Chapter 77
Tuesday's are never anything special to any person that work. It's not hump day and the weekend gone is now just a memory. That best describes my Tuesday as I went from meeting to meeting, replied to endless email, and worked with Sam on my month ahead in my schedule. Scheduling my dairy was like training for an Olympic event. He required precision and many reworks before it was perfect, whilst also allowing for the unknown to jump in the way. The Month of September had me in 3 continents at different times of the month, working on three different projects at a minimum. I needed 3 of me to survive I joked with Sam trying to see when I would be at home with Jackson.
Once we had a workable schedule it was sent to those that required it. Jackson, Michael, James, Inga, Captain Hendrickson, Karl, Steven, Johan, Jules, Maggie etc. The list of people who needed to know where I was at any given time was lengthy and growing on a daily basis.
I knew who would be the first respondent to my email, and it didn't take long at all for him to reply.
"Wow, 9 whole days. Gee thanks" came Jacksons short reply.
"Sorry bub, not long before you can travel with me again, but you know what. the Doctors have said. Besides, I have something which may keep you interested whilst I am away" I was a little over racked with guilt, but I had made headway in to securing an old apartment building midtown that maybe suitable for Jackson to start a foundation here in New York, and if I sold it to him in a positive light, I knew he would be fine. I was also making moves to have Michelle to start her induction program with Various people so she could assume the role as Jacksons EA as soon as he was back on his feet.
As always, when my phone rang and it was one of the girls, my mood increased.
"Hey babymama" I said as I answered.
"Hey Daddy. Just wanted to tell you this morning's trip to Marcus' parents went well and they are joining us for dinner. 7pm. Do not be late. They are Yaniv & Shona. Do not make me remind you again"
"OK, OK. Dinner at 8, their names are Bill & Betty!" I said as I hung up making a note of their names on my blotter next to me.
I quickly dialled Karl, "Hey, just a quick one, make sure Cook has all dietary requirements 100%. I don't want to see shrimp cocktail and Roast Pork Loin on the menu!"
Karl laughed as I said it. "Don't panic Grant. You forget our former employers were Jewish. We have this nailed." He added before hanging up.
I felt relieved as well as nervous. We'd only met one lot of parents of Jules boyfriends, back in High School when she took the son of the Schools only homophobic parents to her senior dance. Jackson almost belted the father in to next year, whilst I tried to remain the peacemaker. The things you did for kids.
"Be on the ground and ready to depart 9am local on Wednesday" Came the next email from Capt Hendrickson. I loved Johns approach to everything. He always kept me informed, as well as the likes of Michael. Sam & James. I was excited about hopping on the new plane again, and the thought made me happy.
Leaving the office dead on time, I was glad to be heading home. As I walked in I asked Karl to get me Marcus, I needed to know what to wear tonight.
"Its taken care of. I have a Navy single breasted Tom Ford laid out with a soft blue Polo Oxford shirt and some Gucci loafers ready for you to change in to once you've showered. Jackson, I believe is either in the shower or lying to me, and he is wearing a soft Khaki number he picked up today from Saks."
Karl had me pegged. He knew I wasn't going to complain. He just knew what I needed, generally before what I knew myself.
In the minutes before Marcus' parents arrived, I was extremely nervous. I am not sure why, but the thought of meeting them I guess was hitting home the reality of the fact that my baby girl had grown into a woman.
I heard the door bell in the distance, and knew it was showtime. I kissed Jackson and all I said was "Show time". It wasn't that we needed to put on a front, but we knew the importance of what this meant to Jules.
"Rabbi & Mrs Finkelstien" I said as I extended my hand in a form of welcome.
"Please, call me Yanniv & my wife Shona. Wonderful to meet you and thank you for inviting us into your home."
"It's a pleasure, call me Grant, and my husband, Jackson" I added
As we made pleasantries, Karl moved us through to the main reception room, where he had organised some pre dinner drinks.
Marcus & Jules entered at this time, with Marcus greeting both his parents with kisses on their cheeks. It showed a level of respect he held for his parents. Jules was equally warm in her greeting, and as her father, I was proud of her.
"Can I get you something to drink?" I asked the group, as we started the small talk of the gathering of a new group.
"A whiskey if I may" asked the Rabbi, "and if it's no problem, my wife will have a vodka soda."
"Ah, a woman after my own heart," I laughed.
Once drinks had been organised, I needed to breach a few subjects. As awkward as some maybe, both the Rabbi and his wife had put me at ease.
"Yanniv, Shona, can I ask a personal question, without causing any disrespect" I fired off first
"Oh course. Please do"
"Your thoughts on the pending birth?"
"Well Grant, there are several thoughts I have had, and still do. As you know I am man of deep faith, conviction and integrity." I he started off almost pensive in his response." I shared with Marcus that your daughter, Jules, was not of the faith I would have preferred my son to have partnered, if not married." I let him continue on, as I could see him searching for words as he spoke. "As a Rabbi, we like to uphold those traditions, and for me, there is some importance. But, as my wife said, it is his life, not mine. And as I reflected on those words, I realised she was right, and I cannot stand in the way of my son's happiness, as much as it may sadden my own hopes and aspirations."
He spoke so eloquently and I could see he meant what as he was saying as he reached out to his wife's hand to squeeze and acknowledge her as well. Shona then decided to add her part.
