To Sammy With Love - 12. Chapter 12

There was an eerie silence as the judge thoughtfully rearranged papers on the bench. After a little time he addressed the accused, who was standing next to his lawyer.

“Mr. Huntingdon, is it your intention to plead guilty to the charges before this court?”

In a quavering voice Nat responded, “Yes your honor - It is.”

“And, are you prepared to describe your actions and those of your co-accused on the night in question?”

“Yes your honor - I am.”

“Then proceed. I must impress upon you the need for complete disclosure. Any attempt to minimize or suppress facts will be taken into account when sentencing.” In a very low voice Nat began -

“I have always hated Gays. I believe homosexuality to be against Gods laws and Nature itself. I’ve become disgusted with their parading themselves and trying to tell us that they’re normal . . .”

As Nat, dressed in a new suit and looking like a cherub, started to explain the events, leading up to the assault on Sammy that Sunday night, Brenda leaned over to Maria and said in a whisper,

“Why is Nat pleading guilty? Surely, it would be far better to plead Not Guilty, so that his side of the story can be told.” Also in a whisper Maria answered with,-

“No - There is too much evidence against him. Not only do they have a witness to identify him, one of his so called ‘mates’ has turned State’s Evidence. His lawyer says if he pleads guilty and makes a full disclosure, he will get a lighter sentence than if he pleaded Not Guilty and then found guilty. Ssshhh - I want to hear what Nat’s saying.”

Who was continuing with,

“ . . . After the BBQ, I vowed to get even, and with me mates planned to attack the queer as a form of retribution. Also the fact that one of me own relatives was a poofter, was distressing me. I mean, me own family. I just had to do something. That’s when me and me mates came up with a plan to punish the homo. We hadn’t intended to hurt him - just serve a punishment for his sick perversion.”

When Nat came to the end of his confession, there was complete silence in the court. The Magistrate studied his papers and shifted some of them whilst scanning others. Nat and his family waited with some apprehension. Finally, the magistrate spoke -

“I have before me several glowing character references and the police report. I’ve listened to your statement of disclosure. Whilst I have read the submissions, I am disturbed by the Police Report, which indicates an escalating violent trend. You have a very troubled history with the Police, Mr. Huntingdon and it seems that as you’ve grown older you have not become any wiser. I believe a term of confinement seems appropriate at this time. However, what I find disturbing is your use of offensive language in your confession. Not once did I hear you say ‘sorry’. It seems you need time to learn to have respect for other people. I hereby sentence you to 15 years confinement with a non- parole period of 10 years.

We’re through here.”

At the sound of the gavel, Nat stood stunned. He couldn’t believe it - 15 years. All at once, the courtroom erupted. Cries of - “No Way”. “It’s not fair”. “Bullshit” - “What a farce” - “Fuck em Nat” - “Good on yer buddy” - drowned out the cries of Sammy’s supporters. Nat still stunned, turned to his solicitor and cried -

“But you told me if I pleaded guilty I would get a lenient sentence. You bastard 15 years - You call that lenient?”

“And it would have been lenient if only you hadn’t used insulting language in your confession, or even said sorry. Didn’t you hear the Magistrate - he would’ve given you less of a sentence if you hadn’t used those derogatory terms. Your own mouth sentenced you Nat.”

Maria, her father and Gwen stood in a miserable huddle trying to comfort each other. Like Nat, they were stunned. A much more moderate sentence was expected. Brenda walked over to Maria who was sobbing uncontrollably. She put her arms around Maria and said -

“It’s that vile cousin of yours who’s to blame. Not only did he seduce my husband but now he’s sent your brother for a long jail term. He may be your cousin, but Maria I curse him. He’s a vile disgusting creature who has to be stopped before he can do any more damage. And I mean stopped.”

After saying goodbye to her parents, Maria and Brenda decided to have a cup of coffee in Mornington. It was a beautiful day, cloudless and just enough sun to take the chill off the air.

After ordering, just coffee, Brenda continued with her brutal diatribe about Sammy’s negative influence in their lives.

“It’s not fair. That little degenerate comes into our lives and, as a result, I lose my husband and your brother sent to prison unjustly. I mean, Nat deserves a medal for giving the little bastard a hiding. I hope you’re going to appeal. You’ll probably find the judge himself is a queer.” “Umm - Yes we’ll certainly appeal. But if Nat opens his bloody mouth again, he may get longer. I’m not looking forward to telling Karl. He’ll think Nat got off lightly. And my Auntie Elaine told my mother that she’s disgusted with all of us. This has really split the family - It’ll take a long time to heal.”

“There you go - add another crime to the little queer’s doings. I would dearly like to get my hands around his neck and --”

“Actually, I’ve more to worry about my own marriage. Karl is also disgusted with my folks. In his own quiet way, he’s very angry with them. We’re still going to the marriage counselor, though Karl is less than enthusiastic. Anyway - What’s happening with you and Peter?”

On that subject, Brenda became thoughtful. She slowly stirred her coffee before taking a sip and answering.

