One of the things that Shaun found unusual with the skyscrapers in New York City was the speed at which the elevators moved. After living in the woods for several years, he had forgotten the effect it had on his stomach. The ride to the 65th floor in the Harcourt building felt weird. He left his stomach somewhere between the fifth and the thirty-fifth floor.
The 65th floor housed the executive staff of Harcourt. This was the seat of power for Harcourt Oil Corporation. The decisions made here affected the lives of tens of thousands of people all over the world. Shaun was not prepared for the elegant space that greeted him as he stepped off the elevator into the reception area. It felt like walking into the reception room of a palace, with the thick carpeting and mahogany covered walls, and the original oil paintings mounted in hand carved gold leaf frames. The only sound that he could hear was the classical music that played softly in the background. There was no doubt, even to the casual viewer, that there was wealth and power behind this facade. Even the voice of the soft-spoken receptionist seated behind a large circular mahogany desk reinforced the image.
Shaun gave her his name and took a seat. "Mr. Harcourt's secretary, Joanne, will be with you momentarily, Mr. Spalding."
Joanne arrived in a few minutes and escorted Shaun to Dirk's private office. "Mr. Harcourt is tied up in a meeting," Joanne said. "May I offer you a cup of coffee or a beverage while you're waiting, Mr. Spalding?"
"No, thank you, Joanne," he said, "I'll wait for Dirk."
Dirk arrived twenty minutes later and found Shaun standing in front of the windows with his sketch pad in hand, sketching the buildings below. Shaun looked up from his pad, "Hi. Again, I couldn't resist sketching those buildings. The shapes are fascinating. I'm also impressed with the decor of your offices. You must be a very powerful man, Dirk; there is no end of windows in your office. At the last company I work for, an executive's importance was gauged by the number of windows in his office. Of course, the floor levels counted as well. You're on the top floor with all the windows. Guys like you only talk to God."
Dirk chuckled, "Let me show you my private lounge and wash room." He led the way into a suite with bedroom, private bath and exercise room. Dirk closed the door behind him, and taking Shaun in his arms, kissed him tenderly. "I couldn't resist that. Ready for lunch and some shopping?"
"You bet; I'm starved."
"I've made reservations at the Plaza for a quick lunch and then it's off to buy you a new wardrobe."
They were finishing their coffee, "You have the most beautiful and expressive eyes," Dirk said, "what's on your mind?"
"I was reminiscing about the pleasant times we spent here when we were courting and the way you make me feel. You are a delightful spouse and I am happy to be an important part of your life.
"You're the one that's fantastic," Dirk said. "We'd better move before I lean across this table and kiss those delightful lips of yours."
Dirk took Shaun to several of the exclusive men's specialty shops on Fifth and Madison Avenues. They stopped at Gucci and Saks Fifth Avenue along the way. By the time they finished, they had collected a carload of designer clothes.
Their last stop was Dirk's tailor. Dirk was enjoying this shopping spree. Shaun acted reserved and unruffled to the casual observer, but Dirk knew how excited he really was. In retrospect, Dirk could now understand the pleasure Brett felt when he had taken him through the same process.
Dirk could see how cautious and selective Shaun was with his purchases and understood his reluctance in spending so much money. Dirk remembered how he had to watch what he spent living on a police officer's salary. He lived on a strict budget all his life until he met Brett.
Dirk left Shaun with the tailor while he ran an errand. He knew that they would be busy for some time measuring Shaun for the alterations. When he returned a little later, Shaun was ready to leave.
"We should be on our way before the rush hour traffic starts," Dirk said. "Andre, Mr. Spalding will need the tuxedos next week, can he come in on Thursday morning for a final fitting?"
"Absolutely, we will be ready," Andre said. "Thank you, gentlemen; it is always a pleasure serving you, Mr. Harcourt."
At the helipad, the chauffeur and his security man loaded the packages onto the helicopter and they headed for Westhampton.
"Thank you for letting me put this on your account," Shaun said. "I'll pay you back as soon as the gallery starts sending me my commissions."
Dirk took Shaun hand and said, "What are you talking about?" Dirk asked. Your wardrobe is a gift from Molly and me, and I have another gift that I'm saving for later."
"You and Molly are too generous," Shaun said. "I can't let you do this. That wardrobe today had to cost 30-thousand dollars, not to mention the thousands we spent at Gucci and Saks."
"Calm down, you're getting all upset," Dirk said. "I want you to look at this from our perspective. That portrait of Brett is priceless to us and I think it is one of your best works. It had to take you months to paint that portrait. Today, now that you are established, your paintings are fetching serious dollars. You gave me that painting without any thought of its present market value."
"I had the Horvath Gallery appraise the canvas for insurance purposes and they valued it at $150,000. Now, my love, we still owe you a lot more than that, if you put this in its proper perspective. You think about that for a while and we will talk about it later."
"You are both very generous people, and I love you both," Shaun said.
"I hope you always will, my love."
When they entered Harcourt Hall, the maid said that Mrs. Harcourt would like to see Mr. Spalding when he was free.
Shaun found Molly in the drawing room, "Hi, Molly, I'm embarrassed by your generous gift," Shaun said. "I'm overwhelmed by your generosity, and I thank you. I am not used to having such expensive gifts showered upon me. All I can offer you in return is a grateful thank you."
"You already have given me a gift more precious than anything that our money could buy. You have immortalized my son on canvas and that is beyond anything I can ever do for you. You will learn one day that being wealthy means nothing, if you don't use that wealth to reward the people that are deserving of your gratitude."
Shaun was misty eyed as he said, "Molly, would you be terrible offended if I hugged you? I've never experienced this kind of generosity before in my life. You've made me very happy."
"You go right ahead, I thrive on affection."
She was touched by Shaun's display of affection, but regained her composure quickly. "Alex Savage dropped by with a few rough sketches on the design he envisions for your studio on the third floor. I wanted to get your thoughts on his designs so far."
Shaun studied the sketches and then took his pad and made a few major changes and handed the drawings back to Molly. He explained the reason for enlarging the skylight and made a change in the location of the vault. He thought it would be a better idea to build the vault in the basement rather than the third floor; not only because of the weight factor, but also for safety in case of a fire.
