All stood and gave an ovation that lasted over two minutes. After the room was quiet again, the meal was served and the atmosphere was relaxed and jovial.
Homecoming
Cassie ran into her father’s arms. He picked her up and swung her around and around. “How’s Daddy’s little sweet heart?’
“I missed you Daddy.”
“I missed you to sweet heart, more than you can know.” She gave Rian a big hug and kiss. “Can you stay and play
with me Daddy?” Sean followed behind Rian and Cassie. Cassie gave him a shy smile. He fought the urge, but couldn’t help but touch the tip of her nose in a playful manor.
“Of course Pumpkin, I’d love to play with you.” Rian set Cassie down. She took him by the hand and led him into the family room where her tea set was laid out on a small table with matching chairs. She said. “Please have a seat kind Sir.”
Rian raised his eyes in amazement and looked at his mother. Katherine had a grin from ear to ear. Rian reached over and gave her a warm hug and proceeded to take his seat for tea. “Why thank you my lady.” Rian replied.
Sean gave Katherine a kiss on the cheek and excused himself to freshen up. He met Magan on his way up stairs and they embraced.
“Hi Da, it’s good to see you. Is Rian down stairs?” “Nice to see you too, Magan, you’re looking well.” Sean
gave her a warm hug. “Yes Rian is down stairs playing with Cassie.” Magan’s face contorted in a disgusting manor. Her father smiled. She descended the stairs and could hear the tea party conversation as she walked to the family room entry way.
She could hear Cassie’s little voice speaking in a very adult manor. “When you return from your long journey after the War sir, I wish that we be wed, than I will never have to be away from you again.”
Rian looked at his daughter with a heavy heart. He knew she missed him terribly when he was gone, and this tea party conversation was just a reminder of that. He hated to leave her, but it couldn’t be helped. “When I return from the War my lady, I will happily take your hand.”
“Good than that is settled.” She gave him a warm smile. Got up and kissed him on the cheek. He picked her up and gave her a warm tender hug. “Daddy when can we go over the big water and find Mommy?”
Rian felt his eyes well; he held it back with difficulty. “Cassie, sweet heart, Mommy isn’t over the big water, remember I told you she is in heaven with Jesus. We can only see her in our dreams.”
“No, she’s not with Jesus Daddy! “She is over the big water, I see her sometimes, and she is very sad Daddy. She needs us to find her. We need to find her soon Daddy, before something bad happens to her.”
“I only wish that were true Cassie.” Rian said as a tear tracked down his cheek. I want to find Mommy too, but I’m afraid Jesus needs her more than we do right now.”
”But I told you Daddy,” Cassie almost wailed it out. “Mommy isn’t with Jesus, she is waiting for us over the big water!”
Magan, turned with disgust and left the entry way. She couldn’t even talk to him any more, ‘That child takes up all of his time when he’s home. I hate her.’
“I love you sweetheart, but Daddy needs to talk to Aunt Magan. Wouldn’t you like Grammy to play with you for a little while, Grammy would like to play with you?” Rian handed Cassie off to her grandmother and made a quick departure and ran up the stairs to his bedroom and closed the door behind him. He couldn’t stop the flow of tears. Would he ever get over her? ‘Get a hold of yourself Rian; you need to be strong for Cassie.’ He told himself for the hundredth time in the last year.
Katherine took Cassie in her arms. “Grammy, why is Daddy crying?”
“He misses your Mommy very much, Cassie.”
“When we find Mommy, Daddy won’t be sad anymore.”
“I know sweet heart, I know.” Was all Katherine could say.
Magan found her Father in the Library. She walked in and closed the door. “Da, I think that child is a witch. She says some really outrageous things. Things no three year old should even be thinking about, yet alone know.”
“Like What Magan?”
“Like finding her Mommy on the other side of the ocean, that’s what!”
“Well, you know children have wild imaginations.” Magan had never confronted her father about Kareena; she felt now was the time. “Da, I know about Kareena!”