"Our Marcus has always been his own person, unlike his two brothers, hes forged a path on his own. His father refused him to serve in the Military, and yet he did, his father demanded he attend yeshiva, he played hooky, his father insisted he do Kibbutz when he finished School, he joined the military. As you can see our youngest has a spirit of his own. And when we met Jules this morning, we understood why. Such a beautiful young lady, should a thoughtful and caring nature, and this reflects back on to you and your husband, and the upbringing you have given her." Her words were powerful and emotive, and I was feeling a little overcome by them. Such thought and consideration as to who her son had become, and the man he wanted to be.
I was a little to overcome to respond, but a quick squeeze on my leg had Jackson clearing his throat.
"I will be honest, I was petrified when Jules told me. I think the shock that I was becoming a grandfather was the part that knocked me over, he said almost laughing."
"It's easy" Added the Rabbi. "You take them, you love them, you spoil them, and when they cry, they go home to their parents" This comment left us laughing, as Marcus and Jules looked on.
Yanniv went on to further speak some concerns he may have. "We know no decision has been made as to his faith, but I would like one consideration to be made. That if the baby is born a boy, you allow us the opportunity to perform a Bris. It would be important to us, in the case that Jules does allow him to be ordained Jewish at some stage of his life, and for me as a Rabbi, I would perform the ceremony myself"
This hung in the air for a moment, as we all eyed each other for a response. Jules was the only person who could answer this, and as she rose from her seat and walked across the room, she lent down to grab the Rabbi's hand.
"Yanniv, I would be honoured if you would perform it. Whilst Marcus and I have not made any decisions, as to the child's religious identity, I understand the importance of this is for you. But, we have no idea of the child's gender yet, so let's wait and see." She finished off.
As a parent watching his oldest child be a mature woman, both Jackson and I had developed a tear in our eyes.
"Jules, that was beautiful, a great mother you will be"
Our conversation turned away from the baby, and more on to the work we were doing with poorer communities around the globe, as well as the marginalised in our communities. Yanniv spoke of the work he had done, and offered Jackson some assistance in connecting with some people in New York who had similar foundations, but were grossly underfunded.
The night went really well, and it all came to an end too soon. We had met some absolutely genuine people tonight, who had come in to our lives by accident, but who would remain close to us for years to come.
As they were leaving, Yanniv hugged Jules, and as he stepped back still holding her hands, he said out loud, "it's not too late marry." As she smiled with a simple comment, "We shall see"
Jules was always one to play her cards close to her chest. I was impressed.
Chapter 78
Rising from bed, and heading down for coffee, I could see my luggage was packed and waiting at the door. Whist I travelled light between houses, I still had a fair bit going with me. Jackson was already sitting in the kitchen as I walked in.
"Morning Bub, you're up early" I said, knowing he was always an early riser due to years of starting work early.
"Yeah, I have been thinking about a few things the Rabbi said last night. A lot to take in with the foundation. The man is a wealth of knowledge in this town, and whilst I don't want to be seen as stealing his idea's, or effecting other organisations, there is so much I want to know."
"Perhaps give him a call and arrange a time to catch up with him, one on one and see the work he is doing."
"Yeah, that's what I was thinking, I just wanted to run it past you first."
"Bub, you don't have to run anything past me, this is your baby, but I am always here to listen. You know that, right."
"Yeah I do. Thanks" he said as he return to coffee and the notes he'd been scribbling."
"Will be right here with just Maggie?"
"Just Maggie? I have half a dozen staff, Karl, Michelle, Chris and two other guards. Really, you think it's just the two of us?" He laughed
"You know what I mean" I joked.
"I do, how long you away for?" he asked.
"Can I answer that question tomorrow once I have spoken with Johan. I am not sure what I am walking into yet, but I have a feeling it's not good"
"Ouch. I understand, but please keep me posted"
"As always. Now, you have a property to sort out in the Caymans, a new venture to work on, and you need to continue your rehab. I need you 100% so you can travel a bit more with me. Please take care"
I hated leaving. But we both knew this was our lives now, and we had to make it work.
It was around 8 am that Michael came to start to round me up.
"Wheels up in an hour boss, plus shit traffic in the morning, let's get moving shall we."
Standing I kissed Jackson passionately and longingly, as he squeezed my bum as we hugged.
"This is mine on your return" He whispered in my ear.
"You bet!" I added.
Leaving the townhouse, and hopping in to the car, the traffic was just horrible. Peak hour traffic trying to get to LaGuardia was just painful, but after dodging and weaving we arrive on time, as the jets engines were idling as I walked up the stairs.
"Morning John" I greeted the Captain as I walked up the stairs, offering my hand.
"Morning Boss. Looks like a smooth trip across the pond this morning, with a travel time of just short of 7hrs thanks to some favourable tail winds."
"How you enjoying your new toy" I asked, referring to the plane.
"I am in love. She is so easy and smooth. I have never flown something as comfortable as this. The technology is just amazing." I could tell by the expressions in his voice that he meant every word.
Sitting at the desk on the plane, Michael sat opposite me and strapped himself in for take off.
"Gee, why the sad face?" I asked
"Der, I left Karl behind." He added.
"Well Romeo, you have it bad I see" Laughing at him, as we felt the plane kick in and start to taxi to the runway.
"Cleared for take off team, please find your nearest seat and strap in, we are on a roll." Came John's voice over the system.
It was 10 minutes before we had reached cruising altitude.
"Want a coffee Boss" Michael asked.
