"Mac, I realize you are under pressure to study for your finals," Kim said, "but you should not avoid your wardrobe fittings. I've approached you several times and you keep postponing your scheduled sessions. The boss is going to be cross with me if your wardrobe is not perfect. Mac, I thought we were friends."
"We are friends, Kim. Forgive me for being so thoughtless," Mac said as he closed the book. "Let's do it now, my friend. I've become so engrossed with my studying that I've ignored everything else."
Mac followed Kim into the dressing room where all his clothes were laid out. Kim began by having him try on the new tuxedos and the last five tailor-made suits.
"Everything fits you perfectly. You look like a new man," Kim said. "How do you like the blazer?"
"It's perfect, Kim; you've done an outstanding job. Thanks for taking such good care of me."
"I want you to promise me you will be on your best behavior when you meet the Stevens family. They are not used to your amusing sense of humor, as we are. They're just like the boss, very reserved and serious people. You can charm the birds out of the trees when you want to, Mac. You're a gentleman, just like Mr. Stevens. That is the way you should be with his family. You're better than all of them put together. You're a good man and we're all very fond of you. The boss thinks the world of you, so be yourself, and you'll do fine."
"I will never forget what you have done for me, and I treasure your friendship. I promise to be myself, on my best behavior, and try not to embarrass Drew. I must confess I'm a little nervous about meeting Drew's family, yet if they are like him, I know I'll like them."
"So Drew told you I was a gentleman? He's a funny guy. He always acts so proper around me. Sometimes I get the feeling that he only tolerates me because I amuse him. Most of the time he shakes his head and politely smiles at me, that's all."
"The boss gets a kick out of you. He told me he never knows what to expect from you; he said you're very intelligent and that sometimes you completely lose him. We all love you, Mac. You've breathed new life into this place. You've brightened the boss's life too. I've never seen him so cheerful. This place will never be the same again when you leave."
"Thanks, Kim; it's a nice feeling to know that people really care about me. I'm hoping Drew will invite me back from time to time."
Drew didn't return as planned. He became bogged down with work in Paris. The weekend with the Kings was postponed once again. Drew finally arrived back in Washington and was able to take some time off.
Mac was in the exercise room Friday when Drew called. "Well, how is my farm boy this morning? Are you ready for your visit to the big city?" Drew asked.
"I sure am. Kim has just delivered my Sears red-checkered shirt and the overalls are washed and pressed. My work boots are all polished and I even took a bath and put on clean underwear. Yes, sir, I'm ready to go. I'm just fixing to catch the two o'clock Greyhound into town."
Drew chuckled, "I'll see you later, guy."
The helicopter lifted off from the pad at the Retreat. This was the first time Mac had flown in a helicopter. The approach to Manhattan was spectacular. It was an exciting experience to land in the middle of all those buildings and Mac was enjoying himself. Robert was standing by the limo waiting to meet him. After everything was loaded into the car, they headed uptown to Drew's apartment. It was true that Mac had been to New York many times before but he'd never experienced the luxury of riding in a large chauffeur-driven limousine. They entered the building through the underground garage where Mac was greeted by the penthouse security guard.
Christopher was at the elevator when Mac reached the Penthouse floor. He showed Mac into his bedroom suite and told him he would take care of his wardrobe. "Mr. Stevens said to make yourself at home and he would be up later. Is there anything I can get you, Mr. MacDonald?"
"Would you show me the way to Mr. Stevens' study, and see if you can find my computer?" Mac requested.
Christopher led him to the study.
Mac sat behind Drew's desk, "Christopher, would you and Mr. Stevens be bent out of shape if we called each other by our first name. After all, I'm an employee the same as you. You don't have to be so formal."
Chris smiled, "I don't mind when we are alone, sir, but it would be improper otherwise."
"I can live with that. I'm a team player. I'll play by the house rules. My friend Kim said you're okay, and I could rely on your judgment.
"Now before Drew arrives, I want you to give me a quick rundown on the Kings and the Baldwins. I met Charles King on the video phone and I liked him. What is Drew's sister, Claudia like? Charles complained a lot about his kids, but I suspect that was Charles' sense of humor."
"Drew's family are all fine people," Chris said. "Drew's sister and mother try to run his social life, pick his dates, that sort of thing. He goes along with their suggestions most of the time. Drew is very close to his family, and Claudia is his favorite. The King children are delightful, intelligent, and well mannered.
"Mr. Stevens' mother and stepfather are congenial and likeable people. You won't have any trouble with them at all. Anyway, Mr. Stevens will be there to run interference for you."
"Thanks, Chris, I appreciate your input."
Chris returned a few minutes later with Mac's computer.
"Don't mention this to the boss. I'm not supposed to let it out of my sight, but it's tough to juggle a computer and a briefcase using a walker. Drew already has threatened to throw me in the dungeon if I screw up this weekend. If I lost that computer, it would be back to the farm for me. Sure as God made little green apples, if Drew doesn't give me hell, Kim will. Chris, you can't believe the pressure I'm under."
Chris laughed, "Now I know why Kim likes having you around, you're very amusing. This should prove to be an interesting weekend. I'll be in your suite unpacking, if you should need me."
Drew walked into the library and smiled, "Are you taking over this desk too? Nothing is sacred to you, is it? It's good to see you again, Mac; I've missed you."
Mac got up and gave Drew a hug. "It's good to see you again, Drew, and I've missed you too. Why, I don't know, you're not in the room two seconds before you start giving me a hard time. It's easy to see you've missed your whipping boy."
Drew smiled, "You bet I did. Come along with me, we can talk while I change. The plan is to show you and David the apartment, say hello to Charles, and then come back here for cocktails. I see you're using a cane now. How is your leg?"
"Better, thanks. I still need the walker if I stand on the leg too long."
"Drew, you don't look well, are you all right? If you don't feel up to it, let's skip this weekend and head back to the Retreat."
"I'm exhausted, and this trip has drained me. A good night's sleep will do wonders for me."
"Did you plan an evening on the town tonight?"
"Something like that, I thought perhaps you would enjoy that after being cooped up at the Retreat for four months."
Mac picked up the telephone, "Chris, how much trouble would it be to have the cook prepare one of Mr. Stevens' favorite dinners for this evening? Super, I just knew you could do that, Chris. I'm afraid to ask what his favorite is, but prepare it for two; I like surprises. And Chris, cancel all the reservations you made for us this evening, we're staying home tonight. Eight o'clock sounds perfect. A bottle of wine would be nice since it's not a school night, so I can party. Thanks, Chris, I'll put in a good word for you with the boss.
"I appreciate your planning an evening on the town for me, Drew, but not tonight. We can have a relaxing evening and put our feet up on the furniture. Heck, I'll allow you to do that just for tonight; consider it my treat. We'll make an early night of it so you can get some sleep. If you don't feel any better tomorrow, we're going to scratch the plans for this weekend."
"All right, Mac, we'll go with your plan. Let's go and take a look at that apartment."
Drew and Mac rode in the limousine to the high-rise condos on East 63rd Street. They took the elevator to the 37th floor. Drew unlocked the door to the apartment and they entered the foyer. Drew said, "This is a spacious apartment with a combination living/dining room, floor to ceiling windows in the living room with an eat-in kitchen. It has two bedrooms each with its own bath. As you can see this apartment was completely furnished."