“What do you mean Magan?”
“I know she’s alive.”
“What are you talking about child?”
Remember the day Rian was waking from his coma, and the telephone rang in the other room? I went in to answer, when you asked me who it was, I told you it was a solicitor.”
“Yes, I vaguely recall that.”
“It wasn’t a solicitor Da, it was James. You know from Williams. Rian’s College room mate in the States. He asked about Rian, and I told him he was waking up. He asked if I would give Rian a message when he was coherent. He said that Kareena had called and left a telephone number for Rian to call her. I didn’t tell you because I had no intention of ever giving Rian the message. And I didn’t think it was the right time to get into such a delicate matter with you. I really admired your resolve Da. You know you and I have always agreed on the purity of our blood line.”
Sean gave Magan a huge smile. “You are truly my child Magan. I am proud, ... very proud of you. We do think alike. But you know this must never go any further than this room. If it were to get out, it could have devastating results, and change the course of many future plans.” Sean couldn’t give Magan any more information on the subject and hoped she wouldn’t ask any questions.
“Don’t you worry, Da. Your secret is safe with me. My lips are sealed.”
“Thank you, Magan you and I have always had a special bond. Nothing can break it.” Sean got up and walked to her and gave her a fierce hug.
She hugged him back and kissed his cheek. “ I love you Da.”
“I love you too sweet heart.” He looked directly into her eyes. No words were needed. The mutual understanding they had of each other was uncanny. They walked together from the Library; it was getting very close to dinnertime.
Departed
Richard called Kari after reading about the tragic death of Dr. Phillip Barrett. It was reported as cardiac arrest, very sudden. He had no previous signs of heart problems.
“Hi Kari, Listen, I spoke to Nakoma today. Dr. Barrett passed away suddenly last evening.” Richard informed Kareena. “She’s pretty broken up.”
“I’m so sorry to hear that Richard.” Kari said expressing her regrets. “We were only there a few weeks ago. He looked like he was in perfect health. Poor Nakoma she seemed so happy and full of life. This must be a terrible shock for her.”
“Yes it is. The funeral’s tomorrow. They will have a service at the Hanland Funeral Parlor on Spencer Drive in West Palm Beach. I know you hate funerals Kareena, but I’m asking you to come with me if you don’t mind. I really need you there. I could use some moral support. I’ve know the Dr. and his wife for quite a number of years, and you and Nakoma seemed to get along so well. I thought it would only be right for us both to pay our respects.”
“Well since you put it that way Richard, How can I refuse. Of course I’ll go with you. What time should I be ready?” “The service is at two. I’ll pick you up at twelve forty five. Thanks Kari, it means a lot to me. See you tomorrow.” “Okay, Richard, see you then.” She replied. Nakoma sat at her vanity in her room . ‘GHASTLY! Now there’s a word to describe the recently befallen. No one to date has deserved to meet a more “ghastly” end than Phillip, but the newspapers seem to subscribe to his persona of being an over achiever, successful researcher, doer of good deeds, blah, blah, blah! What a bunch of shit. If only they knew the real Dr. Barrett. They’d know this world and any that may exist in the future is much better off without him. If I were to write his OBIT it would say “pompous, spoiled, arrogant, egomaniac (and other choice adjectives) finally gets his just
deserve! Couldn’t happen to a nicer ass hole!
Oh that just makes me laugh out loud. But right now I have to put on my solemn “Oh God what will I do without him.” Face and actually pretend I’m gonna miss the old SOB! Well I suppose I will in a way. He was one of my more pleasurable preys. Regardless of being educated more than his intellectual ability had capacity for, he never saw it coming....And that will always be a memory I can carry with me until the next time I happen across one of the “elite & powerful” who must join Phillip. There will be many to keep him company. It’s only fair that he be joined in eternal back slapping and allowed to expound on what good guys they were and how many people they helped. That way when they are finally judged by someone even harsher than I, they won’t mind so that their eternal souls are doomed to suffer like Jacob had!'
