G is for Gypsy

G is for Gypsy

“As was his habit and his discreet pleasure when in Sydney, Senator Wittaya Keawwanna entered The Lotus Suite at 10pm accompanied by his minder, the ever reliable and intimidating looking Gypsy. After a long day of meetings and public appearances, he needed to unwind. The madame smiled her million dollar smile and pretended not to recognize her distinguished guest. Gypsy paid the woman one hundred and fifty dollars in cash as Wittaya started down the hall. On reaching its terminus, he turned left and climbed a set of creaky stairs which were decorated with rich red carpet. At the top of the stairs stood Wittaya’s appointment.

‘Hi Amy,’ he said as he neared her petite frame and strained to inhale her perfume. She wore a sheer black Babydoll over a red fishnet bodystocking. As alluring as her attire was, Wittaya focused on her pretty face and returned her smile. When he reached her on the landing, she took his hand and led him into a room. Gypsy followed to the top of the stairs where he would remain vigilant until the Senator’s appointment was over. Wittaya nodded at Gypsy who reciprocated.”

–from chapter 9, Ashmore Grief

Ever since I saw The Bodyguard, (four times before it left the cinema and countless times since), I have marveled at the imagery the film provides of a man who is dedicated solely, and obsessively to the one he is employed to protect. Costner’s character, Frank Farmer, has no life outside of his work. He lives to protect others. Farmer would happily die to save his employer because duty is all he knows. I find the whole idea of bodyguards intriguing.

In Ashmore Grief, Gypsy is a vague, shadowy character and is intended to be so. He’s very important to Senator Wittaya Keawwanna, but not of major significance to the overall narrative. He provides security for the Senator, and occasionally acts as a monolithic sounding board. His loyalty to his boss is invaluable.

Bodyguards are for the rich, famous and powerful, and for those with enemies, or overzealous and insane fans. Ordinary folk like you and I don’t need bodyguards. The thing is, I want be a rich and famous who writes books that everybody talks about. Maybe I will need a bodyguard, one day. 

Would you like a personal bodyguard?