Chapter 129
As Michael and I were getting ready to leave I could sense that he was making any excuse to stay.
"Did you want to back out? Did you want to keep living your life the way you are?"
"No boss. I am just scared"
Jackson sided up behind him and hugged the bigger man.
"It's ok. We all have to face things we don't want to. In your case it's just a little bigger. Go and free yourself of the pain"
Jackson had a calming influence over everyone. None more so than me. Watching him care for the younger man certainly hit home to me how truly caring he was.
"Hey Bro, leaving without saying goodbye" Chris said as he entered the room.
"I was trying to"
"Hey, go do what you need to. I need my best man back to keep me sane"
"Love you, Bro"
"Don't get all soft on me now" Chris ended as they hugged.
"Ok, let's go. We have a long 24hrs ahead"
As I hugged Jackson good bye, I turned to Chris. "Keep him safe, and preferably out of Jail" I. laughed as we headed downstairs to the garage.
"After yesterday, perhaps you should be telling me to keep him out of jail"
"Hey, also, seal the deal on next door. Meet with Kieran and get his thoughts"
"it's in my diary already. Just worry about you"
"Yeah yeah. You know I control everyone. Fuck. I forgot to say good bye to Jules and the twins I said as I dashed back upstairs, forgetting how out of breath I was"
After saying good bye to them, I was a little flat and emotional and headed down to the garage to leave.
"OK, Love you, bub. Be good." Jackson said as I hopped in the car.
As I reached over to Michael in the back next to me, I grabbed his hand and squeezed before saying, "We've got this big boy" to which he forced a smile on my face.
I had forgotten how chaotic airports were as we arrived early morning for our flight. Thankfully the first class line was empty and we were checked in and in the lounge before I could be hounded by the press anymore.
We still had our sit down set for three week's time, having been put off for various reasons. Me being shot, the birth of the twins and now Michael's and. My trip to the US. The producers were understanding, but I guess a little frustrated, but these things happen all the time. I guess the interview was not just about clearing the record, but a bit of a vanity project as well.
As we were called to the flight, we walked straight on the jet and into the first class cabin, where we were shown to seats 1A & 1B. The divider between us was lowered and it was a nice feeling to be able to sit and keep an eye on Michael as we crossed the Pacific.
"This is pretty cool" Michael said
"I did it so I can keep an eye on you" I laughed at him.
"I'm not going to jump out at 35,000ft boss"
"Just making sure"
Taxiing out and speeding down the runway, I couldn't help but wonder what owning an Airline was going to be like. I was excited at the prospect, but also knew it wouldn't be all fun.
Clearing out over the water, we circled back past the city and out to the east as we started to head towards LA, some 14hrs away. As the stewards offered us champagne, Michael declined.
"It's ok, you aren't working" I reminded him as then accepted the fine gold liquid to sip on with his caviar.
"Enjoy it. It's what we pay for"
"Even if it tastes like crap" he said as spat out the dark fish roe into his napkin.
I couldn't help but laugh at him as he was wiping his tongue of any residue and drinking his champagne to remove the taste completely.
As we watched some movie, and ate some really good food, they made up our cabin for us to grab some sleep. When we returned, the now double bed looked rather comfortable.
"And this isn't what you think it is. It is for sleep, not sex" I cautioned him.
"But I didn't even bust a nut this morning boss. I am so horny" he laughed.
"That can wait" I cautioned as we both slid between the comforter, and as the protector, he rolled over and draped an arm over me.
As the crew woke us 90mins before we landed, we were offered coffee and breakfast be touching down. It felt strange as we had departed at Breakfast time, and were now landing earlier than the time we had departed. I was a little weary and struggling to keep my eyes open, and I knew if I were to get through today, I would need as many stimulates as I could.
"How you feeling" I asked Michael as he wiped the sleep from his eyes.
"Yeah, better than I thought I would" as he sipped his coffee
"That's good. So I have booked a car, I thought you could drive us rather than having a driver"
"That would be good. Thanks"
"When we land, I think we should go to the hotel. Have a bit of `us' time today, and then face reality in the morning"
"Us time?"
"Shopping, walking, you can hit the gym. That type of us"
"Oh, I thought you meant us, as in us, as in sex" he laughed.
"I might let you do that later" I chided him to a responsive smile
Touching down in LA was smooth, and as we departed the Airport into the bright sunshine, it was good to have a feeling of being anonymous. As walked bay after bay to find the hire car, we eventually found it and loaded our luggage in the back.