Richard and Kareena entered the Funeral parlor from the side entrance. Kareena was amazed at the enormity of the gathering. “The Doctor must have been well respected and loved. Look at this crowd.”
“Yes, he was. He did a lot of charitable work and contributed much to medical research. There’s Nakoma, let’s pay our respects before we take our seats.”
She had just entered the room where the service was to take place. When she spotted Richard and Kari and, the corners of her mouth went up slightly in an effort to give a smile. Kari’s heart went out to her. Richard gave her a hug and expressed his condolences. Kari & Nakoma’s eyes met and the exchange was one of knowing pain. Kari gave her a warm hug and said “If you need anything just call me.” With a tear in her eye she said we’ll talk after the service.”
Nakoma had only to think of Jacob and she had no trouble bringing forth the tears necessary for today’s show. The service lasted a good hour and a half. Many spoke of the many contributions the Doctor had made to the medical research profession and the community and also of the charity work of both he and his lovely wife Nakoma. 'Yeah, if it weren’t for me the charity would have never happened. They are all so blind.'
After the service the crowed dispersed into the parking lot. Nakoma found Kari and Richard at the back of the parlor. “There will be a gathering back at the house with food and drinks, please join us.” Nakoma said with a catch in her throat.
“Are you ok Nakoma?” Kareena asked
“I will be once I get home. The hardest part is over. Now I just need to get through the next couple of hours and I should be fine. If you would stay a while after everyone leaves I’d be very grateful.”
“Of course we will.” Kareena answered.
Kareena was in awe. “I’ve never seen so many V.I.P.'s gathered in one place before. Even the conventions never boasted so many names.”
“Yes Phillip was known to rub shoulders with some very powerful and important people.” Nakoma remarked. “Many of them will remain in my circle as I continue Phillip’s work, which brings me to why I asked you to remain after the others have left, Kari. In light of Phillips untimely passing I’m prepared to double my offer if you would come to work with me. I did a little research on your scholastic record at B.C. and I’m impressed with your lab skills. I really need another pair of hands, and I’ve spoken to the school and they are willing to give you credits for your work with me.
“That’s a very generous offer Nakoma. I’m very tempted, but I don’t think I can make that decision tonight. I will give it serious thought though.”
“If it’s the drive you’re hesitant about your welcome to stay here Kari. It would be a pleasure to have you. There’s plenty of room. Or if you prefer you could occupy the guest house.” She gave Kareena a hug. “I’ll be looking forward to your call. Please call me either way if you will.”
Richard gave Nakoma a look that said back off! “I will Nakoma. You’ll hear from me soon.”
Nakoma acknowledged Richard’s scowl and said “Oh Kari,
please don’t feel pressured. That’s the last thing I want. I guess this day has just been a little overwhelming for me. Please forgive me if I’ve been over bearing.”
“It’s ok Nakoma, I understand. I will let you know soon. I promise”
Election
Kareena could hear the television from where she stood in the kitchen. “The youngest, brightest new member to enter the political arena and win the love and respect of the people, I present to you our next senator from Florida, Rian O’Connor.” The crowed went wild as O’Connor approached the podium to give his speech.
Kareena watched and was reminded of the deep hurt she felt when she aborted their child. She thought he looked just as handsome as ever, and was very proud of what he had achieved in the past few years. And she knew deep in her heart that a life in politics was not for her. She could never have lived in that hypocritical world. None the less she had to turn the T.V off to stop the ache in the pit of her stomach.
“Why did you turn that off Kari?” Richard asked. “I hate politics.” Was all she said.
“Rian O’Connor is our hope for the future, he is sure to
win the election; we haven’t had anyone that eloquent since Kennedy. He really has a way with words, and really wants to make a difference in D.C... I never knew you hated politics. There is so much I don’t know about you Kari. You remain a mystery to me.”
