Goldstein, Johnson & Cole - 3. Chapter 3 The Major Returns

“Mark you knew Manny well, as well or better than us, I,” Kevin smiled at Ian. “No, I mean we, believe that Manny intended to bring him home. So can you make arrangements for him to be properly looked after in the short term?”

“The solicitor over there is my brother-in-law, he will look after him.” For the first time since arriving Mark was smiling.

“Good, then we want you and your brother-in-law to make all of the arrangements we will cover all of the costs. We will be his guardians, our instructions are simple. Bring Joseph home.”

*****

Following the meeting Ian was quiet, something that did not go unnoticed by many of the guests. It wasn't that he wasn't happy, he was, but he was also surprised and in shock at Mark's revelations.

Kevin, being Kevin took charge of the situation and after speaking quietly with Kate left Ian in her charge. As he welcomed guests he also fended off questions regarding Ian's subdued behaviour.

When Christian and Andy arrived Kevin took them in to the study.

“Hey what's this are you trying to keep Andy away from the food? I promise he is now fully trained in table manners and party etiquette, honestly, he will behave.” Christian enjoyed ribbing his life partner and his 'little brothers'. Sensing apprehension from Kevin his tone changed. “Where's Ian? What's happened? everything is alright isn't it?”

“Ian is with Kate, she's keeping an eye on him. I'll give you the brief run through on what's happened. I'm thinking it might be good idea to let everyone know this afternoon before we get started and as for everything being okaaay..... well..... I hope it will be when things get sorted out. We may need some help, I just wish Pop was here.”

Christian and Andy looked on at first quizzically, then shocked and amazed as Kevin briefly explained about the meeting with Mark.

“The help is no problem, you just let us know what you need and when you need it. We will all have your back.” Christian enveloped Kevin in a reassuring hug.

“Sorry to break up the hugs and all, especially as I'm being denied my part in this hug fest. But by the sound of the car pulling in, I think one wish is about to be granted.” Andy was smiling as he went to open the front door.

Kevin's face looked blank as broke the hug, then realisation hit and he ran outside to the drive.

The Major, Pop, exited the car as Marty put the car in neutral and switched off the engine. Immediately he was swept into the arms of an excited Kevin.

“Okay okay you're excited to see me but please loosen up or you'll crush this poor old man to death.” The Major loosened Kevins grip gaining space to breath. Concerned he rubbed his hand soothingly up and down Kevin's back. “Now what brings this on, you're not usually this excited to see me and what's with the tears. Now come on lad, spill the beans and tell your Pop what's happened.”

“I will, but first,” Kevin turned to Christian and Andy, “would you guys get Ian for me please, we need to speak to Pop together.”

Andy and Christian left to join the BBQ party and to pass on the news of The Major's arrival. On hearing the news Ian made his way to the study.

After welcome hugs from Ian and listening to the lads news The Major spoke up. “That sounds like Manny to a tee and while I am a bit surprised I really shouldn't be, and, I hope to see a happy resolution for Joseph'e sake. I don't want to put a damper on your news, but lads you must be mindful that there are no guarantees in bringing Joseph here to the UK, and if it can be pulled off it could take a long time. Also you may need some specialist help,” The Major stared at Marty who nodded in answer to the unasked question. “The specialist help I'm talking about I'm not prepared to discuss at the moment, if at all, Marty and I have some contacts that be useful. I need you you to do two things if you want our help, first is that you give Mark permission to share his knowledge and future dealings about this with us, trust us and ask no questions. Second, you need to look into what it entails to adopt a child from overseas, if you want him to come to the UK you will need to adopt him and you must comply with any legal requirements to do that. Is that agreed?”

“Yes Pop we agree to and will do anything to get Joseph here with us, we believe it was Manny's wish, that makes it ours too.” With The Major back Ian was back to his usual self and more animated.

“And you guys should make arrangements to get your asses out there to meet this young lad. Don't you think you should meet and get to know him and ask him what he wants, after all it is his life we are talking about and he should have a say in what happens.” Marty looked serious as he added his comments.

“Kev, can you make the arrangements for that?” Kevin nodded in agreement, “I'll need to speak to Sean, I may need to re-assess his position and pay him a bonus, he's invaluable and deserves it.”

At about eight o'clock the barbecue was winding down and most had left to go home. Among the last was Jeff who left for a night shift at The Old Shoe Factory, Sean and his partner left after an intense but rewarding conversation with Ian and Kevin, Sean was deliriously happy with his new position as Senior Manager with extra responsibility, increased salary and benefits. Kate Steve and their boys stayed to help with the clean up.

*****

Monday morning Ian made his way to the Prestwich store for a management meeting with Sean. This was to prepare Sean for their extended absence while in Israel and to let him know that if he needed help or support during that time to contact Christian.

Kevin was busy booking flights to Israel, flights to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv-Yafo were not cheap. He also needed to complete the required entry forms online, while visa's were not needed the forms were still complicated and necessary.

Travel arrangements and accommodation in Jerusalem were made with assistance from Mark and his brother-in-law who would meet them, they would stay with his family and meet Joseph.

At the same time Marty and The Major made their arrangements with their 'contacts' and made arrangements to meet, a few of them were in the area and had the task of discreetly keeping 'a special eye' on two visitors.