"Yeah, grab yourself one, I want to have a chat with you about something that is concerning me."
"Sure, give me a few." He returned in less than minute. "Apparently I am not allowed to make coffee, the cabin crew will bring it over" He said looking like he had been admonished.
"Oops, don't piss in others ponds, Michael" I said as smiled at me.
"So what do you want to talk about?" He asked.
"Well, I noticed your `bulk' is getting bigger, and I need to ask you a very simple and straight forward question, and I deserve an honest answer. Are you injecting shit into yourself?"
He looked at me like the whole world knew his secret. A mixture of fear and embarrassment crept across his face as he lowered his head and whispered something I didn't quite hear.
"Sorry? What was that" I asked him to repeat.
"Yeah, I have a problem boss."
"so do you want to talk about it?" I asked prodding for him to open up without sounding like I was interrogating him.
"I just can't stop. They make me feel good and powerful"
"What are you using?"
"Testosterone and steroids"
He was highly embarrassed and I could see he was struggling, and I needed to be empathetic towards him if we were going to get around this.
"Michael. You are amazing. I'd lost without you, but I think we need to get you some assistance before you do damage to yourself, your body and those around you. Will you let me in to help?" I asked reaching across the desk to grab his hand.
It was at this moment our coffee arrived, and it gave Michael a moment to collect his thoughts.
"Yeah, it would" he said as the cabin crew exited my office. "Its causing a few problems between Karl and I. I get overly aggressive towards him at times, and it's scaring the both of us."
"OK Cowboy, I know how much you love him, lets get this train wreck back on the tracks, but, you need to work with me, and not get against me, and whatever I say is the final word! Are you ready for that."
"More than you will ever know."
"OK, go wash your face I have some calls to make." I said, as I dismissed him.
I picked up the phone and called a mate of mine in Australia who worked with these types of addictions in Sydney. He ran an inhouse clinic. I knew if I could get Michael in there, there was hope he would be able to overcome this, and get back to normal. I had a real soft spot for him. From what I understood he zero family, and was often left to his own devices, with no real support or people to turn to in life. I wasn't about to fail him.
"Hey Stranger" I said down the line.
"Oh it's the jet setting billionaire. How are you, and where are you" he responded by knowing it was me.
"currently somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean heading east to Munich."
"Oh, nice for some. How are Jackson and the girls. Good I hope"
"very, we are all good, except you may have heard about Jacksons injuries of late, but he is getting there."
"Yeah, I heard, that's pretty fucked up from what I have read. What can I do for you, I gather this isn't a social chat"
"Not exactly, but I do want to catch up, and I will be down under next month, but in the interim, I need your assistance"
As I went on to explain Michael, his steroid use, his aggression etc, he listened in, adding questions, some of which I wasn't able to answer.
"What I would like to do is send him to you for a month, and get him back in shape. I will pay the bills, he's a pretty special guy to us, and is my lead detail in making sure I keep alive"
"Well, if that's the case, you better put him on the next flight to me. Give me a few days, and I will organise a plan for him. Could he be here Monday?"
"I will make sure he is. Thanks mate, I really do appreciate it"
"Dinner is on you when you get back here."
"Deal" I said as I shut of my phone and went in search of Michael.
"Hey Romeo, got a minute"
"Yeah I do."
`Well, I have a friend that runs a clinic who specialises in issues like you're going through now. I have just spoken to him, you are leaving Munich Saturday, and are heading to him to get back on track."
As Michael went to protest, I raised my hand in an attempt to stop him.
"I want you around a lot longer, you need to do this. For me, for Karl, and more importantly, yourself"
He could only nod in agreement. I then told him where it was at, just outside Byron Bay in the Hinterlands of a tropical wonderland. It wasn't going to be easy, but I needed to get a hold of Sam & James to let them know the changes. I needed to do this.
"Hi James, Houston, we have a problem!" I started off my call. I explained the issue, and also what I had organised. Under the circumstances James was happy I had moved quickly and decisively in solving it, but it left me without a lead detail, and as a part of my personal insurance, it was mandatory for me to have such.
"How about Marcus?" James suggested. "Until I have things sorted in Munich, he cant start his new role here, and we don't arrive until tomorrow anyway? If you use him as you lead until Michael returns, it steps him up a little and also gives him better exposure to the higher pressure roles, and if you think he isn't coping, just let me know and we will change."
"Deal, sounds like a plan. I will leave you to sort out that detail, but in the meantime, I want this kept under wraps. If anyone asks, Michael is away on an assignment for me. I don't want the others getting wind of it, and gossip starting that could potentially cause us internal damage. I will talk to Karl myself, shortly"
"Yeah agreed. I will look after Marcus, you Karl. I will see you tomorrow night."
We ended our call and as I wondered the plane Michael was laying in the back on one of the seats, I wasn't sure if he was asleep as I approached cautiously.
He was laying there crouched up sobbing, alone.
"Hey, what's going on?" I asked in a caring way
"I really fucked up didn't I boss."
"Well you did, but we found out before it went too far. It's ok, we are going to make you bigger and better than ever, and by bigger, I don't mean steroids. All this will just be a memory before you know it."
"What if I lose Karl. I will never forgive myself."
"That little monkey is high in love with you. Leave that for me to deal with. You will leave here Saturday, fly to Brisbane in Australia, then you will be driven to the retreat, where a good personal friend of mine will look after you. I trust him, and I trust you."
