Andre and Chris - 17. Chapter 17

Thursday had been nominated as the day Ollie, Bradley and Tyron would get together to plan their next video. They had been in regular contact with each other, including Jackson, and had researched the new and upgraded features of the editing software that they wanted to demonstrate and discuss. What they wanted to do now was play with those features and plan the video. I had to admit that they were dedicated to preparing the video. I was more than impressed.

I was prepared and had all the drinks and snacks ready for the teenagers.

It was around 3:45 when David arrived with Ollie and Bradley. Tyron arrived at the same time.

“Hi everyone come in.”

David stood back as the three teenagers all said in unison, “Hi Uncle Chris.”

I looked from them to a smiling David.

Obviously, Tyron was delegated to explain. “We talked about it and we all want to call you Uncle Chris if it’s OK with you. We’ve already discussed it with Jackson and he’s happy for us to do it.” Hmm, so they wanted Jackson’s permission. He continued, “Is it OK with you?”

David added, “They asked me wait and let them go first. They didn’t tell me why, but I think they’re doing the right thing.”

My smile couldn’t have been bigger. “Of course, it’s OK with me. I love it.”

I was suddenly surrounded by the three of them giving me hugs. I think I could cope with these three as part time honorary nephews.

Just as quickly the boys grabbed the snacks that were on the table and drinks from the fridge and disappeared into my workroom. I’d already set up their own access to my setup.

I asked David if he was still on duty and when he told me he was, I offered him a coffee. I made two coffees and pulled out the hidden packet of Tim Tams.

Once he was sure the boys weren’t listening David started talking. “Chris, I gave your response to the Super and he’s happy with that.”

“So, I’m not a spy anymore?”

“No, he’s over that. However, he does still want us to stay in contact. He thinks it will be good for Oliver.”

“Wow. He’s concerned about Ollie. I think I might like him after all.”

David laughed. “Yeah, he’s tough but has a soft spot for abused kids. He’s really supportive of my Child Protection Unit. And while we’re talking about that I think this is good news. The rumour is that his new lawyer is asking about a plea deal. I can’t see that there’s much chance as the evidence against him is solid. It could mean that he’s heading towards pleading guilty and hoping for a reduced sentence.”

“I hope you’re right David, and I hope it’s all over soon.”

“It could be. Something else. We’ve laid further charges in relation to the historic cases and a fifteen year old boy and his parents have made statements about recent abuse. If he went to trial with the evidence we now have, he’d end up with the maximum sentence.”

The boys worked for about forty minutes before Bradley came out and asked if there were more snacks and drinks. I directed Bradley to the fridge to get drinks while I pulled more snacks out of the pantry cupboard. Bradley managed to hold the three drinks and still scoop up the packets of snacks and the remaining Tim Tams.

I looked at David. “You still on duty?”

“Technically yes but I wouldn’t mind a glass of your scotch.”

“Just what I was hoping. I’ll be right back.”

We sat and chatted over our glass of scotch for about half an hour when the boys all returned looking triumphant. Again, Tyron was delegated to ask, “Uncle Chris, we’ve scoped out what we want to do and how. The issue is when? Can we to do it over the weekend?”

I looked at David. “Sunday afternoon would be OK for us. We’ve got a family party on Saturday. How would Sunday afternoon work for you, David, and of course Ollie.”

“I don’t see a problem but I’ll let you know tomorrow.”

Tyron responded, “Thanks it’ll be awesome if we can do it then.”

Ollie looked worried and asked, “Uncle Chris, when I come to live with you and Uncle Andre will that be my room? I mean basically it’s your workroom. How will I fit?” It was obvious that at least Ollie was convinced that he would soon be living with us.

I looked at David for help but he was clearly amused. “The thing is Ollie that we want you to be with us and when that happens (crossed fingers) all of my workroom and servers will be in my new shop.”

Tyron was immediately interested. “You’ve got a new shop. Where’s is it? Any chance of seeing it?”

“Yeah,” Bradley added, “will we be able to video there?”

“Woah there! I’ll phone Noah and see if he’s able to open up and show you.”

Noah was finishing up at work for the day but was prepared to meet us and open up on his way home. We met him at the shops and he opened my corner one. I noticed Ollie smiling very happily. We all trooped inside and I explained where I planned to have my workspace, Tyron’s workspace, a video studio, a room for my servers, a storage area and a small kitchen and toilet.

They all loved it, especially Tyron, although he was still uncertain. “Are you saying I’ll get my own work area?”

“Yes and I’m going to need your help in setting it all up.”