"I refuse to drive in this madness" I told Michael as we pulled out on to a freeway heading to the Beverly Hills Hotel where Sam had booked us a Bungalow to give us both space and privacy.
As we eventually arrived, the porter asked our name, and as I proceeded to give it to him, we were whisked away quickly, directly to our little piece of paradise in the heart of the city.
"Not too shabby" Michael said as we took a breather after our luggage was dropped off.
"Very nice indeed" I added to his comment. "I think I might grab a shower first up, and then lay down an hour.
"I might hit the gym for a bit and then shower. I need to release some anxiety"
"Did you want me to come with you?" I asked showing some concern that he may do a runner on me.
"No, I promise not to be silly" he said, looking very sheepishly at me.
"OK, then, once you're done, we can hit some shops and see what we can buy"
"OK, and I do happen to know a really cool place to eat here, so I will show you later. And maybe hit a bar in West Hollywood tonight. I might find a sexy twink to pound" He chuckled
`I'd rather we got someone to come here than be seen in bar picking up men" I joked. "Now go be a muscle pup. "I need a shower"
"Ok boss. Won't be too long"
"Take your time"
As he left I gave Jackson a quick call to let him know we had arrived. The phone rang out twice before he eventually answered, sounding a little short of breath.
"Everything ok?" I asked sounding a little concerned.
"Yeah, to be honest, Karl and I are just fooling around a bit. I got horny and have been in drought the past few weeks"
"That's fine. The other one has his horniness ready to burst as well." I laughed. "But for now, I am just going to shower and have a rest. It has been a long day"
"Well, keep me posted. Love you & miss you"
"You to. I will talk later"
As I hung and ran the shower, the steam coming from it was enough to start to make feel fresher, but as I undressed and hopped under the water, I could feel the past 14 hours of being on a plane wash away completely. It was so good to feel a little normal again.
As I walked back in to the bedroom, I pulled back the covers, laid down and drifted off to sleep. A deep, longing sleep.
I must have been in a deep trance as the next thing I felt was someone eating my arse. The wetness of a hot tongue was probing me, and god damn it felt good. As I started to recognise my surrounds, I knew there was only one person it could be, and knowing this, I relaxed and just let him go to work, making me feel like a new person.
As I felt him spit on my hole and insert a few fingers, I knew exactly what his intensions were, and I knew exactly how I would respond, but no matter how many times Michael had stuck his thick cock in me, his thickness always managed to take my breathe away.
"Steady on a little cowboy, it has been a while" I said as he tried to enter me with some force.
"Hang on a sec, I will be right back" he said as he left the room.
As he return, I realised he went to get some lube, which would help him enter me without ripping me an extra arsehole.
Feeling the head of his cock stretch me open, I could only moan in absolute ecstasy as the feeling shot right through me and down to the tip of my cock which was now dribbling like a broken fountain.
"I need this boss. I need to be in you and I need to feel you wrapped around my cock"
"Just keep going boy. I need it as well. I want to feel you unload in me"
"Be careful what you wish for, it isn't going to take long this morning."
As he continued to pump me with force, I was encourage him by pushing back on to his cock, meeting every thrust he gave with force.
As I used my muscles to clamp down in his cock, it wasn't long before he grunt and grabbed hold of my hips letting his monster load unleash in a torrent inside me.
My cock was so hard and as I spun over to finish myself off, Michael rammed 3 of his finger in my hole to help finish me
"I need more" I grunted as worked my cock over and over, "give me what you can" I demanded
As Michael all but fisted me as I pumped my cock, he had his head near my cock as I erupted all over his face. Spraying his cheeks and lips as he lapped at my cum like a horny little pig.
"Fuck Boss. That was hot, I have never had that much of my hand in a guy before."
"Well, I know a few tricks around that I can teach you if you are interested"
"What to you mean?"
"Like fist fucking"
"Really boss? That would be hot if you taught me that"
"Maybe when we are home with Jackson. He's the better teacher. I am just the dummy" I laughed as we laid back with my head on his chest.
As we laid there catching our breath, and for me it took a lot, I suggested he go in to his bathroom and shower whilst I used mine as well. "Let's get cleaned up, and show me around this joint. I have never been before"
As we departed our bungalow, and older couple from the one next to ours looked at Michael and I in a disapproving manner.