I was crouched down running my fingers through his blond locks, and I felt almost fatherly towards him as tendered to his needs. He was in for a tough run, but I knew he could get past it with some help and encouragement.
"Sam, I need you to book Michael on a commercial flight Munich -- Brisbane in Australia. Business class minimum, first if available. Try Singapore Airlines, if not Emirates. Just one way at this stage, he needs to leave Munich Saturday as I need him in Brisbane Monday morning." I instructed Sam as I was on the phone. Sam knew better than to ask questions, and he also knew I would fill him at a later stage.
"Got it boss. Does he need accommodation?"
"No, it is already taken care of."
"On to it, I've just looked whilst on the phone, I can get him Munich-Dubai, Dubai-Brisbane with a three hour layover, first class, arrives Brisbane 7am Monday morning."
"Book it in. Email me the tickets etc. You should have his Passport on file."
"Sure do, talk later"
Chapter 79
Touching down in Munich felt strange. It had been a while since I had been here, and we had had many changes and happenings since. Hoping in the car on our way to the villa, Michael was more demure than he normally was.
"Are you OK?" I asked as I placed my hand on his shoulder.
"Yeah boss, I think I am. I needed for it to come out."
"Well how about an early night, and tomorrow when Marcus arrives, you can officially take leave. Lets just have some chill time now"
Driving through the big iron gates of the Villa, the first sight of autumn had hid, as I noticed the foliage was spread across the once perfect lawns.
"Once we are in, I'm going to walk the grounds a bit, care to join me?"
"Yeah, that would be nice."
I knew there was more he wanted to say, but I was leaving it up to him to open up to me. I had said enough. Now it was back on him.
"Paul, splendid to see you again." I said as I shock his hand.
"You too, Herr. It has been too long. Trust you are well."
"All fine here. I'm glad to be back. Can we arrange dinner for 7, and please, I'd like you to join me, we have a lot to catch up on." I spoke as I made my way to my bedroom to change in to some more comfortable to walk around in.
"Michael!" I yelled from the door. "I am waiting"
"Yeah, Yeah, I only packed one runner. I was digging through Chris' shit trying to find his."
I laughed at this thought. He is dating the most organised person I know, and he only packed one shoe. I could have fun with this.
As we wondered around the park life grounds, Michael stopped by the water's edge. I steadied up and gave him the time he needed to say what was on his mind.
"Boss, I am resigning my role." He said softly, almost reluctantly. "I have let everyone down, no one more so than you & Jackson. It is not right that I remain active for you."
"Oh, OK, and what are your plans then, sunshine." I asked with a hint of sarcasm.
"Don't really know. I might just travel and sort myself out, I have no plans."
"Oh, so you're having a pity party now you've been caught out, and want to runaway from everything and everyone that cares for you? What about Karl? What about James? Have you thought about them? I'm guessing your head is too far up your own arse to think about how that might impact on others."
"Fuck you" He said forcibly, and probably more forcibly than I thought he would.
I could see the tears starting to flow down his face. My wingman, my protector, my friend was broken worse than I realised. It was hurting me to see this young, healthy man crumble like a 2 year old.
I pulled him down on the now damp grass and pulled him in for hug.
"Let it out buddy, let it out. It's going to be hard, but those who love you, Karl, me, Jackson and everyone else is here to support, not judge you. We are family. I know you don't have much family, but we are it. Family isn't always blood."
I held him until it was dark. The sobs slowly drying up. The poor guy was being tormented by poor choices he had made. It was going to be hard for him, but I knew he would overcome it.
We wandered back to the Villa, just as dinner was to be served. "Give me 5 mins to change, and I will be down, Paul" I said as we bolted in the door.
I left Michael as he entered his room. "We will talk later ok. Are you right here alone for a bit?"
"I'm good. Talk soon"
Finally getting down to dinner, it was good to catch up with Paul, as we discussed the planting season for the Villa, some urgent repairs, and the restoration of a conservatory that was left to decay about a decade ago. I wanted it as a winter spot to sit in the garden protected from the elements, with heating upgrades and comfortable seating.
Dinner went for a few hours, and I missed how much on his brief Paul was even when I wasn't there.
"How's the nursery going." I asked Paul.
A roll of his eyes confirmed what I already knew.
"Miss Jules, shall I say, is the most easiest to work with. We are still on white for a colour, but I haven't started with the trades yet, as she is bound to change her mind. Please don't think I am being rude, Herr"
"Haha. No, I understand completely. When she was 14 she painted her whole room black, without us knowing. With Jules, always be prepared for the unexpected."
"Oh, delightful, a black nursery" Paul added laughing.
Finishing up dinner, I made my way to my room. I showered and hopped in to bed. Tomorrow was looking to be a long day. It was then I had a thought.
I picked up my phone and texted Michael. "Can you please come to my room"
As he appeared in Boxers and T I threw back Jacksons side of the bed.
"Come sleep here, just sleep, I think you could do with a cuddle."
Without saying a word, Michael slid in to the bed next to me, as I rolled over and spooned his bulk. I could hear his silent sobs. This is what he needed.
Chapter 80
I awoke earlier than usual, with Michael curled into next to me. I was glad he gotten some sleep and was still there. As I laid there thinking about what the day would bring, I could see the morning dawn approach through the gap in the curtains. Waling over to the window I pulled back the shades to take in the beauty.
