex. He made a polite request to the switchboard operator to please ring Mr. Maxwell's office.

Heero and Maxwell's exchange was brief and to the point. Heero introduced himself then stated that he might be engaging in a long term contract with Khushrenada Electronics and thought that it would be a good idea if he met with someone from the Development Division.

"After all," he stated, "If I should have any problems your division would be the place to call."

Mr. Maxwell agreed to meet Mr. Yuy later that afternoon for a drink at a cafe near the complex. "I will see you at 4:00." Heero confirmed.

Wufei looked up from the book he was reading entitled, "How to Grow Bonsai Trees". "So you're finally going to meet the mysterious Maxwell."

Heero put on his jacket and checked his appearance in the mirror. "Maybe by this evening there won't be any more mystery."

*********

Heero drove the BMW into the cafe's parking lot. Ross had really outdone himself in providing a car that met 01's power and speed requirements. His favorite mode of transportation was the Aston Martin but Une had not been so ready to issue another Martin since he had blown up the last one after a wild chase that ended at the Austrian border.

Being late afternoon only a few tables were occupied. Heero paused in the door sizing up the establishment out of habit. Mr. Maxwell was seated at a corner table looking handsome in slim black trousers and a red sweater.

"Mr. Maxwell, I'm Heero Yuy."

Maxwell stood and shook Heero's hand. "Please call me Duo, Mr. Maxwell is too formal."

Suddenly Heero found himself looking in to the most exquisite eyes he had ever seen. They were bright and expressive and the oddest shade of violet. Realizing that he was staring Heero reluctantly broke the spellbinding gaze. "Duo." he repeated as he took his seat.

Duo had already ordered a gin and tonic. Heero asked for whiskey. He was anxious to skip the polite chitchat and find out what he could about the man with the braid.

Heero began with a logical question. "How long have you been working for Khushrenada Electronics?"

"Just a few months in Switzerland but I have done consulting jobs for Mr. Khushrenada mostly in his Product Development Division."

"I would think in your position you would have firsthand knowledge of the latest projects." Heero stated, "Both public and private." he added then watched for any changes in Duo's expression.

"I don't believe I know what you mean." Duo answered coolly.

"I have always believed that it didn't hurt to be on the inside track."

Duo straightened in his seat. "Mr. Yuy if you have asked for this meeting to pump me about industrial secrets I'm afraid you've chosen the wrong person."

"It's nothing like that." Heero answered quickly hoping that he had not pushed too far, too fast. "I just like to know how a business is managed. I may be investing a large sum of money and I can't afford to be too far out of the loop."

"I can assure you, Mr. Yuy, that Khushrenada Electronics is a sound company. Any investment you make in our equipment will be profitable."

Heero smiled charmingly. "Do I have your personal promise on that?"

Duo nodded, "Mr. Khushrenada is associated with NASA in the United States and has an excellent working relationship with the Colonial Shuttle Line. His record speaks for itself."

Heero made another attempt to steer the conversation in the right direction. "What other types of contracts does Khushrenada have?"

Duo didn't seem inclined to share much information. "I really don't know. My position does not include those aspects of his contractual commitments."

*This conversation is going nowhere.* Heero thought. Was Duo deliberately being evasive or was he being truthful?

*Let's go another way.* Heero's inner voice advised.

"You work mainly out of Khushrenada's British Division yet spend quite a bit of time in Switzerland. I am willing to bet that he has a few new projects on the drawing board." Heero continued fishing for facts.

Duo paused a moment as if he was carefully choosing an appropriate response then locked his violet sight on his inquisitor. "My reasons for being in Switzerland are my own." he stated with sharp indignation ringing in his voice.

"You will have to excuse me." Duo pushed his chair back from the table. "If you have any further questions you may direct them to the main office."

As Heero watched Duo leave he considered his abrupt manner, the blunt way he had ended the conversation. "It seems I might have struck a nerve. There is definitely something worth learning about." he decided with certainty.