“Well, I’m over the worst. I’ve hired a solicitor to get a divorce. Peter doesn’t seem interested in contesting anything. He’s so guilty. I only talk to him on the phone but I - I only feel contempt. Naturally, he’s leaving everything to me. I only let him take his clothes. I couldn’t bring myself to touch them. According to Rick, he is not welcome at the pub. I guess Karl’s told you about their reaction. The girls just think their Dad’s gone on a long visit some ware. They’ll survive. Actually, Rick’s been a great help with the kids. He’s very good with them. I feel if some burden has been lifted. Down deep, I probably knew something was wrong but kept denying it. Time will tell.”

“Well, you know I’m there for you Brenda. I think that with all that’s happened, we still have our friendship. That not going to be damaged.”

“No - It won’t. I value our friendship very much . . . very much, but there’s a part of me inside that’s crying out for vengeance and I feel a need to strike back.”

When the day came for Sammy to go home, he got himself dressed as soon as possible. Both his mother and Billee were coming to get him discharged. As Peter and Billee had transferred all his stuff to the new house in Seaford, there was very little for him to do. Early that morning Billee had called to tell him what they'd done. Thanking her, Sammy then asked -

“How’s Peter. Is he settled in with you OK?”

“Yes,” Billee responded. “It’s taken some time but his divorce from Brenda is coming along fine. She’s turned nasty. A couple of times at the pub he was close to tears. I’ve tried to put myself in her position and yes - if my man had come home and told me he was Gay, I’d be upset. No doubt about it. But any adult would soon realize that this is different than if you caught your partner having an illicit affair. This isn’t about a betrayal of trust. More Peter’s weakness, if you will. In her simple mind, she’s concluded that you seduced him and if you’re removed from the scene, everything will be Ok. She’s one very stubborn and vindictive lady.” “Yeah - I’m hearing that too. I told Karl I don’t want to be some kind of co-respondent in their marriage break up. I don’t want that at all, Billee. How can I get that through to her - and Peter?”

“Look Sammy, there’s nothing you can do. Its Brenda’s problem. I’ve heard she’s also upset that low-life Nat got such a hefty jail term. I really don’t like the lady.”

“Hey - I’ve got to go,” Interrupted Sammy. “They’ve just brought my clothes in and I’m dying to get dressed. See you later.”

“Aren’t they beautiful?” The grand old trees that covered most of what's known locally as ‘the Dandenongs’ never ceased to amaze Peter. “How tall do you think they are?”

“Yes, they certainly are.” answered Billee, always in awe of the mighty trees that covered the rolling foothills of the Great Dividing Range. “I believe they can go as high as Forty meters.”

They were driving up to see Luke - Peter for the first time. He was curious to meet Billee’s son and wondered if he was anything like his mother. Looking at her now she seemed so relaxed and carefree. You would never know she had her own problems.

“I have to say this Billee - You are a closed shop where your personal life is concerned. I reckon you cover up your own problems by focusing on helping others. Am I being too cruel?”

“Partly correct, partly cruel. I was born with a slice of Florry Nightingale in my genes.”

“Well you’ve taught me and Sammy to open up and vent our troubles. And it works. Now, how about you listen to your own advice.”

“Doesn’t the road look lovely?” And they both laughed.

Billee, her thoughts turning to her son, was anything but relaxed.

Bloody Hell - I’m getting all itchy about Peter meeting Luke. I’m being silly. Luke desperately needs a male role model which I haven’t been able to give him. That arsehole Max. How I ever - ? Well that’s all in the past. Luke’s wellbeing is far more important than petty issues between his parents. But, of course, I don’t want to place any more obligations on Peter’s back. He’s got enough to contend with right now.

Arriving at the boarding school, Peter courteously opened Billee’s door, whilst taking a good look around the grounds.

Well-kept and obviously expensively laid out. A pleasant, shady, peaceful place. No wonder Billee likes keeping Luke here. But it must be costing her a pretty penny in fees. And I must start thinking how I can afford school fees for the girls in a few years' time. I want the best for them. Boarding School maybe?

Peter’s first sight of Luke was a streak of tangled skinny arms and legs hurling themselves onto Billee. He looked an untidy mess, but a very happy, youthful untidy mess.

“Mama - mama - I miss you Mama. Come and see my new pictures and the little plants growing in my room. And my new roommate is cool, he plays guitar. Can I learn to play guitar mama? Can I? It’s easy and I can sing too. And we won our footy match and I even kicked a goal and got a kick in the hip, but I do want to play footy. I really do mama. Please, please say I can - I’ll be famous, just like Nick Riewold, but I bet I can kick better than him --”

“Hey, steady on,” laughed Billee. “You’re going too fast. Yes, we’ll talk about all those things, but first I want you to meet my real good friend Peter. Peter, this is my son Luke. Or I should say this mess is my son Luke.”

“Pleased to meet you, Luke,” Peter said shaking Luke’s hand. “Are you a Saints supporter?”

