BACK IN HARNESS

 

By Beej

 

(The sequel to "I Won't Let You Down")

 

 

"Dad!"

 

The bedroom door flew open and the early morning sun streamed

in through the window as the blinds were opened.

 

"C'mon, Dad, get your lazy arse in gear!"

 

"What time is it?" came the muffled question from under the rumpled bedclothes.

 

"7.00am."

 

"Aw, fair go, mate. It's bloody Saturday. Give me a break."

 

"Dad, it's time for your swim. You want to get strong again don't

you?"

 

"Yeah, yeah. Two ticks and I'll be right."

 

"I'll make some tea while you get yourself up."

 

"Ta, mate."

 

Henry made his way to the kitchen, grinning to himself. He took

great pleasure in bossing his dad around, especially as it was for

his own good.

 

Ten minutes  later his  father came  limping into  the kitchen and

slowly lowered himself into a chair. Henry placed a steaming mug

of tea in front of his father, bent forward to kiss the top of his head,

and with a cheery 'morning, dad', ruffled his sleep tousled hair before sitting down to drink his own tea and demolish a plate of thickly buttered toast.

 

 

"Where's mine, son?"

 

"Swim first, food after, and if you manage to do the full distance

before giving up, I might even do you a full fry up when we get

back."

         

"Good onya, son. That sounds like a plan."

         

Henry had to stop himself from helping his father get up. He seemed

to have more trouble moving around in the mornings. At first, he had

let  Henry  help him,  but now he gave him  *the look* if he made a

move to help.

         

It had been six months since he'd left the hospital, and although

he'd finally thrown the elbow crutches away, on bad days he still

limped quite badly and needed the aid of a stick, or Henry, and on

very bad days he entire body was wracked with so much pain it

was all he could do to drag himself out of bed and flop down onto

the couch in the lounge room.

         

Although his body was stiff and aching all over, he felt today was

going to be one of his better days, so he was almost enthusiastic

about his morning swimming therapy, even though his stomach

was crying out for food.

         

Thankfully the exclusive apartment complex that he and Henry

called home had its own health center, so it was only a short ride

down in the lift to get to the gym or pool.

         

They normally had the place to themselves, as during the week,

Henry managed to get his father in the water by 5.00am, and

most of the other residents led the kind of lifestyle that thought

there  was only  one 5 o'clock in a day,  and it certainly  wasn’t

before noon.  Today, however, there seemed to be quite  a few

people in and around the pool. There had been a recent influx of

new residents after some of the apartments had been upgraded,

and Henry remembered hearing that a welcome breakfast party

had been arranged there.

         

Henry glanced over at his father feeling his hesitation and hearing

him curse quietly. Terry walked slowly towards the seating on the opposite side of the pool from the party, and Henry helped him sit

down to get his second wind.

         

"You okay, dad?"

         

"Yeah, mate. Apples."

         

"We can give  it a miss today  if you like.  I know you'd rather be

down here when it's a bit more quiet."

         

"No, son. It's fine. If they want to have a squiz at the freak show,

then fuck 'em."

         

"Dad, you are NOT a freak!"

         

"Okay, son. I'm kidding. Let's get on with it, shall we. My stomach

thinks my throat's been cut, and I'm so hungry I could eat a horse

and chase the bloody jockey. The sooner we get finished, the sooner

I get that fry-up you owe me"

         

Before they could make a move, one of the pool attendants came over

to them.

         

"G'day Mr. T, Henry. A few more bodies down here than usual,

eh? Would you like a lane roped off?"

         

"Thanks, Paul. You sure that won't upset the 'in crowd' over there?"

         

"No  worries,  you've lived here longer  than they  have,  and you

certainly make more use of the pool than they do. Give me a mo and

I'll set it up for you."

         

As they were waiting, a swimmer left the pool and came dripping

over to them.

         

"G'Day, Ter, Henry. How ya going?"

         

"Fine, Tim, ta."

         

"You going in? I can't believe you've dragged yourself down here

to join the newbies' party."

 

         

"Just waiting for Paul to rope off a lane, then I'll do my flipper impression to entertain the masses."

         

"Great. Can't wait to see how they react. I have to say, you started

a few tongues wagging when you came in."

         

"Yeah? What were they saying?"

         

"Well, I'll tell you this, money doesn't buy manners! They are so

bloody rude.  Wanted  to know what  some scruffy long haired

wanker who has to have help walking through the door thinks he's

doing in *their* pool."

         

"Just wait till I get my sweats off. That'll give them something to

talk about."

         

"Bloody oath! No worries, Ter, your fan club is ready to cheer you

on."

         

Terry glanced over to the other side of the pool and saw the smiling faces of some of the long term residents. They all waved, and he

and Henry waved back.

         

Just then, Paul returned to say everything was ready. Terry winked

at his son, making a show of struggling out of his sweats. When he

was ready, Henry helped him up, and guided him to the edge of the

pool. Nearing the crowd, they heard quiet gasps and muttering as

the myriad scars covering his body came into view.

         

Ignoring the whispering, Terry looked at Henry. "Okie  dokie, son. What's on the books today?"

         

"Just twenty lengths this morning, dad. The first two under water."

         

"We could try for three if you like."

         

"No, dad. I'm not sure if your lungs are up for it yet."

         

"You're the boss, son. Two under and eighteen on top, then back upstairs for a big, juicy brekkie."

         

By this time, any pretense from the party group of ignoring Terry

had been dropped, and the pool quickly emptied as they sat back

waiting for the 'cripple' to give them a good laugh.

         

Henry let go of Terry's arm, causing him to fight for a moment to

keep his balance.  Those  watching  who didn't know him were

waiting, and hoping, for him to fall face first into the water. Once

he was steady, Henry took a whistle out of his pocket.

         

"On my signal, dad."

         

Terry nodded, stood as straight as his aching muscles would let him,

and waited.  As the  whistle blew,  he executed a perfect textbook

dive, and was soon on his way to the deep end underwater. As he

broke the surface at the end of his second sub aqua length, he caught sight of  Henry and Tim waving merrily at him.  He was soon into a

strong, easy rhythm, eating up the laps.

 

    

     

His cheering section was raucous in their encouragement and were

soon joined by a few of the newbies. When he'd finished his twenty

and was helped out of the water by Tim, he looked over at Henry

and saw him beaming with pride as he came forward with a large

towel. Terry took it and wrapped it around his shoulders, allowing

Henry and Tim to help him to a seat.

         

"You're getting fitter, mate," said Tim.

         

"It's a long bloody time coming," Terry grumbled in reply.

         

"Come on, dad. You nearly died. It's going to take time."

         

"He's right, Ter.  Stop  punishing yourself. You're doing just fine.

What're your plans for the rest of the day?"

         

"Big brekkie first. I'm fuckin' starving!"

         

"I'll ride up with you. Lou will be thinking I've swum off with a mermaid."