"Well, what do you think, Mac?"
"It's a great apartment, Drew. Do you think I can afford this on my salary?"
"You'll be splitting the rent with David. It will be less expensive than the cost of a studio apartment."
The doorbell rang and Drew opened the door. "Come on in, David."
"Hi, Drew, I hope this won't take long. I'm double-parked out front. The doorman is watching my car," David said. "This is a great apartment, very nice indeed."
"David, I would like you to meet Mac MacDonald, my assistant," Drew said.
They shook hands. "What do you think of the place, Mac?" David asked.
"I like it; I hope I can afford it. I know we'll share the monthly expenses, but I'm a Scotsman, and we turn a nickel five times before we spend it."
David laughed, "The rent for a place like this is out of sight. A small studio in this neighborhood will run $1200 a month, if you can find one. I think we can get along fine. My Dad said you were cool. I'm rarely in town on weekends, and I make it a rule never to bring a date home. I'm a moderate drinker and run a clean ship."
"How could I pass up a roommate like that?" Mac said. "If you're willing to give it a go, I'm game?"
"Great, the apartment is free as long as you two are working on this assignment," Drew said.
"That's terrific," David said. "I enjoyed meeting you, Mac, and welcome to New York City. If you don't have any preference in bedrooms, I'll take the blue one; my sheets will work. Drew, I'll call Mary and have her move my stuff as soon as you're ready to start on this project. Got to get out to the Island, guys," David said. "Let's do lunch one day, Mac; you name the day. Have a great weekend, guys."
"What's wrong, Mac? If you're not happy with this apartment say so and I will make other arrangements," Drew said.
"No, it's fine," Mac said. "It's much nicer than I expected. Don't mind me, Drew, everything is moving so fast I'm a little overwhelmed, that's all. I know this is one of the prime neighborhoods in midtown Manhattan, and the view from this floor is spectacular. It's amazing how small everything looks from this height, and you don't hear the street noise from up here."
Drew called Charles from the limousine on the way back to Drew's Penthouse. "Come on down to the office," Charles said. "Maybe you can help me solve a small problem."
Mac stepped out of the elevator into Drew's office. "This is a beautiful office, Drew. The view is unbelievable. Some day I hope to have an office as nice as this."
"I'm sure you will. The law offices are on this floor but on the other side of the building."
When they entered Charles' office the receptionist said, "Mr. King said to go right in, Mr. Stevens."
"Charles, this is Mac, in the flesh," Drew said as they entered.
"Mr. King, it's a pleasure to shake your hand. Drew has told me so much about you; I'm tempted to ask for your autograph."
"My pleasure," Charles said. "They grow 'em big where you come from, don't they, son?"
Drew sat down, "What's the problem, Charles?"
"Charley Campbell, with the Petrochemical Group wants to close a joint venture deal this weekend with Ramon Navarro, the head of the Venezuela Cartel. The Navarros are Charley's weekend guests. They are also invited to my dinner party tomorrow. The problem is I don't have a translator and I have not been able to find one that we can trust. Ramon's son, Carlos, was to be our translator, but he had to return to Venezuela today. We have some last minute changes that I need to incorporate in the revised contract. I can't find a translator to help me make the final changes."
"My staff has been combing the city to find a translator we can trust."
"Not a problem," Drew said. "Mac, will you please look over the contract and the changes Charles wants to make?"
"Certainly," Mac said. "Let me take a look, Charles."
"You can use Mac tomorrow as long as he has some time to enjoy himself at your party," Drew said.
Charles opened his brief case and handed the documents to Mac.
Mac asked Charles to follow him with English text as he translated the documents from Spanish to English. He continued paragraph by paragraph until he completed the entire contract.
"Does the contract I have just translated agree with your version of the contract?" Mac asked.
"Yes, with the exception of a few minor changes," Charles said.
"That's fine. I'll make the revisions and translate them into Spanish for Mr. Navarro," Mac said. It should only take half an hour if you have the original disc."
Charles handed him the disc. Mac opened Charles's laptop and incorporated the changes into the Spanish version. "Charles, is it alright if I change some of the words in your text? I will substitute the words and phrasing so they have the same meaning in the Spanish translation."
"That's fine as long as they have the same meaning in both languages," Charles replied.
"Okay," Mac said, "she's all ready to be printed. How many copies do you need?" Mac asked.
"Four copies should do it," Charles said. "This is terrific, Mac, you saved my bacon. This contract is worth about two billion bucks to us. Now then, how about a drink?"
"Let's take the elevator to the penthouse," Drew said.
Christopher made a round of drinks and left. "Where did you find this genius anyway?" Charles asked.
"It's a long story, and Mac has a different version, but he dropped in one evening in the middle of a snow storm and he refuses to leave. Now I have no choice but to keep him on. He has a talent for being at the right place at the right time, that's why I'm keeping him."
As they finished their drinks, Charles said, "Well, I'd better be on my way home now. And, Mac, I appreciate your help. See you tomorrow."
After dinner, Drew and Mac sat in the living room for an after dinner brandy and coffee. Mac opened the piano and started to play some of the new classical pieces he had been practicing. The music was so relaxing that Drew drifted off to sleep. Mac continued playing for almost two hours. Finally, he closed the piano and walked over to sit in the chair opposite Drew. He looked out at the city below through the large picture window as he sipped his brandy.
Drew awoke abruptly, "Why did you let me sleep so long? I feel terrible. Here I invited you to Manhattan for an evening on the town and you end up sitting, watching me sleep."
"Don't feel that way, Drew. I enjoyed playing the piano without any interruptions. That is my way of relaxing. Please don't feel that you have to entertain me. I'm glad to see that you are beginning to relax again. I intend to finish this brandy and get some serious sack time. As your mentor, I suggest you do the same. We'll both need the sleep. God knows what Charles will have me doing tomorrow. Why don't you sleep in tomorrow morning until its time to shove off to Pound Ridge?" Mac stood up, "Well, good night, Drew. It's good to have you home again."
Mac woke up at dawn the next morning, did his exercises, showered, and dressed while he waited for Drew. He spent a few hours at the task of memorizing the personnel profiles of the corporate staff.
"Good morning, Drew," Mac said as Drew walked into the den. "How do you feel this morning?"
"I feel like my old self," Drew answered.
"Where do you keep your yacht moored?" Mac asked.
"On the South Shore of Long Island. Why do you ask?"
"It's such a beautiful morning; I was wondering it you would feel like a drive out there and show me your yacht after breakfast?"
"Sure, that would be a nice drive." So after breakfast, they took the elevator down to the parking deck to retrieve Drew's Bentley convertible. He drove downtown to the Midtown Tunnel and the Long Island Expressway to the South Shore Yacht Club. There was hardly any traffic heading out to the Island and they reached the yacht club in a little over an hour. Drew parked the car and led Mac over to the dock where the West Wind was anchored. They boarded the yacht.
"I'm surprised at the amount of space below decks," Mac said. "Can you take this yacht out by yourself, Drew?"
"Yes, if the wind is not too strong," Drew said. "I really need another hand to dock her in a strong wind."
