Chapter 25
The four weeks since the 4th of July had passed quickly. The new family was settling into a routine. Ethan would fly to Ft Lauderdale on Monday morning and return Friday evening. There was a lot going on at Compass as Sojourn's repairs progressed and Tranquility was in the final stages of construction. The damage to Sojourn had not been as bad as originally feared and Tranquilty and Sojourn would both be entering service at about the same time. The marketing and sales team were working overtime to ensure that the ships would return back to service filled with paying guests.
Rick and Adam would spend weekdays at the Destin house playing and getting more comfortable with each other. Adam's fears seemed to be fading. When things would go wrong, as they always do with little boys, he still feared a beating. But with a lot of hugs and talking, he began to trust Rick more.
Rick and Ethan had a heated discussion about money. Rick wanted to go back to work so he could support himself and Adam. Ethan offered to take care of their expenses. Rick was a proud man and while appreciating the offer didn't want Ethan to feel obligated. This led to a blazing row. Ethan said that Adam needed a full time Dad right now and that this time was critical for Adam and his adjustment from the horrible life he had before Rick. Finally, Rick acquiesced, for now.
Both Ethan and Rick lived for weekends. Friday nights were wonderful as Adam and Rick would shower Ethan with attention. Saturday, the new family would spend time on the beach, playing games, watching movies, and the things that most families do. The love between Rick and Ethan grew deeper with each passing day. Their love making, while still passionate and hot, had become something more. It is something that happens when two people have no secrets, allow themselves to be vulnerable, and give themselves completely to another. Neither knew how it was possible and had never experienced anything like it.
Adam was growing more comfortable with Ethan and seemed to miss him during the week. One Saturday night while watching Little Mermaid, Adam got up off the floor and climbed on the couch between Rick and Ethan. When Adam snuggled up to Ethan with his head in his lap and feel asleep, Ethan felt his world shake. He had thought that his world was complete with Rick but only now did he realize what it meant to be complete.
Toward the middle of August, Ethan and Rick were cuddled in bed after tucking Adam in for the night. Sarah was up for the weekend and everyone had been having a great time. Ethan talked to Rick about the upcoming launch plans and an idea that he had which had been troubling him.
"It turns out that the launch date for Tranquility is on my mother's birthday. I would love to have my Mom attend the launch. I also think that it is time I told my Mom about my life and Albert's gift to me," Rick said.
Rick had talked with Ethan's mom on the phone and the two of them had started to have a good friendship. Ethan had told his mom about Rick and Adam but left out the rest of the story. Ethan's mom believed her son lived in Ft Lauderdale and was manager of HR for Compass Cruises. But that is as far as it went.
Rick said, "Ethan, this is your decision, but if you want my opinion, I think you should tell her. Having her attend the launch would be a wonderful birthday gift for her. I want you take a lot of pictures for me and Adam."
"Take pictures, why? You two are going to be there," Ethan said. He then realized he had assumed they would be there and never really talked with Rick about it.
"I wasn't sure that you wanted us there. You are going to be very busy and I know that Adam can be a handful sometimes," Rick said.
"You and Adam are my family and I want you both there. I think it would also be great to have my Mother and Mark there as well," Ethan said.
And so, Ethan set about creating his plan for his mother and her husband, Mark. He wanted to keep things a surprise for his mom and tell her, in person, the story. So he briefed Mark on a few things. He had told Mark that Compass was launching a new ship and that they had some spaces on a company plane for the launch. Mark and Ethan's Mom would fly to Ft Lauderdale and they would leave from there. Ethan knew he could have A-1 go and pick them up but he thought having them come to Ft Lauderdale would play with the story better. It wouldn't seem odd to Mark that Compass would have a plane going from Ft Lauderdale taking all the company people over for the launch. So, the plans were set.
The week before the launch, Rick and Adam joined Ethan in Ft Lauderdale. Adam was surprised when he saw A-1 but was too young to understand what it all meant. Rick was once again blown away by Ethan when they boarded A-1 and Ethan showed him a new bedroom which had been added towards the rear of A-1. It had a small bed and had been decorated with dolphins which Adam loved. Toys were in the corner and there was a sign on the wall above the bed which said Adam's Place. Rick was moved to tears at Ethan's thoughtfulness.