         

As they headed towards the lift, they noticed one couple from the

party group was already there and about to press the button. The

wife was 'discussing' the fact that she thought it was disgraceful

how the complex management allowed 'undesirable' people to use *their* facilities. Tim distinctly heard 'criminal' and 'how else could

you explain the scars'. He turned to see if Terry had also heard, and

just got a shrug from him in reply.

         

The woman was oozing snobbery and one-upmanship, and Terry

took an instant dislike to her. As the lift doors opened, Tim cleared

his throat to let them know they weren't alone. They spun round,

and were shocked to see the trio standing behind them. She sniffed

a couple of times, then decided to speak.

         

"Are you visiting a resident? My husband and I have one of the executive apartments on the 10th floor. We overlook the harbour,

you know."

         

"Good for you, luv."

         

"Oh, yes,  the management  are VERY  particular  who  purchases

property in this complex. Our apartment is one of the top of the

range. There are only two that are better than ours, and they are

the two penthouse apartments. VERY exclusive, VERY expensive."

         

"If you tell me which floor you need, I'm right by the buttons, it will

save you reaching over, Mr..?"

         

"Terry."

         

"I wasn't talking to you," Mrs. Snobby said, eyeing Terry up like he

was her next sacrifice. She turned to Tim.

         

"Which floor would you like, Mr...?"

         

"You can call me Tim."

         

"Alright, Tim. Floor number?"

         

Terry and Tim looked at each other, then turned to her. Terry spoke

first.

         

"Penthouse."

         

Henry nearly choked trying not to laugh as Mrs. Snobby spluttered

at the mention of the revered (in her eyes) floor. Her expression

went from shock to disbelief, and finally settled on suspicion. She couldn't  believe  either owners of the  penthouses would want

someone like this Terry person, as a visitor. She decided he was

playing her for a fool, so ignored him. She turned once again to Tim,

and asked him the same question.

         

"Penthouse, please," he said, winking at her suggestively.

         

The  ride  up  to the  tenth floor was silent apart  from  female

muttering, and the strangled giggles of Terry, Henry and Tim. As

the couple left and the doors closed on them as they glared back

into the lift, the trio all but collapsed in gales of laughter.

         

"That was fun," gasped Terry, wiping the tears from his eyes.

         

"Well, Ter, me old mate, I think Mrs. Snooty Pants disapproves. She thinks we're lowering the tone."

         

"Just  wait 'til she  finds out that  we're the owners and not  just

visiting."

         

"Well, dad, just take a look at yourselves from her eyes... a beaten

up old cripple in baggy worn sweats, hair like an embryonic hippy,

and a scruffy beard, and you, 'Mr. You Can Call Me Tim', in your torn footy gear. I can guarantee that when she finds out just which 'Tim'

you are, she'll be all over you like a rash."

         

Both men laughed at Henry and agreed with him.

         

"I don't think your  dad will be too safe either, mate. I can see her fainting away at the thought of having a knight in shining armour

living one floor above her."

         

"Piss off and give us a hand, will ya? Or I just might have to let it

slip to Lou that you've been chatting up the 'new money' in town."

         

They were still laughing as they left the lift, Terry leaning heavily

on Tim as they waited for Henry to open the door.

         

"Henry, bring Flipper round later after you've thrown him a couple

of raw fish for his brekkie. I've got tickets for the game this arvo.

I think it's about time we took the old man out into the fresh air."

         

"Ripper!" said Henry, grinning like a Cheshire Cat.

         

"He sounds more like an Ocker every day, Ter."

         

"Yeah, his mum's gonna kill me the next time she comes down for

a visit," laughed Terry in reply.

         

Once inside, Henry headed for the kitchen to get his dad some food, while Terry went to take  a shower  and  change.  He entered the

kitchen just as Henry was dishing up a two large plates of bacon, sausage, eggs and mushrooms. There was already a pile of buttered toast on the table. Terry grinned, thinking how Henry had already

eaten once that morning. They ate in companionable silence, and

when they'd finished, Henry aimed Terry towards the lounge room

while he cleaned up the kitchen before heading over to Tim's.

         

Returning from his shower, he found Terry fast asleep, sitting up

on the couch. Not wanting him to wake up with a stiff neck, he

gently lifted Terry's legs and laid him on the couch, quietly leaving

the apartment to walk across the hall.

         

Tim's wife opened the door and invited him in.

         

"Morning, Henry. How's your dad?"

         

"He's good thanks. He did twenty lengths this morning."

         

"I hear he had quite an audience as well. Sounds like he made a

good impression."

         

"Yes, once he  got in the  water.  Before then most of them were

beastly and bloody rude. I offered to bring him back up, but he

wouldn't have it."

         

"Hey, Henry. Where's Terry? Has he changed his mind about the

footy?"

         

"He kind of flaked out after I fed him. I just came over to let you

know we might be a bit late."

         

"Oh, man, I can't let this opportunity pass. Come on, let's go wake

him up."

         

They all  headed back to  the other  apartment, Tim hell bent on

waking Terry in the most hilarious way he could think of. When they

got there and saw how peaceful he looked, he changed his mind,

and Henry urged them to join him in the kitchen.

         

"He looks so much younger when he's asleep," Lou remarked.

         

"Yes, he's not in any pain at the moment. He wasn't like that this morning."

         

"Bad night?" Tim asked.

         

"I think he slept a bit, but he was pretty stiff and sore when he got

up. He could hardly walk, but don't let on I told you."

         

"Don't worry too much, Henry. He's going to be just fine."

         

"I know, Lou. He gets so angry that it's taking so long. He keeps forgetting how badly he was hurt. He's talking about going into the office on Monday though. Jean's been coming over to keep him up

to speed with what's going on, and he's champing at the bit.!"

         

"That could be a good idea. Let him sit behind the desk for a few

hours. Even if it's only sorting and signing paperwork, it will make

him feel useful. It could be just what he needs."

         

"You could be right. But for now, the most important thing is to get

him awake in time to get to the game."

         

"Too right. Put the kettle on. I'm sure the smell of a fresh brew will

do the trick."

         

They took their  tea into  the lounge room and  quietly sat down.

Henry placed a mug on the table by Terry's head, and they all sat watching him sleep. It didn't take too long before his nose began to twitch and he stirred. Henry quietly called to him telling him there

was a cuppa waiting. His eyes began to open, and focused on Tim

and Lou. He dragged himself into a sitting position and rubbed his

face with his hands.

         

"Good morning, sleepy head."

         

"G'day, Lou," Terry said sheepishly. "Guess I must have dropped

off for a second."

         

"Or three, or four," laughed Tim. "It's your choice, mate. The couch

or the footy. I reckon if we leave now we should get down to the car park just in time to get there for the kick-off."

         

"Go bite yer bum, mate. I'm ready, willing and, hopefully, able. So

let's go!"

         

In no time they had reached Telstra Stadium and were settled in

Tim's private box.

         

"So much for fresh air," laughed Terry.

