Chapter 115
Authors note. Thanks for the Email, I just needed a little break, but more is coming
As Tom lead Nic back to his suite near the wheel house. He was both nervous and excited. It had been a while since he had been with another man in an intimate setting, rather than a fool around outdoors or at a cruising spot. Tom was never one to really open up or allow himself to be in such an exposed environment. For him, he was letting Nic in to his personal world. One that was made up of work and sleep. Distractions never helped, and certainly not with someone that worked for him.
It was this part that was playing heavily on Tom's mind as they entered his cabin.
"Would you like a drink" Tom offered as he poured himself a whiskey from his bar.
"That would be nice, whatever you're having will be fine" Nic replied as he made himself comfortable on the sofa.
For Nic's part, physically he was attracted the older man before him, but he could sense the awkwardness in the room from the moment he entered. He knew he was in no danger, but instincts told him that he needed to play it cool, and just see where it would lead.
As Tom handed the younger guy a drink, he sat on the only available space left. The sofa next to Nic. Nic could feel the electricity spark between the two of them as their legs brushed as Tom sat. This bought a slight smile to his face.
"So how long have you being crewing" Tom asked Nic in a way to break the ice.
"I started on decks 3 years ago, and moved to steward last year. I prefer the indoors on a boat, you get to know your guests more. But out on the deck, I enjoy ll the manual work as well"
"Keeps you fitter" Tom said as an after thought
"yeah, it does, but I hated working in the rain Nic joked.
"Fair enough, that makes sense. Have you always wanted to do this?"
"From an early age. Either this or airlines, but this gave me the ability to do both. Plus I am a water baby. I always grew up swimming"
"Yeah, I can tell that," said Tom as he reached across and squeezed Nic's bicep.
"What about you? Always done this?"
"Yeah, I left school and joined the Navy, once I left shore behind, I knew it was the right decision. I have just followed my passion ever since."
"I thought you were married when we met"
"I was once, long story, but my attraction to men outweighed my attraction to women, so we separated. It was pretty messy, but I don't blame her. She wanted kids etc. I couldn't see me being honest, or faithful with her."
"Sad, but I understand. Some guys just know from the start, others later in life"
It was this comment that drew the older man closer to the younger lad as they chatted for the next 20mins.
Tom was relaxed, maybe the wine with dinner, or the 3 whiskeys he had had since they returned to his cabin, but he knew the time was right to make his move.
Reaching across he placed his hand on the nape of Nic's neck, before drawing him in for their first kiss, a kiss like neither had experienced before. Tender, warm, passionate, gentle yet firm. It lead to Tom grabbing his younger guest by the hand and leading him through to his bedroom and gently laying him on the bed.
As new lovers often experience, the exploring of ones body can be exhilarating. This was no exception as Tom stripped Nic down to his jocks, and Tom dropped his clothes to the same.
Touching and feeling, exploring and kissing, the two were entwined in this ritual for a good 40mins before Nic's youth took over and he went down to reveal the hard veiny cock that was between Toms legs.
Taking him in his mouth the salty taste of the mans precum was evident, and as Nic worked harder, the more that appeared making him wet in his own pants. With one hand, Nic removed his own, to show Tom his beautiful 7' of youth and inviting him to touch the man where ever he wanted. Tom reached down and lifted Nic up so their two cocks were rubbing against each other causing a friction so hot, both were on fire.
As Tom pulled Nic closer and harder, Nic could feel his lover explode between them, leaving them both wet and totally satisfied.
"You are amazing" Tom said out loud. "I have never cum like that before.
"I hope you aren't done yet, I still have a fire in my belly" said nick as he slid down licking up the juices that Tom had left behind.
"kiss me, I want to taste my cum in your mouth, Tom instructed as Nic slid back up, leading to more kissing and Tom stroking Nic's cock.
As Tom could feel his own manhood rising more, he grabbed Nic and sat him directly on top of his large organ, and started to rub at the entrance to his hole.
"I want to be in you" Tom said as reached to his top draw and grabbed some lube that was stashed there for his nightly jerk off sessions. As Tom lathered Nic's hole, he inserted a finger and found that his lover was tight. Tighter tan any other he had experienced.
Opening Nic's hole took time and Tom was in no rush. As he felt the moment right, he held his cock as he guided it in to the younger mans warm opening. The warmth and tightness was incredible and as Tom start to thrust forward the young buck let out a deep moan showing his appreciation.
As Nic rocked back and forth on Tom's meat, Tom was trying to stroke Nic, to bring him to climax.
"No babe, not yet, I am enjoying this too much. Please, let me stay here forever"
"Baby, I am about to unload in you, you have got me so horny"
As Nic released his hand, and allowed Tom to take over, the younger man shot his hot white seed over his lover's chest, and as soon as Tom witnessed this he grabbed Nic by the hips and unloaded his second, equally as big load, deep in Nic's arse.
