by J.T. Siemens Published by CC&D Magazine “WHAT DO YOU mean you won’t be here?” Domenic asked into the phone, as he gazed out the window of the Caravelle Hotel in Saigon. “It’s freaking New Year’s Eve. I got us tickets for the rooftop shindig and everything.” “I’m sorry, Dommy,”…

by J.T. Siemens Published by CC&D Magazine THE RHODODENDRON SHRUBS parted and Henry stepped into the garden. “Come here often?” he said. Ruby jumped and stared at him with her giant horror-film eyes. “It’s three in the morning. How did you know I was here?” “I could smell your cigarette…

by J.T. Siemens Published by CC&D Magazine SITTING IN THE tiny Eastside room with about twenty or so other rough-faces, Vern took a sip of bad coffee from a Styrofoam cup, self-conscious of his shaking hand. When it was his turn, he said, “Vernon; alcoholic.” “Hi, Vernon!” chorused the group…

by J.T. Siemens Published by CC&D Magazine THE PEARL-COLORED MERCEDES convertible screeched around the corner. I wasn’t well placed, so I had to hustle for an authentic-looking hit. Luckily, the silver-haired driver was busy admiring his lovely blonde passenger, so he had no idea of my arrival until I was…