"Perhaps when you fuck me you need to be less vocal" I jibbed him as we walked away
Shop after shop Michael and I had a field day. No paparazzi, not pushy media, just he and I chilling out. I would have Jackson to have been with me instead of Michael, but I came back to the realization of what we were actually here for and the sobering reality of how tomorrow would be.
Arriving back at the hotel loaded with bags, the porter saw us and grabbed our bags.
"If you could take these to our bungalow, I am heading to the bar"
"Certainly Sir" he replied as I slipped him a $20 bill.
Sitting in the bar, I order myself a vodka and Michael a local beer.
"Ah, so good to have a decent beer again"
"You do realise you can get this in Australia" I responded.
"Now you tell me"
"Have Karl get a case when we return to keep cold. It's ok you know"
"Really. Thanks"
As we were sitting in the bar, I notice Michael tense up and go white.
"Something wrong?'
"Not wrong, I just saw someone from the old hood. I waiter over there with the buzz cut"
"Did you want to leave?"
"No, not yet. I am ok"
I could see small beads of sweat appearing on his brow and I was concerned that he was going to freak out, but before I could say or do anything, the young man walked over to where we were sitting.
"Mikey? Wow. Fancy seeing you here" The young guy said as he went to hug Michael.
"Jimmy. Long-time no see." Michael stammered as he awkwardly embraced the man in front of him.
"Jimmy, this is my boss, Grant"
"Hi Grant, nice to meet you. Where you been hiding this boofhead. We haven't seen him in years"
"Oh, we live overseas," I responded being slightly evasive still trying to read the situation.
"Dad always asks if I have heard from you. You better call in and say hi whilst you here. He'd be pissed if you didn't"
`Yeah. Sounds good." Michael said as I could see him struggling to focus on the conversation.
"Hey, I have to get back to work. We will talk later. Where are you staying?"
"At the Marriott" I interrupted not sure if it was a good idea or not.
"Of, the big bucks now hey"
"Yeah, something like that" Michael responded as the young man again came in for a hug as he started his good byes.
After he had walked off, I looked at Michael. "Are you ok"
"Not really. Can we leave"
As we both finished off our drinks in record time, I signalled to the bar man to send a bottle of vodka, some fresh limes and a bucket of ice to the room.
As we walked back in Michael lost it. The poor bugger was a mess of tears as he sat on the sofa.
"Want to fill me in"
"That was my best mate's little brother. I was at his house when my parents died. His dad was the one I rang"
"OK, so a little confronting and unexpected" I said as the bell rang at the door.
As our room attendant placed the drink on the bar in our room, I made Michael a vodka.
"Here, sink this" I said as I handed him a shot of courage.
He sank the clear liquid and didn't even bat an eyelid.
"Thanks. I needed that"
"Go rinse your face off. Did you want me to book a different hotel"
"No. I actually feel safe here tucked away"
"OK"
As he left to rinse off his face, I felt sorry for him. We were completely blindsided by this unexpected hitch, but I need Michael to stay focused on why we were here. In a way there were some people here he needs to see and talk with. Perhaps this family was one of them.
After a few more Vodka's I suggested he go laydown a bit and just chill.
"Can you come with me. Not for sex, just so I am not alone"
"Yeah, I can do that" as we walked in to his king sized bed, and he I automatically became the little spoon to his big spoon.
We dozed till dark and as I lay there waking up. I could feel Michaels breath on my neck.
"You awake" I asked quietly.
"Yeah. Just laying here thinking"
"Did you still want to go out, or just a quiet night in"
"Room service sounds good, dad"
"Dad?"
"Sorry boss. I didn't mean that"
"If you need to call me dad at times, if it helps, you can. I am ok with that"
He squeezed in tighter as I could feel his hardening cock growing in his jeans.
"Is this guy a walking hard on" I thought to myself as I lay trapped in his beefy arms.
Dinner was a pretty casual affair as we discussed anything except the reason why we were there. Michael was in typical avoidance mode and if it wasn't so serious it would be funny.
"Well, jet lag is kicking in. I am going to head to bed" I said as I stood and stretched.
"Where did you want to sleep" I asked him as he sat with the TV remote in his hand mindlessly channel surfing.
"I might sleep alone. That way if I had a night terror again, I won't hit you. I would never forgive myself if I did"
"Ok, but, if you need a cuddle, you know where I am"
I leant down and kissed him on the head followed by me ruffling his hair. "Go get some rest. A long day ahead of us tomorrow."
Chapter 130
Michael had grown up in the Northridge area, up in the North Valley Area of LA. A fairly typical residential area that had seen the typical push by young families 20 years ago, and today held some desirability as a safe family orientated neighbourhood, where housing prices had escalated as a result.