Mornings & sunrise were may favourite time of the day. I always felt connect ad energised watch a new day break. It always gave me hope, no matter what lied ahead of me, and I was always excited to watch the new life of a day appear.
I walked in to the bathroom and warmed up my shower and stood and let the water cascade down over me in a way that warmed my soul. Having wasted far too much water, I hopped out and dried off, returning to my bedroom.
"Morning sleeping beauty" I said to Michael as he laid there with his bed hair making him look younger than he actually was.
"Morning boss. Thanks for last night. It helped."
"Good, todays a new day. Go grab a shower and I will meet you down stairs. I need coffee" I added as I walked off, dressed and ready for a day in the office.
After breakfast, Paul fetched my coat, as the car pulled up out front, and as Michael and I left the villa for the drive in to Munich, I knew we were good in our thoughts.
Pulling up in front of the now completed refurbished building, it was her beauty that captured me.
Looking better than I had hoped, it had retained its classical lines, and had been given a modern twist. The use of LED to high light it's entry was a highlight of the two era's meeting and was an impressive entry.
The security in the foyer buzzed me straight through with a slight nod, and as we rode the elevator to the 10th floor, I felt like I had returned after a long absence.
"Good Morning, Mr Von Garbner" Inga commanded as the door's opened. "Welcome back, you have been missed" She greeted as we walked to my office, with Inga listing off meetings I had on that day.
"Johan is already here, he is in your office. I will bring you some coffee. Do you need anything else?" she asked as we approached my office.
"No thanks, I am good, but definitely bring coffee. I think I am going to need that today"
Her smile was warm. Our relationship had come a long way in the year we had been around. I was glad she stayed on, as like Sam, she was a hidden gem in our organisation.
"Good Morning Johan" I said as I extended my hand in welcome.
As we embraced, I could see the lines of worry across his face.
"That's not a good look. Where do you want to start" I asked as Inga appeard with a tray of coffee and began serving.
"Well, after you took over, I engaged with some auditors to go over the Banks books in order to get a clearer picture as to wear we were at. No that I didn't trust myself, but that I wanted you to have the best picture possible as to our health."
I nodded in agreement, as this made perfect sense in the way general business practise was done.
" The report has found that between 2012 up until now payments of $500m have been paid out annually to a company with no back rounding behind it. Furthermore, as has been discovered it is a company that has your great aunt as the sole shareholder of this company. We have not found any reason for these payments, and it appears that documents on file have been forged."
"How did this happen?"
"We believe your grandmother over looked them and continued to sign off on the payments, not fully knowing the detail behind them, and as we have always produced large profits, no one questioned it."
I sat there trying to figure out why this had occurred.
"Sir, I want to say, that is me and my department that over saw these payments, and it was my team that produced the payments on signed advice from your grandmother. I should offer my resignation immediately."
"That won't be necessary Johan. You and your dept acted with the authority of my grandmother. Whether she knew or not, we will never know, but now that we do, all payments must cease, and must cease now."
"Yes Sir, I have already stopped all payments, hence why there is $2B extra on this years balance sheet, and explains our sudden lift in profits." He added.
"Why would they have done this?" I asked aloud to no one in particular "there would have to be a reasoning."
"My only thought is that your grandfather had a strong bond with his sister, and this may have been made to her as a sign of good will. As I noted, the first payment started 3 months after his death in 2012." Johan noted. "It is the only thing I can put it down to, but after speaking with his lawyers, your lawyers, there is nothing in his will that stipulates these payments, and his 100% ownership of this bank, his personal wealth & property were all left to your grandmother."
"OK, can I ask you to set up a separate team and dig through this one. I want it kept close, as I don't want the media or anyone else knowing about this. Keep me abreast & updated, and once we have all the answers, we will plan from there. I am sure with the sums we are talking about, we will hear some noise come 30th September when the next payment is due."
"I thought the same, I will come back to you as soon as I know more."
"Johan, I know it is not your fault. Go easy on yourself, and lets just resolve it."
"Thank you, sir, I appreciate your continued confidence in me."
"You seem tired too. I worry about you over doing it. Once this is concluded, I want you to take your family off for a few weeks on the yacht. Trust me, it does wonders for your soul." I added noting the exhaustion across his face.
As Johan rose, Inga entered the room right on point. "Sir, I have Sam on line two for you. He needs to run across a few things.
"Great thanks Inga." I noted as Johan left. "Sam, how are you my little gem."
"Good Grant. We are just heading to the airport now. We will be home soon, but I just wanted you to check a few emails and reply. I have also sent Michael's flight details, and James wants to have a quick word." He added.
"Boss, is Michael ok?" he asked, noting the concern in his voice.
"Yeah, he will be. Having a little pity party at the moment at the moment, but, I know he now realises that he needs help, and that is what we are doing."
"Great. Marcus is with us, and he is rather excited by the opportunity to be you lead."
"Just make sure he does know it is only a temp assignment. If I can't have you, then Michael is my man" I added to confirm my plans.
"He knows, and I also have the plan in place for the villa, and I am interviewing for 5 more detail to join us over the next 6 weeks."
"Damn, are we running an army or something." I laughed
"Boss, with all due respect, the past 12 months we've had a few issues. The insurance company wants to make sure we are all safe and covered and it is my job to make sure it happens."