“Definitely count me in. Semester break is coming up. Hope we can do it then.”

Bradley asked, “What’s upstairs?”

“It’s our new apartment.”

“Can we see that too?”

I looked at Noah who said he had the keys so we all headed upstairs. They are all impressed and because it was still furnished it looked very comfortable.

Tyron looked around and commented, “Nice, bigger than what you have but still only two bedrooms.”

“Yeah, well we’re also buying next door and plan to combine them into one large apartment.”

Noah shrugged and apologized. “Sorry I didn’t bring those keys.”

Ollie beamed and held up a key. “I’ve still got mine.”

Everyone turned to look at him. He looked at David. “The cops let me keep it.”

David burst out laughing. “We did wonder what that key was for.”

That key meant something else. Ollie wasn’t running away anymore. He didn’t know we were buying this apartment. He could have come back here any time he wanted.

Ollie made a show of opening the door to the apartment and led us in. He walked straight to the room where Andre found him that fateful morning. He was so happy. “Uncle Chris, when we move here can this still be my room?”

I put my hand on his shoulder. “Sure, this can still be your room.”

He turned and hugged me. “Awesome! Thanks Uncle Chris.” He took Tyron and Bradley on a tour of the apartment.

Noah watched and commented, “He’s so different from the kid we found here. No wonder Gran loves him.”

Saturday afternoon Calvin’s Uber pulled up. Andre moved into the back seat with Michael and Jamie. Jamie was in the middle. I loaded the large Eski of desserts into the boot and sat in the front passenger seat. Andre and I were regarded as the best makers of desserts in the family. It was our contribution to the party.

Calvin may still have the hots for us, but if so, he was less obvious. Jamie was behaving himself in the back seat. The conversation was mainly around whether this was just a birthday party or something else. Lachlan had told everyone not to bring presents. As a group we ignored that.

Beau and Skye were already at the party when we arrived. William was in the middle of an admiring group of women. Michael and Jamie received welcome hugs from both Beau and Skye and were dragged off by Beau to meet people. Andre and I took the cooler into the kitchen followed by Skye. We were greeted by Beau’s mum, Carol, and Skye’s mum, Helen. There was a round of hugs. They thanked us and said they’ve got everything under control and told us to go out and join the party.

Skye went over to join Beau with Michael and Jamie. Lachlan and Bill (Skye’s father) were at the outside kitchen getting the BBQ ready. We grabbed four beers and headed over to join them.

“Hi, you look like you need a beer.”

We handed them a beer each.

“Thanks. It’s nice that someone’s looking after us.”

We gave them a hug each.

“Cheers.” We clinked bottles and had a mouth full.

Bill looked at me. “How’s the challenge going?” He nodded towards Andre.

I didn’t catch on straight away.

“I remember us being together and you accepting a challenge.”

I quickly understood. So did Andre. I pulled him close.

“We’re living together.”

Bill grinned. “I know that, but you haven’t got him hitched yet.”

We both laughed and I replied, “We’re working on it and you’re on the invitation list.”

Lachlan held his bottle out for us all to click as he added. “That’s what we all want to hear.” The laughter continued.

“OK you guys, what’s the joke?” It was Beau with Jamie and Michael.

Lachlan introduced Michael and Jamie to Bill.

Bill shook hands with them. “Great meeting you. Skye has told us so much about you. Are you helping get these two hitched?”

Andre gave a faux death stare that ended up with him laughing. “You’re not going to let this go, are you?”

Bill was enjoying this. “Not now you’ve found the guy who’s perfect for you.”

Jamie added. “You’re not wrong and yes we’re subtly working on them too.”

It’s easy to see the direction our friends and relatives want for us.

Later during the party, I grabbed two glasses of wine and handed one to Andre when we were approached by two guys. One had the look and build of a hunky young tradie and introduced himself as Jason and the guy he was holding hands with as Liam. We gave each of them a hug.

Beau was passing and saw the hug. “Hey Jason, I saw that, where’s my hug.” Before Jason could answer Beau pulled him into one of his signature hugs.” Jason was wide eyed, but Liam was enthusiastic. “Ahh do I get a hug too.”

Beau looked at him and he added, “I’m Jason’s boyfriend.”

“In that case you definitely get a hug.” While hugging, Beau looked over Liam’s shoulder. “Why didn’t you tell me you have a cute boyfriend, Jason?”

Jason was still surprised as Beau added, “Sorry, I’m on my way to check on William. Catch you all later,” and departed.

Jason turned at me. “He is straight, isn’t he?”

“Yeah, he’s not into guys. But hi, it’s nice meeting you two.”