"Molly, I hope you don't mind if I ask you to supervise this project," Shaun said. "I'm so far behind with my assignments, that I can't waste one extra minute away from my studio until my commissions are completed. Since you are the one that must approve any structural changes, I feel that anything you decide will be fine."
"I don't mind at all, it should be fun," Molly said. "I'll ride herd on Alex to get the job done."
"You're a sweetheart, Molly; one day I want you to tell me how a wonderful lady like you survived losing the two most important men in her life. I have often wondered what drives women like you. Again, thank you for everything, and now I had better get ready for dinner."
Shaun was in the dressing room in his shorts when Dirk walked in.
"Good, stay right there and don't move, I'll be right back." He locked their bedroom door and returned with a small gift-wrapped package. "This is one of your engagements presents to tide you over until I can make up my mind on the ideal gift."
Shaun removed the gift wrap and opens the box. "My God, it's beautiful. I've only seen pictures of gold Rolexes in magazines." Shaun hugged him and tenderly kissed him, "Thank you, Sweetheart, you're so generous." Tears started to fill his eyes. "I accept your beautiful engagement gift and I will always love you."
Dirk pulled him close and ran his fingers down his bare back, "Please, Honey, don't cry. I wanted you to feel happy." He could feel Shaun's erection through the shorts. He backed away from Shaun and pulled down the shorts. He gently squeezed his genitals as he kissed his nipples.
Shaun pushed Dirk away and began to undress him. Now they were exploring each other's body with their fingers and lips. This went on for several minutes until Dirk put his arm around Shaun's waist and led him to bed where they continued the gentle and satisfying lovemaking.
They were lying in each other's arms when Dirk said, "You are so lovable. When I look into those adoring eyes, and hold you in my arms, I feel wonderful and completely satisfied."
Shaun's new studio atop Harcourt Hall had been finished in March. It was perfect in every way, according to Shaun. The large, thermal skylights in the ceiling, supplemented with the added quartz lighting system allowed Shaun the luxury to work twenty-four hours a day, if he wished. Now he could work every day unhampered by an overcast sky that he was plagued with in his old studio.
Molly's contractor, Alex Savage, had hired the best artisans for this project. They used the latest state of the art techniques for the interior design. Molly not only ordered a comfortable lounge area, but also had asked the designer to include an office to house Shaun's computer equipment and his sophisticated communication equipment. Alex had taken great care in locating the most sophisticated climate controlled systems money could buy. The entire floor was insulated and a new sprinkler system installed.
Shaun spent most of his waking hours in his studio except for his daily visits to see his mother and his daily jog around the estate. He also attended the weekly board meetings at the new Harcourt Corporate headquarters in Quogue. Shaun was a tireless worker, sometimes spending ten hours a day at his painting on top of the two hours a day designing a new software program for Harcourt Oil.
He had completed three of his four major painting assignments. The only thing holding up the delivery was the Horvath Gallery. They took longer than he expected with the preservative process and framing each canvas. He thought it would be a nice surprise to deliver all three paintings on Christmas Day.
The largest canvas, and the most time consuming, was the family portrait for Drew Stevens. The canvas was to be quite large so as to include the entire family, three adults and four children. The planning alone took several weeks to design. Once he had the composition right, the actual painting moved along smoothly. The Erickson and Landsdorf family portraits went much faster because Shaun had perfected his technique on the most difficult canvas first. His final canvas was the full-length portrait of Molly.
He ran into a scheduling problem with Molly's canvas, because Molly had the habit of dropping in for a visit every day. Some days the visits lasted for hours, while at other times it was just for coffee. Shaun enjoyed her company, because she told him of fascinating stories of her life. They became close friends and at ease with each other in discussing many personal problems. Molly told Shaun things she never revealed to her own son, or to Dirk.
With the pressure off, Shaun felt he could relax. He had some free time to do his Christmas shopping and work on the new software program for Harcourt Oil.
Shaun always loved the Christmas season, even as a youngster. It was always a happy time for him, with the Christmas plays in school, the festive decorations and the singing of carols in the evenings, but most of all, being able to spend two glorious weeks at home. His mother always took special pains to decorate the house every year. She carried on her family holiday tradition of an annual Christmas Eve party for family and friends. It was a joyous time and one that had to last Shaun until his summer vacation.
This year was going to be a special treat for him, because Molly asked him to take charge of decorating Harcourt Hall for their annual Christmas events. Shaun began planning in early September. Molly gave him a blank check and a free hand to do whatever he wanted.
His first order of business was to contact three of the largest display houses in New York City to bid on his project. He met with each of their creative directors to discuss his design plan and get a commitment on costs, preparation and a delivery schedule. Shaun spent several days taking measurements of the interior and exterior of Harcourt Hall.
After selecting the decorating contractor, he then began the second phase of the project, the design of the exterior decorations for Harcourt Hall. For this, Shaun contacted the larger nurseries in the area to select the live spruce trees, wreaths, fresh flowers and garlands he would need. The contractor had to install, and then remove the decorations after the holidays, as well. His final step was to hire a lighting display company for the interior and exterior lighting that he wanted. His theme was an old-fashioned Victorian Christmas. His over all scheme included hiring carolers for the nights that Molly had her parties.
He still found the time to visit his mother twice a week, without fail. She always brightened up and enjoyed his visits. He kept her posted on his progress at Harcourt Hall. She loved the little stories and local gossip. He even took video tapes of the Harcourt family for her to enjoy. She was very pleased with her new staff and with the new four-foot television set he purchased for her.
Shaun was concerned about his mother's health. He noticed on his visits that her breathing seemed more strained. He called her doctor and asked about her condition. The doctor thought his mother had suffered another small stroke, but was holding her own for the present. Her loss of weight could not be helped in spite of the strong liquid vitamins he prescribed to improve her appetite. He also increased the time she spent on oxygen each day to ease the strain on her heart.
The doctor said, "Your mother's condition is deteriorating every day. She is not in pain, but she is having difficulty swallowing. The next step is to puree her food to see if she can ingest more food. Eventually she will need a feeding tube, which is a last resort. All we can do at this point is to keep a close watch on her, and see that she is comfortable. She could remain at this plateau for a year or more. I am sorry I do not have better news to report to you, Mr. Spalding."