Tranquility would be leaving the shipyard in Germany on Saturday and arriving into Southampton on Sunday for the naming ceremony and a one night cruise for key travel trade people. On Monday she would head across the Atlantic with an arrival in Ft Lauderdale 8 days later. The crossing would have some key industry people onboard, a few of Compass' most loyal customers, but the ship would not be full. It was designed to give the crew a chance to get settled in and used to the new ship.
The week was very busy for Ethan and he would come home tired. Rick would have dinner ready and Ethan found he was always rejuvenated when Adam would ask him to play. He felt younger than he had in years. Business was going well, Sojourn and Tranquility were about to be in service, and his life with Rick and Adam was complete. His mom and Mark were scheduled to arrive on Friday on Southwest. Ethan would meet them at the airport and take them to the apartment in Plantation but he would have to go back to work after that.
Ethan's mom and Mark arrived and were settled into the apartment with Rick and Adam. Ethan saw that his mom had instantly loved Rick and she was going to become very attached to Adam. Mark was wonderful with everyone and everything and all felt right. The apartment was small. Adam would sleep with Ethan and Rick on Friday night and Ethan's mom and Mark had Adam's room for the night. It was cozy but the atmosphere was good and everyone got along well.
Saturday arrived. Rick could see that Ethan was very nervous. Adam went into the living room and was talking with Ethan's mom and Mark - now known to Adam as Miss Alice and Mister Mark. Rick took Ethan in his arms and held him tight. He felt the tension in Ethan ease some and they just held each other, no words being spoken.
Rick broke the hug and said, "I love you. Adam loves you. And your mother and Mark love you too. I know everything will be ok. I know the kind of person you are and I can see greatness in you. You mother sees that too."
Ethan wondered how Rick could do that. How he knew just what to say. How he knew that a hug was needed. Ethan was thankful for Rick and couldn't think how he could ever show it adequately.
Everyone piled into the Honda and headed to the airport for the 6pm flight. They parked at the Compass hangar and Ethan took his mother's hand. They walked out onto the tarmac to see four Compass 777s glistening in the early evening sun. They walked to one that was painted differently from the others.
"Oh, so we are flying on that one today? It is so big and the painting is so beautiful. Where is everyone? Are they already onboard?" Alice asked with great interest and some nervousness.
Ethan didn't respond. He held his mothers hand as they walked up the stairs. Mark, Rick and Adam just behind them. Alice noticed A-1 painted on the outside of the plane and wondered what it meant but thought she had asked enough questions and Ethan wasn't providing any answers.
When they stepped inside A-1, Alice gasped. Mark did as well. Adam went racing down the plane to his bedroom.
"Ethan, are we on the owner's plane or something? This is very nice. We really shouldn't be here. I don't want to get you in trouble. Shouldn't you go and get Adam before he damages something?" Alice asked in rapid-fire mode.
Brain came on the speaker and said, "Hi Ethan, Rick, Adam, and Mr and Mrs Dial". Welcome onboard. Soon as Boss gets onboard and y'all have a seat we will be ready to go. Our flying time to Gatwick will be about 8 hours tonight and it should be smooth ride. So get comfortable and we will be ready to go. Ethan, if you want to bring your folks up after we are levelled off I would love to meet them".
Alice was stunned. Her son was obviously well respected at Compass to have people know who he is and to allow him on this plane. She couldn't wait to meet the Boss that was due to arrive soon. He must be a great man.
Everyone was taking their seats as Sarah got onboard. Sarah had spoken with Alice on the phone before and she ran over to greet her. "Hi Alice, I am Sarah, it is so good to meet you in person."
Alice smiled at Sarah and Ethan could tell they were going to be friends. Sarah gave Rick a big hug, shook Mark's hand, and looked at Ethan and said, "so are you still a stroppy git or are you in a better mood yet? Oh, and where is my favourite guy?"