“Sure, but what we wanted to do, was say thanks for getting us invited. That is invited as a gay couple to this party.”

I pulled Andre close to me, as much for support as anything. “Jason, and Liam you haven’t really been prevented from coming before as a gay couple but you’ve also never really been told you are welcome as a gay couple. We understand why you didn’t feel welcome. Andre and I talked to Lachlan about that. But, and this is a big but. It was Lachlan who made it clear you were invited with your boyfriend Liam. He was the one who made it clear that you are welcome here as a gay couple.”

Andre nodded to show he agreed.

I continued, “If you want to thank anyone, go over and thank Lachlan. We’re sure he will appreciate it. And you might help spread the word.”

Jason looked at both of us, then at Lachlan and back to us. We both nodded to indicated that they should.

Liam took Jason’s hand. “Come on I think they’re right.”

We watched them as they approached Lachlan and spoke to him. Lachlan beamed and they all started chatting. We got a discrete thumbs up from Jason.

That’s when I noticed another gay couple who had been carefully watching Jason and Liam and us, but it was Andre who noticed the lesbian couple who emerged from the throng of dancing couples. Things had certainly changed. Lachlan had employed a female tradie.

Jason and Liam obviously created a precedent as it wasn’t long before the other gay couple and the lesbian couple also went and spoke to Lachlan. They also got hugs from Beau, but as far as I could see Beau was giving everyone a hug.

Lachlan announced that the food was ready and everyone moved to eating. Beau, Skye, Michael, Jamie, Andre and I all sat together with our food. We had all been mingling so it was a chance for us to catch up. I was pleased to discover that Michael and Jamie were having a good time. Jamie already knew a few people from being at school together and was enjoying the reunions.

We were still eating when Lachlan stood on the low wall separating the yard from the beach and called for attention. He obviously had something to say.

“If you’ll all quieten down for a minute, I’ve got something to tell all of you. I know most of you think this is about my birthday, but that’s only part of it. In a week I’ll be fifty five. In all the time I’ve been married to Carol, we’ve never been on a real holiday. Yes, we’ve been away for the add week, but not a real holiday, except for our honeymoon in Bali.” I think I saw Carol blush. “So now with our close friends Bill and Helen we’re going on a month’s holiday in Europe. While we’re away Beau and Andre will be in charge. They run a lot of it now anyway, so don’t expect much to change. I don’t want to retire yet, but when we get back from our holiday I want to step back and have Beau and Andre take a bigger ongoing role in the business. We’re not leaving for another month so there’s time for all of us to be ready.”

He stopped and looked around at everyone. “Well that’s all I’ve got to say. Thanks all of you for being here tonight. I really feel you are like an extended family and I’m happy to have you all here. I think Andre’s organized some more music and there’s still plenty of food and drink so keep enjoying yourselves. But remember, don’t drive if you’ve had too much to drink. I want all of you at work on Monday morning and with your driving licences.” A laugh went around the group.

I looked at Beau and Andre. They were gobsmacked. They had no idea Lachlan was planning this. I looked at Skye. She had had just heard that she’d lost two days a week of babysitting for a month and didn’t look at all perturbed. It didn’t need Sherlock to realise that she already knew about the parents’ plans.

The party was abuzz with everyone talking about Lachlan’s announcement. The general feeling was that they all liked Lachlan and were happy for him taking a holiday with Carol and friends. They were also happy that Beau was taking over the work side of the business. He was surrounded by happy workmates. Andre was obviously running the business side.

I moved to beside Skye. “When were you told about the holiday plans?”

She turned towards me and recognized that I knew. “A while ago. When they started planning.”

“You knew when we were discussing Andre telling his parents.”

“Yes, but I still think what I said was right.”

“I do too. I just think you were also concerned about Carol and Lachlan going on a holiday worrying about Andre and the trial.”

“Yes. The mother in me identified with them and worried about them.”

“And you were right.” I pulled Skye up into a hug and kissed her cheek.

“I turn my back for a minute, and you start molesting my wife.” It was Beau smiling happily.

“I was just trying to find out about babysitting while the ‘rents are on holidays.”

“Shit. I’d forgotten about that. Darling, what are we going to do.”

“I love it when the important men in my life care about me and William. But boys, it’s under control. In fact, neither of you will be looking after William during that month.”

I was curious and Beau was stunned. “Why? Who’s going to be looking after him?”

Skye kissed beau. “Our grandparents. Once word got out that mum’s parents wanted to look after him on mum’s day, all the other grandparents wanted part of the action. Even Lachlan’s parents are going to come down from Yamba and stay here in Ettalong for the month.”