"When do you want to start teaching me to sail this baby?" Mac asked.
"Anytime you want."
"How about after I graduate from Yale?"
"I'd like that, Mac, you got yourself a deal. I think we should start heading back to town."
After a light lunch, they dressed and took off for Pound Ridge. It was a very pleasant drive up and they arrived a little after two.
"This place is beautiful, Drew. It reminds me of Kentucky."
"It is a beautiful old estate. Claudia and Charles have done a first rate job at restoring the place. Everything is back to its original condition. We will be staying in one of the new guest cottages. They added those on a few years ago. The quaint little cottages are just a short walk from the main house. The guest cottages remind me of the village at Williamsburg, Virginia."
Drew pulled into the circular drive and parked the car, leaving the keys in the ignition.
"Let's find the family."
They walked into the large central foyer of a charming manor home. No one was around in the front of the house, but they heard voices coming from the rear. The family was in an animated discussion as they entered. Charles and Claudia walked over to greet them. Claudia threw her arms around her Drew and gave him a kiss on the cheek.
"Claudia, I would like you to meet Mac MacDonald, my assistant."
Claudia extended her hand and said, "Welcome to our home, Mac, I'm so glad you finally made it. We were concerned that your leg might cause you some problems, but I see you're getting along quite well. Charles informed me that he is going to spirit you away from us this afternoon, so we won't have a chance to visit before our guests arrive, but we'll have a chance to chat tomorrow and get acquainted."
Mac held Claudia's hand and said, "I have heard so many nice things about you that I feel I already know you."
Claudia was a slender, beautiful woman about five-six with delicate facial features and a warm friendly smile, dressed very simply, yet elegantly. She was graceful in her movements and charming. There was a striking family resemblance between Claudia and Drew.
Mac smiled and spoke softly, so only Claudia could hear, "Would you feel offended if I played you a sincere compliment?"
Claudia smiled, "Not at all."
"I think you are the most beautiful woman I have ever met. I've been looking forward to meeting you for some time, and the wait has been worth it. Thank you for inviting me. I'm looking forward to our chat tomorrow." He released Claudia's hand and walked over to Charles and shook hands. Charles introduced his three children.
Drew put his arm around Claudia's waist and said, "A penny for your thoughts."
"Charles told me that Mac was a unique individual, but I wasn't expecting anyone so totaling disarming. He is the first man that left me at a loss for words. Is he for real, Drew?"
"Absolutely. Why, what did he say to you, Claudia?"
Claudia told Drew what Mac said. "That's my boy. He tells it like it is. But alas, what does a farm boy know of beauty anyway?"
Claudia gave Drew a very severe look, and pinched his arm, "He is a very sophisticated, handsome hunk, who, I may add, has excellent taste and good manners. He definitely has a discerning eye for beauty, I hasten to add; far better than some people I know."
Drew laughed, "Looks like I'm in hot water! You'd better set another place in the kitchen next to Charles. I understand the children have threatened to banish him to the kitchen."
"That is an excellent idea, you two deserve each other. While you two are crying on each others' shoulders, I'll have more time with my handsome guest who admires a beautiful lady."
"All kidding aside, he is a great guy even though he can be a little unnerving with that perceptive mind of his. I feel very lucky to have him on my staff. He is uncanny and has a grasp on matters well beyond his years. On the surface, he acts like any number of bright young lawyers, but when you scratch that surface, he leaves everyone else behind wondering what hit them." Drew smiled, "We'll talk again after you've had a chance to observe him."
"You've piqued my interest, Drew. This should be a very interesting weekend."
Mac said, "I like the three King children. They are well mannered and intelligent. Brian told me he was sixteen. How old are Anne and Mike?"
"Anne is fourteen and Mike is twelve," Drew said as they walked into their guest cottage. "We'd better get ready to meet the oil barons."
Drew opened the wardrobe doors and saw Mac's clothes were properly hung in place. The tuxedo he was to wear was draped on the silent butler and his accessories lay on the bed. Everything had been prepared. "This must be your room, Mac."
"How did they do it so fast?" Mac asked. "We've only been here thirty minutes."
"Now we know why no one was in the front of the house. When we walked in they rushed back here to unpack."
"Does Charles have a gym?" Mac asked. "I've got to get an hour of exercise in before dinner. I can't afford to have any problems with my leg tonight."
"Yes, he does, but I've forgotten which building it's in. I think it's in the recreation lodge. Let me call Charles and find out," Drew said, as he placed the call.
"I was right; the gym is in the lodge. In fact, that's the building where he's holding the meeting for the oil people in twenty minutes. Charles is on his way over there now. He wanted to know if you would hook up your computer to his equipment to make sure everything is ready to go."
They walked the short distance to the lodge from their cottage. "I can't believe the size of this place, Drew. The equipment is far better then anything we had in my high school at home."
"Charles feels it helps to keep the kids out of trouble," Drew said. "They can invite their friends over here to hang out. This way they don't have to hang out in town. He hired a full time personal trainer to run the place and supervise the kids."
They walked into the glass-walled room that Charles had set up for the meeting. The room was set up exactly like the conference room in Charles' office. At one end, he had set up a computer console desk with the equipment ready to be connected. Mac had everything online in a few minutes. While they waited, Charles gave them a quick tour of the gym, then they returned to the conference room.
"Has Mr. Navarro mentioned anything to Charley Campbell about the changes in the contract, Charles?" Mac asked.
"Charley said everything is a go, Navarro didn't say anything negative about it. Why do you ask, Mac?"
Mac shrugged his shoulders, "That doesn't sound right. My gut feeling is that Mr. Navarro will not be signing your contract today."
"Would you care to elaborate on that?" Drew asked.
"If Mr. Navarro had discussed the changes with Charley Campbell, there may have been a chance. There were a couple of things in that contract that I felt he would find objectionable. It's troubling that he has not asked you to change them. I had this funny feeling yesterday after reading the contract that Navarro would definitely want to make changes in those paragraphs that I questioned you about. I know I would have in his position. I don't know what Mr. Navarro's game plan is, but that's how I read it."
"Lay it out for me, Mac," Charles said. "We've been working on this deal for almost a year and you really know very little about this deal, or about Ramon Navarro. Yet, you tell me ten minutes before our meeting that he is not going to sign a contract because there are a couple of things you feel he should have reacted to?"
"I understand your skepticism, Charles; you've been too close to look at it objectively," Mac said. "In my opinion, two things have happened that don't make sense at all. First, Carlos Navarro, Ramon's chief translator, takes off for home two days before the contract is to be signed. Secondly, Ramon makes no response to the new changes, which I felt should be challenged. I find that very troubling. You're a smart businessman, Charles; let me put this question to you. Would you sign a contract worth billions of dollars without your chief translator standing by?"
"You're right, I wouldn't. Well, you still have the floor, Mac."