         

"No worries, Ter. We’ll go sit outside once the game starts. Much

better that way, get the atmosphere."

         

Soon the players trooped out onto the field, and everyone stood for

the national anthems. The game was a total wipe out for the visiting South  Africa side,  losing 56-6,  and the beer  flowed non-stop all

around the field. Henry insisted on a curry on the way home. Terry

was flagging by then, so they decided on a take out. They reached

the lift in the parking area complete with all their very smelly bags

of curry, just as Mrs. Snobby and her husband arrived from their car. They looked down their noses as the less than sober men piled into

the lift with them.

         

"Still visiting your friends in the penthouse, I see," she said through gritted teeth.

         

"No, luv. I'm not visiting anyone. I bloody live there," growled Terry.

 

    

     

The only response was a snort.

         

"Aw fuck 'em," Tim muttered, almost under his breath when they reached the tenth floor and the lift doors opened.

         

As they reached the penthouses and staggered to Tim’s door, Mrs. Snobby was already moaning at her husband one floor below. He

wanted to watch the sports results. He hadn't been able to get a

ticket for the sell out game, and wanted to see any highlights they

might be showing. She stopped her tirade as she heard that local

and national dignitaries had been at the game, and she glanced at

the screen as the Prime Minister's name was mentioned. She was amazed to see him in one of the private boxes standing next to

none other than Tim, and on the other side,  sat the scruffy man

who said he owned one of the penthouses. She took more notice

on hearing that the Prime Minister was a guest of  Timothy Nolan,

the local multi millionaire owner of a string of the most exclusive restaurants across the state, and his wife, Louise, owner of hair

and beauty salons which were the favourite haunt of the rich and famous.

         

So, maybe  Tim was a  resident  upstairs after all. She still didn't

believe his scruffy companion, and guessed he was one of Tim's

"charity cases". She decided to find a way to ingratiate herself

with Tim Nolan. It always paid to have influential friends.

         

Meanwhile, Terry and Henry were saying goodnight to Tim and Lou,

with a promise to meet up the following day for lunch.

 

 

Sunday morning came around a bit too quickly for Henry. Although

since being in Uni in Sydney he'd become a fan of good old Aussie

beer, he still couldn't manage to tank up as much as his mates, and

he was feeling a little fragile. He decided to give Terry the morning

off from the pool, so turned over and went back to sleep. He woke

a couple of hours later to a loud crash from the kitchen. He rushed

out of bed, worried that his dad might have fallen.

         

When he reached the door, he stopped to watch his father leaning

on the sink swearing, a broken mug by his feet.

 

      

   

"You okay, dad?"

         

"Apples, mate. Sorry if I woke you. I was trying to make a cuppa.

Missed the counter top. I think I'm still pissed."

         

"No worries, dad. You sit down and I'll get you a couple of pannies.

Let's give the pool a miss this morning, shall we?"

         

"I can live with that. A nice cuppa and back to bed I think."

         

"I don't think so. We've got a lunch date, remember? We've slept

most of the morning away already."

         

They drank their tea and headed back to their rooms to shower and dress, and were soon  knocking  on Tim's door. Lou laughed at the

state of them, saying Tim was the same.

         

"I think I'd better drive us over to the restaurant. Tim's probably still

over the limit."

         

They all held their breath when the lift reached the tenth floor, but

it didn't  stop, to  everyone's  relief.  They got to the car with no interruptions and were soon parking at the back of the restaurant.

They made their way to Tim's private balcony which overlooked the public terrace.

         

As they helped  Terry  to his seat, Tim glanced  down at the diners

below.

         

"Christ! Don't look now, Mrs. Snobby and her old man are down

below."

         

"Fuck me! Sounds like you've got a stalker, Tim," quipped Terry.

         

"Yeah, right. I wonder if we can move the table back from the edge

a bit without causing too much noise?"

         

"Just sit over the other side, mate. Lou and Henry can sit with their backs to the rail, then your not so secret admirer won't see you."

         

Everything went well until they stood up to leave. Mrs. Snobby just happened to look up at the balcony and spotted them. She waved up

at Tim, who felt obliged to acknowledge her, after all, she was eating

in one of his restaurants.

         

In a flash, she was up on the balcony, her husband  trailing behind.

She made a beeline for Tim, totally ignoring the rest of the group

until Tim introduced his wife.

         

"This is my wife, Lou, and of course you know Terry and Henry."

         

Mrs. Snobby grasped Lou's hand and fawned over her. Terry and

Henry didn't rate a second glance. Terry sat on the edge of the table smiling at his friend's discomfort. He realised that Mr. Snobby was standing next to him with his hand outstretched.

         

"Hello, Terry, isn't it? May I introduce myself? Trevor Ballard... and that's my wife, Rosa-Lynn. Could I have a word?"

         

"Pleased to meet you, have a seat, it looks like your wife could be a while," Terry replied, shaking Trevor's hand in greeting.

         

"I just wanted to apologise on behalf of my wife. She can be a little.."

         

"Rude?" Henry asked.

         

"Insensitive, she wasn't always like this. She won the lotto jackpot,

and now looks down on 'normal' people."

         

"Takes all sorts."

         

"Your son is right, though, she was very rude to you yesterday and treated you with contempt you didn't deserve. I hope this doesn't

mean that you and I can't get along."

         

"No worries, Trev. Come up to my place anytime you need a bolt

hole," Terry winked, liking Trevor already. "I really do live in the penthouse, number 2, and Tim lives in number 1."

         

"Maybe I will," smiled Trevor, "Especially if there's a game on. Rosa-Lynn thinks footy is beneath us."

         

"Strewth, mate. You need rescuing."

         

"And my dad is just the person to do it too," laughed Henry.

         

Trevor  laughed  back, not quite  understanding,  and  noticing the

warning look Terry flashed at his son.

 

     

    

Rosa-Lynn called to Trevor, reminding him about the afternoon performance at the Opera House. Terry winked as he saw Trevor

groan, and patted him on the back as he rose.

         

The group headed back to the car and headed for Rushcutters Bay, where they boarded Tim's motor cruiser. Terry was finally getting

the fresh air he had been promised the day before. They spent the afternoon cruising up the Parramatta river. It was early evening

by  the  time  they  got back  and on the  way to the lift,  Terry

remembered he needed something out of the Jag, so told them he

would catch them up.

         

He was  just  about to open the  door  when he heard an  all too

familiar voice.

         

"Just what do you think you're doing? That's what you are is it, a

car thief?"

         

"Fuck," muttered Terry under his breath recognising the voice. He turned.

 

    

     

"It's none of your business what I’m doing," he said quietly.

         

Henry and Tim were on their way back to find Terry, and recognised

the dangerously soft tone of his voice. If they didn't get Mrs. Ballard away from him soon, he might just explode.

         

"Mrs. B, your husband is looking for you in the foyer; he said it was pretty urgent," called Tim.

         

"But, this 'friend' of yours was lurking around that beautiful Jaguar.