“You know all there is to know Richard. I’ve told you I’ve
led a very sheltered and boring life. There really isn’t anything else to tell.” To change the subject she said “You know, I think I’ll give Nakoma a call. I’ve decided to take her up on her offer.”
Richard’s heart sank. He knew that as soon as Kari accepted Niki’s offer his job was done. He didn’t want to stop seeing her but wasn’t’ quite sure how to get Niki to agree. Of course he could give up the settlement Niki had offered him, than all bets would be off. He wanted to be around to make sure no harm came to Kari. Niki was a little too pushy for Richard to feel at ease about the new position Kari was about to take.
World Interests
All the new member’s news coverage was going as planned. It was having a very positive effect on world politics. The seven political groups were seeing hope return to the people. There was nothing like new promises and visions for the future to give people faith and hope. Even the stock market seemed to be heading in the right direction.
There had been a few set backs such as the death of the South African dignitary who’s son was to serve as their new president and of course the Research Scientist in South Florida Dr Barrett. Both deaths were unexpected and premature, but both were from natural causes. South Africa needed some strategic maneuvering to insure that Razi was still on his rightful path. And the Doctor’s wife was fulfilling all of the research quotas that had been previously ordered. She was turning out to be quite an asset.
Rian was a shoe-in for the November election. The poles showed him leading by a large margin. He had been campaigning for six long months and longed to go home to Ireland to see his daughter. But until the election he would have to be satisfied to speak to her through the internet with the web cam that was set up at his computer.
Cassie always asked him how the War was going, and hoped it would be over soon so he could come home and she could give him a big hug. Katharine had been saying for some time now that Cassie was wise beyond her years. Some of the things that came out of her mouth were amazing.
Sean had covered his tracks for Rian’s political career concerning the birth of Rian’s daughter. He had a marriage certificate drawn up to show that Kareena and Rian had been married. And of course she had died in childbirth. There was no investigation that could uncover the truth. All other records had been destroyed, and the proper monies had exchanged hands.
The other nations were also well on their way to the placing of their new electives. In two more years the plan would come to fruition and all Seven would be in place.
New Career
Kareena’s nerves were working overtime. She was very excited to be going to her new job, but it scared the crap out of her. S
he couldn’t believe her good fortune, but was a little leery of her new boss’s motives. It all seemed too good to be true. She hoped she wasn’t being naive in accepting the position, but did so for two reasons. If it was legitimate, she couldn’t pass up the chance to further her education. And she did have a soft spot for Nakoma. Nakoma had said how she needed her after her husbands passing and Kareena did want to help her if she could.
Nakoma welcomed Kareena with open arms. “I’m so glad you decided to join us. I feel you will become an asset to my little family. Let me introduce you to the staff. And please call me Niki.” They entered into the foyer and through the Service Staff Office. Niki introduced Kareena to the office manager, Tammy. She was a slim woman with gray hair, and a nice smile. They proceeded through to the Director’s office. “This was Phillip’s office.” I’m going to let you occupy it if you don’t mind. It will give you a place to escape, if you feel overwhelmed. I don’t’ want you to feel over worked.”
“Thank you Niki. That’s very thoughtful of you, I really appreciate it.”
“Please don’t mention it. Now let’s go and meet everyone else.” They passed into a large octagon room with two large opposite angled walls of windows. When Kareena previously toured the lab it was at night and there were walls where the windows now stood. You could see the palm trees and beautifully landscaped lawn that overlooked the ocean. The site was breathtaking. Kareena was really going to like working here. There were six large tables with racks of test tubes, medical equipment and computers. Above the outer tables were cabinets and below drawers. Even though the room was a stark sterile white, the windows allowed so much natural light into the room that it made Kareena very comfortable. For the first time she was starting to feeling at ease with the decision that she had made. There was a man and a women conferring at one of the tables in the center of the room they turned as Nakoma and Kareena approached. Hi Karl…Debra, I’d like you to meet Kari, our newest recruit. She will be assisting me in my pet projects.”
Humorlost (Humorlost Book I of III) Page 13