As Nic rolled of Tom, his head found its way to the crook of Toms arm pit. The masculine smell made Nic feel comfortable and safe, as Tom pulled Nic in closer, they were both amazed at how good sex was.
"That was amazing, you are amazing," said Tom, kissing the younger man's head.
"I hate to say this, but you were the best man I have ever made love to. Not just hooked up with. But the reality is, I need to get downstairs before someone see's me."
"Why, is that a problem for you?" Tom asked.
"No, but I know your rules."
"Some times rules are meant to be broken" Tom said as he pulled Nic in tighter, not wanting to let go.
As they cuddled in to one another the both drifted off to sleep, only to be disturbed by Tom's 5am alarm clock.
The night had been perfect.
Chapter 116
As the yacht crept away from the island paradise, I awoke to familiar hum of the engines heading up to full throttle. I was feeling good within myself as I down to the galley to see if I could Russell up some breakfast. Our chef was one step ahead as he pushed me out to sit at the salon, which I did via the trusted coffee machine. As I was making myself a coffee one of the girls on crew pushed me aside to finish it for me.
"Morning Grant, hope you slept well" She commented a little too cherry for 7am.
"I am great, but even better once I get some coffee into me"
"I will do it, go have a seat"
"Could you please take one up to Jackson for me too. Tell him to get his lazy arse out of bed"
She laughed as I walked off and out on t the aft deck to bask in the sun that was up and shining so beautifully this morning.
As the jagged small islands of the region stood out of the aqua sea, I was in love with this region all again, and I knew we would return soon. It held a special place in both mine and Jacksons hearts.
It wasn't long before Michael joined me on the deck holding a mug in his hands.
"Ok if I join you, boss" he said.
"Oh, course. Everything ok?"
"Just a rough night. Some days are better than others. Last night was a shit"
"Sorry to hear that. How about I tee up Cath for an hour or so just to check in with you"
"That would be good. I'm probably overdue for chat"
"You know you are very special to both of us. You more or less have free reign with whatever you want, just organise these things. You certainly don't need my permission."
"Can I say something without you going all soft on me" he said, with a slight tear in his eye.
"You know you can."
`You and Jackson are the like the dad's I always wanted, but probably more so like the dad's I always needed. I love you guys so much; I am scared some days that I will wake up and you will be gone"
I embraced the big hulk in my arms and gave him the hug he needed. As much as he always put on the bravado when others were around, when it was just me, it was a different story.
"I will promise you this. Regardless of whatever you decide to in life, you have got us forever. And I mean that. Never think we aren't here. But, I would rather you never left, and that way I can keep an eye on you"
"Love you boss."
"Love you to big boy. Does this mean we can't have sexy time anymore"
"I fucking hope not, I love being naked with you both."
"How' Karl doing, everything OK between you two."
"Yep, perfect. I really do love him, and he loves me. Every night when I go to sleep next to him, I go to sleep with a smile on my face. Even if we don't have sex"
"That's love buddy. Pure love"
"I thought so, I've never felt it before."
Again, I hugged him as Jackson appeared shirtless on the deck.
"Morning my handsome men" he said, noticing the tear in Michael's eye.
"Hey what's with the tears big fella"
"He's just had a rough night" I said stopping Jackson from asking more.
"Need a hug" Jackson asked
"Always daddy" Michael said laughing.
Walking in to grab breakfast, Sam rang with the news we were waiting for. 60 Minutes had agreed to a sit down with Jackson and I to talk about us, and what our plans were going forward, where we see ourselves globally and the work we were doing in communities, and the minorities were assisting. It was scheduled to film in Sydney, and we would have final production approval, and the journalist of our choice. They had offered everything we had wanted, and we settled on Liz Hayes, a popular female 60 minutes host who we had watched for years, but more so, she was a friend of Jo's from some time she spent in the European bureau, and we knew, it was who he would want.
After explaining everything to Jackson, he was still solidly on board, even though in these matters he would let me take the lead alone. This was something that he wouldn't us to do together. And for that I was grateful. The producers were working with Sam on some footage of the Villa, a few shots of the girls, footage from Belize and Puerto Rico, Germany, New York. We have about 3-4weeks before we shot in Sydney, so enough time for us to prepare.
Sam was going to fly out for it, as the plane would be needed to fly us back anyway. It made sense.
"Bring James I told him, I miss the old bugger" I said hanging up the phone.
As the day went by we passed by Penang in Malaysia and it was late at night when we were placed in to a hold off the coast of Singapore. The port was full and some boats were late leaving. Sitting off the coast of Singapore is like sitting in a sea of lights as container ships and oil tankers all take their place to unload and collect goods to take around the globe. Having flown over this sight, being amongst it was equally as exciting,
I called it a night around midnight, having spent the best part of the day either in the pool or on the deck. I was rocking a killer tan, and as usual, Jackson was glowing bronze as he did 90% of the year.