I put my hand on Beau’s shoulder. “Relax mate. You’re going to be so busy during that month you wouldn’t be able to look after William anyway.”

The party continued. Lachlan handed over what was left of the BBQ to Beau and circulated to chat with the guests. He was the jovial host, ensuring everyone was enjoying themselves. I wasn’t concerned about Andre and Jamie who were in the middle of the party, showing everyone how to dance, and not just with each other.

Michael, with drink in hand, wandered over to me. “Chris, do you think we could hire this crowd for our next party. I’m enjoying myself so much. They’re like a big happy family.”

I laughed. “I don’t think they need hiring. Just inviting. I’ve learnt that they really are a fun crowd.”

Eventually the party was winding down and time for us to leave. The gay and lesbian couples each came and said goodbye to us. I noticed that they also made a point of thanking Lachlan and Carol as they left.

Michael had called Calvin and the four of us were preparing to leave when Beau grabbed Andre. “You know the two pregnant couples.”

Andre nodded. “One’s a bit hard to miss. But what’s the issue?”

“It seems dad told them they’ve getting like four weeks paid paternity leave after the birth that they can take as a block or like a day or two a week. Did you know about this?”

“Neat. It shows dad’s joining the 21st Century.”

Beau playfully pouted. “He didn’t do that for me.”

Andre nudged me but remained as professional as he could manage under the circumstances. “Aw poor baby Beau. Don’t worry about it, you’ll be eligible next time.”

Beau dropped the pout. “Yeah, you’re right, business partner.”

“Yeah, I suppose we are now.” Laughing they high fived like adolescents.

When the Uber arrived, the four of us said goodbye to Lachlan and Carol with a round of hugs that included Helen and Bill. Lachlan made a point of thanking Michael and Jamie for coming. They both replied by thanking Lachlan for the invitation and telling him how much they had loved the party.

I put the empty Eski in the boot, then pushed Andre into the front passenger seat so I could sit in the back next to Jamie. I asked him if he enjoyed the party.

“Of course, I did. You know me, I love parties and they were a fun crowd. A bonus was being able to flirt with those young straight guys. Especially when they ended up trying to hide their boners.” He said this loud enough for everyone in the car to hear. We all laughed, including Calvin.

Sunday morning was sleep in time for more reasons than one. Being able to spend morning time in bed with the naked love of my life without the time constraints of alarms and work is just the best thing and we made the best sexy use of it.

Over a late brunch (or maybe early lunch) we talked about the boys coming over to make their video. Andre was concerned about us having something for the boys to eat. I assured him that I had more than enough snacks and drinks to satisfy the adolescents. From experience I’d learnt to have plenty of both.

I could see that wasn’t his only concern about the visit. “Chris, should I be here when Ollie’s here. I don’t want anything to jeopardize this trial.”

I completely understood his concern and lent forward to hold both his hands in both of mine. “Sweetheart, I don’t want you to feel you have to leave your home so that Ollie can be here. That’s just not fair to you.”

Andre squeezed my hands. “I so love you and your concern for me, but I want Ollie to have continuing contact with at least one of us up until he can be with us. If that means I can’t be here then I’m OK with that.”

I wanted to be reassuring. “Remember, David will be with Ollie and I’m sure he’ll know what we should do. I suspect that the only concern will be to make sure you and Ollie don’t talk about anything related to the trial.”

“I’m sure I can do that because I’m not keen to talk to him about it, anyway.”

“Good, and I’m sure Ollie’s going to be fully focused on making the video.”

“Yeah, I almost forgot that he’s not really here to meet us.”

“Tyron said they’d be here about two this afternoon so we’ve got time to prepare for them.”

“Sure and while you’re preparing for the boys I’ll start thinking about what I’ll be doing as my part of dad’s business. I might need you to load some more software to help me.”

“You’re right. We need to have a meeting with Lachlan and Beau to go over the business systems and see what we can improve. We also need to work on the website.”

“Well I’m going to be busy. I also want to send off an email asking where we’re up to with the shop and apartment purchases. The second one wanted a quick settlement so it should be ready about now.”

“Does that mean I’m clearing up the table and the kitchen.” I was happy to do it.

He gave me a kiss. “Thanks for clearing up.”

I had to laugh. “Go and get your stuff done.” I started clearing the table.

Tyron arrived about ten minutes early. He greeted me as Uncle Chris. Andre came out to see who had arrived and Tyron asked Andre if he could call him Uncle as well. Andre was surprised and when he asked why, Tyron simply said that if he was calling me Uncle, then it seemed logical to call my partner Uncle. Andre loved the idea and quickly became another honorary uncle.