Shaun was depressed when he returned to Harcourt Hall that evening. He changed into his jogging suit and jogged around the grounds for an hour. It was dark by the time he returned to the house. He used the private entrance to the suite, undressed and took a long hot shower, then donned one of the terry cloth robes and dried his hair. He lay on the bed and turned on the TV to watch the news.
When Dirk arrived, he found Shaun sound asleep. He went into the dressing room, changed into his casual clothes, and returned to the bedroom. He turned off the TV and sat on the bed next to Shaun and kissed him on the neck and forehead.
Shaun awoke and smiled, "Hi, Handsome, is it that late already?"
"You smell delightful," Dirk said. "You've been pushing yourself too hard, my love; I don't want you to be sick for our first Christmas together."
"You'll be pleased to know that I've caught up on all my work and plan to spend the next two weeks shopping, gift wrapping and supervising the Christmas decorations. I will have more time to spend with you and the children, now how about giving me a kiss."
Dirk stretched out next to Shaun, took him in his arms, and held him. "Only one kiss for now, because dinner is in thirty minutes, and I want time to enjoy your beautiful body tonight. I promise you, my love. We are going to hit this bed right after dinner."
"It sounds wonderful," Shaun said.
Molly was sipping her cocktail when they joined her in the drawing room.
"I missed you today, Shaun," Molly said. "How is your mother?"
"Not too good. The doctor gives her six months to a year if she does not have another stroke. It's really a shame as her mind is still alert, yet she is trapped in a deteriorating body. I pray that the next stroke will end her suffering. I feel so helpless, yet there is nothing I can do."
"It's sad, I know, but you must try to accept it as God's will, and get on with your own life," Molly said.
"Molly, would you mind watching the kids, if Shaun and I take off for Paradise Island after Christmas for ten days?"
"You go right ahead, we'll be fine. Anyway, I plan to have several little dinner parties while you two are away."
Molly's round of parties and lunches began two weeks before Christmas. Her parties were usually held on the weekend. The guests would arrive Saturday afternoon for cocktails, dinner, and leave after brunch on Sunday. It was rare to see the same faces twice. These guests were Molly's old friends from all over the world. The two largest parties were the Harcourt Corporate party always held three days before Christmas, and the annual Christmas party for close family and friends, two days before Christmas.
Molly felt that Christmas Eve was for the family and old family friends.
To Shaun, it was like the Christmases he remembered as a child, only on a much grander scale. Molly's friends were celebrities from all over the world. He was pleased that he made his contribution to the festivities by designing the decorations. Shaun was delighted with the compliments he received on the family portraits he had delivered to the Stevens', Erickson's and the Lunsford's.
Shaun spent most of Christmas Eve with his Mother. He decorated a small Christmas tree and set out the Nativity scene that had been in the family for generations. He gave her some hand lotions and several expensive nightgowns for Christmas. Then he read several of the short stories she liked. She was much more interested in hearing his stories about the festivities and activities at Harcourt Hall. He had showed her some snapshots of the decorations and of the Harcourt grandchildren. She liked hearing all the gossip, even though she did not know the people.
She was glad he was taking a vacation and looked forward to his return. She told him not to worry about her. The new staff was wonderful, and she was very pleased with the care they were giving her.
"That was the best Christmas I've ever had," Shaun said. "I couldn't get over that Rolls convertible Molly gave me, I was completely shocked. Your gift was unbelievable. I don't know how I'm going to handle a ninety-five foot ocean going yacht, but it's sure going to be cozy spending long weekends together."
"Molly was delighted with her portrait," Dirk said. "You did a beautiful job. You're a fine painter and a plastic surgeon all rolled into one. Now all of her friends want you to paint their portraits."
They spent most of their days sailing and making love. They played tennis every day. They were naked together on the yacht working on their tans, when unexpectedly, Shaun sat up, turned to Dirk, and said, "Something has happened at home, we must call home right away."
"I'll go below and call the villa and see if any messages have come in," Dirk said. He returned a few minutes later. "Sorry, Baby, no messages. I called Molly and everything is fine at home," Dirk said. "Would you like to call and check on your Mom?"
"No, that's all right," Shaun said. "If anything was wrong, they would have called Molly right away. I get a warning like that sometimes. Funny, usually it is not good. Never mind, it may be nothing after all."
"They had lunch and headed back to the marina. They were having dinner when the call came through from Molly. "Shaun's mother has suffered a massive stroke and the doctors don't think she is going to pull through."
"Thanks for letting me know, Molly," Shaun said. "I'll be leaving within the hour."
Shaun and Dirk flew directly to Westchester County Airport and took the helicopter to Harcourt Place. From there they drove straight to the hospital. The doctor greeted them and ushered them into an empty waiting room. "I regret to inform you that you that your mother passed away two hours ago, Mr. Spalding," the doctor said. "If you wish, the nurse will show you to your mother's room, before the funeral director arrives."
"Thank you, I would like to spend a few minutes," Shaun answered. Shaun's mother appeared as if she were asleep. The life support equipment was disconnected and quiet. Shaun stared at his mother's lifeless body and said a few prayers. He patted her hand, bent down, and kissed her on the forehead and then left.
"Would you mind if I stopped off at the house, there are a few things I must do before we leave?" Shaun said.
"Take as much time as you need, we are still on vacation until next week."
The housekeeper opened the door when they arrived. "I'm sorry to hear about your mother, Mr. Spalding. Is there anything I can do for you?"
"I'm putting the house on the market and I would like you to stay on until everything is settled," Shaun said. "We'll go through my mother's things tomorrow. You can start tonight by packing up all her clothes. You're welcome to take any toiletries and any clothing you can use, the rest will be donated to the Kidney Foundation."
He called his mother's lawyer and the funeral director. His last call was to the real estate agent, to made arrangements to meet them tomorrow. When he finished, they stopped by the funeral home. Shaun instructed the funeral director to have her body cremated, and selected a nice urn for the ashes.
After that ordeal, they headed for Harcourt Place.