Chapter 117
Nic had spent the night again with Tom, as the two become intimately acquainted with one another. Tom was enjoying having the touch of a man next to him, and Nic, for his part, was falling head over heels for the older guy, and his ruggedly handsome appearance. In many ways they shared a lot of similar interests, and had a good chemistry together. Word got out after the first night that Nic had had a sleepover with Captain Tom, but, due to Toms position, it was only mentioned by the crew with the most secrecy.
"I feel so comfortable here with you. You make me feel so good about myself" Tom expressed after another hour's long session of touching and kissing. "I cannot get enough of you."
"It is pretty mutual Tom. I feel so safe in your arms, it feels like nothing can hurt me once the door closes"
`Good, because I'm glad you are here. I can't promise what tomorrow will bring, but just remember, my feelings for you are growing every minute of every day. I even called the 1st officer Nic today, before correcting myself. Your name is at the top of my mind every minute of every day"
"I just did my work with a hard on" Nic said to show his way of appreciation towards Tom.
"Of course you did. You're young. You're a walking hard on" Tom laughed.
On the other side of the world in New York, Jules and Marcus had their first major argument, mainly due to Jules out of control hormones and the type of wedding cake to have at the wedding. To any outsider watching, they would have been encouraging Marcus to run fast from Bridezilla, but as Corey relayed the story, it involved Vanilla Frosting, Chocolate Gateau and the use of cherries.
"Boss, I had to dive in and save the poor bugger. It was lunch time, Jules was hungry and no matter what Marcus said, he wasn't going to survive with out my intervention"
I was laughing as he relayed the story. I tried to talk to the girls detail daily, as a way of making sure they were safe, and getting the correct answers to my questions, with out the bullshit, especially Maggie, was known to add to fabricate something. Poor Sally on the other hand was full time chasing Maggie around Campus, and making sure she was safe.
Knowing that those I cared deeply about were safe and doing well, it gave me a level of comfort and security I needed these days. These daily check ins were more for me, than for others, and I rarely discussed them with others, including Jackson, although I know he would ring the girls once a day, if not more.
As we laid in bed, we held each other, kissed, spoke about plans, buying a home in Australia, should we have purchased the house in the Caymans, Jacksons plans for New York, and where I thought I fitted in now, after stepping away from the day to day running.
I wasn't scared, or daunted for that matter. At a moments I could bog myself down in a myriad of projects, but for now that was not on the radar. Maybe it would change when we returned to reality, but for now enjoying the human lying next to me was all that mattered.
As we drifted off to sleep, the reality that our life was less than ordinary, rang truer than it ever had before.
Being woken by Nic in the morning with coffee was great. I could tell by his radiant smile that he was happy beyond belief. The grin across his face was evident to those a mile away. It was good to see as I really thought he was a nice guy.
"You certainly look happy with yourself" I said as I was waking up.
"Sure am. He's such a wonderful guy. Just taking it slow at the moment, and getting to know him. He's never had a relationship with a guy, and I think it kind of has him confused a bit. I'm just going at his pace"
"And what about you." I asked curiously
"Yeah, I have fallen for him big time" He said honestly
"Promise me you'll be careful. I don't want to see either of you hurt, or loose either of you" I cautioned.
"It's good. Baby steps for now, but damn, he can do sex well" He laughed.
"That's because it has probably been so long" I laughed, waking Jackson in the process.
"Can you fuckers shut up, PLEASE"
"Get up grumpy, we have docked and are only here til 6pm. I want to go ashore, I want to go to universal studios and be a kid"
"ARGH, fine, let me shower" He said dragging his naked frame to the bathroom, with his morning wood protruding out in front of him
Nic, couldn't resist as Jackson passed by and reached out and squeezed his cock.
"Looking mighty fine there this morning Jackson" Nic chuffed
"Hey, go play with your mans cock. Mine is about to explode if I don't piss right now"
"Ohhh Watersports ha, kinky bastard" Nic gave back a quick retort
"If only you knew just how much" Jackson smiled as he playfully swatted the younger mans hand away as he made his way to the bathroom.
"Nic, can you see if Karl and Michael are up for me, I don't want them to miss out."
"they are up, dressed & ready, Grant" came Nic's swift reply
"Are you working today?" I asked him
"No, I am off, just thought I'd bring you coffee."
"Tell Tom that I have told you both to join us"
"Sorry Grant, neither of us can. We have a full fuel refill today, and then provisions load this afternoon. It's one of those days where work takes a priority."