"As I've said, I don't know what Mr. Navarro's game is, but I know how the Latino mind works. What I can do is find out the reason he has changed his mind and see if we can save the deal. I'm willing to play the heavy to draw him out. If it doesn't work, you can throw me to the wolves. You'll always have the option of going back at a later date. Let me act as your spokesman and speak to him in his own language, without interruptions. If I see I'm not getting anywhere, I'll stop and play his game. If on the other hand, Ramon becomes angry and we get into a heated discussion, then that's good sign. Again, before we begin, I want your assurances that you will not interfere or interrupt me no matter how anxious you become. If you agree, you must warn Charley Campbell of our strategy."
"I know I'm asking you to put a two billion dollar deal in the hands of a neophyte, but what are your alternatives at this point?" Mac said.
"Well, Charles, what's it going to be? This is your baby," Drew said.
"I say let Mac do his thing and pray he is right," Charles said. "As soon as the introductions are over, Drew, you talk to Ramon while I pull Campbell aside and fill him in on the plan."
"All right, Mac, the ball is in your court," Drew said. "I know you will do your best. Just remember one thing ... we can't lose a deal we never had."
The intercom phone rang and Charles answered it. He instructed the butler to have coffee and tea delivered to the conference room as soon as possible. "Well, gentlemen, our guests have arrived," Charles said. "Let's walk out to meet them."
They met half way. Charles made the introductions all around and then they proceeded to the conference room. Charles took Charley Campbell aside on the way and explained their game plan. After the coffee and tea were served, the meeting began.
"Well, gentlemen, I think we should begin," Charles said. "Ramon, since your son is not here, I thought it would speed matters up if Mac conducted the meeting in Spanish from this point on. We can begin by reviewing the new changes on page two, five, and seven. You can proceed, Mac."
"Mr. Navarro," Mac said. "Do you have any objections to the changes on page two?"
"I have a few objections," Ramon said. "If you would like to turn to page two, we can begin." Ramon continued, objecting to practically every paragraph in the next several pages. He became very agitated as he argued.
Mac had initially started to make notes, but after page five, he put down his pen, crossed his arms, and stared at Ramon.
Ramon looked up from the contract and said, "Why are you not taking any notes? I thought we were supposed to be making the changes in this contract?"
"Mr. Navarro how long have you had this contract?"
"I just received it last night."
"Are you telling me that last night was the first time you read this contract?" Mac asked. "I was told that you have had this version of the contract for over a month."
"I'm sorry, I thought you were referring to the new changes," Ramon said.
"Mr. Navarro, it is my understanding that you are the Chairman of the Petroleum venture in South America, and you have the power to sign this contract. Is that correct, are you that powerful?"
"Yes, I have the power to obligate our cartel to this contract."
"I want you to understand that what I am about to say is strictly business and you should not take it personally," Mac said. "Do we understand one another?"
"Of course; I understand, and I won't take it personally, this is a business deal, please proceed."
"Mr. Navarro, why are you wasting our time with this act of yours," Mac began. "Do you think we're stupid? You did not intend to sign this contract today. Furthermore, I find it very disappointing that you would continue this charade. I think the cartel you represent is insincere and very unprofessional. I strongly recommend that Mr. Stevens not allow his well-respected firm to have its name tarnished by dealing with your cartel, now or in the future. Moreover, I would recommend that the GW Stevens Company inform their partners throughout the business world of what they can expect when doing business with your partners in the future."
My admonishment had the desired effect. Ramon went into a tirade that lasted for ten minutes. He was directing all his rage and anger on Mac. Finally, he calmed down when Mac was not reacting to his tantrum. Mac had not said a word and sat their patiently not taking his eyes off Ramon.
"Mr. Navarro, now that you have vented your anger, perhaps you would like a glass of water or perhaps another cup of tea before we proceed?"
"I would like a cup of tea, thank you," Ramon said. Mac took Ramon's cup and his own and filled two clean cups. He placed Ramon's on the small serving tray with the sugar and lemons and handed it to Ramon. He took his own cup and sat down again.
"Now, Mr. Navarro, are you ready to listen to what I have to say?"
"Please, proceed."
"I'm employed by one of the finest and most respected firms in the world. It has earned that reputation by being fair and honest in all of its business dealings. My boss, Drew Stevens, is the fifth generation of this firm and I can tell you that he does not like to see a contract fall apart. I can assure you that Mr. King and Mr. Campbell are both honest businessmen and share that philosophy. They would not be sitting at this table if they thought otherwise. I think you owe us an explanation as to why you are killing this venture that showed such great promise. I feel that if you were game playing, the negotiations would not have gone this far. I also feel that you personally wanted to see the contract go forward. Something, or someone, has derailed this project. Will you please tell me the real reason you are not signing this contract?"
"Your conclusions are absolutely correct," Ramon said. "I personally wanted this project from the very beginning, but I was not alone. It is true; I'm a very powerful business man in the South American market, yet this project was too big a project for me to finance alone. I found it necessary to bring in outside partners to put up the needed capital. I learned a few weeks ago, that one of the backers was part of the Columbian drug cartel and would be using drug money to finance this project. When I learned of this, I summoned all the partners together and told them we could not be party to laundering drug money and they would have to make up the difference in the needed capital. They agreed not to accept the drug money, but they were already committed financially on other ventures. We did not want to appear to be the ones that backed out of the contract, so we decided to find fault with the contract. This way no one looks bad."
"Would you still be interested in going ahead if you could find the financing?"
"Of course, I still think it is an excellent project."
"Please don't take offense at my next question, but can we verify what you have just told me?"
Ramon smiled, "Yes, I can help you to verify the information if you wish."
"Did you review the changes Charles King sent you last night, and what were your reactions?"
"The basic contract is acceptable with some minor changes. I can live with all the new changes if I must, again with minor variations."
"Now the big question," Mac said. "How much money will you need?"
"Two hundred fifty million dollars."
"That's a nice round figure, Ramon. Are you sure that would be enough, because now is the time to speak."
Ramon smiled, "Now it's Ramon, eh? Two hundred fifty million will take care of it."
"Now that we're friends and I'm about to put my head on the chopping block for you, I thought I could take a few liberties, only in private of course."
Ramon laughs heartily, "I like you, Mac, anything else?"
"If I go to bat for you, and you can verify the facts, will you sign the contract?"
"Yes, Mac, I will sign the contract."
"Okay, Ramon, here goes."
"Mr. Stevens there is a confidential matter that Mr. Navarro would like to discuss with you in private. Would that be possible?"
"Charles, Charley, would you excuse us for a few minutes?" Drew asked.
Mac briefed Drew on everything he had discussed with Ramon.
"Do you believe him?" Drew asked.
"Yes, he is telling me the truth."
"Ramon, did you understand the question Mr. Stevens just asked me?"
"I heard, and I would have asked the same question under these circumstances," Ramon said. "I swear to you on the life of my son, and in the name of Jesus, that what I have told you is true."
"Mac, please ask Mr. Navarro if we can continue this conversation in English?"
Ramon answered, "You can continue our conversation in English. If I have difficulty with any words I will let you know."
"Mr. Navarro, I have always preferred to deal with principals for many reasons and if you can wait a few minutes I will have your answer," Drew said. "Before I call my banker, I want your assurances on two issues. Will you accept this loan as a private loan from me to your company, and secondly, will you extend the same terms to me as you did to the previous lender?"
"Those terms are agreeable to me."