"Look, Baby, you don't have to stay with me tomorrow," Shaun said. "You can fly back home. I should be able to wrap this up by late tomorrow afternoon. If you like we can fly back to Paradise Island."
"You're right, I'm only in the way if I stay."
"I've no intention of sticking around here any longer than necessary," Shaun said. "I don't know about you, but I'm exhausted and feel grimy; I'm going to shower and hit the sack."
The chopper picked up Dirk early the following morning. Shaun drove over to the house and worked with the housekeeper until the real estate agent arrived. He signed the contract with the agent and sent him on his way. The house and its contents would be sold as a package. There was very little furniture left from his mother's beautiful home in Manhattan. All the beautiful things they had when he was growing up where sold years ago to satisfy the creditors. The only things left were a few treasured keepsakes
By lunchtime, Shaun and the housekeeper had gone through the house from cellar to attic and made a list of the things he wanted to have moved to Harcourt Manor. The housekeeper agreed to stay until everything was disposed of.
Later that afternoon the lawyer dropped by with his mother's will. She had turned over the house to Shaun years ago, so the only thing left was a small savings account and an insurance policy that took care of the funeral expenses. The attorney told Shaun that he would wrap up the paperwork and send all the documents to Harcourt Hall as soon as he received the death certificate.
Shaun called Dirk at four o'clock and told him that he was ready to leave. "Let's head back to Paradise Island, Baby," Shaun said.
"I'm on my way," Dirk said.
They returned to Paradise Island, and had seven glorious days of sun and fun, returning home tanned and rested.
On their return, they went directly to the nursery and played with the children. Molly filled them in on all the news since Christmas. "Shaun, have you come to terms with your mother's death?" Molly asked.
"Yes, I'm thankful she is not suffering now," Shaun said. "I miss her, but I could see how labored her breathing was. She told me Christmas Eve, that she hoped she had spent her last Christmas on earth. She said she was tired and it was time to move on. She was resigned to her fate."
"I had Robert put all your mail in your studio, a registered envelope from your lawyers arrived two days ago," Molly said.
"Thanks, Molly, if you two don't mind, I'll run up see what that is all about? Be back a little later."
Shaun opened the large registered letter he received from his mother's lawyer. He read the will and looked over the death certificate. Then he opened the sealed envelope addressed to him in his mother handwriting.
My dearest,Your father and I have not been the most loving parents you deserved. I now regret the lost years I did not spend with you. I sit here today and think of how selfish we both were, to think only about ourselves and take the easy way out when it came to raising you.
Your father and I grew up in a different time and in a social climate that would have ostracized us if it was discovered that I was pregnant out of wedlock. The scandal would have ruined my reputation and hurt both our families. This does not excuse us for the way we treated you. I hope it will explain the reason why we acted the way we did.
Your father was a handsome and charming man and we fell in love. He was delighted when I told him I was pregnant with you. He wanted us to marry right away. However, that changed drastically once his family learned of the news. I never saw your father again. His father and their lawyers handled it from that point on.
It was a horrible experience, and I felt used and ashamed. Your father's family arranged for me to go to a private school that specialized in cases like mine. Naturally, they paid for everything including the trust fund they set up for you. In return, I could never reveal who your father was or make any future claim to the family. My own family was comfortable, but could be hurt financially if your father's family decided to get nasty. Therefore, I signed the papers and did the best I could under the circumstances.
I thought my marriage to your stepfather was the best way of legitimizing your birth, since you were born out of wedlock. I will not dwell on the grief and suffering he caused us. Once again, I thought I was doing what was best for us at the time. It was obvious that Mr. Spalding was not kind to you, and felt I babied you too much. My only choice to save you from his ridicule was to send you away to boarding school.
It broke my heart to do that. I know you were hurt when I sent you away to school, but I feared your stepfather would only abuse you more if you stayed at home. I hope you will forgive me for the heartache you suffered by being turned out of your own home by a stranger. I love you very much, my wonderful boy. You never gave me a moment of trouble, and grew up to be a fine strong man, in spite of the rejection you must have felt growing up as you did. Your father and I did not deserve a wonderful child like you.
I think God punished us both for what we did to you. I tried not to put all the blame on your father, yet, he should have fought a little harder and given you his name. I will never forgive him for not acknowledging you as his son and heir. The pittance your grandfather gave you was nothing. What he did was mean and spiteful and a terrible way to teach us a lesson. I am convinced he threatened to disinherit your father if he did not go along with his decision.
That was a hard decision for your father to make, but he chose to keep the money and let you go. I feel that if he knew you as I do, he would have chosen to keep you.
Your father was Brett Harcourt, and you are the rightful heir to the Harcourt Oil Company. The papers and the documents are all there to prove your birthright.
I hope you will confront the family and claim your ownership of the company. It is true that I gave my word never to contest the contract, but you, my son, are not bound by my agreement.
Goodbye, Son, and forgive me for what I have done to you. Whatever you decide to do is your affair, but whatever you do, please change your last name.
With all my love, Your Mother, Sara Elisabeth Borne-Spalding
Shaun folded the letter and examined the other papers his mother had enclosed including the contract drawn up by his father's lawyers. It was all there. There was no doubt in his mind as to who he was. He sat alone for a long time without moving. The room was growing dark and he realized it was cocktail time. He locked the papers in his safe and took the elevator to the first floor.
Dirk and Molly were sipping their cocktails when Shaun walked into the drawing room.
"I was just about to start looking for you," Dirk said. "Are you all right?"
"I'm sorry I was so long," Shaun said, "but I was shocked to learn who my father was and I'm still a little shaken."
"Well, don't keep us guessing," Dirk said, "tell us who he is."
"My father was Brett Harcourt, Senior; Brett was my younger brother," Shaun said.
"Somehow I've been expecting something like this," Molly said. "That clears up the mystery about you at long last. There were too many unexplained feelings I had about you. It is true, you do resemble my son in many ways, but you are more like your father. Would you mind telling me what your mother said in the letter?"
"Now, I understand why my mother was interested in everything about the Harcourts," Shaun said. "I'm sorry to say this, Molly, but I feel very disappointed with my father actions, he should have made the effort to see me. That's all I ever wanted."
"Didn't your mother ever talk to you about him?" Molly asked.