I'm sure he was up to no good. He says it's his, but."

         

"Let us sort it out, luv. You'd better see what your husband wants."

         

"Yes, I suppose so. If you need me for a statement, you know where

I live."

         

"Unfortunately," grumbled Terry.

         

"C'mon, dad, let it go. The stupid woman seems to have taken it

upon herself to be the building neighbourhood watch."

         

"That's all we bloody need," Terry and Tim said, shaking their heads.

 

 

"That woman is fast becoming a royal pain in the arse, and she's only just moved in."

         

As they got back to their floor, Terry went with Tim and Lou and

Henry let himself into their place. About an hour later he heard

Terry's key in the lock and turned to watch him come in the door.

Before him stood the father he was used to, hair in a military cut,

and clean shaven.

         

"Well, I always knew you cleaned up well, Dad, but it's a while since

I saw you looking like that."

         

"Pass muster, do I, son?" asked Terry.

         

"Yeah, you'll do. You really mean to go to the office tomorrow then?"

         

"Yep, I wouldn't mind some company as well. Want to come?"

         

"Too right. Thanks dad."

         

Terry decided to turn in and kissed his son goodnight. Henry smiled

as he watched his dad head for his room. He seemed to be much better since deciding to go back to work.

 

    

     

Monday, 5.00am. The pool was empty. Henry soon had Terry in the water, urging him on when he thought he was tiring. He was feeling good, and even  managed to get out  of the pool without  any help.

They made  their way back  to the apartment for  a shower and

breakfast,  before  Terry went  to get  dressed.  Henry was already

sitting on the couch waiting for him when he came out of his room.

         

"Wow, I'm impressed. That suit fits pretty well. Looks like you’ve regained a lot if the weight you lost."

         

"Thanks, son. You ready to go?"

         

Terry didn't feel up to the short walk to the office, so they took the

car. They soon pulled into his parking spot and were headed up to

TOL's office suite.

         

As soon as they left the lift, Terry was swamped by the reception

girls, who had to be peeled off him by Jean, his PA. She gave him

a welcome  back hug  and kiss,  then pushed  him  gently in the

direction of his office. She soon had him sitting behind his desk, a

huge pile of papers in front of him, a steaming mug of tea off to

the side. He smiled up at her and watched her until she left the

office.

 

  

       

Henry sat on the sofa watching his dad. He seemed as happy as

Larry, and back in his element. He just hoped that he wouldn't try

to do too much and wear himself out.

         

"She's nice, isn't she, dad."

         

"One of the best, son. They don't make them like her too often,"

he replied, gazing at the door Jean had just closed behind her.

         

Henry smiled to himself, his dad must be feeling better, especially

if he was finally noticing what a stunner Jean was. Perhaps her visits

to the apartment were more than just office updates.

         

Terry spent a couple of hours going through paperwork, then looked

up and winked at Henry.

         

"Early lunch?"

         

"Good idea, dad. Your shout."

         

"Why doesn't that surprise me?"

         

Terry got up slowly and stretched. He picked up the stick Henry had insisted on bringing up from the car, and made his way to the outer office, perching on the edge of  Jean's desk to let her know he was

off to lunch. As he got up he lightly squeezed her shoulder telling

her he'd let her know if he decided to call it a day and go straight

home. The phone rang just as he turned to leave.

         

"Hang on, Terry, it's for you," Jean called, handing the receiver over

to him. Henry noticed how their fingers touched as she handed him

the phone.

         

"Thorne... Hey, mate, where the fuck are you? I'll come and pick you

up. No, it's not a problem, I've got Henry with me. Half an hour? See

you then."

         

"Who was that, dad?"

         

"Dino, he's at the airport. Fancy a ride down there?"

         

"Yeah, why not, we can stop somewhere to eat on the way back."

         

"Sounds like a plan, mate. Jean, we'll go pick Dino up. If you're

very lucky you'll have left for the day before we get back," Terry

winked at Jean as he and Henry left the office.

         

"Are you going to be okay driving that far, dad?"

         

"Yeah, this time of day it should only be a 30 minute trip, and if

you're brave enough, maybe I'll let Dino talk me into letting him

drive us back."

         

"Seeing as I’m not allowed anywhere near your pride and joy, I'll

risk it if you will," Henry grinned

         

Henry handed Terry his stick as they got out of the car, and winked

at him.

         

"Lay it on thick, dad, or he might not make the offer to drive."

         

Terry took the stick, and leaning on it limped heavily towards the building. They soon spotted Dino pacing up and down. Could that

man never stay still?

         

"Uncle Dean," Henry called.

 

  

       

"Hey, Henry. How're ya doing?"

         

"I'm good thanks, how are you?"

         

"Same as ever. Where's the old man?"

         

"He's over by the door."

         

Dino looked to where Henry was pointing and saw Terry leaning

against the wall, stick in hand, staring out of the window.

 

   

      

"Is he okay, Henry? He looks tired."

         

"He's  doing  great,  Uncle Dean.  He's  swimming  every  day.

Sometimes even forgets his stick he feels so well, but I think the

drive took it out of him. It's the furthest he's driven since getting

out of the hospital. Don't let him know I told you, though."

         

They walked back to Terry, who was still gazing through the glass,

lost in thought.

         

"Hola, mi Hermano!"

         

Terry spun round and found himself looking into the smiling blue

eyes of his best friend.

         

"Hey, mate. How ya going?"

         

Dino's reply was to grab Terry in a rib cracking hug. When he got his breath back, he burst out laughing.

         

"I'll take that as an 'okay' shall I?"

         

"You're looking good, Tio. How long you been back in harness?"

         

"First time  this  morning.  I think  Jean's  been  saving  up the

paperwork since I've been away."

         

"Go easy, my friend. You'll be spraining your wrist with all that

writing."

         

They joked all the way to the car. Henry returned the trolley as

Dino threw his bags into the boot. When he got back, the two men

were in the middle of a heated argument.

 

   

      

"What's going on?"

         

"I just asked your dad if he minded me driving back to the city."

         

"I'm more than capable of driving my own fuckin' car," snapped

Terry.

         

"Calm down, dad. You know how much Uncle Dean loves this car.

How else is he ever going to get the chance to drive anything with

any class?  Him being the king of bad taste and all,"  Henry said,

winking at Dino behind Terry's back.

         

Terry relaxed at Henry's remark. He was feeling a bit jaded, and

would love Dino to drive. He would have liked to have had the

chance to get in first with the suggestion though. He threw the

keys to his friend, and climbed slowly into the back seat.

         

"Home, James!" he ordered when Henry and Dino were settled in.

"And don't forget, we drive on the proper side of the road over here."

         

Ignoring the string of profanities thrown in his direction, he made himself comfortable, leaning back against the headrest. He closed

his eyes and was soon asleep. As soon as the car stopped he was

awake, and he heard Dino talking into his cell phone.

         

"No, he won't be back today, Jean. We'll see you tomorrow so

have another pile of papers ready for him to sign," he laughed,

knowing Terry was awake and listening.