Drew picked up the telephone and dialed his office in New York. "This is Drew Stevens, would you patch me through to Mr. Demming, in Providence, please? Ed, this is Drew, sorry to trouble you on the weekend, but I need to know if you can guarantee a two hundred fifty million dollar loan out of my private account. Thanks, Ed, talk to you next week."
"You have your loan, Mr. Navarro," Drew said.
"Mac, will you ask Mr. King and Mr. Campbell to step back in."
"Gentlemen, I have agreed to grant a personal loan to Mr. Navarro's firm. This will be a separate agreement and has nothing to do with any existing corporate arrangements. Mr. Navarro has suggested some minor changes to the original contract and is willing to negotiate the changes on the new contract."
"Charles, since this is your project, I would like to know if these conditions are agreeable to you and Charley, and if this is a good contract for the firm and for Mr. Navarro's firm as well."
"If we can all agree to the changes, we have a deal," Charles said. "Charley what do you say?"
"I think it's a very good contract."
"Mr. Navarro, how do you feel about our agreement?"
"I am pleased with the arrangements and will sign the contract."
"I want you to know that Mac was on target about Mr. Navarro's problem, and I'm happy he was able to save this contract." Drew continued, "Mr. Navarro was having serious problems with the cartel he formed. One of the principals in the Cartel backed out. When I discovered that the only real obstacle was financing, I was happy to help Mr. Navarro resolve that problem. Now, gentlemen, I feel that I am no longer needed and I leave everything in your capable hands. Ramon, thank you for your business, and we will meet again when you're ready to sign the loan agreement."
"Gentlemen," Charles said, "let's shake hands on this deal and plan to meet again next week to sign the final contracts in New York."
"Next week would be fine for me," Ramon said. "It will allow time for my son to fly back for the final discussions. Tuesday morning would be good for me."
"That's fine with me," Charles said, "how about you, Charley?"
"Great."
"Gentlemen, I move we adjourn this meeting until Tuesday morning in New York, do I hear seconds?"
Everyone said in unison, "Seconded." The meeting broke up and everyone left.
Mac took off to the cottage since his leg was starting to ache again. He limped into the bedroom where he changed into exercise clothes, grabbed a change of underwear and a robe, then returned to the lodge. His leg was throbbing so much he needed the walker to make it back to the lodge. All he wanted now was to sit in the whirlpool bath. As he entered the gym, he discovered the King children were busy playing games. Brian and Anne were playing table tennis and Mike was playing a computer game. He chatted with them for a few minutes, and then headed for the gym and finally made it to the room with the whirlpool.
The shower felt good, after soaking in the whirlpool for 40 minutes. The aching muscles were relaxed and the pain was gone. He put on the clean underwear and robe, glanced in the mirror and gasped. My carefully styled hair was a mess and I didn't have a dryer, or the special styling brush to do the job. Oh well, back to my farm boy image. As he walked back through the game room, he thought maybe the kid's could help.
"Can you guys help me out? I've messed up, and I don't want to embarrass my bosses by looking like the farm boy tonight."
Brian and Anne laughed, "Sure we'll help you out if we can."
He explained my problem to Anne. "Don't worry about it, Mac, you go on back to your cottage and get dressed. I'll run up to the house to get the things you need," Anne said.
"Thanks, guys. Mike, you're welcome to walk back to the cottage with me while Brian and Anne are running around for the hair styling things."
"Great!" Mike said, so they walked back to the cottage together.
"Wait for me in the sitting room, I won't be long," Mac said. He dressed quickly, put on his silk dressing robe over his clothes, and returned to the sitting room to chat with Mike.
"I've been to many formal dinner parties, but I'm a little nervous about this one," Mac said.
"All these formal dinners are downright boring to me," Mike said. "Thank goodness we don't have to sit through this one tonight. After we meet the guests, we're free to leave."
Brian and Anne arrived and they all went into Mac's bedroom. "You'll need to wet your hair again, Mac, so I can style it," Anne said. "I have a pretty good idea of how it should look."
"Thanks," Mac said. "This dinner gathering is important for several reasons. I want to make a good impression on your uncle and your father. After all, I'm only a trainee in this firm. What I thought was going to be a quiet dinner with the family, turned out to be a full-blown formal dinner party. Your uncle insisted I come, so here I am. If it wasn't for you guys helping me out, I would be in a bind."
"We're glad to help you," Anne said. "Anyway, who cares what those people think as long as my Dad and Uncle think enough of you to have invited you here in the first place. Their approval is all that counts."
"Did you really grow up on a horse farm, Mac?" Brian asked.
"Yes, I did. I really get homesick for the farm sometimes, particularly when I see pretty country like this. It reminds me so much of Kentucky, the rolling hills and the landscape are so similar. We raised cattle and saddle horses on the farm. We also grew the hay and feed grain for the animals." Mac went on about the blue grass country for a while and the children were engrossed in his story.
Anne said, "Well, Mac, I'm finished. How do you like it?"
"I like it. You did a professional job, Anne. What do you think, Brian?" Both Brian and Mike nodded their approval.
"Thank you, one and all," Mac said.
Drew walked into the sitting room, "Is everything alright, Mac?"
"Everything is fine now, Uncle Drew," Brian said. "We just saved Mac from a fate worse than death." The kids laughed.
"Your nephews and niece saved me from looking like an oaf at your sister's party tonight."
Mac took Anne's hand and kissed it, "Thank you, fair maiden, for saving my head."
Anne blushed, "You're welcome. I'll see you later at the party." The kids left together.
"What was that all about?" Drew asked.
Mac explained everything that had happened as Drew walked to his bedroom to dress for dinner. Mac followed him, "Do you know any of the dinner guests, Drew?"
"A few of them," Drew said. "There are at least five more couples invited. Two couples are from Germany, I believe Claudia said the name was Rothacher. Claudia was not sure if they would attend. The only people I know are the Navarros and the Campbells. Claudia always invites other couples to drop by after dinner for desert and coffee, and of course drinks."
"Good, I have a chance to brush up on my German," Mac said.
"I want to compliment you on the way you saved our bacon on that contract this afternoon, Mac. Charles was very pleased and will no doubt tell you so himself." Drew smiled, "Poor Charles, I'm afraid he's in for a lot more surprises once you're on the job. All he keeps doing is shaking his head and saying, 'How does he do it?' He just cannot understand and I quote, 'How does a twenty-six year old intern with no experience in the oil business, walk into that room with three experienced executives, take over the meeting, whip a powerful oil baron into shape, get the financing, and close a deal worth billions of dollars in less then an hour? At least he was kind enough to allow me to finish up the paperwork.' He was afraid you were going over to the computer and type up the contract in English and Spanish, and have everyone sign the contracts and close the deal right at the moment."
"Charles is a little overwhelmed by you Mac. He saw how effortlessly you took control of that meeting and closed that deal. Even I was surprised at the way you handled both Ramon and that deal. Charles was right in a way. We did sit there like a bunch of neophytes fighting over who is going to carry your briefcase. He also said, if it were anyone else, they would have asked, and would have gotten, a percentage of the deal up front. Now he's worried that you'll leave us."