"Never, my father was always a closed subject. My mother refused to discuss him," Shaun said. "She relented only once, when I asked her to tell me what he looked like. She told me he was a charming and handsome man. I learned more about him from that brief letter, than I ever learned growing up."
"What do you plan to do about this startling information," Molly asked.
"Absolutely nothing," Shaun said. "You are my family now and I'm happy for the first time in my life. This revelation has not changed anything as far as I am concerned. It is nice to know that I had a super brother and two blood relatives."
"That's a commendable attitude," Molly said. "But, if you're Brett Harcourt's son you are entitled to your share of the Harcourt estate."
"Molly, even if the documents are true, the estate would still have to challenge my claim. It's quite possible that it could end up in court and take years to settle," Shaun said. "I have everything I want right now. I have no intention of going through all that aggravation. I do not need the money, nor do I want any part of the Harcourt estate. I make a comfortable living and I am very happy. If my father felt anything for me at all, he would have attempted to make things right in his lifetime. The Harcourt fortune did not do my father or my brother any good, did it? Think about it, Molly. If things were different, and my father had recognized me, Brett would be alive today."
"The only thing that my father gave me was my life and a small pension. Granted, I should be grateful, the majority of bastards in this world do not even get that. Look at it this way, Molly, if my father had defied his father, he would have been disinherited. Obviously, my mother and I didn't mean that much to him."
"As far as I'm concerned this issue is closed," Shaun said. "We have many more pleasant subjects to discuss. Tell me, Molly, did you receive any compliments on the decorations?"
"Oh, yes, everyone raved about the creative concept and the warm feeling it gave them. You outdid yourself this time," Molly said. "I expect you will be bombarded with requests from some of my friends to design themes for their parties."
They had a pleasant dinner and turned in early. It had been a long day.
Their honeymoon was over and they were both dreading the first day back to work, Shaun in his studio and Dirk at the office. Dirk had called earlier that afternoon to say he would be home early.
Shaun was busy working out some of the bugs for the new software program he had created to monitor the inventory at all the refineries at Harcourt Oil. Dirk walked up behind him and kissed him on the back of the neck. "How is my beautiful spouse today?" Dirk asked.
"Much better now that you're home. What brings the master of the laird home so early? Anything new or startling going on at the gas station?"
"Well, as a matter of fact, I rushed home for a quickie before dinner, and to share some important news I discovered in Brett Senior's papers," Dirk said. "When Senior died, he left a sealed envelope with instructions that it was to be opened after his death. I guess both Molly and Brett overlooked it. At that time, Molly was in a state of shock and Brett was a kid. It was passed on to me with all of Brett's other documents. After your startling news yesterday, I felt this was the time to open the envelope." He handed the envelope to Shaun. "This letter was addressed to Brett. I think you will find it interesting."
Dear Brett,I have written this letter to you in the event something happens to me before I am able to right a wrong that occured before I married your mother. It you are reading this letter, you already know part of the story. I want you to know the truth and ask that you handle this in a fair and just way.
You have an older brother his name is Shaun Borne. His stepfather adopted him several years ago, and his new name is Spalding.
I was in love with Sara Borne, Shaun's mother, before I met your mother. We were both young college students when we met. She was spending the summer with friends in Westhampton when we met and fell in love. Unfortunately, Sara became pregnant.
My parents were very angry with me and refused to consider my marrying Sara. They were not very kind, or forgiving. My father gave me an ultimatum. I could marry Sara and go off on my own; I would have to earn the money to support a family, or go back to college and never see her again.
His reasoning was that if I was going to run Harcourt Oil one day, I had to be responsible for my actions. It was a dog-eat-dog world and a man must be strong to run a large corporation. It was also important that I be well educated, and not be involved in any scandals.
If I agreed not to have anything more to do with Sara, and return to college, he would see that Sara and the baby were well taken care of and we could both get on with our lives. He said I would hurt Sara more if I married her now, without any means of support or any skills to earn a living.
He was right, of course, I could not support a wife and a child without my yearly allowance and I had no trade skills at all. I had no choice but to accept his offer for the sake of Sara and the child.
I always regretted making that decision. My father never discussed the matter again. It was not until after my parents died, that I was able to find Sara and Shaun. By that time, she had married Spalding. My investigators keep me informed on Shaun's progress.
Shaun turned out to be a fine, attractive young man. I was proud of him and attended several functions while he was at prep school and was present for his commencement ceremonies when he graduated from college. I have always regretted not letting him know that I was his father, but I felt he would have rejected me out of hand.
It is my intention to increase his trust fund to 100 million dollars and to acknowledge him as my son. He is entitled to half of my estate. I am sorry I left this mess for you to handle Brett, but I know you will do what is right for Shaun, always remember you are both my sons and are both Harcourts.
I never mentioned Shaun to you or your mother, because I was ashamed for what I had done to him; I was young and insecure then. I should have told your mother and raised Shaun along with you.
Please accept Shaun as your brother, and ask him to forgive me.
Your loving father, Brett
Shaun folded the letter and put it back in the envelope. "He did have nice penmanship," Shaun said. "I wish he had spoken to me, just once. What a tragic waste, to think that poor excuse of a man, my grandfather, did this to us. The thought that his genes are part of me, is revolting. I wonder how Grandfather would feel if he knew that both of his grandsons turned out to be homosexuals. I wonder what he would have done to us if he were alive today."
"Conversely, if my father married my mother, Brett would never have been born and I would never have married you. It would have been comforting to have that money he mentioned in the bank when my mother was so sick and we were struggling, but everything has worked out for the best as far as I am concerned. I have a wonderful spouse who I love very much and a delightful family who I adore."
Dirk took him in his arms and kissed him. "It's a shame that Brett and your father never had the opportunity to know you as I do," Dirk said. "You're a beautiful man and I love you very much. I want to make love to you, my dear."
Shaun grinned, "That is the best offer I've had all day. Let's not waste the moment, lead the way."
They showered together after their lovemaking and dressed for dinner.
"I must make an important call. Would you tell the children I'll be up later?" Dirk asked.
"Will do, see you later."
