Chapter 136.
Munich in Autumn was a glorious place, and I had to admit that although Sydney was now home again, that this city had a personal charm I loved. The chills of winter were arriving and the buds of life were disappearing from the trees, and small patches of snow stood in the parks and on sidewalks as a cold brutal winter approached.
Being driven to the compound, I directed the driver to call in to the city so I could catch up with Johan and the teams. I also wanted to see Cath, who's friendship and counsel I had come to rely on regularly on so many fronts. In many ways it was both her and Jackson who kept me grounded and supported 100% of the time.
Arriving unannounced at our corporate headquarters left many flustered once the car pulled up. I could see doormen on phones, frantically ringing up stairs that the boss had arrived, and I laughed that my presence caused so much nervousness amongst people.
"Morning Franz" I said as I entered the building. A curt nod and a hello as he held the elevator door open for me.
Arriving on level 10 I looked around the now finished space and was amazed to see it completed beyond the vision I had. The old brown wood panelling and grey carpet now a bright open working space, with glass and steel and fresh oak. It made for a modern space that encouraged ideas and a colligate working space. I was proud of them all for every thing that had been thrown at them over the past few years.
"Johan....what you doing" I said as I popped. My head in his office much to his surprise.
"Grant, what a great surprise. Sit. Sit" he instructed.
"No no, I am not staying, just arrived, but I wanted to see the building and just say hello. I guess there a few faces I haven't met."
"let me walk with you. I will introduce you"
"Sounds great, lets walk and talk. I need to stretch my legs after the flight"
As we walked through different departments meeting key personnel I could see that Johan commanded the respect of everyone. I knew everything was in good hands.
Spending 90 mins with Johan, I excused my self as I wanted to get over to the foundation headquarters where Jackson already was with Cath. I was in tomorrow in meetings all day, so Johan would have me then.
Offering my goodbyes, I walked out in to the street and into my car, getting some serious side eye from Chris.
"What" I stated, knowing what was coming.
"FFS boss, can you please follow the rules here. This place gives me PTSD at the best of times, but you just walking around in open spaces, makes you an easy target."
"Fair call, sometimes I forget"
"I know, that is what you employ me for, to keep you signing the pay checks"
I rested my hand on his knee. "Chris, I do apologise, and I will try better. I have had to much freedom at home I guess. Sorry if I trigged you"
"As long as you know when we aren't in a secure are I am the boss" He said grinning.
"Deal. Oh, there was something I wanted to talk to you about privately whilst we are alone."
Raising his eye lids, Chris looked at Grant with suspicion "No Boss, unlike Michael, I am not putting out." He laughed out loud.
"Smart arse!" I chuckled. "Seriously, I want to make sure you and Michelle have a good start in life, and whilst I know you are both handsomely paid, I am not worried about you financially. But, I would like to do two things. One is, I want to set you up in your own house in Sydney, near us, so you can have your privacy you both need in your down time, nothing big, just an apartment I purchased 4 mins from home, and secondly, I have set up a trust fund for you, in the event of injury and death, considering your role. This is to support Michelle and any children you may have in the future"
Chris sat there dumb founded by the statement. Not knowing how to reply, he chose his words cautiously.
"Um Boss. I am a little lost for words. The apartment, thank you. We were going to go looking and were going to talk to you about moving out when we returned, but even on our income, Eastern Sydney is more expensive than New York or London."
" How about you talk to Michelle and consider it an early wedding present" I interrupted.
"I'm not too sure Michelle would agree. She was really hoping for a toaster or a kettle for a wedding present from you" He laughed uncontrollably to which Grant joined in.
"Ok wise guy. But promise, if you don't like it, we will find something else, I think you will though."
"Knowing you, I am sure we will. As for the second thing, I would rather not know or think about it. Being in this game, it is one of the hazards we face, but thank you"
With that Chris in all his ultra masculinity reached across for a hug off his employer.
"Working for Jackson is and was great. I got to know him. This is the first time I have really been this close to you professionally. You are both the same, but also so different. You have both changed not only my life, but also Michaels, for the better, and I could not be more thankful."
With that we arrived at the foundation and as I waited for Chris to open the door, I reflected on his words which made me smile.
"Cath, so good to see you" I said as I burst unannounced in to her office startling Jackson who's back was to the door.
Getting up from her desk she embraced me in a hug that was loaded with warmth. We stood in an embrace for a minute before she stepped back and took my frame in. "Australia really suits you"
"Hardly. I eat too much, I don't exercise, I work too much" I joked as she joined in.
As we got in to more casual conversation, and just catching up, I had a light bulb moment.
"Hey Cath, what plans do you have for Christmas?" I asked with curiosity.
"We normally just go to Switzerland, rent a cottage and hide out. It is our annual rest time as I call it. Our parents have all gone, and except for some siblings and nieces and nephews, we don't do a lot."