         

"I thought we were going to grab some tucker?"

         

"I didn't want to wake you, dad. I called for some take out."

         

"Suits me, son. Time to slob out with our feet up, eh?"

         

"Listen to you. Back in a suit for half a day and yearning for your

worn old jeans already."

 

  

       

"Rack off, mate, unless you want to sleep in the car."

         

Dino held his hands up in mock surrender and took his bags out of

the car. As he and Henry headed towards the lift, he looked back to

see Terry glance around him.

         

"What's with your dad?"

         

"He's on the lookout for Mrs. Snobby."

         

Laughing at Dino's expression, he explained about their 'weekend

from hell' dodging the awful woman,  much to Dino's delight.  He

didn't waste a second in ragging Terry about his latest 'conquest'.

Terry just pushed him into the lift and hit the button, holding his

breath until they had passed the health center and first floors. As

they entered the apartment and Dino dropped his bags, he turned

to Terry.

         

"I've never seen you so on edge about a woman before. Does she

really scare you that much?"

         

"It's more a case of worrying what I might do to her if she gets in

my face. It's her condescending, 'I've got more money than you so

don't think you're worthy to shine my shoes' attitude that pisses me

off."

         

"My  friend, you  know  you have  more money  sitting in your

Cayman's account than she could ever dream of, so don't worry

about her."

         

"The thought of her finding that out scares the shit out of me, mate.

You should see the way she's been sucking up to Tim ever since

she found out he was worthy of her attention."

         

"She still doesn't believe dad actually lives here. She thinks Tim

has taken him in as a charity case. Of course, she hasn't seen him

since his make-over."

         

Just then, the security phone rang and Henry answered. The food

was on the way up, and they were soon relaxing with their meal

and looking forward to a quiet evening in.

 

         

Dino dragged  his eyes  open and  looked at the  bedside  clock.

4:30am. He groaned and lay there trying to decide if he should get

up or roll over and catch a  few more hours sleep.  He  could hear

muffled voices coming from the kitchen and realised that Terry and Henry were probably ready for their trip down to the pool. He made

it to  his door  just  in time to see them both heading  out of the

apartment. He noticed how slowly Terry was moving, and frowned.

         

It was 5.00 am by the time he joined them at the pool. Terry was

going through some stretching exercises with Henry when he got

there.

         

"Morning, Tio, Henry."

         

"Bloody hell, mate. Didn't know you were capable of moving this time

of day."

         

"Very funny, Hermano. Thought I'd give you someone to train against

for a change."

         

"You're on."

         

Dino watched Terry strip off his sweats, studying the marks on his

body. His guilt returned. He owed him a debt he wasn't sure he could ever repay. He stripped off his own sweats, and went to stand by his friend.

         

"Do you want me to give you a head start, old man?"

         

Terry flipped him the bird, and looked straight ahead.

         

"Henry makes the rules. He'll let you know if I need any help."

         

"Okay, listen up you two. 30 lengths this morning, first 3 under

water."

         

Dino groaned. He knew Terry was part dolphin and would beat

him hands down, but he was determined not give him an easy

ride.

         

Henry blew the whistle and both men dived in. Terry was in his

element  and  happily  swam the first three lengths under the

surface.   Dino surfaced after a  length  and a  half,  his  lungs

screaming for air, deciding to carry on the swim on the surface.

Terry was soon matching him stroke for stroke and within a short

time had overtaken him. At 20 lengths, Dino gave up. He fleetingly thought he must be out of condition. He hung to the side of the

pool watching his friend swim up and down for another 10 lengths.

         

As they both left the water, Dino slapped Terry on the back and

smiled.

         

"You're  looking good, Tio.  You'll soon be  your old self  again.

You're getting stronger every day."

         

"It's taking so fuckin' long, Dino.  Six bloody months and I'm still

using a stick!"

         

"You'll get  there, my  friend.  Just wait,  one day you'll suddenly

realise that everything is back as it used to be and..."

         

"It's NEVER gonna be like it used to be!" Terry snapped, cutting

Dino off mid sentence.

 

    

     

"Terry, I'm sorry. Listen, we don't want to upset Henry do we?

What say we talk about this at the office later."

         

"Okay, mate. I didn't mean to snap. Sorry."

         

"No problem. Now, shall we make a break for it and see if we can

get back upstairs without bumping into anyone?"

  

         

Following a hearty breakfast, Terry and Dino got ready for the

office. Henry decided to snag a lift with them, arranging to meet

them for lunch.

         

"You want to drive, Dino?"

         

"No, you need the practice."

         

Terry laughed, walking towards the cars. As they got close, he

stopped. He couldn't believe his eyes. 'That woman' was checking

out vehicles in the penthouse parking spaces.. She stared in the windows of Terry's beloved Jaguar, then turned to the BMW. She

spent the  longest  time  running her hand sensuously along his

Harley. Terry wasn't happy.

         

"See anything you like, luv?"

         

Rosa-Lynn spun round, a guilty look on her face. "I don't know what

you mean," she spluttered, staring at the tall clean cut man in the expensive suit, wondering who he was.

         

"He means, for starters, you can kindly take your hand off the motorcycle," said Dino softly.

         

"Well, it shouldn't be here in the first place. This is a private complex, and these are private parking spaces, Mr..?"

         

"Fuck," Terry mouthed as he turned to face her again. Henry pulled

him to one side before he could say any more.

 

    

     

"Leave it, dad. She's not worth the hassle."

         

"The name's O'Leary, and don't worry, all these vehicles are in the

right spaces."

         

"But, they are penthouse spaces."

         

"That's right, darlin'" winked Dino as he got into the back of the

Beamer.

         

Terry opened the driver's door, threw his briefcase and stick in the

back, and gently eased himself into the seat.

         

"Get in, Henry. We're outta here," he said, starting the engine and slamming the car into reverse. With a screech of tires and a smell

of burning rubber, he shot out of the car park as fast as he could to

get away from her. Henry rested his hand on Terry's shoulder trying

to calm him down, and by the time they reached the office block, he

was more or less himself again.

         

Sorry, son. Every time that woman opens her mouth I want to shove

my fist down her throat."

         

"I know what you mean, dad, but it could be worse...you could be Trevor."

         

Terry and Dino burst out laughing at the thought, and were still

giggling to themselves as they reached their suite of offices.

         

They were greeted by Jean, who was soon swept off her feet by

Dino as he swung her around giving her a sloppy kiss, much to

the delight of the reception girls. When he released her, Terry

gave her a quick kiss on the cheek, a smile, and a, "Morning, luv."

         

"Hold all calls, Jean, my sweet. The old man and I are in conference."

         

"Okay, Dean. Don't wear him out now."

         

Terry went into his office and was closely followed by Dino, carrying

a mug of black coffee for himself and tea for Terry. He shut the door behind him.

         

"I can see why you don't miss the London office, Tio. Much better

view from this one," Dino  remarked, staring out at the  bustling

harbour.