"I'm kidding" I added "Just keep doing what you are doing. Once Marcus starts at the Villa, I wouldn't mind a shadow on his and Jules as well as Corey when they are out together. We need to protect my grandkid now as well"
"One step ahead. He's already in place and in your office already"
"I don't want to know" I added not sure if I should be happy or scared.
Jackson was my next call. I hadn't rung last time because of the time difference. I hate it when I don't talk to him when I am away. His voice of reason and reassurance always help me sleep better.
"Morning Prince Charming" I said as I woke him from his sleep
"It's 5am bub, what the fuck is wrong with you" He asked, knowing how he was never a morning person, although always an early riser.
"Nawww. I missed you" I said as I heard him hop out of the bed and make his way to the bathroom.
"I'm good. Just had a rough sleep, some of my joints are sore because I have been laying down to much" he said, as I could hear a steady stream of piss coming from his morning wood.
"Well, make sure you are having your physio and maybe a good massage might help"
I went on to tell him about Michael, and asked him to talk to Karl, to make sure he was ok too. I needed to make sure we were looking after everyone's welfare during this time, not just Michaels.
"Can you please do me another favour. Can you work with James directly, and try and find out about Michael's home & family life. There is a story there and I want to know what it is. The curiosity has gotten the better of me, and every time I bring up his family, he shuts down."
"OK, Agatha Christie. Leave it with me. Now piss off back to work. I still have 2 hours in bed before Michelle comes and treats my arse like a pin cushion." He added as I heard him sli back under the bed linen.
"love you, miss you bun"
"You too" he said as the line disconnected.
Chapter 81
The night at home was nice. There was Jules, Marcus, James & Sam and I for dinner. Michael was keeping out of sight, as he was feeling embarrassed, knowing that James knew his predicament.
We caught up on a fair bit, and whilst mostly talked shop, the baby was mentioned when ever Jules could fit it in to conversation.
I was growing to like Marcus. He was a calming influence over Jules and I was starting to recognise that maybe he would be a good life partner for her moving forward.
"Jules, I am going to do a walkthrough of the site tomorrow, would you like to join me?"
"That would be great. It will be good to see the progress they've made whilst I have been away. Photo's just don't do it justice" She added. "Then maybe we can go and look at baby stuff for the nursery she asked."
"Well, about that, I think it is time we made a media release on the subject, rather than have people stalk you and take pictures and speculate. Then once that dies down, you should have a little more freedom." I suggested.
Marcus looked a little nervous about this part, but, knew that Jules was heir to a multi billion dollar empire. These things make the news.
"OK. But how are we going to do this."
Sam reached down beside his chair and lifted up a manila folder containing a press release. He handed a copy to everyone at the table
MEDIA RELEASE
"It is with the greatest of pleasure that Grant & Jackson Von Garbner & Rabbi & Mrs Finkelstein of New York USA, announce the impending birth of their grandchild. Their daughter Jules and partner Marcus Finkelstein are expecting their first child, and Mr's Von Garbner's first grandchild in the new year. Both Jules and baby are doing fine. We please ask that the media respect their privacy during this exciting stage of their lives. Ms Von Garbner will continue to work on her charity and foundation project's, up until the birth of their child."
It was simple and straight forward. Nothing major, but it would stop any speculation as Jules started to show her baby bump, and would stop some, but not all the intrusions in to their lives.
"That looks fine," said Jules knowing how our lives had changed. Marcus was still a little frazzled by it all, and was trying to come to terms with all.
"Marcus, are you ok" I asked.
"Yeah, I guess it just takes time knowing that so many people want to know about our lives"
"Well, you are partnered to one of the richest heiresses in Europe. These things come with strings. Some days you will just want to run and hide, but unfortunately we don't always have the chance." I said trying to give them bigger picture.
"I know, it just still takes some time."
"Great. Sam, release this in the morning before we leave. That way when we arrive at the site and the media are there we can push out all the questions, and get some focus on what the centre is about and use it as a PR exercise."
"On to it boss. I might drop it tonight thou. It will the news outlets time to Russell up the troops, otherwise they may accuse us of covering it up."
"I will leave that with you. Everyone OK with that"
"I will just ring my folks and let them know"
"Good plan Marcus. They can either comment or not comment. I will never tell them otherwise, but, if they are getting swamped, let me know ASAP and I will organise some security for them. I do not want their lives invaded because of our name."
"Thank you, Grant. I will let them know."
As Jules and Marcus excused themselves, I poured Sam and James and myself another wine.
"James, can you please organise a couple of guards to be ready near the Rabbi's house ASAP. I have a feeling this maybe bigger than we expect, and I don't want Yanniv & Shona attacked by any relentless news hound."
"On to it Boss" Said James as he pulled out his phone.
Having an organised team certainly made my life more bearable as I led a hectic lifestyle. The key people who I trusted and relied on, rarely let me down, and it was satisfying to know I was in such a fortunate position.
It was easy to spend money, but, good advice on making sure it was spent right was more important in the long run.
James excused himself, as he wanted to check in on Michael before he left. Like me, James had a soft spot for Michael, and only wanted him to be better. Also like me, James wasn't prepared to accept Michael's resignation. It was important to us to support our people, not cut them off and send them on their way. In many ways James and I had principles that were perfectly aligned.
As Sam left to return to the cottage, I walked around the Villa, and found a few rooms that I had not even entered before. The sheer size of the place was hard to take in at times, especially when you were alone. As I entered the library, Paul approached the door.