As we drove towards the valley, I could see Michael had switched over to auto pilot as we weaved the freeways and back roads towards our destination. The drive had taken us about 45 minutes to get to the general area, before Michael pulled over.
"Boss, I don't know if I am ready."
"It's your call. I am not holding a gun at your head. I want you to do what's right for you"
The torment and internal dialogue going on in his head I could only imagine, and I needed him to do this by himself. If had to have been torture to face something as traumatic as this, and to relive it would be just as confronting.
But as he placed the SUV back in to drive, he took off at a much slower pace. All conversation had stopped in the car and now, I was being guided by what he said or did.
I just wanted to remove the pain he had inside of him.
Eventually we pulled up in front of a very mid-century modern house, that appeared to be very well cared for. The gardens were tidy, the lawn well kept, and the exterior certainly did not look like a house that had been vacant for near a decade.
"Is this it?" I asked as I placed my had on his thigh.
"Yeah. This is where I grew up" His flat monotone noted as he spoke.
We sat in the car in silence before he grabbed the door handle and hopped out, removing his wallet from his back pocket as he walked.
I jumped out surprised by his sudden movement, with no pre warning given we were about to confront reality.
"I'll wait out here if you want some privacy"
"I can't do this by myself, boss"
As he said this my phone rang. Worst timing possible. I blocked the call and silenced my phone. Nothing was more important than supporting my boy during his time in need.
As he stood, hand shaking, key in hand, I took the key out of his hand and placed it in the lock, before placing his hand back on it. I needed to reassure him he had the power to unlock not just the door, but his past as well. For me it was a very symbolic gesture.
"Ready"
"Yep, lead the way"
As he opened the door, a faint smell of a house being locked up, and an overwhelming smell of bleach swept over us.
I knew why both existed, but didn't bother to comment as Michael made his way to the alarm panel and placed in the 6 digit code to turn the system off.
Fromm the front door once he switched the lights on, you could see the main living areas right through to the kitchen. The right hand wall of the entry had a hole in, which I didn't need to guess who that had happened.
"This was home" Michael said as he looked across the room, where the furniture was still in place, right down to the TV remote resting on the recliner armrest.
I placed my hand on his back to show my support as he stepped in further, slowly to confront not only the house, but the demons that were causing him such grief on a nightly basis.
Overall I thought he was doing ok, but with Michael, he had a habit of holding a lot back until it bottled up, then he would explode.
Standing in the Living space I knew he was trying to edge nearer to the back of the house, where his and his brothers bedrooms were located, but after a sharp turn, he headed to the opposite side an into his parents room, where everything was just how it was left.
It was his mother's brush he picked up first off the dresser as he fondled it's pearl like handle, and then a shirt of his dads that was lying on the bed. As he grabbed both of these items into his hands, he bought them to his face, and inhaled the smell that was left behind. The only connection he had to his family.
It bought him to his knee's as he dropped in a howling mess, and I knew I could not help him in any way, and he needed to finally grieve for the loss of those nearest to him.
I let him be as I went and opened some curtains to let in some natural light. As I was doing such, a knock at the door bought me back to reality. It was the LAPD doing a check as a neighbour had reported someone at the resident.
Closing the front door behind me, I stood outside with the police, explained who I was, and who was inside. I was happy for them to ID us, but now was definitely not the time, or place for that to happen. In my wallet only had my Australian Driver's License which I willingly gave over. In the hire car, I had copies of both Michael's and my licenses which I provided.
As I explained the reason for our visit, the police became more and more understanding and left us be after conducting their routine checks.
As I walked back inside Michael had still not left the floor in his parents room. I just wanted to do something, but, to me, what was more important, that this played out on his terms, not mine.
I continued to open curtains and windows to let in some air and light, which had been so lacking in this place for so long. As I made my way down the hall way to such in the rear bedrooms, it was then I discovered the room where things had taken place.
The floor had been stripped of its carpet, and bare cement floor lay exposed to the world. The blood stains were evident, regardless of how many times people had scrubbed them clean. The curtains were removed, and the doors removed off the robe. It was a bare shell, and I wasn't sure at all how Michael would react when or if he made the decision to explore this part.
Closing the door behind me, I entered a room that was full of sporting trophies and high school awards. The room still had the presence of an older teen living in it. On closer inspection there was a photo of a military graduate with his parents. This larger than life smile of the handsome young man, told e a story I had never seen before. It was Michael. And this was his room.