"I'm sorry Charles feels that way," Mac said. "It was never my intention to abrogate his authority in order to ingratiate myself with you. My only concern was to do what I thought was best for the company. You gave me the go ahead to save this deal, and that is what I did. You are my boss and I follow your orders. I'm a little disappointed that Charles feels that way, but I can understand why he is upset. I'd never even consider the idea of cutting myself in on the deal to make a buck. My contract is with you and I'm satisfied with our arrangement. I hope I've not caused any friction in the family."
"You did the right thing, and you have not created any friction in the family. Charles is just embarrassed that he did not recognize the warning signs before we walked into that meeting. You must understand that Charles and I are but poor mortals, and do not possess your superior analytical mind. Now, my Kentucky farm boy, are you ready to leave and go charm the Kings' guests?"
"No, I can't tie this damned bow tie," Mac said. "Will you please help me?"
Drew laughed, "Come on, put your shirt on and I shall teach you how to tie a bow tie."
Once they arrived at the manor, Drew took Claudia aside, "I have a couple of requests from Mac. He asked if you would seat him between the Rothachers and the Navarros. He thought that maybe the Rothachers spoke a little Spanish and would make the Navarros feel more at home. He also wanted to know if you would allow him to play for your guests after dinner."
"That's fine with me," Claudia said.
During the cocktail interlude, Mac was introduced to Eric and Christine Rothacher, the German couple. They warmed to him immediately when he spoke to them in their native German. He learned during their conversation that Eric was in town on business and was looking for a joint venture partnership to expand their markets in Brazil and Germany. In addition, Eric's family had holdings in several South American firms. He told Mac that he was experiencing problems finding the right partner in the United States that he could trust. Mac wasted no time in drawing Eric out and asking him if he would like to explore this opportunity with his boss at GW Stevens. "If I can arrange a meeting between you and Drew Stevens, would you be interested in a discussion with him before you leave the country?" Mac inquired.
"You don't waste any time do you, Mac?" Eric said. "I admire your initiative. You go and talk to Drew Stevens, if he is interested, so am I."
"Business is business," Mac said. "You seize the moment and make the best of it. You would not have broached the subject in the first place if you weren't looking for a business arrangement, would you, Eric?"
Eric laughed, "You're right! Get to work, Mac, let's do some business."
"Excuse me," Mac said. "I'll be back."
Mac cornered Drew and Charles and told them of the conversation with Eric Rothacher and asked if they were willing to meet with Eric on Monday.
"Absolutely," Drew replied.
"Remember, Monday is a holiday." Mac said.
"I don't have a problem with that," Drew said.
"Then let's do it," Mac said. "If you two are ready, I'll start the ball rolling with Eric now, before dinner."
Drew said, "Lead on."
Mac took them over to where Eric Rothacher was standing, "Excuse me, Eric, I would like you to meet my bosses, Drew Stevens and Charles King," Mac said. "These two are the movers and shakers I talked to you about."
Eric shook hands with Drew again. "Mac was telling me about your company and suggested we get together next week to discuss our mutual interests in plastics," Eric said.
"Charles and I would be happy to meet with you Monday morning, Eric," Drew said. "If that's agreeable with you."
"I appreciate your giving up your holiday," Eric said. "Monday is fine for me."
"Eric, you could drive into town with me Monday," Charles said. "I'll pick you up first thing Monday morning."
"That suits me fine," Eric said. "I'm an early riser, Charles, so the earlier the better."
"I'll call you tomorrow afternoon and set a time," Charles said.
Drew and Charles walked away and left Mac chatting with the Rothachers.
"Have you and Christine had a chance to talk to Carla and Ramon Navarro, our friends from South America?" Mac asked.
"No, not yet," Eric said. "I meant to ask you what part of Germany are you from Mac. It's nice to speak our own language for a change."
"I've never left the United States," Mac said. "My dad was a linguist and taught me to speak German. He was a good teacher. Let's walk over and say hello to the Navarros."
Mac made the introduction all round in Spanish. Carla said, "This is wonderful that we can speak in Spanish, I have to struggle with my English."
"Carla, Mac is the young man I was telling you about earlier," Ramon said.
"Ah, now I meet the clever gentleman who made Ramon very happy today," Carla said.
"You are so young to wield such power. You must be around the same age as my son, Carlo?"
"Carla," Ramon said. "You'll embarrass our new friend by asking his age."
"I'm not embarrassed at all," Mac said. "I'm twenty-six."
"You're even younger than my Carlo," Carla said.
"One day I hope that I will be able to visit your beautiful country, Carla."
The butler announced dinner.
Drew was seated next to Claudia. She turned to her brother, "Drew, I would like to invite Mac at every important party from now on. He is just delightful, he made a big hit with the children, and they think he's so cool."
"I'm anxious to get him alone for our little chat tomorrow morning," Claudia said.
"You're right about him. He is an interesting person and mixes well with our guests. Of course being multi-lingual helps. You are in for an interesting chat," Drew said.
"Brother dear, why do I get the impression that your feelings for Mac run much deeper than you're willing to admit?" Claudia said.
Drew looked around the table before answering, "Claud, I'm hopelessly in love with him, and have been since the first moment that I met him. I never thought this would happen to me. You have no idea how delightful it is having him around. Everyone at the Retreat is crazy about him as well. He confessed to me early on, that I am the only person he has ever confided in and the only person he completely trusts. I'm between a rock and a hard place with him. I'm going to be very depressed when he leaves. I have a feeling he feels the same way. I noticed it, yesterday, when I showed him the apartment he would be sharing with David Chang. Although he would never say so, I knew what he was thinking. Quite frankly, I'm at a loss, and don't know how to handle the situation."
"We've all noticed the change in you since Mac moved in with you. God, Drew, you really are between a rock and a hard place. Who wouldn't be? He is one of those charismatic people that you are drawn to immediately. Charles is in a state of shock from the way he handled that meeting today. It's going to take him some time to recover. Does Mac know about you?" Claudia asked.
"No, and I don't think it would make any difference to him if he knew. One day he'll figure it out and confront me. Then I'll have to tell him. We have a very strict rule that we both honor, we will never lie to each other. He, of course, never lies, period."
"You don't have to sell me on Mac. I liked him the minute I met him. He is adorable, an attractive young man, and not the least bit conceited. Are you sure he's not gay?"
"No, he's not. I've had him checked out and he's a straight arrow."
"Mac and I will have our little talk tomorrow," Claudia said. "But promise me you won't do anything silly, like asking him to move out. Be the brother he never had, if that is what he wants from you. At least you can share that part of his life. Don't drop him, whatever you do. It would be devastating for both of you, particularly now, since you are the only person in his life that matters. Anyway, why should he move? Why can't he continue to live with you? Let him pay something towards the rent, if he has that macho thing about paying his own way. If you both get along so well, let him stay."
"You're right. There's really no reason why he should move out. Thanks, Claudia, I always feel so much better after talking with you. My shrink suggested the same solution. He also suggested that I should get him more involved with the family. It would give us both the emotional outlet we need. I'm so pleased you like him. I'd appreciate it if you'd keep an eye on him when I'm overseas."
"That should be easy, Drew. We all like him already; he is fun to have around. Since Charles is going to be his boss down the road, I'll make sure he gets invited for weekends."