Alice thought Sarah was speaking about the boss. When Adam came towards the front, Sarah knelt down and screamed, "there he is, my favourite guy!" Adam ran and was wrapped in a bear hug from Sarah.
Nothing made sense, Alice felt like she had walked into the middle of something and she didn't know the plot of the story. She took Mark's hand and they sat down in two adjoining seats. The door to the plane closed and Brian came on the speaker again, "nice of you to show up Boss. Now we can go, so have a seat and lets get rolling"
"Where is your Boss? Shouldn't he be here with us," Alice asked.
"Mom, I call Sarah Boss and so does anybody that has to endure her wrath." Before he could say more, the engines came to life and A-1 was making its way to the end of the runway. The engines surged and in a few seconds A-1 was airborne and heading towards England.
"Mom, Mark, we need to talk. There is a lot I need to tell you".
Chapter 26
Once A-1 had levelled off, everyone enjoyed a nice dinner and some drinks. The mood amongst Ethan and him Mom was a bit tense after Ethan said they needed to talk. Sensing this, Rick suggested that he, Adam, and Sarah go to the back of the plane and play some games before putting Adam to bed.
Ethan, Alice and Mark remained in the forward section of the plane. They small talked about family matters until Alice said, "OK, Ethan, we have been stalling long enough, what do we need to talk about".
Ethan began the story with meeting Albert. As he told the story he could see Alice and Mark getting confused. She interrupted the story asking if Albert had been Ethan's lover and why she didn't know about him. Ethan said they weren't lovers and to be patient as he told the story. Alice was frustrated and growing short tempered.
Finally, Ethan told them about the money. Alice stood up and walked away. Mark went to comfort her but he was turned away. Ethan went on to say that he knew he should have told them about this before but that he was somewhat embarrassed about the money and that he didn't want anything to change in his life or between them.
"Ethan, that isn't fair. You obviously don't think much of us if you think we would change. What, do you think we would ask you for money? Take advantage of you? Are you embarrassed of us and ashamed of your background?" Alice fired out in staccato fashion.
"No Mom, it isn't that at all. I know I should have told you. I am not ashamed of you or my life. Perhaps it is because of my background that I didn't tell you. You always told me I could be and do anything that I wanted but that it was up to me to do it. You always had faith in me and encouraged me. Somehow when I was handed this money I thought you would think less of me. I don't know, Mom. I was wrong to not tell you. I am sorry. I hope you can forgive me and grow to accept things for how they are," Ethan managed though choked with emotion.
Mark was the one to break the ice, "Ethan, we love you. We are proud of the person that you are. Whether you are rich or poor, we still love you. It is obvious to me that the money hasn't changed you in a substantial way. I think Albert's kindness and trust in you speaks volumes for you as a person."
Alice turned and looked at her son. She saw before her, her only child. The joy of her life. She realized that she could not be mad at him. She didn't understand how he could keep this from her but had to believe that Ethan didn't mean any harm. That simply wasn't the boy she knew. The man she knew. She saw that he was happy and in love and that he was now part of his own family. She had a choice now, she could be a part of it, or not. The choice was clear when she thought of things in those terms.
"Ethan, I am proud of you. I love you. But you listen to me, you can tell me anything. I am always here for you and I am not only your Mother but I am a friend. I don't want you to ever keep things like this from me again. Or I will turn you over my knee - and don't think I can't do it," Alice said sternly but with a hint of humor.
Ethan hugged his Mom and Mark and then continued with the story about what he had done with the money, including the check printing business, and all about Compass Cruise Lines and the charities. He also explained about A-1 and the fact that the cruise ships were actually his girls. He explained that he didn't live the life of CEO and that even most people at Compass didn't know he was the owner. He explained that he had kept it from Rick for a long time but that they had dealt with it and he was sure that Rick love him and not all the trappings of Ethan's wealth. Ethan could tell that Alice and Mark's heads were spinning and they needed some rest. He hugged them again, and showed them to one of the bedrooms on A-1 and told them to get some sleep. They would be arriving in England in a few hours. Ethan didn't tell them about some of the surprise plans he had in store for them the next day.