The children adored Shaun. They spent two hours with him every morning while he worked in his studio. If it were a nice day, he would take them along for his afternoon walk on the beach. He taught them Spanish in the morning and German in the afternoon. They were intelligent children and picked up the languages easily.
His evening visits were devoted to reading stories to them in either Spanish or German. After he finished the story, he gave each one a big hug and peck on the cheek and left. Shaun loved the children as much as they loved him. He walked into the morning room and turned the light on Brett's portrait abd stared at the painting for a long time. He smiled up at the painting. "Hi, Brett, the children send their love." He turned off the lights and left.
Shaun was happy and completely relaxed as he walked into the drawing room to join Molly and Dirk for cocktails. He kissed Molly on the cheek, "That was from Brett." He poured himself a glass of wine and sat down.
"Dirk has told me about the letter," Molly said. "It is a shame that you never met Brett and his father. I wonder if my husband's visits to see you began after he learned that Brett was a homosexual," Molly said. "He didn't take that revelation well at all, believe me. What bothered him more than anything was that Brett would not produce an heir to continue the Harcourt line. His love for Brett never wavered. Had he lived, he would have seen how Brett has produced an heir."
"I thought it was a noble gesture not to press your claim," Molly said. "Now with Brett's letter in hand, I feel that you are entitled to your share of your father's estate," Molly said. "Dirk and I have discussed this and have come up with what we think is a reasonable solution. Dirk, you explain to Shaun what we have decided."
"You are to receive a third of the stock in the Harcourt Oil Company and two billion dollars of the assets in the Harcourt Family trust account," Dirk said. "If you feel comfortable with this, we will have the lawyers draw up the papers?"
Shaun was shocked and dropped his glass. He stared at them without speaking. When he regained his voice again, "You can't be serious about this," Shaun said. "Brett told me I should accept the nice package you worked out, but I never expected anything like this."
"What are you saying, Shaun?" Molly said. "When did you talk to Brett?"
"In the morning room," Shaun said. "I told you that when I came in earlier."
Now it was Molly and Dirk's turn to be surprised. They exchanged quick glances between each other, before focusing their attention on Shaun. He had his back to them as he picked up the wine glass he dropped.
"Shaun, please tell us what you are talking about", Molly said. "I find this a little unnerving to say the least."
"I'm not cracking up, or anything of the sort," Shaun said. "Brett forbade me to mention this, because he knew how you two would react. It really does not matter anymore, because he has gone toward the light, as he put it. Tonight was his final visit. His sprit is at peace. He is satisfied with the way everything has turned our here."
"Please tell us how this all happened," Molly asked.
"Brett first appeared to me about a year ago. I was working in my studio one evening after learning about Brett's death. I became very depressed by the news. I couldn't believe he was gone. I had tried to work, but I couldn't. Instead, I took out the two canvases of Brett and set them on the easels, and stared at them for a long time. I began to talk to him as if he were in the room with me. That was the first time he appeared to me. We had our first long talk. I was startled, but not alarmed. Brett was warm and friendly.
After that first encounter, his visits were intermittent. He tended to be moody, some days he was very somber and hardly spoke. Other days he was animated and talkative. As we became friendlier, he would appear to me at different times and places, the Harcourt building, Harcourt Place, the apartment in Manhattan and of course here. He never appeared when I was with another person. Wait, I am wrong, the only time I have ever known him to appear is when I was with the children. He never spoke, he just observed. I know he visited you and the children, but never while I was present."
"We talked about everything under the sun. He told of his early childhood, about you, Molly, his father, of the boat business and his job at Harcourt Oil. He spoke of his love for Dirk and the children and of his wonderful, full life after meeting you, Dirk. We spoke for many hours, as I painted. We became friends until I grew to know the man in the canvas. I was not disappointed. He was everything I believed him to be. His eyes did reflect his soul."
"When I asked him why he woke me up in the middle of the night with that horrible dream of his accident, he was surprised, because he did not remember that. If fact he remembered nothing of the accident. He learned I was his brother at the same time I did, because he overheard us talking about it. Brett was delighted and made a joke about keeping everything in the family ... that I was a blood relation and not an outsider as far as he was concerned. I told him I loved all his family and would make it my vocation to help raise them as my own. Brett told me he was pleased at the way the children had accepted me from the beginning and hoped I would continue to spend the time with them. Tonight was the last time we would meet on this side of the light."
"He said he was satisfied that his family was safe now, and that his children's future is in safe hands. He had discovered who the people were that ordered his murder. The men that planted the bomb have been eliminated. Brett gave me the names of some of the leaders that are trying to sabotage and take over the company. Brett said you were doing a great job, Dirk. Albert Shaal is the mastermind that ordered his death. He is even more determined now that you have humiliated him and kicked him out. Brett said he is a dangerous man and he is scheming right now on a plan to even the score."
"I gave my solemn word that I would only divulge the information to one person other than you two. I must keep his identity from you both. You two cannot be a party to what may happen. You two are the majority stockholders of the corporation. I can assure you both, that Brett's death and that innocent pilot's death will be revenged."
"Brett told me he loves you both very much and he wanted you to know that he is at peace now. He is pleased with the way we have joined as a family. He told me tonight that his work is finished and it was time for him to walk toward the light."
"This is absolutely the most incredible story I have ever heard and it is difficult for me believe," Molly said.
"Brett thought you would react this way," Shaun said. "To prove to you that I've not made this all up, he told me to tell you of some incidents that only you and he would know." He told Molly of the incidents.
"My God," Molly said. "It's true then, but why single you out, why didn't he come to Dirk, or me?"
"He did try, but he couldn't communicate with either of you. He was successful with me because I have extrasensory perception. "What I have told you about Brett should be kept between the three of us. It would not be wise to mention anything about my being a Harcourt until we rid ourselves of the vipers in our midst. You will know when that happens."
"My only regret now is losing my brother so soon after finding him. I was happy he accepted me so warmly. He is a beautiful spirit and I love him."
Robert walked into the room to announce that he was ready to serve dinner.
They were having their coffee when Shaun said, "I know this has been disturbing to you both, and I'm sure you both must have a million questions to ask, I know I would in your place. Let me hasten to add, that I will be more then happy to discuss this with each of you in private. I need to run into town tomorrow and then we can discuss this again if you wish."