"Well, it's time to get the folks into the drawing room," Claudia said. "Do you have any idea how Mac wants to handle this little entertainment segment?"
"He said he would wait for your signal. When you're ready just introduce him and he'll take it from there."
"Does he play the piano well?" Claudia asked.
"I think he does, but of course I'm prejudiced, I ask you to be the judge of his playing. Don't worry, he won't disappoint you. After all, we are talking about the man I love. He is exceptional in every way."
The dinner guests adjourned to the drawing room to join the other guests who had arrived for dessert and coffee. Claudia announced that Mac MacDonald wanted to entertain them for a bit, after which refreshments would be served.
Mac walked over to the piano, "Our gracious host and hostess have given me permission to entertain their guests, Christine and Eric Rothacher from Germany, and Carla and Ramon Navarro, who are visiting from South America. This is also an additional honor for me, to be part of this celebration tonight. My firm has just entered into an agreement that will join two respected companies together." Mac repeated this in Spanish. "Now, after I play the compositions of two of the famous Spanish composers, Albeniz and deFalla, I would like to entertain you with a collection of my favorite tunes from some Broadway musicals that you may remember."
He sat down and played the Albeniz and deFalla compositions flawlessly. When he finished everyone applauded enthusiastically. He took a break to stretch his legs before taking requests from the group. The Navarro's walked over to him during the break and thanked him. Oddly enough, when he returned to the piano later, there was indeed a long list of songs, more than he had time to play. He sat down and played the most popular songs on the list. Everyone loosened up and began enjoying themselves. Some sang along, others danced. Mac took a little break then began the Jazz segment. The same routine he had used for Drew.
Claudia walked up to her brother. "You devil, you deliberately misled me. Mac is a professional."
Drew laughed, "I did not trick you, dear sister, if you remember, I said 'you be the judge'."
"He is really good and knows how to work a room," Claudia said. "He is really fun, Drew; he's a keeper."
Carla and Ramon came over to Mac to say goodnight. "This will always be a special night for us, Mac," Ramon said. "I will always remember you, for making this a memorable trip. Please visit us in Venezuela; you will always be welcome in our home." Mac walked with them out to the foyer where Claudia and Charles were saying goodnight to their guests.
After the last of the guests left, Mac sat down at the piano again. Mac said, "Drew, what you would like to hear?"
"Please play Clair de Lune."
After that, he played the Mozart Sonatas, other compositions that Drew liked. He closed the lid to the keyboard. "That's as much as the old leg can take. I've got to sit on a soft chair for a bit, people," Mac said.
"Thank you for the delightful entertainment, Mac. You've made this evening a roaring success," Charles said.
"It was enjoyable," Mac said. Slipping into his hill-Billy accent he added, "It aint offin a farm boy fum Kain-tuckee gits a chance ta hob-knob with duh rich en fame-us, ya know? Duh big moovers en shakers of in-dus-tree."
"Oh, Lord, here we go again. I'm going to tell you something, school night or not, no more brandy for you."
"Ah keep atellin Drew, thas no way fer duh boss ta talk ta duh help. It jus ain't." Mac then continued his hill-Billy conversation in French and broke them up.
"Enough," Drew said, "come on you crazy Scotsman, we better be heading to the old bunkhouse and let these people get to bed."
"Charles, would you like to join me in the gym at five tomorrow morning for my morning workout?"
"Drew, will you please take this poor, sick farm boy aside and tell him that unless you're sick, have to use the little boys' room, or catch a plane, good lawyers never, but never, get up at five o'clock," Charles said. "Thank you, gentlemen, and good night."
Mac was up at five the next morning and headed to the gym for his workout. He returned to the cottage around seven to shave and get dressed. He was reading the morning paper when Drew walked into the sitting room. "You look much better this morning," Mac said. "Back to your old self again. Let me run up to the kitchen and get us some orange juice and tea while you shower," Mac said.
"Don't think that I am unaware of your campaign to convert me to tea," Drew grumbled. "Oh well, if that's what it's going to take to make you happy, I will drink tea for breakfast."
When Mac returned, Drew was reading the newspaper. "Now you look like the Drew I remember," Mac said. "Please promise me you won't keep pushing yourself so hard. I don't want you to be sick for my graduation. You're spreading yourself too thin, trying to run a company with the added responsibility of heading up the President's committee at the same time. I may be out of line, but I don't want to see you end up in an early grave. I may be a simple farm boy, but I saw what stress and overwork did to my Dad. I couldn't bear to stick around and watch you destroy your life."
"I appreciate your concern, Mac, and I will try to cut back on my work load. It's just a little too early in the game to make any changes."
They walked up to the main house for breakfast. The family was seated at the breakfast table eating. They served themselves from the buffet and joined the rest of the family at the table. After breakfast, Drew and Charles excused themselves and headed toward the library.
Claudia asked, "Would you like to join me in the morning room, Mac?"
"I thought you'd never ask," Mac answered. The morning room was a small comfortable room with the morning sun flooding in through the windows.
"Drew told me how you arrived at the Retreat," Claudia said. "I find it very unusual that you look upon this as some kind of Divine intervention," Claudia said. "I realize you must have had a difficult time being lost in a blizzard like that, but why do you feel it was preordained and not just a natural chain of events?"
"I have given that a great deal of thought, Claudia. It's not easy to explain, nor do I expect you to believe as I do. I've discussed this at length with RW mainly because of his greater insights into mystical areas. He has helped me to sort out my inner turmoil and to come to terms with this vision. I have taken his advice and have accepted what has happened. There will always be events in our lives that defy a logical explanation. We either accept them, or find some logical explanation to justify them in our own minds. In my case, I have accepted them as God's will. In time, His meaning will become clear.
"I'm just an ordinary man from a middle class farming background. I have been blessed with certain unusual abilities that I'm not at liberty to share with you. If you knew, than you would understand me better. I was raised in a healthy, and enriched, family environment. I have a very high IQ and have been blessed with some unusual gifts that frightened me in the beginning. I have since learned to understand and control these gifts. I've worked very hard all my life and will be graduating from Law School in a few months. I've achieved the interim goals I set for myself and the hopes and dreams that my parents expected of me.
"Drew has been my champion, and has become the only true friend I have. He is the most generous and caring person, I have ever known. He has encouraged, and supported me when I needed him the most. I don't think you can ever know how much his friendship means to me. I also feel sorry for Drew, because with all his wealth, he is a lonely man. He feels that my companionship has helped to fill his lonely life. At least that is what he tells me. So you see I feel that I'm able to give back something for all he has done for me.
"I'm sorry, sometimes my good intentions are taken the wrong way. What I did for the company yesterday is what I was hired to do. But it seems that I have unintentionally hurt Charles' feeling in the process. I hope that down the road, Charles will come to realize, that my loyalty is to Drew and his company. I have no ulterior motives, nor was it my intention to hurt him.
"I cannot in good conscience, allow the interests of my employer to suffer because it may hurt someone's feelings. Further, I would never take any independent actions that could adversely affect the company without Drew's approval. I was not hired to win a popularity contest, I'm there to do Drew's bidding and it is incumbent on me to do this, no matter whose feelings are hurt in the process. That's why he hired me, and I plan to continue to do just as I am told. I'm not some hot shot young lawyer trying to make a name for myself. I'm a young lawyer trying to build a career for the long haul. I feel that I can accomplish my goals with the GW Stevens Company. I feel their philosophies are consistent with my own objectives."