         

"Yeah, tell me about it," Terry replied, flopping down onto the

sofa.

         

Dino settled himself into the chair opposite Terry. He put his coffee

down and sat for a few moments just looking at his friend. He let

out a sigh,  leaning forward and resting his  elbows on his knees,

not knowing where to begin.

         

"Just come  straight out  with it, mate,"  said Terry,  noticing his

friend's discomfort.

         

"Terry, not a day goes by when I don't wish this hadn't happened.

I owe you my life. If I could turn back the clock I would, but I can't,

and six months down the line here we both are, you still finding everyday life difficult, and me swanning around as if nothing has happened."

         

"Dino."

         

"No, Terry, let me finish. I know I told you this morning that one

day you'll wake up and things will be fine again, but that was for

Henry's sake. We both know the score. You might never get back

to 100% fitness, but you can't go on punishing yourself because

you aren't what you used to be. Have you thought you just might

be  pushing  yourself  too hard?  Maybe you should ease up on

yourself and take each day as it comes."

         

"Mate, I hear what you're saying, it's just..."

 

  

       

"I know, Tio. You want to be 'Action Man' again, but you have to

face the fact that you may have to slow down permanently. Henry

is worried by the way."

         

"About what?"

         

"He thinks you'll fall apart if you find out you can't go back  into the

field again."

         

"Right now I'd settle for getting out of bed without having to worry

if I'll fall flat on my face."

         

"It will happen,  Terry, just  don't push it.  Today the office, next

week, who knows?"

         

"Right. So the long and short of your little chat is, just sit back and

thank god I'm alive?"

         

"Something like that, yeah."

         

"Dino, I do, mate. Every morning when I wake up, and you know

what? I can even put up with the pain, it reminds me I'm alive. I

know I might not get around an assault course in the foreseeable

future, but I guess I can set my sights a bit lower for once in my

life, eh? The main thing is that I can still beat you, mate."

         

Dino picked up a cushion and threw it at Terry, happy to see him

smile again.

         

"Yeah, right! Now, I think it's time to get to work. I need to get you

into serious training for sitting behind that desk again. I can't wait

to see you as a full time pen pusher."

         

"In your dreams!"

         

"Hey, and while we're talking about dreams, you got anything to

tell me?"

         

"About what?"

         

"Well, for starters, how long have you been kissing the hired help

good morning?"

         

Terry blushed, much to Dino's delight. So Henry had been right about

his dad. There was something going on between Terry and Jean.

         

"She's a wonderful woman, mate. I think I'm falling seriously 'in like' with her."

         

"In like?"

         

"Yeah, mate. Afraid I'm still not up to very much more right now,"

Terry sighed ruefully.

 

    

     

"All in good time, Tio, all in good time. Welcome back to the land of

the living."

         

Terry flipped him the bird and grinned as he made his way across to

his desk.

 

         

The rest of the morning  was  spent catching  up on urgent  office

business. The most important item on the agenda as far as Terry

was concerned was the confirmation of Anton's promotion to

negotiator working out of the Sydney office. Terry had heard a lot

of good things about him during his time away, and had decided

to broach the idea with Dino. They agreed that it was time to bring

him down from their ordnance station. He had proved himself too

useful to be kept away from the heart of things.

         

They both looked up when there was a knock on Terry's door and

were surprised to see Henry walking in. Lunchtime already? Where

had the morning gone?

         

"I'm not disturbing you, am I?"

         

"No, son. Come in and have a seat. We'll only be a minute."

         

Terry was stiff from sitting down most of the morning so decided

to take a walk. They managed to get to Darling Harbour before he needed to sit down, so they chose a fish restaurant to eat lunch,

sitting at one  of the  outside tables  to enjoy the  sunshine, and

people watch.

         

Two hours later they reluctantly made their way back to the office

and another couple of boring hours chasing paperwork. Then Terry decided he'd had enough, and was out of there.

         

The first week back full time was all routine, and Terry was happy

to feel useful again. He and Dino had arranged a few meetings with potential clients, and they also had a security conference booked.

Things seemed to be getting back to normal.

 

         

The security conference was going very well. Dino had persuaded

Terry to agree on a joint presentation to allow him to sit and rest

if needed. To begin with Terry was a little worried. Dino always

left this side of the business to him, preferring to stay behind the

scenes, but he was thankful for Dino's intervention when after

about 30 minutes he really felt like he needed a break. He caught

Dino's eye and was impressed with the way his friend took over

the  presentation.  During the  lunch  interval,  they were both

chatting to the CEO of the company when Terry recognised and

nodded towards one of the delegates. The director noticed.

         

"Is there anything wrong, Mr. Thorne?"

         

"No, not at all. We just recognised on of the attendees."

         

At that moment, Terry caught the man looking in his direction, and

they both smiled at the same time. Excusing himself, he left Dino

and the director and walked off to speak with the man.

         

"G'day, Trev. What are you doing here?"

 

     

    

"Hello, Terry. This  is what I do.  Rosa is content to live the life of

luxury since her lotto win, and I don't begrudge her a minute of it,

but I've always worked. I've been with this company since I left

uni. I'm one of the corporate directors. I love my job, it keeps me grounded."

         

"Sounds like we have more in common than the footy doesn't it."

         

"I don't think that's true. I sit behind a desk all day. After watching

the first part of the presentation this morning, I'm beginning to understand what your son meant that day at Tim's restaurant."

         

"I'm a desk jockey myself, for the time being at any rate," Terry

replied ruefully.

         

"Can I ask what happened?"

         

"Long story."

         

"He got hurt  saving  someone's life," chipped  in Dino,  who had

joined them un-noticed.

         

"It takes a very special person to be prepared to lay their life on

the line for a stranger," Trevor said in awe.

         

"This time it was different. It was for me," Dino said quietly.

 

  

       

Before Trevor could respond, the afternoon session began. All

through the  presentation he  watched  carefully, noticing the

interaction between Terry and Dino, and soon realised they were

more than just business partners, they were good friends, more

than that, they were family.

         

Trevor had never had a close friendship like that, and felt a little

jealous of Dino.  He had a friend  who was willing to die for him.

Trevor wondered if any of his so called friends would even notice

if he wasn't around.

         

At the end of the afternoon, Terry and Dino were surrounded by

people thanking them for an interesting first day. Trevor decided

not to stick around, and headed off to his office.  A few minutes

later there was a knock at his door.

         

"Come!"

         

The door opened and a red head came into view. Trevor smiled as

Dino entered, closely followed by a very tired looking Terry.

         

"Trevor, my man. Don't tell me you're still working!"

         

"Just a bit of paperwork, Dean.  You know how it is.  One of the

perils of taking time out of the office to attend conferences, no

matter how interesting they are," he smiled.

         

"Terry and I thought you might like to join us for a drink."

         

"Really? I'd love to."

         

He looked from Dino to Terry, noticing how pale the latter was looking.