Sarah slept with Adam and Rick came and cuddled with Ethan. As the plane began its descent into Gatwick, Brian came on the PA system and gave everyone a gentle wake-up announcement.
A-1 touched down to a gloriously sunny English summer morning. England is so beautiful when the sun is shining. The green countryside is simply breathtaking. A van awaited the passengers of A-1 for the drive down to Southampton.
They arrived into Southampton and made there way to the Queen Elizabeth terminal and caught their first glimpse of Tranquility. She was tall and proud gleaming in the summer sun. She was as tall as a 12 story building and as long as almost 3 football fields. Her brilliant white hull was a beacon drawing them closer. The funnel was painted in the Compass Blue with a gold sextant emblem. At the bow, a platform had been erected for the official naming and christening ceremony which would occur in a few hours.
Some of the team from head office greeted the van as it arrived and ushered everyone through the terminal building and up to the gangway. The terminal building was in dire need of updating. The white acrylic chairs with brown carpet and orange seat cushions looked dirty and in poor condition. It was possible for this to look cool and retro, but instead it simply looked worn, dirty, and dated. Ethan couldn't believe that great ships like the Queen Elizabeth 2 and his own ships departed from this facility. It certainly gave a bad first impression.
As they walked down the covered gangway and stepped onboard Tranqulity, everyone was awed. The lobby atrium was 6 stories tall with a skylight at the top. Sunlight was streaming in giving the area a feeling of space and grandeur. Glass elevators whisked between the decks. Cool Italian marble covered the floors and staircases and a small water fountain was in the center of the atrium next to the grand piano and harp. Guest Services was off to the right and was also Italian marble with brushed steel and recessed lighting. The first impression was simply overwhelming.
They made their way to the suites which had been reserved for them. Everyone but Sarah would be staying onboard until Ft Lauderdale. Sarah would be visiting her mother in Devon and would fly back to Ft Lauderdale in time to meet everyone when they arrived.
The suites were spectacular. Each room had a queen size bed and large sitting area. The bathrooms were done in marble and included full size bathtubs, unlike the shower stalls found in most cabins. The sitting area had a 2 seat sofa, a chair, a coffee table that could be height adjusted, and a large television which played various satellite channels as well as in-house movies. The sofa could be folded out into a bed which is where Adam would be sleeping in Rick and Ethan's suite. The rooms had been done with soft beige carpets and bold navy drapes and bedspreads. The sofa and chair were blood red and had gold pillows on them. The colors in the cabin were rich and bold with light woods used for the trim and walls. This all worked to create an atmosphere of elegance. Beyond the sitting area was a sliding door which led out to a private balcony. On the balcony were two chaise lounge chairs and another table - this one teak.
Ethan had told everyone to be ready in an hour for a personal tour of Tranquility. This gave everyone time to shower and freshen up after the overnight flight on A-1.
An hour latter, Ethan as the proud Dad, led everyone on a tour of his newest girl. They viewed the 3 story main lounge with the latest sound and special effects equipment. Then up to the pool area. In the forward section of this deck was the observation lounge. Floor to ceiling windows dominated three sides of the room. Elegant groups of seats were positioned throughout the room. A large dance floor was in the center and a large teak and brass bar formed a figure eight on the port side of the room. The room was a quiet haven during the day with a white glove tea service in the late afternoon. The room then transformed into a bustling disco throbbing into the wee hours of the morning.
The main pool had a sculpture of dancing dolphins which Adam tried to climb on. The pool area was expansive. Deck chairs were spread around, each covered with thick dark blue cushions. The pool area had 2 bars, a bandstand, an area which would be the grill area for hamburgers, hotdogs, and ice cream, and 4 whirlpool tubs. They then passed into the casual dining area where breakfast buffets and lunch as well as informal evening meals would be served. The room was done in a Miami Beach style with turquoise being featured heavily. This gave the room a feeling of brightness and space and it managed to appear classy rather than tacky which can sometimes happen with such a bold color choice.