"I hope I have not bored you with the story of my life." Mac smiled, "I have sisters myself, and so I understand your concern for your brother's best interests. You have every right to be concerned about me, but rest assured, I'm not a basket case and I would never hurt Drew in any way."
Claudia smiled, "How do you feel about Drew's wealth?"
"I'm absolutely overwhelmed by all that luxury. In contrast to what I've been used to, it's really mind boggling. It would be impossible for you to imagine the contrast between the two life styles, Claudia. My family was an upper middle class farming family. My parents provided me with everything I needed as a child. However, I never was exposed to how differently wealthy people actually live."
"I first became exposed to your way of life last year when I met the Hart family. That was a revelation. Of course, I had seen the 'Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous' on TV many times. They depicted the homes and the lifestyles of the famous celebrities. To me it was nothing more than lifestyles of the nouveau riche and the rich Hollywood stars. I never had the opportunity to see how people with real wealth live."
"I love the way Drew lives, it's wonderful. How could any rational person think otherwise? I've enjoyed living with Drew and could go on living that way forever. But, alas, that will all end in a few months. But, it is nice while it lasts. I dread the thought of taking care of myself again."
"In answer to your specific question, about Drew, his power, and his wealth; in my own mind, I have been able to separate Drew the man, from his power and wealth. If you have ever seen Drew as the Chairman, you would understand. Drew the man, is another story, and his power and wealth don't enter into that equation. Drew is a friend and I'm sure the money plays a part and it's great, but it means nothing to me. I would be his friend if he had nothing. You see Claudia, my goal is to make my own fortune. When that happens, and it will, I won't need another millionaire, I will need a friend."
"How would you feel if Drew dropped you as a friend?" Claudia asked.
Mac smiled warmly, "That will never happen, Claudia. Drew will always be a part of my life. Have you forgotten how we met?"
"Yes, I did forget there for a moment," Claudia said. "Thank you, Mac, for being so candid. I can see why Drew thinks so highly of you. You may not know it, but you have helped him a great deal. I've noticed the change in him, and he's told me that you have helped him to lighten up. You're good for him and he enjoys your companionship. We must try not to let him slip back. He has a great deal on his shoulders and that sword hanging over his head doesn't help much."
"What sword, Claudia?"
"I guess he hasn't told you. It's not a secret to the family and he'll eventually tell you about it anyway. Drew is the only remaining male in the Stevens line. I guess old GW passed the disease on to his sons, and it has killed them all. Only one male heir has lived to seventy, but the rest have all died in there early forties. It does not affect the female side of the family, so far. Drew goes for his regular screening every month without fail. They don't have a clue what causes this disease. The family has spent a fortune in research trying to find a cure, but so far, nothing. Once it strikes, there is no stopping its devastation. The body can't fight it, and they waste away and die."
"Poor Drew, that's quite a burden to carry," Mac said. "Please don't tell him you told me about this. If he wants me to know, he will tell me. Let this be our secret."
"That's fine with me," Claudia said. "I know Drew will be away quite a bit, and it gets kind of lonely at the Retreat. We would like to extend an open invitation to visit as often as you can. The whole family likes you and we would really welcome you as a friend. I can always find room for you here. Do I have your word on that?"
"Yes, I love this place; it reminds me so much of home."
"I don't want to monopolize your time any longer, let's see what the rest of the clan is up to," Claudia said.
"Claudia, please don't feel you have to entertain me," Mac said. "You go on and do your thing, I can amuse myself."
Drew walked into the drawing room; Mac was alone playing the piano. He sat on the bench next to him. "Did you and Claudia solve the world's problems?"
"We sure did. You should be the first to know that I have been invited back again. Of course there was a little glitch, I must wear shoes and I'm not allowed on the furniture."
Drew laughed, "I thought you had gotten used to shoes."
"Only if we have company. What are the plans for the rest of the day?"
"I think we should head back to town, let's say good-by and leave."
It was a beautiful, sunny day, the air smelled fresh in spite of the moderate traffic on the parkway. "Drew, are we still going to go ahead with the U.S. Chemical project?"
"Yes and no; yes we are going to go ahead with it, but I'm taking you off that project, Mac. You're too valuable to the firm to waste your time on that kind of a job. We can discuss your future position further after you graduate."
"Charles will be handling the U.S. Chemical project while I'm away. We both feel your talent is needed at the staff level and out of harm's way. I want you to concentrate on your exams for now and let me worry about your next assignment."
"Right, Drew, you're the boss."
"Alright, Mac, what's the problem?"
"Does this mean I won't be working with you any longer?
"I thought you would be more suited to be transferred to the Legal department working with Charles?"
"What gave you that idea? Don't get me wrong, Charles is a great guy, and I'm sure that he would be a super boss, but I want to be your assistant."
"Are you sure that's what you want, Mac?"
"That's what I want, unless you'd prefer someone else?"
"Of course not, I was only thinking of you, Mac. I would be pleased to have you as my executive assistant."
"Good. You won't regret your decision; I think we'll work well together. Do you have any idea how long you will be away on this trip?"
"This whole project was only supposed to last six months. It looks like it will be longer than I expected. I told the Chief of Staff when I accepted the position, that I had to be back in town at least every three weeks, or I will be forced to resign. That is where we stand today, why do you ask?"
"Will you let me live at the penthouse after I graduate, at least until you complete your assignment? You won't be using the place and I will be working downstairs. It will give me time to look for my own apartment. That way, I will be able to talk to you on the video phone."
"Mac, you can live in the apartment as long as you want. There is no need for you to look for another apartment. We'll work out a fair rent for you."
"At least I'll know you're staying out of trouble and someone will be taking care of you while I'm away. Is there anything else?"
"Yes, there is, now that you mention it. I know you like to save money, Drew, so I decided you don't have to lease a car for me."
"I don't understand why wouldn't you want a company car?"
"I won't need one if you let me use this car. The only time I will use it, anyway, is to drive to Pound Ridge to see the family."
Drew laughed, "I don't know why you even ask, you already know the answer."
Mac smiled, "A smart lawyer never asks a question unless he knows the answer. Anyway, it's the least you can do after pulling me off the biggest caper of my career."
"You poor baby, you're going to have me in tears with your sad tale of woe."
"You'd better be nice to me, or I'll tell your mother what a cruel boss you really are. Then I'll show her what you did to my leg. No more Mister Nice Guy."
"What did you and Claudia talk about?"
"She wanted to know my life story from the time I could remember. That took about twenty minutes. Heck, I even padded that by spicing it up a little. I added many trips to the little boys' room. However, what really took the time was your sister's insistence on writing this all down. I'm sure you know how slow she is at printing. We'd still be there if I hadn't helped."
Drew laughed, "I take it that's the only answer I'm going to get?"
"Not at all, you know I would never conceal anything from you. Ask Claudia to print you another copy. If it takes her too long, I'll be happy to tell you the whole story from the beginning, ten minutes tops."