         

"You sure you're up for it, Terry?"

         

"No worries. I just need to sit down and get a brew inside me."

 

    

     

"Okay, take a seat while I finish up here, then we can head off."

         

Before they could leave, Trevor's phone rang. He looked at the caller

ID and sighed. "Sorry, I'll have to answer that, it's Rosa."

         

"Shall we wait outside?"

         

"No, Dean, that's fine. I'll just be a moment."

         

They could hear her voice even though they were a good 6 feet

away, and felt sorry for Trevor. His ear must be ringing. He soon

ended the call, telling his wife he would be a couple of hours, then

they all left for the local pub.

         

Trevor had a great time. The K&R men really seemed to enjoy his company.  He was hoping  it wasn't just because his firm was a

potential client. He felt that, given the chance, they could become friends.

         

They shared a taxi home and Trevor took the opportunity to once

again apologise for his wife's behaviour towards Terry. He invited

them to meet her properly but Terry declined, telling Trevor he was

too tired, but he told Dino to go ahead.

         

When he finally got back up to the penthouse, he found Terry asleep

on the sofa, and Henry watching TV.  Terry woke as  Dino sat down

with a mug of coffee. He laughed on hearing that Rosa-Lynn was convinced he was the owner of the penthouse, especially when she found out from Trevor that he was the co-owner/director of a 'multi-national' company. Dino was less than impressed.

         

"She's a fucking nightmare, Ter. She just wouldn't let me tell her I

was only a guest up here. She seems intent on adding me to her list

of 'influential friends."

         

"Well, let's hope she keeps thinking that. It might keep her off my

back, " laughed Terry sleepily.

 

         

Terry was enjoying having Dino around. For one thing, his presence

kept Mrs. Ballard off his back. He'd seen her a couple of times in the main entrance or the parking area, but she still hadn't placed him as

the  'scruffy  down and out' she had taken  exception  to all  those

weeks ago.

         

No, she had bigger fish to fry. Her sights were set squarely on Dino.

She had decided he was a man worth getting to know, along with

Tim. It would go down very well in her new circle of friends to be

able to let it slip that she was close friends to the owners of both

the penthouse apartments in the complex. She didn't once stop to

think that she was becoming as shallow as her new 'friends'. She

was still naive enough not to realise that if it wasn't for her money,

they wouldn't give  good old Rosie  Ballard from  Coogee a second

glance.

         

She had looked at Terry a couple of times, after all, even she had

to admit he was very easy on the eye, but she had decided that he

must be Mr. O'Leary's driver, so not worth her attention, and soon

forgot about him.

         

Dino was reaching breaking point, and  found himself  acting the

same way Terry had when he first arrived. He had even taken to

using the service lift to make sure he didn't bump into her when

he was  coming or going from the  penthouse.  He was actually

thinking of cutting his stay short and heading back for the US to

be free of the damned woman. He stopped to think about how

Terry would cope if he did, and decided to ride it out for a few

more weeks.

          

Terry  sat  at  his  desk, a  cup of  steaming  tea  in  his  hand,

absentmindedly staring out of the window. Dino was pacing up

and down waiting for their conference call to come through from

their other offices. Terry was just about to tell him to sit down

before he wore a hole in the carpet when they heard a commotion

from the outer office.

         

Before they could check it out, Terry's door burst open and Jean

rushed in.

         

"Sorry, Terry. There's a man outside who insists on seeing you or

Dino. He won't take no for an answer."

         

"Who is he, Jean?"

         

"He's a Dr. Waltham - CEO of Waltham Pharmaceuticals."

         

"Isn't that where Trevor works?"

         

"You're right, Dino, wonder what he's making such a din about?

You'd better send him in, luv."

         

A few moments later, Jean returned, with Dr. Waltham close on

her heels.

         

"Mr. Thorne, Mr. O'Leary. I'm so sorry to barge in unannounced like

this, but I couldn't think who else to turn to."

         

"Of course, Dr. Waltham. Take a seat. Now, what can we do for

you?"

         

"I think I'm in need of your professional services."

         

"You need us to give another presentation?" asked Dino.

         

"No, it's nothing like that. I fear that it's your negotiation skills that

I need to avail myself of."

         

"Would you like to start from the beginning, doctor?" asked Terry preparing to take notes.

         

"Of course. Sorry. Early last week, a small group from the company

left for the East Sepik province up in Papua, New Guinea to attend

a research conference.  One of their free days  was to be taken up

with  a field  trip to view  the  new plants being  tested  for  their

medicinal qualities. They never made it back to their hotel!"

         

"Have you contacted the local authorities up there?

         

"Oh yes, and they have done all that they can. They say there is no

trace of the group."

         

"Okay," said Dino. "First things first. Can you tell us just who was

in your little group?"

         

"Yes, there were my two chief research chemists, a senior salesman,

a marketing manager, and one of our corporate directors."

         

Terry's head snapped up at the mention of the last member of the

group. He was getting a bad feeling about this.

 

     

    

"I'm  afraid  that you know  the last one,  gentlemen.  It's Trevor

Ballard."

         

"Fuck!" exclaimed  Terry,  throwing down his pen and  wiping his

hand across his face. "Have you told his wife yet?"

         

"Not yet. I thought it might be better to keep things quiet until I

had some definite news. The trip was expected to last three weeks,

so they won't be missed yet."

         

"You think they wouldn't want to contact their wives or girlfriends

while they are away?"

         

"They knew they would be spending a lot of time in the forest, Mr. O'Leary. They usually tell their loved ones not to worry if they don't

hear from them."

         

"To be honest, doctor, there isn't too much we can do for the

moment. For all we know they could have just wandered off the

track and have managed to get themselves lost. Or they could

have had an accident. With the best will in the world, TOL is not

a missing persons' bureau."

         

"I understand that, Mr. Thorne. I just have this feeling something

really bad has happened up there, and am hoping that you will be

able to help in some way."

         

"Well, if you're thinking someone may have taken them, all we can

do is wait for them to contact you. If and when they do, get right

back to us, and we'll see what we can do."

         

"Thank you very much gentlemen, and be assured that money is

no object. I want my people back safe and sound, no matter what

the cost."

 

         

They didn't  have to wait too long  to hear from  Waltham again.

Three days later they were heading out for lunch when Terry's

phone rang.

         

"Yes, Jean."

         

Dino  watched the  expression change  on his friend's  face,  and

waited.

         

"Thorne...We'll  be  right over," Terry  said before  replacing the

receiver.

         

"Change of  plan, mate, lunch  is on hold.  Waltham  has  had a

demand."

         

"Fuck!" exclaimed Dino, sinking into a chair.

         

Before they had a chance to get their thoughts together they heard

a commotion from outside Terry's office. A few moments later the

door burst open, and Jean came rushing in.

         

"I'm sorry, Terry. There's a very loud woman outside demanding to

see Dean."

         

Terry smirked. "Your past catching up with you at last, mate?"