“Pleased to meet you, sir. Yes I love the Saints. Nick Riewold is my hero. Do you play footy?”

“Well - I used to Luke. But as I got older it was becoming hard to keep up any training schedule. You’d be amazed what you have to do with your time when you get contracted.”

“Gosh - I’ve never known anyone who’s played footy big time. Where did you play?”

“You mean what position? I played as a rover during the first two years and then got moved to defense. I really enjoyed being a defender. I can tell you Luke, it’s a lot harder to be a defender these days than when I played. It’s too easy to give away a free kick - and have a goal kicked against you.”

“Yeah - Hey that’s where I --”

Breaking into Luke’s enthusiasm, Billee pleaded -

“Come on you two. Enough talk of football now. Later, the two of you can prattle as much as you want. And Luke - try not to ask Peter too many questions.”

As usual, Billee and Luke went to see Luke’s Counselor, John Hobson, who was monitoring Luke’s progress.

Billee invited Peter, but he declined, sensing that this was a personal matter, which should preclude him.

Anyway, I would like to stroll around and have a good look at a boarding school environment. Even though this one only catered for special kids, Boarding school would be the perfect solution for the girls. But there is something else - isn’t there Peter? When talking to Luke about football, I experienced a wave of sorrow. I’ve always wanted a son - what father doesn’t. Now, it’s not gonna happen. But talking to Luke - well, it felt real good. Admit it dickhead - You felt a rush of paternalism. Would it be possible for me to have a father/son relationship with Luke? I really liked the guy. He’s so trusting and vulnerable. I’ll hold the thought just for now.

When Luke and Billee returned, Peter could see that they were both happy. Luke must be making good progress. Both of them were animated, and Billee was laughing. As prearranged, they set out a prepared lunch on the schools grounds, near a gentle pond.

Luke was infectious. Rather than annoying, Luke's prattle was endearing - the lad was so happy to see his mother and anxious to tell all his news that Peter wondered if Luke going to day school would be possible. That’s Billee’s call.

Admit it Pete my lad - You would love to watch Luke grow up and be there to counsel him as he navigated the years of adolescence. Those years - a boy needs his father. But what about Max. How does he fit into the plot? I must be careful. I’ll find some way to broach the subject with Billee. Perhaps -

Luke - all eagerness interrupted Peter’s musings. “Uncle Peter - did you kick many goals or get hurt?”

“First off - please call me Peter. I want to be your friend. And as to goals, I kicked 37.12 in my short career. And yeah - got hurt a couple of times but never very bad. It’s all about training and condition. If you’re in good nick you won’t get hurt. That’s why so much emphasis is on specialized training now. Tell me Luke - when was the last time you went to a footy game?”

“‘Haint ever”, said with youthful sadness. “My dad never took me to any footy games.”

This shocked Peter. It was unimaginable that any father would not take his son to see a footy game, particularly when the lad was so keen. A thought occurred.

“How would you like me to take you to see the Saints play their next home game? But better still, I can get us into a private box at the MCG to watch any other team play. Are you interested?”

The look on Luke's face was heart wrenching. Tears of gratitude were starting to tumble out. But he was manfully trying to hide them. All he could say was -

“Uncle Pete - Umm Peter. That would make me so happy. I’m sorry - I can’t tell you how happy that would make me. Not only just going to see a game - but the MCG. Unbelievable. You can actually do that - honest?”

“I can do that - honest.” responded Peter. “All we have to do is ask your mum if its o.k.”

Trying to suppress tears herself, Billee just mumbled - “It’s OK with me”.

From then, till they had to leave, Luke was irrepressible. Peter felt a warm glow as he basked in Luke’s happiness. So when it was time to leave, Luke hurled himself at Peter with a huge silent hug. Actually, both Peter and Luke would have found it difficult to say anything. Gut wrenching.

The drive back to Melbourne was definitely upbeat. They drove down to Mornington in relaxed silence until Billee said softly -

“Peter that was a beautiful thing you did today. I’d say Luke will have trouble sleeping tonight. And his classmates - well, I guess someone will tell him to ‘shut-it’. But seriously, Luke is starved of a male role model. I could tell he really warmed to you. Are you sure you’re not putting yourself out by taking him to the footy. And particularly The MCG?”

“Nah . . . Of course not. I know people in our local Real Estate office who have often invited me into their corporate box. But neither the girls nor Brenda are interested in the footy so I just keep declining. Believe me, I’m really looking forward to going. I really like Luke. I felt that there were qualities in the lad that need a larger horizon to blossom. But Billee, I have to ask you this. Do you feel . . . ? No - I don’t mean that. Let me try and put it another way. Is it a problem that I’m gay and Luke is a young Lad?”

“Oh Christ Peter, don’t be daft. Let me put it another way. If Luke was a young girl and you were straight, I think I’d be more worried. Just because you’re Gay doesn’t mean that you’re a pervert. As far as people are involved, I would trust you with Luke’s life. Subject closed.”

“Right - thanks for that. You know young lady - I feel fucking great.”