"If you two will excuse me, I have a few calls to make and then it's bed for me," Shaun said. "Good night, all." He stood and left.
"I'm still not over the shock of Shaun's revelation," Molly said. "My mind has not accepted all of this just yet."
"You're not the only one that's in a state of shock," Dirk said. "It brought back so many memories, both good and bad. The thought of Brett reaching out to us and failing, that is the sad part. Yet, to be honest, I don't think I could have handled it."
"I understand what you mean," Molly said. "Shaun is truly a remarkable human being and now I believe everything he has told us. I wish my husband had acknowledged him while he was alive. I think we would have loved him as I do now. Our lives have become richer since Shaun has become part of our family. It's ironic in a way; the outcast son avenges the death of his brother."
"Thank you for dropping everything and meeting me this morning, Mac," Shaun said. "Your penthouse is the ideal place to meet. You'll understand the reason for the secrecy after I explain everything."
"Why don't you begin at the beginning and tell me what this is all about," Mac said.
"What I'm about to tell you may sound weird, but every bit is the God's honest truth. Here goes."
"My real name is Shaun Harcourt and Brett was my younger brother. I learned of this revelation two days ago from my mother's papers. Again, this was also confirmed in a letter written to Brett from our father before he died."
"Brett was as surprised about this as I was. Brett has appeared to me for the better part of a year and I learned a great deal about him, his family, and his businesses. Brett respected you very much and insisted that I come to you and tell you what he found out about the people that murdered him and his father. He told me that he had discussed this with you at Noel's birthday party and again in more detail at the Retreat."
"My God, that is true, only Brett would have known that," Mac said. "I believe you Shaun; what does Brett wish me to do?"
"Brett learned that the man behind this scheme from the very beginning was Albert Shaal, a senior board member that Dirk kicked out when he took over. In any event, Albert, together with two senior VPs at Harcourt, and a brokerage firm, make up the group that was responsible for ordering the murders. The bombers that actually planted the bomb have since been eliminated. Unfortunately, there is no solid evidence linking them to murders. How Brett was able to piece this all together is beyond me. All he would tell me was that he sat in a couple of their planning sessions."
"It seems that Dirk threw their plans into a tizzy. He had moved the staff around and cut the fat out at all levels of management. At this point they are afraid to make a move until they can put some of their people in place."
"What are the names of the senior VPs at Harcourt," Mac asked?
"They are Ronald Rogan and Jim McGowan. Brett was shocked when he learned that Jim McGowan was involved. Molly trusted this man. Molly would be devastated if she only knew."
"I've told Molly and Dirk about Al Shaal and the guys that were wasted. In addition, I have told them that they could not be involved in this. Brett instructed me not to mention your name, or about my Father's murder. Brett did not know who the stock brokers were. He thought that Mike Lee might find the connection."
"He said to tell you that the three of them are avid sailors and enter the Bermuda competition faithfully every year, in addition, they have been entering some of the more interesting competitions."
"I thought you should know that Dirk and Molly are giving me a third of the Harcourt estate. I want you to keep a record of the costs so I can reimburse you."
"Congratulations on your great good fortune, that must have been a pleasant surprise," Mac said.
"I was shocked, but so were Molly and Dirk when I told them that I didn't want or need the money. They are always showering me with gifts. I'm really very happy living with Dirk and Molly and the children. They are a wonderful family and I love them very much."
"Have you told me everything that Brett wanted me to know," Mac asked.
"Brett did say that Al Shaal has not given up yet, he plans to continue to ruin the Harcourt family. That's all I can think of."
"I wonder why Brett singled you out instead of Dirk."
Shaun told him the story of how it all started and of his extra sensory perception.
"I am glad that Brett found a friend that he could communicate with," Mac said. "I understand that some spirits are not so lucky. We will keep this our secret. I promise you that I will look into this case personally, and that no harm will come to your family. Mike Lee is already on retainer to Harcourt Oil. If a special one-time cash payment is required, we can handle that through one of our offshore banks. I suggest that you should prepare to set aside about two million dollars for contingency purposes. Mike Lee can work out the details when the time comes."
"Thank you, Mac; I'm glad my brother confided in you."
"I'm only happy I can help, no one should be allowed to get away with murder. We will not stop until we find the guilty parties, and we will see that justice is carried out. Rest assured that OUR people will not take the law into their own hands, however the guilty parties will not get away with their crime."
"Thank you again, Mac, and I'll keep in touch with Mike."
"Drew and I are very delighted with your family portrait. One thing for sure, we will never age in that painting."
Dirk, Molly and Shaun were sitting in the drawing room. Molly said, "Shaun, I don't know why you don't want us to go ahead with changing your name to Harcourt and allowing us to transfer the stocks and change over your trust fund."
"Molly Dear, I know your heart is in the right place, but I would like to wait on that for a little while longer," Shaun said. "It's not like I need the money or the stock for that matter. When I die, my estate will go to Dirk and the children. So, it will all stay in the family."
"That's may be true, but why don't you want to take your father's name?" Dirk said. "That's what your mother and father wanted."
"Well, I guess all the paperwork can be processed on changing my name, if that will keep you two happy," Shaun said.
"Well, God be praised," Molly said. "There is no doubt in my mind that you are a Harcourt. You are as stubborn as your father and brother."
Shaun chuckled, "Well, you two take the prize for persistence. You both would wear a rock away quicker than water ever could."
Robert interrupted their conversation, "Mister Shaun, you have a telephone call from Mr. Lee."
"Thank you, Robert, I'll take it in the library."
Shaun returned to the drawing room, "Molly, Dirk, please come into the library, there is something on CNN that you need to see," Shaun said.
As they sat in front of the large screen, the narrator was saying, "We have learned from our source in Bermuda that the American yacht Victory, out of the Westhampton, NY, exploded and sank earlier this afternoon in the Caribbean. The search and rescue team was able to reclaim some of the bodies. They also managed to rescue the ship's log. There were supposedly eight passengers on board at the time of the explosion. The Coast Guard is investigating the incident. The bodies of five of the passengers were positively identified. They are Al Shaal, Jim McGowan, Ronald Rogan, all executives with Harcourt Oil. Also identified were Stanley Risley and George France from the brokerage firm of Sans & Sans. The three other passengers names could not be released at this time."