"Would you like a night cap sir, before retiring" he asked
"That would be nice. Perhaps a Cointreau on ice in here, if you wouldn't mind."
"Certainly, I will be back shortly."
As I roamed about the room, I noticed, understandably, that most books were in German. From my limited knowledge of German language, most were on historical battles. `The old guy loved wars' I thought to myself.
The way the bookcase was lined floor to ceiling along the wall, it seemed odd. Next door was a utility room, on the smaller size, and by doing the maths, it didn't quite align in size.
As I pulled books down to flick through them, I noticed a very small, yet faded brass button behind the shelf.
The curiosity got the better of me, and as I pushed it, a part of bookcase slid opening revealing a small, yet well equipped office. With the amount of dust and the age of the equipment in this office, I could tell it had not been opened in some time, and as I found a light switch in the room, and noticed the desk calendar, it confirmed my suspicions.
April 19, 2012. The day before my grandfather had died. I had walked into his secret den.
Paul appeared at the opening.
"Well well, what do we have here!" He stated as if he had never seen it before.
"You didn't know about it?"
"No, I started back in 1999 with the family, and the library was always off limits. Only The head housekeeper was allowed in, and eventually when I took over as House Manager, I only ever had the housekeeper give it a quick dust, as Madam never used the room."
"Well. Lets keep it that way. No one is allowed in here, and I don't want this room discussed with anyone until such time I can get across everything in here. Please pass my phone, I said as I looked at a document on the desk."
"certainly, I shall leave you to it, and as you like to say sir, `Mum's the word' " Paul finished off with a slight smirk.
"It sure is."
"Hi Johan," I said as I the phone was connected. "Change of plans, sorry for the late call, I have made a discovery at the Villa that may answer some of our questions. Can you please meet me here in the morning, I need your help to translate some documents I have come across."
"Sure, 8am suit?"
"Perfect, don't wear a suit, it's pretty messy where I am at the moment"
"Oh, the intrigue." He added "I can't wait."
Chapter 82
Paul arrived promptly at 8 on the dot. By that time I had already sorted a pile of letters in the office into two piles. English, and German. As I walked out to find Paul, johan was coming in the front door.
"Hi Johan, give me two seconds and I will be with you." At this time, Paul was standing next to me.
"Paul, can you please organise coffee for the study. Can I ask you to bring it in, and under no circumstances are we to be disturbed today, unless it is Sam, Jackson or James"
"Understand completely, and I will make sure no enters the room." He pulled out a key chain. "Here is the key for that door. I have one, and now you do as well. I went looking for them last night."
"Smart thinking Paul. Thank you"
"What is going on, this cloak and dagger stuff is killing me" Johan asked as we walked to the Library.
Upon opening the door, Johan noticed the hole where the bookshelf had opened. His jaw hit the ground.
"I had the same reaction. It's a whole secret office. Neither Paul nor I had any idea it existed, and based on the calendar and the dust, I believe him. Paul is a neat freak, this dust would challenge his OCD's at best"
"Agreed. Every time I visited the house to drop documents off etc, The old man would always be sitting in this room. Your grandmother from my understanding never entered it after his death. It makes perfect sense that no one knew about it."
The smell and the dust in the tight office was to difficult to work in and as Paul and I brought our pile after pile of documents from the stack of filing cabinets, we were not only looking for some form of answer, we were discovering history of the whole family, both in a personal and business sense. It would take more than a day I assumed as we started to read page after page.
"Do you think Inga knows? She worked for him for 25 years?" I asked.
"Maybe, but I know she didn't see eye to eye with your grandmother. Rumours that they had an affair circulated around the office for years. No one ever knew, but from the day he died, till the day she died, she was always looking at ways to fire her."
"Interesting to know" as I made a mental note.
"Fuck" I exclaimed as I started reading a document.
"Oh my god. I cannot believe this"
"What, what is it?" Johan dropped his pile and came over.
"The old boy has an illegitimate son. Apparently born in 1965, making him older than me. I am not sure what this means."
"Shit, give me a look" Johan said as he took the document. It was 9:30am and I was asking myself if it was too early for Vodka yet. Today was certainly going to be a long one.
As Johan read through the documents, we start to scramble for further pages of associated documents that could contextualise the situation, and give further clues to the mystery surrounding the bastard son. Whilst there was still no mention of the mother, it was clear that my Grandfather had denied any paternity, even after it had been proved. It was a treasure trove flicking through documents, until Johan found the missing link.
"I have found it. It's here. It now makes sense."
My Uncle, it would appear, had been institutionalised in 1977. We had found the receipt for the first years care, but nothing post that. We both looked at each other, not really sure what to do with the information.
"I can call the number on the receipt if you like, my German is better that yours" He added half joking.
"Yeah, I guess that is a start."
The name on the receipt was `Sebastian Hammell', Hammell being Inga's last name as well. It was all making sense now, and whilst I never wanted to pry in to Inga's personal life, I also had a right to know, as this man was my family. He potentially should be the rightful heir, and not me.
As Johan spoke in German to the person on the phone, I was pacing back and forward. The call seemed to take for ever, but I trusted Johan to tell me what he knew.
"OK, Yes, he is still a resident. But apart from that they wouldn't tell me anything on the phone. We are meeting with the director at 2pm today. It is a 3hr drive, so I guess we need to get our shit together"
"Maybe this might help understand the $500m that has been being syphoned off each year?" I threw out as a thought
"We are on the same page, but that is a massive amount. Let's not speculate too much. Let's start with this, and then come back and keep digging."
