Goldstein Johnson & Cole (2024 re-write) - 3. The Major Returns

Following the meeting, Ian was quiet, which did not go unnoticed by many of the guests. It was not that he was not happy; he was, but he was also surprised and in shock at the revelations.

Kevin, being Kevin, took charge of the situation and, after speaking quietly with Kate, left Ian in her charge. While Kevin welcomed guests, he also fended off questions regarding Ian's subdued behaviour. When Christian and Andy arrived, Kevin took them into 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 became concerned. “Kevin, 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 a brief run-through of what's happened. I think it might be a good idea to let everyone know this afternoon before we get started, and as for everything being okay..... well..... I hope it will be when things get sorted out. We may need some help. I wish Pop were here.”

The looks on Christian and Andy’s faces were puzzled at first, then shocked and amazed as Kevin continued explaining the meeting with Mark.

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

“Sorry to break up the hugs and all, especially as I'm 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 he broke the hug, then realisation hit, and he ran outside to the drive. The Major and Marty had returned from their holiday in The Scottish Highlands. 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 Kevin's grip, gaining space to breathe. 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 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 welcoming hugs from Ian and listening to the news, The Major spoke. “That sounds like Manny to a tee, and while I am a bit surprised, I really shouldn't be. I hope to see a happy resolution for Joseph's 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 is...unique. I'm not prepared to discuss this at the moment, if at all. Marty and I have some contacts that may be useful.

The Major paused. He started speaking again, giving Ian and Kevin instructions. “I need you to do two things if you want our help. First, permit Mark to share his knowledge and future dealings with us. Trust us and ask no questions. Second, you must check what you must do to adopt a child from overseas. If you want him to come to the UK, you may have to adopt him, and you must comply with any legal requirements to do that. Is that agreed?”

“Yes, Pop, we agree to do that and will do anything else needed to get Joseph here with us. We believe it was Manny's wish, which has made it ours, too.” Pop was back in The Major mode and in control. It didn’t escape Ian’s notice that The Major was ordering them to not ask questions. Strange as that was, it allowed Ian to feel more relaxed and confident. Ian was back to his usual self and more animated.

Marty looked serious as he added his comments. “You need to get started immediately. Start with Mark. You know what to do. The Major has given you his marching orders, but I will add one more. 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.”

“Kev, can you make the arrangements for that?” Kevin nodded. He knew he was best at that job. Ian would be responsible for making arrangements for their business.

Ian continued, sounding like the Major. “I'll need to speak to Sean. I may need to reassess his position and pay him a bonus. He's invaluable and deserves it.”

At about eight in the evening, 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, which included extra responsibility, increased salary and benefits. Kate, Steve, Max, Stacy and their boys had stayed to help with the cleanup, so Ian and Kevin headed to bed early. It had been an emotionally rough day.

Monday morning, Ian drove 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 if he needed help or support during that time, to contact Christian. If it was anything major Christian would contact them immediately.

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 visas 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 arrangements with their 'contacts', and arranged to meet them in a quiet location just outside Manchester. The ‘contacts’ were engaged to discreetly keep 'an eye' on two visitors to Israel and assist if needed. Using skills he had employed in his military job again gave The Major a bit of a tingle in his spine.