"Fair enough. I'm sure we will have fun together soon. I need to see Tom later anyway, find out what his plans are after Sydney"
"I already have a fair idea. He's having some engine servicing done in Sydney when we arrive, and depending on how long that takes, we are cruising back via Tahiti, Panama and through the Caribbean towards Europe"
"Oh, look at you with all the inside information" I laughed at the young guys knowledge.
"And Tom told me I am welcome to stay in his cabin for as long as I am comfortable, and we don't have to have sex, just cuddles will be nice"
"Well, aren't you moving up in the world. I guess it beats using the smaller room downstairs."
"I'd offer you the VIP Suite on the main deck, but I am sure Tom prefers his own permanent suite. It's a fair size from memory."
"huge, and the king size bed is super comfy, plus he has sitting room, kitchenette, Bathroom, everything we need, and he is a bit of a control freak and it's next to the wheelhouse"
"Fair call. Alright, I better go get this beast out of the shower, otherwise we will never get moving"
Walking in to the bathroom Jackson was just hoping out of the shower. As I jumped in he gave a playful whack to my bare bum cheeks.
"You're still as sexy as the day I met you" Jackson said
"Your eyes are failing" I replied. "Now go get dressed and get on deck, the boys are waiting"
Joining the three others as we hopped off the Yacht, I suggest we catch the metro for a change.
"Boss, I'm not too sure. You know I can't really protect you on my own if something happens."
"I know, but let's live a little' I said smiling.
As we walked to the train, I could see Michael was over analysing the situation at hand. I was just blending in with the thousands of other tourists that had docked at the same time as us on a cruise ship.
As we headed out to Universal Studio's for some fun, we past the usual hawker food stands that make up a special part of Singapore. Jackson wanted to stop at everyone along the way and sample just about everything on offer, but after limiting him to 3, we finally made our way.
We hadn't been here for years and felt like kids as we rode the rollercoasters and other rides, taking crazy photos and eating junk food. Michael had to discretely get rid of some people taking photos, but it wasn't enough to spoil our day. Afterwards a ride on the Sentosa cable car was in order to the hill fort, and then back to the yacht, as we were time poor and needed to clear the dock at the allotted time.
Our next leg took us towards Indonesia and past Bali, before touching Australian soil in the northern port of Darwin to clear customs. It would be the first time I had set food on Australian soil since the death of my adopted mother, and I will admit to it being with some mixed emotions.
For Jackson, he had not been back since we had left 14 months prior, and a lot had changed since then. For one thing, he was about to be mobbed by local paparazzi who we knew were tracking our vessel down the east coast, for the three days it would take to arrive in Sydney.
It gave us time to prepare, exit holiday mode, and to a certain degree, return to life of watching what we did, and where we did it, knowing these low life stalkers would be following our every step.
On the last night before we arrived, I organised a dinner/party for all crew to join us and to thank them for their great service during our extended stay. Whilst I would be sad to be leaving, I also knew that our stay had been long, and I was getting a little cabin fever being on the yacht, regardless of its size.
Lots of drinking and eating and music went through to the early hours of the morning, and I could tell Tom was thankful for allowing the crew to let there hair down. Whilst they would be in hotels in Sydney for a few weeks whilst the servicing was being done, we really wouldn't see them as much as we had over the past 6 weeks.
I grabbed some private time with Tom, and we chatted about a lot. He was really going to put everything in to making a relationship happen with Nic, and from what Nic had said, he was looking at the same thing. In fact, Tom had asked Nic to move up to his Suite. I offered Tom the much larger VIP suite on the mid deck, and whilst he didn't say no, he would think about it.
"Even if it is only until you get back to Europe, the extra space with the two of you would be good" I said encouraging him to accept the offer.
"You're probably right, but I will still think on it" he said in his own way of not being rushed.
Finally hitting the bed around 2am, drunk and exhausted, we both passed out, only to be woken a couple hours later by crew telling us Tom needed us in the wheel house.
"I thought you'd like to be up here as we cruise through the iconic Sydney Heads" Tom said as the sun was slowly creeping up behind us.
"Oy my god, it is a spectacular vista. It's enough to make me home sick" I said as the early morning Ferries had already started darting about.
As we rounded Bradly head, in front of us lay the famous Harbour Bridge, and the world wonder, Sydney Opera House. The sun was hitting them both perfectly as tug pulled up besides us to take us in to the Overseas Passenger terminal located in Circular Quay.
We could see so many people lining the shore as the worlds largest private Yacht was manoeuvred into position against the dock, and her navy hull the same colour as the water she sat in.
For both Jackson and I it was extremely an emotional homecoming. He looked each other with teary eyes as I rested my head on his shoulder and he placed his arm around my wasit.
"It feels strange, but good to be back" he said to no one in particular.
He was right. Sydney would be always our home, even if we didn't live here. Everything about this city was us. Tolerant, excepting, clean, vibrant & young.