As I sat on his bed, I took everything in. The stories that the room was telling me showed that of a loved oldest child. An integral member of his families' network. He appeared to be loved not only by his parents, but by his siblings and friends alike. The Michael I had come to love and care for had a harder edge to him than these photo's could ever tell, and as I sat in his room, with his pictures and memento's, I could easily see how and why he had changed so much.
As I was sitting there, Michael entered the room, as I sat holding the photo of him with his parents.
"It's beautiful picture" I said.
"That's my mum & dad" he responded.
"I figured as much. How you doing"
"A bit better now I cried. I feel a bit sick in the tummy" he added
"That's ok. It's nerves, its anxiety, it's grief. We will get there."
"I don't know where to start."
"You don't have to start anywhere. But what would you like to do"
"I just don't know. I just can't think clearly"
"OK, let's go sit out back and talk. I don't think you need to go in your brothers room. That can be another day"
As we walked out to the rear patio, we sat at the table that was still out there. And as he took a large breath in, it was good to see him taking a moment to try and come to terms with everything, as painful as it must have been for him.
"What do you want to do with the house?" I asked.
"I think I want to sell it. That would be the best thing for me to close the door"
"Fair call. And everything inside it."
"No idea."
"How does this sound. All of the furniture we give to charity. All off the kitchen stuff and bric-a-brac goes too. Any and all of the personal belongings we have boxed up and maybe sent to Australia, or New York, or where ever you want. That way in time you can sort through it all when you are ready."
"But what happens if you sack me"
I reached out and grabbed his hand. "Whether I sack you or not, you are a part of my family. I can't sack you from that. Remember how you called me dad yesterday" I asked
"Yeah, kind of goofy slip up"
"Michael, I will never replace your father. Never, and I will never try too. But, I am always here for you in a father sense. To help you, to guide you, and more importantly, to you. As is Jackson."
He stood up and embraced me. "Love you, dad" he smiled.
We locked up the house and headed back to the hotel. The band aid had been ripped off and now we needed a plan.
I got a hold of few real real estate Brokers and managed to get them to meet us at the house later in the week. Many knew of its history, and I knew that that would go against us achieving a great price. But I wasn't about to stop pushing forward.
A local charity was grateful for the call to have the entire contents of the house, and for Michael's part, it was a load off his mind. The next part was sorting out what he wanted boxed up and sent to Australia. I knew this would be his biggest challenge, and I knew I couldn't help him. Years of memories being placed in to boxes was never going to be easy.
We discussed in detail everything he thought he wanted, and as the list grew, I knew he wasn't ready to make that decision. I was not going to stop him, but we needed to return to the house and room by room take out each item and see what memory it held.
"Hey boss, I'd like to go somewhere if that's ok."
"Yeah sure, where we going"
"I need to go to the cemetery"
"Ok. Did you want to go alone"
"No, I need my folks to meet you"
The drive to Eden Memorial Park was a slow one. It was near where he was raised, and it was a pretty place. Again, auto pilot kicked in as he drove to where we need to be, and as we entered the park, I could tell by the beading sweat that he was in a state of high anxiety.
"Deep breaths my boy. Deep breaths" I reminded him as he pulled in to the parking lot.
"There's a florist there, why don't we get your mum some flowers, hey" I suggested as we hopped out. "What were her favourites"
"She didn't have a favourite. She loved them all."
"I Did notice a lot of carnations in her garden though"
"Yeah she liked the pink ones."
"Well lets go see if they have any"
As we walked in to the florist, they had every type of flower except pink carnations. Michael stopped at some pink roses and lent in to smell them.
"Here. These. She'd like these" he said as he picked them up.
"They are beautiful" I said as I paid the young girl the money and walked out in to the sun.
As we walked path after path, into a newer area of the park, Michael became slower and slower as I knew we were approaching. And as he dropped to his knees a loud whale of a noise escaped him.
In front of us laid the 4 graves of his parents and brothers. I was nowhere near prepared for his reaction and it could me completely off guard.
As I laid the flowers down beside me, I could only grab on and hold Michael as he wracked with sobs of grief, many years in the making and build up. The pain he was releasing came from years of denying any of this had happened. It had built up so much so that he was on the border of hyperventilating and I could only hold him as he let it all go.
It was half hour before either of us spoke. The time seemed to pass so quickly, but for him, I knew it was years in the making.