"Well, all of our Australian motley crew are cruising through Asia for two weeks. A great bunch of guys and gals, and we would love you to join us. The diversity you will love. Therapists, doctors, marketing types, architects, builders, you wouldn't find a more interesting group."
"That sounds ideal! I am sure Diana will say yes and start packing today."
"Good. Settled" I stated. "We will organise the jet to fly you to Singapore to meet us"
"I have always wanted to go there. I cant wait"
"Well, why don't you and Diana fly in a week earlier, enjoy Singapore, the markets, the food & the city, and then join us when we arrive. Think of it as a Christmas treat from me. I will have Sam arrange it"
"Grant, you don't have to be so generous, but thank you."
"Generous, really, I think of it as doing good things for those who do good things for me"
With that she kissed my cheek and as I stood I placed my hand on Jacksons shoulder. "Are you ready to head to the villa" I asked.
"Actually, no. I am going to hang here the day. I slept all the way. I am wide awake, if youre ok with that"
"OK, I will have the car collect you at 4, but I my dear, need sleep"
With that I kissed his forehead, and as I rose, he whispered the words `I love you' and I left them to their work.
Arriving back at the Villa after a long absence felt strangely weird but yet a sense of reassurance fell across me. As we pulled up in the forecourt, it was so good to see a familiar face, as Paul strode down the stairs to greet me.
"Herr Von Garbner, so good to see you again. The master has rightfully returned"
"Steady on Paul" I joked. "It is so good to see you as well" I said as I shook his hand and pulled him in in slight hug. Knowing how his strict professionalism stood, I dare not over stretch my warmth towards him.
"Where are my little nightmares" I asked as I looked around for my grandsons.
"I believe they are in the nursery getting ready for a nap with Nanny, before lunch. Ms Jules is at work, and Herr Marcus is in New York until tonight at some meetings. I have your room ready if you'd like to shower and get some rest."
"Yes, thank you. If you could please have the car collect Jackson from the foundation with Jules at 4pm, and set dinner for 7pm for 8 of us, that would be wonderful"
"Certainly sir. My pleasure."
And with that I swept in to the grand foyer and was overcome by the beauty of what this place was, and the grandeur and history that befell the walls around it.
Heading to our suite, I couldn't help but think of walking these stairs for the first time. It was a surreal moment in time, and I laughed as I thought of everything I had achieved since.
Walking in I automatically started to strip off as I walked towards the bathroom and the steam shower I was so longingly looking forward to. Turning it on and letting it heat up, I was now naked and looking at myself in the mirror. "Not bad for 53" I mused to no one in particular. Rubbing my hands across my torso, I felt my cock twitch as my fingers brushed passed my nipples, sending a shiver through my body. To wank or to wait. That was the question I asked myself as I hopped in to the steaming shower with my cock now erect and wanting attention. My balls were low, and felt nice being fondled. I was doing myself an injustice by stopping. I so bad wanted to be fucked, but alone, I was pondering my choices.
Willing myself to stop, I continued on showering, my cock leaking the first drops of precum. Eventually as it subsided, I hopped out, dried myself off and headed to the comfort of the oversized bed, drifting off to sleep.
Chapter 137
"Give Poppy kisses" I heard as I stirred in my bed, trying to figure out where I was and what had run me over. Jet lag was a bitch and this time was no better.
Jules had bought the twins in and had placed them on the bed. Although it had only been a few weeks since I had seen them, there growth appeared massive as I grabbed Max in my arms and tickled him. Not to be outdone by his brother, Jack started flapping about like a beached whale as I laughed and carried on.
"Darling girl, how are you" I said as I kissed Jules.
"Really good Dad, really good. Better than I expected. This motherhood and career thing is a walk in the park."
"Says the woman with two nanny's, a house of servants, a chauffeur, a butler, a ladies maid, a cook, a gardener........ need I go on"
"Hahaha you're the one that spoils me daddy, and you forgot to mention the wonderful husband as well"
"How is boy wonder?" I enquired raising and eyebrow
"DAD! Stop calling him that. He thinks you hate him"
"We both know I don't. But OK, I will try"
"Promise?"
"Pinky Promise" I laughed. "Now go away and leave me with my boys for a while. Where's Jackson? Downstairs?"
"No? I haven't seen him since Lunchtime. Not sure where he is, I thought he left the office"
"I specifically asked him to be collected at 4pm, along with you, that's odd. Pass me my phone Jules, I will call him"
As I picked up the phone, I had no reason to suspect anything was wrong. Jackson being Jackson could be anywhere talking with anyone and completely unaware of the time. Hitting his number in my phone, his phone rang out. Now I was concerned.
"Jules, turn around I need to put some clothes on. Somethings not right."
As I jumped out of bed, I threw on some sweats and bolted out the door, leaving Jules with the twins.
"CHRIS, CHRIS, CHRIS" I shouted as I ran down the stairs. "Jackson is not answering his phone and he wasn't in the car with Jules. Where is he. What is going on. I have only been here for 4 fucking hours. Where the fuck is he" All this commotion bought out staff from all corners trying to see what was going on.