As we started to disembark, I hugged Nic. "You take care of yourself young man, and if you need me, call me. There are big things ahead for you" I said as we left the yacht
We had booked some suites at the Park Hyatt on the harbour front, a couple of hundred meters from where the Yacht was moored, and the rooms were stunning. They overlooked the harbour and the Opera House with the Bridge sitting above us, just out of sight. It would have to be the most premium of hotels in Sydney and home to rock stars, royalty & Actors on their trips to Sydney. It was a dream to always stay here, but could only dream as the nightly rate was way out of league, until now.
"We have a busy day ahead' I said to Michael, Karl and Jackson as we were sitting having a coffee.
"The van to collect us will be here in about 20 mins. You have meetings with a couple of agents to view some properties, then dinner at Bondi Beach tonight with some friends" Michael added as a way of letting me know he was in control and he had everything organised.
"OK, apparently you're in charge again" I laughed at him.
"If you and Jackson want to go alone, I'm more than happy to just play the tourist if you want, rather than intrude"
"No, some aspects of the properties we are looking at will require both of your inputs, hence why I asked you both along. Plus Romeo here would never let me off the leash even if I tried"
"You got that right boss. Just remember the `Oslo Orgy'. I know what you get upto."
I laughed with a little embarrassment at his comment before Jackson spoke up.
"After dinner I was thinking of hitting the bath houses up on Oxford Street, wanna come"
"Yeah, to break both your legs and drag you home" Michael said as he laughed
"Fair call." Jackson said.
"Happy for you to play discretely, but two things. I need to know about it, and I need an invite" Michael replied with quick wit before I almost spat my coffee out.
As we walked out of the hotel, the media presence was nuts. It was fucking intrusive and Michael shielded Jackson and I away and in to the van. Flash bulbs were going off and people were shoving microphones in our faces. It was not what was expected, but in saying that, our arrival was on the morning news programs. You can't really hide 190m long superyacht in a place like Sydney Harbour.
Slamming the door shut, Michael let out a sigh. "Fuck me boss. This is insane. They are like vultures" He said surprised by the interest.
"Welcome to Australian tabloid media. Second only to the scum in the UK." I said with no irony intended.
Michael spoke to the driver and gave him the first address of where we were heading. As we headed across town the Eastern Suburbs, Sydney's premium real estate hot spot, we past many places so familiar to us, in a way it felt surreal. Driving past our old suburb was particularly difficult but we knew our little place in Darlinghurst would be well loved by the tenants who were living there, who were actually friends.
The first house we looked at, was OK. But it was the Agent that gave me the shits.
"Michael, get him away from me before I lose my shit, and then get me out of this house," I said discretely before moving on to the next.
The second place was stunning, west facing, harbour front, the view going down the middle of the water and beyond the bridge. Absolutely the best location you could imagine. I was in love until we realised that only 4 bedrooms and smaller kitchen and living space would not suit our needs.
"Love it, perfect location, spectacular view, but just too small" I said to the agent.
"What about something 3 times the size, with a ballroom, new build, 12 car garage, tennis court, 9 bedrooms with ensuite, pool, 2 kitchens including a commercial grade one?"
"I'd say I would want to see it"
"Technically it is not on the market, but the owner, a media mogul, who only recently built it, is currently divorcing and is looking to off load it, if my sources are correct."
"And where is this place" I asked intrigued by the agents rundown.
"Come with me" he said as we walked out the front door of the house.
"Right there in front of you" he said point to the property across the road set in to the hillside of Sydney's exclusive Vaucluse neighbourhood.
"Wholly fuck. That is stunning" Jackson said. "Look at those trees, and the gardens. The high fences, everything."
"Do you think you can get us in?" I asked the agent, one of Sydney's oldest and most respected Agents, who I had read so much about.
"Can you give me half hour or so?" He asked
"How about we go and grab some lunch and give us a call when you know something"
"Sounds like a plan." He said as he hopped in to his new shiny BMW and left us to carry on with a media that was still following us.
We headed down to Doyles Seafood in Watsons Bay for lunch, which was regarded as the home of Seafood in Sydney. We'd been here many times over the years for special events, and we were pleased to return again after sometime.
The Manager recognised us straight away and took us upstairs on to the balcony to both enjoy the view, but ensure our privacy. Something that he was rewarded for as I left him a handsome tip on our departure.
Being back in Sydney bought back a lot of good memories and feelings. It was our life. For 50 years I had embraced this city and after exposure to other places I realised it was not only a great place to live, but a safer place than many other corners of the world.
As I was looking out over the harbour, the agent phoned us back. The seller was still interested in selling, but only at the right price, and we could inspect the property in an hour. This gave Jackson a sudden smile.
"I want that house" he exclaimed "I need that house" he then joked.