As he calmed slightly, I handed him the roses which he took and placed on his mothers headstone.
"I miss you mama" the big overgrown kid said. It was so painful to watch it was bringing tears to my eyes, which I wiped away as I tried to remain strong for Michael.
"I'm sorry I wasn't there to defend you, Pop" he said as he brushed his hand across his father's stone.
And then as he moved over to his brothers' sites, he just sat stoically and apologised over and over and over again rocking back and forth as the tears remained.
As he cleared his throat and tried to find his voice, I continued with the rubbing of his back to show my love and support.
"Mum, dad, this is Grant. He came into my life and is helping me. He's not replacing you, but he's helping me become the person you wanted." It was a touching comment which had a profound effect on me as we sat there.
"I should probably also tell you I am gay. Sorry if I disappointed you on that, but I have met someone that makes me so happy. My life has changed so much since that night, for the better I think, and I hope you are both happy and proud of me. Look after my brothers until I see you again. I love you"
And with that he rose and slowly he walked off. I stumbled to keep up with him as I walked slightly behind him. As we reached the car I grabbed the keys.
"I think I should I drive"
"I need to go back to the house"
"Are you sure"
"Yeah, I need to close the door once and for all"
As we arrived, he walked in on a mission, and it was 10pm before he had everything organised in a pile of what to keep, what to throw & what to donate.
I would like to think it was cathartic for him and I would like to think that he received some sort of closure, but as I hopped in the car next to him I now had my answer.
"I don't need to return, Boss. I think I am going to be ok"
I just sat next to him in silence as we returned to the Beverly Hills Hotel and to our little bungalow in garden for a drink on our terrace.
Chapter 131
The next day I ventured out to the house alone. Michael was serious in not wanting to return. I organised for the charity to remove everything they wanted, and I also had a packaging company meet me there to have all of his belongings sent to Australia.
The next day, I had some brokers come through the house, and acting on Michael's behalf I organised for some minor repairs to be had, and the house be staged for sale.
I had done quick research of the neighbourhood, and the price guide they were quoting seemed fair and reasonable for the area.
"That sounds great. But I would like you to organise the repairs, have it freshly painted. Sell the property to this business name, and then rent it out for me. I will organise a transfer of $2m USD, and I ask you to place all proceeds of the sale in this account."
"That's almost double the value."
"I know. And as a result, you will be paid the commission at the higher rate. Can we make it happen or do I need to find another agent"
"No, we are good"
"Great" I said as I thanked him and left.
I didn't want the house going to anyone else, in case Michael ever had the need to return here. I didn't want to close the door permanently, but for now it was my secret.
As I hopped in the car to drive back, I rang Jackson to tell him what I had done.
"I don't know babe. What happens if he cracks up over it." He said playing the voice of reason.
"I think that's something we will have to wait and see. But for now, he doesn't need to know."
"How you been anyway? I miss you so much"
"I miss you too. I hate it when you are away"
"I know, only a few days to go. I am not a fan of LA thou. So much smog and traffic. I miss Sydney"
"It's beautiful here today. I was just in the gym doing some workout"
"Workout? Are you still trying to convince me that you go down there daily to work out!" I laughed knowing what he was like.
"Well parts of me are getting a workout" He laughed back.
"Did Jules and crew get off ok."
"Yeah, this house is so quiet now. I also met with Kieran, and we've discussed a plan. I decided to do it on my own, and not wait for you"
"See it's not that hard" I joked.
"I know, wait till you see the plans"
"Good. I look forward to it."
`Local council may reject the fence extension though, so it is something we will need to overcome, I guess. But I will wait to see what's said before reacting"
"Keep me posted. But right now I am about to enter the LA Freeway network, in a big SUV, driving on the wrong side of the road, with the steering wheel on the wrong side of the car"
"OK, keep safe, see you when you get back. Love you"
"Love you too bub"
Arriving back at the hotel, the porter greeted me with a note from Michael.
"Gone running to clear my head. Don't panic, I am ok"
I smiled at his note, knowing I would have panicked if I returned to an empty room.
The time alone gave me some space to catch up on important emails and return some calls. It also allowed me to think some things through before acting on them.
"Hi Johan," I said as I picked up my phone. "I need you to do a favour for me. As you have access to my personal accounts, can you please transfer $50m over to the bank account of one of my employee's, Michael Carmody"
"Sure, is there a problem."
"No, I just want to make sure he's taken care of for life"
"Very generous, Grant"
"It is, but he's had a hard life"
"I will do it immediately. Do you have a moment to talk about something else."