Chris, bolting out from the library had gun drawn trying to figure out what was going on.
"Whoa Grant, what the fuck is going on"
"Jackson is not answering his phone, he's not here, he was supposed to come home with Jules"
"Ok, lets not jump to conclusions. Breath and we will trace his phone"
Chris being the voice of reason walked back into library where he had set up office and had his laptop out. Watching him punch a few things in his face was not telling anything.
"His phone appears to be in the Foundation offices. Who's there now"
As it was just on 6pm, I doubted anyone would be, and as I rang Cath, I tried to not sound too panicked.
"Hey Cath, sorry to phone at home, but have you seen Jackson?"
"No, I thought he left at Lunchtime. I haven't seen him all afternoon. Is everything ok?"
"He hasn't shown up, nor was he in the car with Jules, but his phone is pinging in the office still."
"I will meet you there with security and see what I can find"
"Ok, see you soon." With that I looked at Chris and said "Get the car, we are going to town"
Jumping in the car I kept ringing his number, with no response. Where was he? Why wasn't he answering? The fear in me was terrifying. I thought all this shit had been taken care of.
"Get James on the line NOW" I said to Chris, looking for answers anywhere I could.
"Grant. No. Just calm the fuck down for 5 mins and breath. I am not getting the cavalry involved until I know what we are looking at. Now have a shot of vodka I know you keep in the car, sit back and chill. We are 15mins out"
Pulling up out the front of the Foundation, I jumped out and bolted to the door where the security let me. Fuck waiting for Chris, I needed answers. Cath was in the foyer waiting for security to sweep the building and see what they can find.
"Grant, sit" Cath's soothing voice said. "They will do a sweep, and then we will take next steps. Now look at me and listen, I want you to take deep breaths in, hold it for 20 seconds, and slowly release it, until you stop. Then repeat, 5 times"
Holding my hands as I started I was on to my second round when a security member came out.
"We found him, call an ambulance"
As I jumped up and bolted to the door, I followed the guard in to the stairwell and ran the three flights where Jackson was laying lifeless on the concrete floor.
"Don't move him. He may have a neck or back injury. He has a pulse" the guard said as he stopped me from grabbing Jackson.
"Please Sir, he is alive, and I just want to make sure he is ok first"
As I sat beside him, I touched his hand and could feel his warmth radiantly beaming in to me. I could sense his fear and his love, and I knew he would be ok. But how did he get here? The gash on his skull had been bleeding to the point the blood had dried around him. Bruising from his work injury was now intermixed with new bruising from this. I could see from the angle that his wrist was broken and who knows what else.
I looked at Chris. "Whoever did this I am going to kill. I am going to take the gun myself and hold it on the fucker's head and blow him away. I have had enough"
"Settle boss. I have asked for the footage of the stairwell. They are getting it now. Just settle please. I won't ask again"
His voice had become steely. I was scared, but I guess a little over dramatic in my responses. Chris was a good guy. I needed to cut him some slack.
After what felt like forever paramedics arrived and asked us to move aside in the confined space to allow them to assess Jackson.
As they were checking his vitals and working him over, one of the security came and informed me that the media were out the front, wanting to know if either Jackson and I had been injured. Apparently, the paramedics radio were on a band that the media listened to and knowing we were in town, you cant really hide our plane, they automatically assumed it was us at the foundation after hours, with head trauma.
"Leave it me Grant, I will go and talk to them" Cath said as I just nodded.
"Mr Von Garbner is ok. His husband is being treated for a broken wrist after a silly trip in the office this evening. I assure you all that this is a non-story and Mr Von Garbner appreciates your concern and will make a further statement later" As she turned to walk away a young brash reporter yelled out.
"What about the head injury the that was on the radio"
"Surely a mistake. Now if you can please give our most generous resident the privacy he deserves, it would be greatly appreciated"
With that most left, except two of the younger eager ones. Looking for a scoop. Cath sighed and walked back inside.
By this stage the paramedics had Jackson on a gurney and was wheeling him to an elevator when a reporter had unbeknown slipped security and taken a few photos of Jackson.
"Get the fuck out you rodent" I yelled as Chris set off after him, catching him and smashing his phone.
"Fuck you, its uploaded to the cloud" He yelled
"Great, I will have you charged with trespass. Let's see who wins"
Wheeling Jackson out in to the ambulance I jumped in with him.
"Grant, out and in the car. We don't know what we are dealing with here yet. Security first. Pinky promise remember"
"Fine" I said. "Make sure you keep on their tail."
As we were driving to the hospital Chris's phone rang, he was very non-committal in conversation. Hanging up he looked at me.
"It was a fall. He appeared to have a fit or a seizure or something, then fell down the stairs. They are sending me the footage now"
"What the fuck? He's never had a fit or seizure before, that can't be right"
"I think you're forgetting. He'd never had a brain injury before last year. Let the doctors do their thing and figure it out."