"Bub, we will go and look, but regardless of our wealth, we need to be mindful"
"Mindful of what" he said. It was a fair point. Who knew, it become a house that one of the girls choose to live in. It may become somewhere I want to retire in. Who knows what tomorrow brings.
After lunch and arriving back at the house, the agent, who was surely rubbing his hands together thinking of the commission he could make, arrived behind us.
"So good to see you again" he started. "The house is furnished, but has been vacant for 4 months, so please, it may be a little musty from being locked up." Giving us the heads up.
After he entered the code on to the gate, it swung back to reveal a paradise of well-maintained gardens, the like I had never known existed in Sydney before. There were paths leading off in every direction, and a centre water feature that lay between the gate and front door.
Approaching the front door, he entered another code, and as the front door opened, lying before us was a gun barrel view straight down the famed harbour, past the Opera House, and under the bridge, following the Parramatta River to her start. In all my life I had never seen such a spectacular view of my home town, as I was experiencing now.
"It is simply breathtaking. I am blown away by its beauty" I said as Jackson squeezed my hand.
"Honey, I am speechless" he said as we both stood in awe of what was before us. The Villa was beautiful and classical in many aspects, New York was charmed in its own New York way. The Cayman Islands house was fun and tropical. This was above them all. The size, the beauty, the outlook, the sophistication of it all. I was stood transfixed in the one place for seemed an eternity.
"Mr Von Garbner" I heard the agent say, bringing me back to the now.
"Sorry, the view just took it out of me" I replied.
"All good, it has that effect. So down here to the right we have the first of 4 reception rooms" he started as we walked the property.
After an hour, we finished with the ballroom, located on a basement level, with a separate entry from a different street. The 12 car garage was also located down here, along with a catering kitchen. The amazing thing about this space, was that the roof top was a spectacular English garden that the Master suite looked down on.
"Give me a number' I said to the agent, not playing any games.
"$80m is what he is seeking"
"$75m, close the deal whilst I am in the country, all cash transfer. Please, make it happen"
"Oh, I wasn't expecting this so soon. I will ring Mr Packer's office as soon as I can and get back to you"
"Thank you. We appreciate your time. It is a beautiful property"
Jackson stood there with his jaw on the ground. "now now honey, you're starting to drool" I said as I walked past.
"Be mindful you said. Let's be cautious you said" came his response.
"OK, do you want me to withdraw our offer?
"Like hell I do. I am just stunned by it's beauty."
Karl and Michael were both overcome by the beauty of the place too, but, were also surprised that this had happened so fast.
"Hey Jackson, I was with him when the bought the plane. This reminds me of this episode" Michael said as he laughed at me impulsiveness.
"True that. I forgot you were there with him"
"Yeah, sometimes I just laugh" he said as he started to laugh out loud.
"All right, let's go shower and change for dinner. I can't wait to see everyone tonight. It has been too long"
Chapter 118
Jackson had arranged for a dinner at the Bondi Icebergs Club for 30 friends for tonight. We had not seen so many for a while, and some we had seen when we cruised together last year at Jacksons birthday. Between the two of us, Jackson was the better social Secretary and I left it all to him to arrange. He had organised the function room so prying eyes would be away from us, and also giving us the windows overlooking the ocean. It was going to be a great night to reminisce about years gone by, catch everyone up on our lives, and also to hear about their lives. More importantly, my best mate would be there who we hadn't seen in a year, and I was feeling guilty about it. Although I had offered to fly him over, our schedules just never aligned.
Ross meant the world to me in many ways. The girls adored him and he and Jackson often had dinner together when I was away with my work. He was a giant beer drinking, karaoke signing, bear of a man that could bring the house down with his antics. He'd always remained single, normally by choice, and I guess many would call him a loner in some ways, but he always knew we were family and he was a part of us. Christmas, birthdays, Easter. You could find him at our little house being the centre attention. I often wished he would settle down with a great guy. But, so far it had alluded him. The guys he normally went for were half his age and full of dramas, but the stories he'd tell me about them, would leaving with tears of laughter falling out of my eyes.
As the four of us arrived at the dinner, we had managed to slip the main media barrage that was following us everywhere today. Trying to give them the slip was the worst part of having this wealth, but The Club had security on standby that ensured our safety inside, and unless they'd cut the wire fencing at the side, there was no way they could see in. I felt safe knowing that this was where we were.
As we entered, half our friends had already arrived, which was really handy, as we were weren't overwhelmed by everyone at once. Hugs, Kisses, cuddles were flowing everywhere, and also introducing Michael and Karl. Some of our friends took an immediate shine to Michael, for which I put a "Off Limits" sign on him. His presence was certainly noticeable, and only next to Jackson did he not appear a giant.
Ross arrived and looked straight at me across the room, and like a parting of the Red Sea, he made his way across the room to us both and hugging us with tears in his eyes.