Towards the rear of the ship was another pool which had a sliding dome over it. This would allow people to use the pool regardless of the weather. Surrounding this pool were teak deckchairs with similar dark blue cushions. The floor was done with beautiful tiles and the area had a fantastic feel to it. Behind this pool area was the spa and gym. Massages, facials, and the latest exercise equipment were the main draw to this area.
One deck below in the aft was the kids area. Rick felt his heart expand when he saw the name of the area. Adam's Den. Of course, Adam was too young to understand, but everyone in the group did. Everyone's eyes were moist except for Ethan. He beamed. He was so proud of Adam and loved his new family. This was one way for him to show it. Rick hugged Ethan and whispered something into his ear. Ethan blushed and beamed.
Back down three decks to the public rooms. The dining room was at the aft of the ship and it was probably the most stunning room on Tranquility. The rear wall of the dining room was all windows. The view when at sea would be incredible. Watching the ships wake disappear into the distance. The ceiling of the room was in brushed steel while art Deco lighting fixtures provide the light throughout the room. The ceiling color could be changed by the use of various lights which were hidden in panels around the edge. Tables for 2,4,6, and 8 were distributed on both decks. A stunning horseshoe staircase linked the two levels. In the center of the lower level stood a grand piano and a stand for a string quartet which would provide music during the evening meal. Enormous bouquets of fresh flowers were prominent everywhere on the ship.
They continued along this deck towards the front of the ship. Four bars, the card room, library, computer centre, and another smaller lounge for dancing. Another deck down found the casino, gift shops, and 2 more lounges/bars including a specialty coffee car.
Ethan asked everyone to follow him to the main atrium near guest services. Ethan seemed shy but began to say something.
"Today is my mother's birthday. I have dumped a lot of information on her in the last 24 hours and I know she is reeling. But I do have one more thing, and that is her birthday present. I know it isn't customary that a gift should mean someone has to do something in return, but in this case, it does," Ethan said.
He led everyone over to a small alcove off the main atrium. Recessed into the wall was something covered with a small sheet. A light shone down on the sheet. Ethan asked for everyone's attention, and asked his Mother to come over.
"Mom, on this special day, your birthday, and the christening of Tranquility, I have a favor to ask for you. I hope you will agree and accept this as my gift to you on your birthday. Mom, would you do me, and Tranquility, the honor of being her Godmother?"
With that Ethan pulled the sheet to reveal a bust of his mother. Below it was a plaque that read:
Mrs Alice Dial Godmother - GTS Tranquility
Nobody was talking but sniffles could be heard. Alice looked at her son and began to cry. "Ethan, I am so proud of you and I am so honored. I don't know what to say."
"Please say that you will do it. It will mean so much to me," Ethan said.
"Of course I will. I don't know what I have agreed to do but I will do it," Alice chuckled. "I can't believe this is actually yours. I mean, you own this. I am stunned."
With that, Rick, Sarah, and Mark began to clap. Spirits were high and all was going well. The naming ceremony and christening would happen in a few hours just before the guests for the VIP one night cruise began to arrive. Ethan suggested everyone return to their suites and meet back at 3pm and they would all go ashore together for the ceremony. He talked about the dress for the ceremony and everyone was clear on their instructions. He handed his Mom a sheet of paper and told her to read it over before then.
Ethan, Rick and Adam, arrived back at their suite. Rick and Adam curled up together on the bed for a quick nap. Ethan kissed both of his guys on their foreheads and went out onto the balcony. He needed time to Ponder. As he stood and gazed across the Solent, he thought about the great ships that had sailed from this port. The thousands of people that left here seeking a new life in the New World. In a way, Albert's gift enabled him to return back to America and start a new life. But it wasn't until Rick that he felt his new life had really started. Yes, the future looked bright and Ethan was the happiest he had ever been. The talk with his mother and the surprise of her being the Godmother had gone well. But he wasn't done with surprises yet. The day was still young.