Tyron started asking about moving to the new shop. I pointed out that we had to finalize the purchase and renovate the interior and then we would move everything over. He was looking forward to his own work area. He then told us he arrived early so he could set up my workroom for videoing before the others arrived.

I agreed and he went into my workroom. I went to the pantry cupboard to collect a selection of snacks for the boys and put them on the table.

David arrived with Ollie and Bradley both of whom were excited. Ollie saw Andre and stopped. He looked at David and not being stopped rushed at Andre and wrapped his arms around him. “Uncle Andre, you’re OK. I was so worried after what happened at the police station.”

Andre pulled Ollie into hug. “Yes, thanks Ollie. I’m OK, and I’m uber pleased to see you.” They both held each other for a moment before letting go.

Bradley broke the moment. “Cool Uncle Chris, you’ve got snacks for us. Ollie, can you get the drinks while I pick up the snacks and we can get started.” They were excited and in less than a minute Ollie and Bradley were well stocked and in my workroom with Tyron.

David watched and commented, “They just feel so much at home here, I hope it’s only Ollie you want to adopt.”

“I laughed. “Yes, it’s only Ollie but his friends will always be welcome. Would you like a coffee?”

“I’m technically off duty. Any chance of a drink?”

Andre responded, “Yes. I’d like one too. Wine? Chris has nice wine.”

A smile crossed David’s face. “Yeah, wine would be good.”

“Red or white?”

David replied, “Red.”

“Excellent, I’ve got a Coonawarra Cabinet Sauvignon that I think we’ll like.”

Tim Tams were not appropriate for drinking wine, so I set out a selection of cheese and biscuits. We clinked our glasses.

David took a sip of his wine. “Hmm, now that is a nice wine. I’ve got some news. It’s not official yet. It should be made public tomorrow. He’s decided to plead guilty. The word is he wants to reduce the number of charges and possibly the sentence. The prosecution tell me they won't reduce the number of charges but a guilty plea is sure to reduce the sentence. The good news is that this will now be decided in weeks rather than the months it would have been if he kept pleading not guilty and we had to go to a full trial.”

I could see the relief on Andre’s face. “So, we won’t have to give evidence in court?”

“If he still pleads guilty, no. You may be asked to give victim statements but that’s all.”

“And when will we be able to foster Ollie.?

“That still depends on his mother, but the Social Worker reports are still opposed to Oliver going back to her. According to Elizabeth and the Social Worker that’s unlikely to change, especially with the mother’s attitude towards Ollie.”

I commented, “So we still have to wait.” I took hold of Andre’s hand to be as supportive as I could be.

Our conversation moved on to other topics including NRL football. There was a game on TV between the Roosters and the Rabbitohs that we decided to watch. As David supported the Parramatta Eels and Andre supported the Newcastle Knights, they didn’t have to take sides in the game. There was still plenty of enthusiastic, if not fully informed, commentary on the game. Having grown up in Melbourne I followed AFL and Carlton, so I was not involved in the commentary.

Our viewing was interrupted by Ollie asking if there were any more snacks and drinks. I retrieved more snacks from the pantry cupboard while Ollie raided the fridge.

“How’s it going in there?” I inquired.

“Great. We’ve done the video and are now doing some editing. Be finished soon.” Ollie returned to my workroom, I poured another three glasses of wine, and we resumed watching the game.

The next interruption was Bradley asking us to come and see the video. We were all impressed and the three boys beamed. They had presented it as a discussion between Tyron and Bradley. They demonstrated, discussed and evaluated the software features they wanted to highlight. It was slick, even slicker than their last video. They were improving quickly. At the end Bradley and Tyron gave credit to Jackson and again to “the mystery cameraman”.

Tyron wanted to post it live straight away but Bradley stopped him. He wanted that to happen when he was home so again he could see his siblings’ reaction. Ollie agreed to that idea. They all agreed to it going live on YouTube at 6pm.

David rounded up Bradley and Ollie and was about to leave when Tyron said, “I was stoked when some of the girls on campus commented to me about the last video. I’m looking forward to hearing their comments about this one.” He then teasingly asked, “Bradley what did the girls at your school say to you after they saw the last video?”

Bradley went red and started urging David, “Come on Dad we’ve got to get home”. That seemed to provide an answer to the question.

There was a round of cheerful goodbyes, during which Ollie gave Andre a very long hug. I was tasked with posting the video on my YouTube channel at 6pm. I knew I’d be in very deep shit if I didn’t.