"Oh, my God," Molly said. "Poor Jim, his family will be devastated. I have met Ronald Rogan, but I didn't know him that well. We will need to send our condolences to the families, Dirk."
Shaun turned the volume off. "Well, folks, this is good news. Brett would be very happy if he were here," Shaun said. "You can proceed with the transfer of stock and with my share of the trust fund."
"What has gotten into you, Shaun?" Molly asked. "How can you be so unsympathetic about the death of these people? Jim was a good man and very loyal to the company."
Shaun walked to the door and closed it, "Molly, Dirk, I want your word that you will never repeat what I am about to tell you, and you will not press me for any details, because I will deny everything."
Both Molly and Dirk nodded their head in the affirmative.
"Al Shaal ordered the murder of my father and my brother. The other four men in that boat were just as guilty as Al. They were all in on the plot. Molly, you and Dirk were to be the next on the list. The reason I refused to be an heir, was because I did not want to be added to the hit list. I could not allow myself to become a target in case either of you where killed. Some one had to remain behind to raise those children. We had no way of knowing if there was a contract out on you already."
"Dirk, that is the reason I asked you to add that codicil in your will making me guardian of the children. Brett was afraid that Al would succeed in his plot. That is why he stayed behind and why he was so angry at times. He insisted that I pressure you into changing your will. He made me promise not to accept my share of the trust, or to change my name until this matter was resolved. He loved us all, but he was more concerned about protecting the children. He wanted me to raise them if anything happened to Molly or you."
"Since our conversation about this over six months ago, I have had your security tripled. Every new face or incident out of the ordinary was suspect. Those five men and their contacts were shadowed 24/7, we knew what they did every minute of the day. It took six months, but the evidence against them was overwhelming. They were guilty, and they were eliminated. The Coast Guard will find that there were only five bodies on that yacht when it went down."
"I still don't understand how they could take over Harcourt," Molly said.
"Al Shaal had his eye on Harcourt for a long time. Al figured that with Brett Senior out of the way you would sell the business. They didn't realize how strong you were, and that you wanted to keep the business in the family. Eventually, you wanted Brett Jr. to take over. Al figured he could hurt the business just enough so that when the time came, he could buy it cheaply. They were very happy that Brett wanted to stay in the marine business. They knew that you were getting tired of running the business. Old Jim and Al figured that you would sell the company if Brett decided not to take over. They lined up the brokerage firm to be ready in that event."
"All of a sudden, Brett decides to run the company. They still felt that they could play the game with Brett. However, when Dirk stepped into the scene and started snooping around, they became concerned. He was getting too close to the truth. When Dirk was made acting President, they panicked, because now they knew that Dirk had the ear of the CEO and Molly. Al figured if they eliminated Brett, the company would revert to Molly's control. They did not feel that Dirk was a threat because he was new at the job and they controlled the board of directors."
"They were shocked when Dirk took over and fired them all. That made it a completely new ball game. The new game plan was to infiltrate the trustees and eliminate both you and Molly. Thank God, time was on our side, they needed time to put their man in place with the trustees. That's the only reason you are both alive."
Shaun smiled, "Do you still want to send your condolences to Jim McGowan's family, Molly?"
"I would like to attend his wake and spit in his face," Molly said.
"I thought you might change your mind," Shaun said. "I hate to say this, but one of you must attend the funeral of the two VP's. We want people to think that everything is going along as normal. Mike Lee plans to video tape all five funerals. They will check out every visitor. Remember, Al, Jim and Ronald had accomplices in Harcourt Oil, and we need to weed them out."
"He's right," Dirk said. "Molly, we only need to cover the VP's funerals. If you feel uncomfortable making an appearance, I will take care of that detail."
"No, Dirk, I'll think I should attend the viewing, as well as the funerals. I know these men longer than you do. Anyway, I want to see what executives from the company are attending. I may be able to observe something out of the ordinary."
"Well, Shaun, I hope you have covered everything, because if you have, I'm ready for a stiff drink," Molly said.
Shaun laughed, "I can't think of anything I've forgotten. I'll second that drink motion, Molly."
After dinner Shaun said, "Well, this has been a long day folks. If you don't mind I think I'll head off to bed."
Molly said, "Not only a long day, but quite an exciting one at that. I think you have the right idea, Shaun. Dirk, I think the three of us need to make a trip to the lawyer's office tomorrow morning. If everyone is agreed, I'll make the call tonight and set it up for early tomorrow morning."
"That is fine with me, Molly," Dirk said.
"Same here," Shaun said.
"Good night then, boys; see you in the morning," Molly said.
"Come on, Dirk, let's hit the sack," Shaun said.
Dirk turned off the stereo system and they headed for the second floor.
As they were undressing for bed, Shaun said, "Dirk, there is something I need you to do that I didn't want to mention in front of Molly. I need to borrow two million dollars. We need to wire it to an off shore numbered bank account that Mike Lee will provide all the information for tomorrow. I will reimburse you for the loan as soon as my inheritance has been finalized."
"My guess is that you don't want me to know what the money is for," Dirk said.
Shaun smiled, "You know, Sweetheart, if I didn't know better, I would think you were reading my mind."
"You can have anything you want, Tiger, and no questions asked," Dirk said. Dirk took Shaun in his arms and kissed him. "You know, what you did for us took a lot of guts. Knowing you, you must have been worried sick keeping this news from Molly and me. We knew something was bothering you for the last several months, but we never thought it was a serious threat to our lives. We never pressed you because of what you had said. Nevertheless, it took a strong guy like you to see it through."
"You'll never know how much I worried about this," Shaun said. "I was fearful that I might loose you and Molly. That was why I was so elated when Mike called me and told me to turn on the news. He feels that there was no contract out on you or Molly, and even if there were, the deal was off. The assassins will keep the money and disappear."
"Well, Baby, it looks like we'll grow old and gray together," Dirk said.
"You know, Sweetheart, that doesn't sound bad at all."
"When this is all cleared up, how about a long vacation," Dirk said.
"I'm ready, Sweetheart.