*********

Heero studied his reflection in the mirror and, for the second time, straightened his uncooperative bowtie. A black dinner jacket completed the outfit. He checked the Beretta's clip, placed the automatic in his left inside breast pocket then pinned a red carnation to the jacket's lapel for the perfect finishing touch.

Wufei stepped up beside his fellow spy. He had decided to forgo the "cookie cutter" formal evening fashion and opted for an Eastern styled jacket and pants in dark plum. "Are you sure I will be admitted?" he wondered as he combed out his ebony hair and tied it back in a ponytail.

"No one at the complex is going to care." Heero stated then frowned as the bowtie drooped to the right. "Damn tie, I hate these monkey suits."

"Let me see." Wufei took hold of the stubborn bowtie and with an expert twist of his wrist put it in exact horizontal alignment.

Heero leaned closer to the mirror and wiggled his shoulders, the tie stayed in place. "Is there anything you can't do?"

Wufei shrugged, "I haven't mastered astrophysics yet but I plan to as soon as we have a few days off."

*********

A line of chauffeured limousines and private cars inched their way to the front entrance of Khushrenada Electronics. Attendants efficiently opened doors, assisted the wealthy and influential guests then, with the same skillful ease, deposited the expensive vehicles in assorted parking areas.

Heero parked in a space near the door preferring that the BMW be in close proximity should a quick departure become necessary. He gave his name to the reception hostess and introduced Mr. Chang as his associate. Once inside the two agents split up to "work the room".

A jazz quartet set a light mood. Women attired to catch the attention of the crowd or to outdo a rival female hung on the arms of boring businessmen discussing profits and bottom lines.

Heero stood to one side sipping a glass of champagne. "Nearly all the players are present." he observed. Occasionally he would catch a trace of plum moving among the varied shades of evening gowns and the catering staff's white uniforms.

Treize Khushrenada made his way through the maze of people who were sharing conversations or feasting at the buffet table. He smoothly employed his captivating charms shaking hands, kissing the ladies and displaying his flair for aristocratic sophistication.

Khushrenada spotted Heero. "Herr Yuy. I am glad to see you again."

"I am honored by your invitation." Heero replied with a slight bow.

"Do you need anything, another drink or perhaps the company of a lovely lady?"

"Thank you but I am fine for now."

"If you change you mind please do not hesitate to partake of my hospitality" Khushrenada indicted with a sweep of his hand.

Heero was about to thank his host again when they were joined by a tall slender man sporting a loose ponytail of silvery hair that reached his waist. 01 immediately identified the newest player from the surveillance pictures supplied by Ross.

"Herr Yuy may I present Zechs Merquise.

*What is it with these men and long hair.* Heero thought to himself recalling Duo Maxwell's lengthy locks.

"Mr. Merquise." Heero nodded his acknowledgment.

Merquise slipped his arm around Khushrenada's shoulders and moved his mouth close to his ear. Heero couldn't make out many of the confidential words but something sounding like "mon chéri" was picked out over the din of music and voices.

The Altron Corporation CEO whispered something else then took a gulp of the alcohol-laced drink that was undoubtedly responsible for his relaxed inhibitions. In fact Heero got the impression that Merquise had been imbibing for quite some time.

Merquise redirected his attention to Herr Yuy and was none too discreet in his ogling. His sky blue eyes started at Heero's head then leisurely traveled down to take in all of his finer features. "I am delighted to meet you." he stated in slightly slurred words.

Cutting his eyes at Khushrenada, Merquise leaned forward until he was merely inches from Heero's face. "Are you alone?"

"My associate is here."

"'Do you and your associate mix business and pleasure?"

"No."

A sly smile played across Merquise's lips, "Then would you be interested in a ménage à trois?" he asked huskily cocking his head at Khushrenada.

Heero politely decline the lustful invitation. Merquise didn't bother to hide his disappointment. "Such a waste." He drank the last of his glass then winked at the German. "I'll see you later."

Khushrenada returned to mingling. A man wearing a Stetson and western boots who was puffing on a large, probably smelly, cigar had cornered Wufei. Shifting his vantage point Heero leaned against the wall and surveyed the room.