"Always for you."
"Great, we can secure the airline for $4.75B, pending government approval. It came through half an hour ago, and I still going over everything with legal. You good to proceed"
"Excellent result. Yes, go ahead. I can't wait, I am super excited"
"I thought you would be"
"Talk later" I ended the call with as Michael walked in like a wet rag covered in sweat.
"You look happy with yourself"
"I am, we just secured the airline"
"That's great news."
"Yes, let's celebrate, but not whilst you smell like week old gym socks. Go shower and we will hit Spago for dinner. I have always wanted to try it. I will ring the concierge and have him organise it"
"OK"
"Hey, did the run help"
"Heaps. I want to talk to you about something else at dinner if that's ok. I have been thinking"
"Should I be worried"
"Definitely not, boss" he said as he ran over and hugged me leaving me covered in sweat.
"Oh, you stink, get away from me. Now I need a shower"
"Come join me" He joked.
"Maybe later. Right now, I need to sign off on a few things"
After we had both showered and dressed, separately, we walked out to the forecourt to get a car to take us to dinner. The concierge had been kind enough to secure us a place at Spago, despite its long wait list to get a table.
"Money talks" I said to Michael as hopped into the car and left the hotel.
"So what did you want to talk about" I asked open the conversation where he had left off.
"Don't be so impatient" he said with the first smile I had seen in days.
"Oh, I need a drink do I"
"Maybe, we will see" he responded rather smugly for him.
As we arrived and were shown to a lovely table out of harm's way, I ordered a bottle of wine for us to share.
"I'll have a bottle of the Staglin Nappa Cabernet thanks" I asked the server as we opened the food menu.
As the server returned, he poured the wine for me to taste, but as I acknowledged him to just pour, I could see he was giving Michael the eye.
"I see someone I popular tonight" with a wink in my eye.
"I'm not really interested. Not my type."
"Oh, you have a type now."
"Just not him" he laughed.
Picking up my glass and taking a sip of the nectar of the gods, I looked at Michael with a waiting glance.
"So?"
"OK, I don't want you to make a big deal out of it. But I don't want to be your deatil anymore." He paused.
"In fact, I don't want to be anyone's detail anymore. I want more. I want to do something with my life. The last few days have told me that if I keep just doing what I do, nothing will change for good"
"OK, I didn't see this coming, but what were you thinking"
"I'd like to study. Maybe business or commerce or something. Something where I can use my brain, not just my brawn. I'm pretty smart you know"
"I have never doubted that for a minute. But where would you like to study."
"This is kind of awkward for me to say because I don't want to upset you"
"You want to stay here" I said, jumping to the conclusion quicker than he could speak.
"No, why. Do you want me to stay" the look of fear on his face caught me off guard
"No, I was just assuming the way you were talking."
"If it was alright with you, I would like to study in Australia. I don't want to be too far away from you. I mean, I get it. If I no longer work for you, I can't live with you, and I know I would have to give the car back, and it might make it difficult with Karl, but I can't think of anywhere else I want to be, except close to you guys"
"Let's break this down bit by bit. I am happy for you to go and study. But, different rules in different countries would mean you would need a study visa in Australia, which we can get. Both Sydney Uni & UNSW as well as UTS are all world-renowned schools. So you have many good choices. Then we would need to look at how you would support yourself. Yes, you will have some money coming from the sale of the house, and what ever savings you have"
I was cut off mid-sentence as he jumped in "I have $350,000 in the bank. Some savings and life insurance from my parents"
"OK, good, and then where would you want to live"
"I don't know."
"I am not going to pre-empt Jacksons thoughts & decision, but how about you just continue living with us. I need you to understand what family is again. Plus, you are going to need that boyfriend of yours to support you if you want to study. The long hours, the extra classes, the stressing over results. And, as a way of contributing, once we acquire the Airline, I will put you in as an intern to get your head around things. As for the car, it was a gift you meathead" I laughed "You could be the only uni student driving a $250,000 performance vehicle"
"I know right, it is so cool"
The big lad hopped up and gave me the biggest hug he had ever given me. I love you, dad" he said as he blushed. As the woman on the next table said just loud enough for us to hear "See Morty, I told you it was his son."
I turned my head and nodded slightly, before resuming in my seat.
"You've missed using that word haven't you"
"What word?"
"Dad. He must have been a special man to you."