"You had to make a fucking entrance, didn't you" I said as I hugged him tight.
"Of course, Darling. You needed to know I was here."
"I've missed you so much big fella. Now go get me a drink!" I said laughing.
As we all arrived and were chatting and drinking and catching up, we were called in for dinner, leading us all in to the main dining area. The food was delightful and the wine flowed freely, something that was a familiar sight to our own dinner table that all of these people had sat around at some time. It was so good to move around the table talking with everyone, and whilst this wouldn't be the last time, I saw most of them this visit, it would be the only time I was guessing that we'd all be together.
As dessert was being served, I decided to give a speech of some sort to thank everyone for coming. As I picked up my fork and glass to get everyone's attention, the room hushed.
"Fuck it is good to be back here. Jackson and I really miss you all, and the friendships we have formed with you all over the years." I started off, feeling a little emotional as I looked at our friends. Looking at Jackson across the table, I could see he was feeling the same.
"The good news is, we have placed an offer on a house here, and intend to be spending a lot more time here than we have the last 15months. Sydney is our home, and we have missed it. I didn't actually realise until ............."
That was the last word I remembered before hearing screams and blacking out, as chaos broke out around me everywhere.
Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Was all I could hear. My eyes were shut, but the room seemed light. My lids were too heavy to lift, and whilst I could hear voices in the distance, I couldn't make out who they were or what they were saying.
Nothing was making sense, as I lost consciousness again, and drifted off back into the black.
"Grant, are you there. Hello, we need you to wake up" I could hear as my hand was being squeezed.
"No. Jackson. Where are we." Was all I could muster.
"You're at St Vincent's Hospital. You have been shot. I just need you to stay still and just try and open your eyes for me" the female voice said to me in a soothing way.
As I struggled to open my eyes, the weight of my lids keeping them down, were soon met with a male's hand forcing them open and shining a light in to each eye.
"Come on, you can do it" said the male voice.
As I finally forced my eyes open, I could see that I was wired up, breathing tubes in, and at the end of the bed a police officer stood guard.
"Where's Jackson, where is Michael." I said as I was starting to freak out and get wound up from the action happening around me.
"I need you to lay still for me. Mr Von Garbner is out side, and he can come in once we do some tests" The nurse said.
"What happened."
"You received to bullet wounds to the back, once just missing your heart, the other piercing your lung. Now I need you to lay still and let me do some tests, please"
It was surreal being here, I was so used to being the one looking after everyone else, but not now. Now it was me being looked after, and I was scared.
As the time pressed on, the Dr and nurse finished up their tests. And as the Dr looked at me he gave a stern warning.
"We still need to operate again. You have shrapnel in your abdomen that can cause infection, and also more damage to your lung. For now, we need to stabilise you, and that means little to minimal moving. Can you please promise me that?"
"Yeah, I guess so"
"And it is ok if you fall back to sleep. That is the morphine you are on. Just up ok"
"Thanks" I said as I could feel my eyes slowing closing.
As I slept, around me the world was moving fast. Michael had spoken with James. James was heading down under with Chris, 2 newbie detail, Sam and of course Jules and Marcus, who insisted on coming with Corey. Maggie had been alerted, but due to time and distance, she would make her way out over the next few days, as the smaller Jet had to refuel in Hawaii on its way out.
Jackson was a mess, and sat at the hospital with Ross, whilst Karl stayed with him, incase there was anything he needed. Michael had to return to the hotel to make plans, and whilst it had hit him personally, he had switched in to work mode to make sure I was being protected.
Around 4 hours after the incident had occurred, and all the relevant people in the business had been notified, Johan authorised a press release, that thanked the local police and first responders for their fast and speedy action.
Police had also released a statement saying that a 52-year-old Australian Man had been shot, and that the shooter had yet to be identified, and all international ports of entry and exit were being monitored. It was all they had, but knowing my people, I knew they would be already engaging people to find out what had happened.
I awoke sometime later to hand in my own. I could feel a pulse through the figures as it held me tight. There was no noise or voices except for the machines going off in the background.
As I opened my lids, I could see Jackson holding me tight, not letting go.
"bubba" I spoke as best I could.
"Shhhh. Don't try to speak my love" He said as he looked at me, tears forming in his eyes.
I just looked at him as tears started to leave my eyes, and I knew we were both on the same page.
I had been in hospital 4 days. I had been in surgery twice. They had removed everything they need to remove, and now they were playing a wait and see to find out how I would recover before charting the next course forward.
"The girls are here. They are outside. You can only see one person at a time, and Michael is not letting anyone on this floor of the hospital at the moment. He has us locked down, much to the dislike of the Hospital security" he said with a slight grin on his face.
I tried to nod my head, but realised I could hardly move. The weight of my body keeping me firmly pinned to the bed.