         

"She says she must speak to you urgently, Dean. Something about

her husband,  and she won't take no for an answer.  She said her

name is Rosa-Lynn Ballard."

         

"Shit, that's all we need right now!"

         

"Well, mate, there's no way we can get out of here without going

past her, so we'd better get it over with. Show her in, Jean."

         

Jean returned a few moments later with a tearful Rosa-Lynn close

on her heels.  She made a bee-line for  Dino, completely ignoring

Terry, who was back behind his desk.

         

Terry was amazed at how she managed to remain so haughty even

while playing the distressed wife, and wondered if her tears were

real, or just for show. She sniffed delicately and dabbed at her eyes

with  a  lace  handkerchief, all  the  while  imploring  Dino  to do

everything he could to find Trevor and the others.

         

Dino had never been good around weeping women, and gave Terry

such a look of desperation over Rosa's shoulder as he comforted

her, it was all he could do to stop himself from chuckling at his

friend's dilemma.

         

He rose slowly from his chair and limped around to the front of his

desk before speaking.

         

"Please take a seat, Mrs. Ballard. May I offer you some tea?"

         

Startled by  the deep, soothing  voice,  she jumped a  little and

turned quickly to face the speaker.

         

"Thank you, Mr..?"

         

"Thorne."

         

She sat on the sofa, gratefully accepting the cup Jean offered, and stared up  at Terry, frowning slightly, for a few  minutes  before

speaking.

         

"Do I know you, Mr. Thorne?"

         

"No, Mrs. Ballard," he  replied  coldly, taking  a sip of his  own tea.

"You don't know me at all."

 

   

      

"I'm sure I know you from somewhere."

         

"Mrs. Ballard," interrupted Dino. "This is my partner. He is the CEO

of the company, and runs our Sydney and London offices."

         

"Ah, then I've probably seen you around the city, maybe at the

various charity functions I attend," beamed Rosa-Lynn, making

Terry wonder if she'd forgotten just why she was in the office in

the first place.

         

"We were just on out way to see Dr Waltham to find out just what t

he situation is, Mrs. Ballard. There isn't a lot we can tell you until

then."

         

They were interrupted by a knock on the door and Anton walked in.

         

"Mrs. Ballard, meet Anton Patterson. He will be in charge of the

case," said Terry, smiling at his new chief negotiator.

         

"What!? You mean you won't be handling this yourself, Mr. O'Leary,

Mr. Thorne?"

         

"We will be behind the scenes, a kind of backup, if required, but

Anton is one of the best men we have working for us right now and

will be running the show. Now, we really must make a move, and

my best suggestion to you would be to go home and rest. We will

be in touch with you as soon as we know anything concrete."

         

At that, Terry buzzed for Jean to show her out, and the three men headed off for their meeting with Dr. Waltham.

         

Doctor Waltham paced up and down his office, glancing at his watch

on every turn. He stopped mid stride on  hearing the  knock at his

door. He threw it open and ushered in the three men waiting on the other side.

         

He showed them to empty seats and took a large padded envelope

out  of the top  drawer of  his desk,  handing it  over to Terry, who

quickly passed it on to Anton without looking inside.

 

Noticing the puzzled look on his face, Dino explained to the CEO

that Anton would be the one handling the negotiations with the kidnappers.

         

"He looks very young. Are you sure he knows what he's doing? No offence, young man."

         

"None taken, Doctor," Anton smiled in reply.

         

"Anton was trained by me, Doctor," said Terry. "If you don't think

he's good enough, then you don't think TOL is good enough, and

we're sitting here wasting each other's time."

 

   

    

He made to rise, but stopped when Waltham held up his hands in apology.

         

"I'm sorry if I've offended you and your colleagues. It's just that

I'm so afraid for my people, and I want the best I can find to help

get them home safely.  I've been told your company  is the best,

and seeing the  presentation  you and your  partner gave  at the

security  conference only  confirmed  all I'd heard.  I took  it for

granted that you or your partner would be personally involved."

         

"Doctor, we have offices in Sydney, New York and London. We can't

get  'personally  involved' with  every case  we accept, but  we can guarantee that all our  negotiators are  trained to the same high

standard that my partner and I are. We wouldn't be satisfied with anything less."

         

"Thank you, Mr. Thorne. I appreciate that."

 

         

They were soon  ensconced  in a private  office to enable them to

study the personnel files, and the material that had been received

from the kidnappers. Inside the envelope they found identity

documents from each member of the group together with some

personal items, watches, jewellery and the like.

         

There was also a note telling Doctor Waltham to expect a call. The

time given was for later that same afternoon.

         

"Alrighty, time  for a spot of  lunch, I think," said Terry  rising and

heading for the door.

         

They met Waltham on their way out, assuring him that they would

be back in plenty of time to take the expected call. In a nearby restaurant, they discussed what little they knew about the case

as they ate their meal, and began to formulate a plan of action.

Anton was a little nervous about taking on his first big case, but

his  two bosses  put his mind  at rest telling  him they would be

around if he needed their advise at any time.

         

They got back to the office half an hour before the call was due,

and went through the personnel  files again while they  waited.

Right on time, the phone rang. Anton answered on the second

ring. At first, the caller was abusive when he was informed that

Doctor Waltham would not be coming to the phone, and he would

talk to Anton or no-one. He seemed to know the score, and soon

calmed down.

         

All through  the first  contact,  Terry was on an  extension taking

notes, while Dino was taking notes of his own, on how well Anton

was doing.

 

     

    

By the time the connection was broken, a proof of life had been

agreed on, together with information on how and when the next

contact would be made. It would no doubt be by radio, impossible

to trace, and they hoped that for the short term, they could set up

shop  in their  own  offices.  They didn't  really want  Waltham

hovering  over  them as they  worked, as he had been doing  all

afternoon.

         

The contact, who called  himself Jimmy,  had agreed  to send the

proof of life  to Anton  at the TOL office, and  not to Waltham, so

before they left, they told the CEO that they would be in touch as

soon as they received it.

 

         

Trevor was tired, hot, sticky and incredibly dirty. He was also alone.

He had no idea if the others were together or alone. He was afraid. Afraid for himself, and for the rest of the group. What was going to happen to them? Why were they there?

         

At first, they had thought it was an elaborate prank, men jumping

out of the bush waving guns and machetes at them as part of the organised trip to the mountains where the plants they needed were growing. All too soon though, they realised it was no game. These

men were  taking them  prisoners for some  reason.  As they were

being marched through the undergrowth, Trevor wondered if anyone would miss him if he didn't get out of this. Would anyone bother to

try to find him?

         

After a day of walking, they had reached a camp. They were herded

into a large hut and were soon joined by an impressive man wearing army fatigues. The leader of the rebels who had taken them, no

doubt.

         

They were warned that the camp was heavily guarded, and there

was no escape. Any attempts would end in injury, or even death,

but if they  obeyed  orders, then  they just might make it  home to

their families in one piece.