"You and him are a lot alike in many ways. I don't know, but just like you he always got me. He just knew my thoughts"
"And you never discussed with him you were into guys?"
"It never came up, but at the time I was only curious, whilst I was fucking any girl that would let me"
"Oh charming, I am glad you had consent"
"You know what I mean. I was this big military hero in my neighbourhood. Everyone wanted a piece of me"
And as the server arrived right on cue I looked at Michael and said "And they still do kiddo" to which he laughed in response, with the server just staring at us.
Our dinner lived up to the expectations, and I was glad to see Michael actually returning to his former self in many ways. He allowed himself to have a few wines, as we finished two bottles with dinner.
Heading back to the hotel in the car, he asked the simplest question
"Can I share a bed with you tonight. I need cuddles, not sex, and I want to see if I can get through the night"
I was a little apprehensive, but agreed to let him. I needed company tonight. I had been away from Jackson and was missing his touch.
A little tipsy we entered the bungalow to be greeted by Jackson and Karl.
"What the fuck"
"Well yesterday you said things were looking good, so we jumped on the next flight. Surprise"
I was dumbfounded as I looked on in disbelief.
"Well, fuck me. Let's go grab a drink" I said as we hugged each other.
Sitting in the bar, Michael could not see Jimmy, as I watching his eyes dart round the space. I was glad for that as I wanted him to relax.
After quite a few more drinks, we made our way to back to our bungalow and as I walked in I stripped off my shirt. Damn it is glad to have that off. Michael followed suit, but instead he dropped his pants, leaving him in his tight and revealing briefs.
"Damn, I have missed that baby" Karl said as he squeezed on his bulge.
"Well, you guys enjoy your night, I think we are going to head to bed" I said as I grabbed Jackson by the hand, leading him to our bedroom.
"I cannot believe you are here, bub" I said as I undressed and pulled back the covers.
"Neither can I, but I thought, fuck it. I thought I would be a little irresponsible for a change"
"I like it. I like it a lot"
I could tell that he was exhausted as he slipped in to be. "We had to settle for premium economy flying over. It was all we could get."
"Doh, so I guess you haven't slept much yet"
"Not a wink in 24hrs" he said as he pulled me in tight, I could smell his familiar scent pressed up against me.
"Love you. Sleep tight" I said, not getting a reply knowing he had dropped off already.
We all awoke at roughly the same time and walked out in to the living area. Jackson thinking we'd be first up strolled out casually naked as he often does.
"Sorry, I thought you'd still be in bed" he commented not even bothering to cover himself or return to the bedroom. It was doorbell ringing that made him retreat in to the bedroom as the bellboy arrived with breakfast and coffee.
"I took the liberty of getting some food and coffee, and Tylenol for Jackson and I"
"Smart move" Jackson said as he returned in a pair of boxer briefs.
"I need coffee, and I think even I might pinch a Tylenol" I said feeling the effects of last night's wine hitting home hard.
"What do you want to do today? Anyone got any idea's"
"Yep, I want to show you my hometown" Michael piped up with no one saying a word.
"Alright, lets eat, shower and get out side"
As Michael and Jackson walked off, I pulled Karl back.
"How was last night"
"He slept like a baby and wouldn't let go"
"Good, but I think we still have some work to do. Please, keep me in the loop"
As Karl reached out to hug me he said softly "Thank you so much for doing this for him. I've missed him so much"
"It is all good. He's a good man"
Leaving the hotel, I took my new seat in the back with Jackson, holding hands like lovers do.
"And here on the right is Stallone's house" Michael said as he decided would do his celebrity house tour, with commentary, before heading down to Venice beach with a beautiful lunch in one of the much-loved café's
"I used to hang down here all the time with my shirt off when I was home thinking I was so cool" He laughed as he regaled us with stories of LA.
It was at this time my phone rang, and knowing it was James, I excused myself to answer it.
"Hey, how you doing"
"Mission accomplished. Heading to the airport to head to the Caymans. I need to reconnect with Sam and make love on the beach"
"OK, should I ask any questions"
"No, that way you won't be lying in the future"
"OK, keep in touch"
I shut off my phone and walked back to the table where laughter was overflowing.
"Everything OK, Boss" Michael asked me
"Yep, for once I think everything is OK"
And with that the four of us sat back and enjoyed everything that life had to offer.
Authors note:
For now I am going to take a short break from writing. I think I have left the story in a good place to pick it up again.
I want to thank everyone for their on-going support, but for me, I need to step away from the keyboard and step back in to life
G
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