His observation centered on Merquise who had stopped at the bar for a refill. The Altron executive was absorbed in what appeared to be a tense exchange with a younger man.

Heero figured by their body language that the disagreement could have easily escalated into a physical altercation if the men had been in less public surroundings. Suddenly Merquise stabbed a finger in the other man's face then, with an irate gesture, broke off the heated discussion and stormed away.

"There is a strong undercurrent in here." Heero mumbled to himself. He finished his champagne and set the empty glass on a bronze planter.

Heero was about to change locations primarily to rescue Wufei from the stogie-smoking cowboy but also to monitor his German host when Duo Maxwell sauntered into the room.

A tailored pin-stripped suit accentuated his trim physique and a maroon turtleneck sweater had replaced the traditional white shirt and black bowtie. The overhead lights played over his hair bringing out shimmering highlights of cinnamon.

Duo's mood had lightened since he and Heero's earlier encounter at the cafe. He paused to shake hands with an elderly man in a conservative tuxedo and his twenty-something female companion who was decked out in enough gold and precious stones to warrant her own security guard.

Heero kept his place by the wall taking a moment to enjoy his view of the fascinating man with the braid. Duo stood sideways to Heero's vantage point. As he pivoted he must have caught a glimpse of Heero in his peripheral vision. Quickly Duo's head came around for a second look however he gave no outward sign of anything more than polite recognition of Mr. Yuy's presence.

Since no encouragement was forthcoming Heero decided to make the first move. "Good evening Mr. Maxwell." he smiled doing is best to warm Duo's aloof attitude.

"Mr. Yuy I didn't expect to see you here tonight."

"Last minute invitation."

"Are you still working on the inside track?" Duo wondered.

"I'm just having a look around." Heero answered in a matter-of-fact manner. "Mr. Khushrenada certainly has a large circle of colleagues."

Duo glanced around, "Not really. Most of these people were only invited because they have something that Khushrenada wants or they know how to get it. I bet he doesn't even remember half of their names. And what about you Mr. Yuy, why are you here?"

"Would you believe I was hoping to see you again?"

"No." The unyielding chill in Duo's voice was not thawing very fast.

Heero reckoned that he needed another approach if he was going to break through Duo's icy barrier. "I think that we started off wrong this afternoon." he stated sincerely, "What would you say to going somewhere quiet and talking out our differences?"

"I don't know..." Duo began then realized that Heero's attention had wandered. He redirected his sight to follow Heero's gaze.

Ms. Catalonia had arrived in a bedazzling evening dress of gold lame'. The formfitting gown's neckline plunged low to make sure that her ample anatomy was not hidden away. A diamond and ruby heart-shaped pendent hung from a golden chain long enough to call further attention to her considerable cleavage. Her blond hair was smoothed back in a French twist that enhanced her high cheekbones and showed off her matching diamond and ruby dangling earrings.

There was no doubt in Duo's mind what had distracted Mr. Yuy but his assumptions couldn't have been further off target. It was not Dorothy that held Heero's interest but her escort.

Heero's jaw tightened. Every nerve ending twitched like a hair trigger. "Septum!" he hissed under his breath. It took all of his control training to keep his hand outside his breast pocket and away from the Beretta.

Septum and Heero's last battle had ended in a steamy Bolivian jungle. The Bureau had lost two agents that day and Heero had lost two friends. If it had not been for Trowa Barton's saving intervention it would have been the end of 01 as well.

Heero had beaten death once more but it took nearly a month in hospital to cheat the Grim Reaper's claiming. A long ugly scar across Heero's chest, the produce of Septum's machete, was a constant reminder should he ever try to forget the pleasure that the assassin displayed as he stood over Agent 01 and watched him bleed out his life.

Heero wanted it finished between him and the merciless madman. Finished...one way or the other. But not there, not with so many innocent people. If he stayed, if Septum saw him, Heero knew from firsthand experience that Septum would not care who got in the way. The bloodier, the better, that was the vicious bastard's sick obsession.

"I suppose that we could..." Duo turned back to finish his sentence, "Mr. Yuy?" The place where Heero stood just moments before was vacant.

TBC...