"yeah I see your point. Let me get changed, and I'll get Marcus ready with the car." I added as I walked off.
Chapter 83
Driving down a country lane somewhere north of Munich, the hills were green and the vista spectacular, as we rounded the bend, we came across some massive gates, with a gate house. There was only a little sign, almost a plaque, naming the Institution's place in the world. As our driver pulled up, he spoke in German and the gates opened. Driving in to this magnificent property, there were a lot of similarities to the Villa that I couldn't help but notice, but the house on this property was so striking in it's appearance. He was a mansion built in the Gothic style dating back to the mid 1800's. It's exterior stone work had darkened over the years, and made it look glum and slightly gruesome. As we pulled up to the entry, I signalled to Marcus to stay in the car, and only Johan and I would be going in. Whilst not pleased with my pushback, a slight nod told me he understood.
Upon walking to the doors, a gentleman in his late 70's met us, and let us in the two-stage locked door system. The prison like essence of the place was the first thing that came to my mind.
"Herr von Gardner, willkommen im Bach-Institut. Kommen Sie doch bitte herein." I shook his hand, not knowing the full detail of what he said. Johan step forward, and in fluent German, replied on my behalf.
"Sorry, I forget that not every one speaks German. Welcome to the Bach Institute, Please come in" He said again, this time in broken English, of which I could understand.
"Thank you, please, after you" I replied as we were led down a hallway in to what seemed to be some sort of meeting room.
As we sat around the table, I let Johan do the majority of the speaking, in what appeared to be the description of the documents we found. Reaching in to his attaché bag he removed a file, and then produced the receipt from 1977.
The Doctor took his time holding the receipt. His face never looking away from it.
"I guess an explanation is in order." He said finally.
"Yes, that is why I am here."
"Your Grandfather had a child many years ago. When he was 5 I was asked to examine him. I diagnosed him with a rare form of Psychosis that was causing him self harm. Your grandparents struggled for many years to keep him safe, and in fact lived his early years in one of the cottages on the grounds, under 24 hr nursing care. At age 11 he stabbed the nurse to death and sat and played with the corpse until he was found some hours later. He showed no remorse, and had no ability to comprehend. He then was transferred here and has lived ever since, and up until today, he has never had a visitor since your father passed away."
"But what about his mother? Didn't Inga ever visit. Inga was not his mother. Your sister was. Your father raped her, and hence Sebastian was born."
My head was spinning out of control. So many questions I wanted to ask, yet I was getting so many answers at the same time. I understood now why I was put up for adoption. I understood my mother's drug addiction. I under stood so much, but one thing.
"Why does he have the surname Hemmell?" I asked, needing the full picture.
"If he was admitted under the name Von Garbner, many people would know the truth. Your grandfather refused to let it out. He took the secret to his grave, only I knew, and only Ms Hemmell knew. Your Grandmother knew, but she never spoke of it, in fact to my knowledge, they never spoke to each other again after Sebastian was born, and she also blamed your mother for it as well."
"She was fucking raped" I said raising my voice for the first time.
"Mr Von Garbner, I understand you are emotional......"
"Don't give me this emotional shit. You knew that my grandfather raped my mother and you did fuck all and accepted cheques on a monthly basis. I should report you to the authorities."
We all just stood there. No one willing to make the next move. Damn right I was emotional. This was my family. This was my mother. This explained so many events in my life, and prior to my birth. Who was this bastard standing in the room. As my anger boiled over, something within snapped. As I balled my fist, I could not stop the emotion I was carrying any longer. I flew across the table and king hit the doctor, knocking him out cold.
My regrets hit me as I soon as I hit him. I was just so angry I couldn't subside these feelings of hate I held towards this man. My ability to process all of this was becoming clouded. Was I angry at the Doctor, or was I directing the anger I held toward my grandfather towards the doctor. My Grandmother knew, and did nothing, my mother, my poor mother, I was overcome by grief for someone I never met. Someone who had had the worst possible life imaginable. My Flesh, my blood. I could not reconcile that this ever happened.
As the commotion drew attention from outside the room, it was not long before some nurses and security appeared at the door. The figure on the ground of the Doctor with the blood-soaked nose set off alarm bells as those barging in. No one was sure what to do at this stage.
As the doctor began to come around, two young nurses attended to him.
"Where is he!" I demanded of the doctor, who just sat on the floor looking at me.
"Where the fuck is he!" I yelled a second time.
He looked at one of the security in the room and instructed him in German to take me to see my brother, or my uncle. I was so confused and fucked up inside at the moment.
As we walked towards his room, Johan placed his hand on my back. He hadn't signed up for this, and certainly wasn't prepared to hear the Von Garbner family secrets.
"Deep breaths my friend" he said as he rubbed my back. He then said something that stuck in my head for sometime after. "He who chases two rabbits at once, will catch none"
He was right.
There was a double strength glass door that looked over my brother's room. There he was, older than me by 6 years, but aged well beyond recognition. His beard was long, his hair grey and matted. He was thin, with a vagrant like look about him, not a man that had come from wealth and privilege. He raised his eyes and looked at me. I swear I could see a brief smile appear on his face, but he looked away to quick. Regardless of his past crimes, he was family. He was the only thing I really had that was blood. He was sick. I was lost.