"Let me go get a nurse. They need to know when you wake" He said as he slipped out of the room.
I could see Michael out of the corner of my eye, and with my hand I gestured him over. As he approached the bed, I could see that he was struggling with me being in bed & injured. It was more than a boss/employee relationship.
"Don't go get shot again boss. It scares the fuck out of me" he said as he reached out for my hand.
I tried to garner a smile, and I think he could see in my eyes that I appreciated his words.
As we held hands, Jackson returned with a nurse, and this made Michael stiffen up and walk back to his point on the door.
"Hey sleepy head" she said as she approached me. `How about we take this tube out of your throat ha" as she turned to Jackson to just step out whilst she did so. The process was quick and painless, and she attached an oxygen tube to my nose she smiled down on me. "that should make you more comfortable. Don't try talking too much, your throat will be raspy and dry, but I will get you some ice" she said as she threw back the curtain to a waiting Jackson.
"And how about you go and get some sleep. You have been here 4 days. You need a shower and bed. He is going to be ok"
Jackson smiled and squeezed the nurses arm as she went to grab me some ice.
"You need sleep bubba" I said for the first time in days. It hurt like hell, but seeing how tired he looked, I needed to get him some rest. Signalling Michael over to the other side of the bed I bought him closer so I could whisper.
"Get him home to bed, and carry him if you have too." They both laughed.
"I'll leave once I know you are comfortable and the girls have seen you. How does that sound." I nodded in agreement, as he left the room to go and get the girls. First up was Jules. And as she looked at me, I could tell she was stressed.
"No tears, be strong, you got my grandbabies to look after" Was all I could muster. She looked at me with an endearing smile, and I could tell that she was turning in to an amazing individual. She hugged me and kissed me before leaving to get Maggie.
"And they reckon New York has a gun problem. Well shit me, Dad, I guess you got unlucky" she laughed in her carefree way.
"You ok Dad, you kind of scared the shit out of me. Please stop doing this crazy stuff"
I could only smile at my youngest's take on everything, and how she was so down to earth,
"I think I might catch up with friends whilst I am here" She said as if nothing had happened.
"We will see about that, Miss Maggie" came Michaels stern voice from behind her.
"OK Lerch. I'll let you off with that one cause I love you like a brother" came her witty retort which bought a smile to Michaels face.
"So you need anything dad? Water, sweets, flowers, lung?" her humour was never lost on me, and knowing that this was her way of dealing with everything, always amazed me. She was the most resilient of all of us, and we could all learn something from her at times. Although I did worry that she was often hiding her real pain deep down.
Sam was the final one to visit before Jackson left. Apparently, we had bought the house in Vaucluse, at $78m fully furnished and a settlement of two weeks. Sam had made the decision himself, which I was thankful for. When the call came through Michael had already diverted my phone, as is procedure. So when Sam got the call, he had no idea, but realising we were looking, he took the punt and agreed. He was a good kid, and I trusted his judgement.
"You have received emails, texts & calls from world leaders, business counterpart's, friends and people in general. I will have them addressed over the next few days. The Australian Prime Minister will visit once you can accept visitors, and the media are hounding us, with about 200 local and international press downstairs. I have everything under control. I need you to get better thou."
With a squeeze on the hand, and a small peck on my forehead, Sam left me and as Jackson came to say good bye, I was exhausted and felt I had over done things.
After a few minutes, James appeared at the door. "Hi stranger, how you feeling"
I always felt safer when James was around me. He was the first person to protect me, and we had been through a bit together. I relied heavily on his counsel and he had never let me down. Seeing him at the door made everything feel better at once.
"I'm going to talk and you're going to listen" he started with a grin on his face.
I could only attempt to nod as he continued on with what he needed to get out.
"It appears this is related to the shit in Germany. They seem to want you gone, if you hadn't already guessed. You have a $5m bounty on your head, and whilst that sits out there, you are always going to be a target. But, in saying that, Australia is probably the best place for you at the moment. I am working with the local police, who I must say are pretty damn accommodating, and until we get a better handle on this, you my friend are staying put."
I signalled with my hands that I really wouldn't be going anywhere soon. As this made him laugh. I also pointed towards Michael, who by now had started to grow a blond beard, due to his lack of shaving. I motioned James's lower to my mouth.
"Get him out of here, get him rested. I don't care how, but he looks broken."
A thumbs up and a nod told me James had already relaised this and was on top of it. As he stood to leave, he gave me his trade mark cockney grin and with a quick nod was out the door, before stopping at Michael and whispering something in his ear. Michael waved at me and left as well. Finally, I can rest I thought to myself, before Chris appeared at the door.
"Hey boss, you got me for a while at the door. Just kick back and let the drugs take effect" he said as he stood there looking at me.
I needed sleep to let my body heal, and it wasn't long before I was out cold.