by M Howson
‘I thought Frank would’ve told you.’
‘Not this one, it was his secret and a highly guarded one.’ It was a blow of discovery for Justin. He had a feeling Frank’s life would never be the same again after this trip.
‘I don’t know what to do Justin, things like this don’t happen every day.’
‘Amy I appreciate you telling me…’
‘You happened to be there, on the stairs….’
‘Just like that, I was at hand?!’
‘You know what I mean…. ’ She moved closer to him.
He felt a sudden rush of emotions. He reached out to pull her closer. She didn’t object. He tilted his head and kissed her gently.
‘I can’t control myself when you are near me.’ He said huskily. ‘I can’t help it and I’m not even sorry!’
Amy, fighting with her own feelings, didn’t answer. They had been playing this game for a long time. Who was she kidding? She wanted Justin.
Justin felt Amy’s body relaxing as he gathered her into his arms. Amy felt her body setting on fire. Justin was gently removing her top.
‘Don’t stop now.’ She whispered.
‘I won’t, I waited too long for this!’ His hands were exploring Amy’s body.
‘You are pressing the right buttons ...’ She helped him to remove his jeans.
‘Don’t!’ He held her arm down. ‘Let me.’
‘Do you have a …’ She asked nervously.
‘I do.’
She was beautiful, soft and sweet. Justin appreciated every move and every touch. He had waited a very long time for a girl like Amy.
Chapter Twenty Three
Frank was the first down for breakfast the next morning. There was nobody around. He picked up the morning papers, the butler served up fresh coffee and pastries – then left quietly.
He couldn’t believe what a crazy thing had happened last night. Amy must be hurt and will probably leave.
The problem was out of his control. So he screwed up! When he finally thought he was getting somewhere, it all came to a halt. What a shame that Amy had to find out this way.
‘It can’t be that bad Frank.’ Jack walked through the door looking pleased.
‘It is that bad! Amy knows!’ He said, taking a sip of coffee.
‘She does?!’
‘Yes, found out last night!’
‘Wasn’t your choice – I imagine?’
‘Never mind, I will sort it out, but you look like you had a good night.’
‘I have had a good night…. sleep, before you go any further.’ He helped himself to a glass of orange juice.
Frank was pacing up and down restlessly. ‘What a gorgeous morning.’ He stopped in front of a window to admire the calm winter scene.
‘I remember when I was young … waking up many times in the morning in our old, cold cottage. The windows were frosty and the water was frozen in the bucket as there was no inside tap. The kitchen didn’t have a floor - it was black soil. I slept in a double bed with my sisters and brothers, six or seven of us - at least we kept each other warm.’
Something must've happened last night as Frank was obviously upset. Jack stopped reading, put the paper down and dismissed the waiter who was ready to take his order.
‘I was only a small boy but every day I worked in the fields to help my parents with my brothers and sisters. We needed food and provisions for winter. It was hard. At Christmas we didn’t get special presents but we were grateful for warm food. My mother, she was a fragile woman, she did make some little presents for us. I remember my sister got a doll made from a wooden spoon and had straw hair. My father made me shoes out of wood. Now I screwed up, the family I hoped for slipped away.’ He turned around and stopped as he saw Amy standing next to Jack.
‘I didn’t want to interrupt Frank. I hope you don’t mind.’ She said, looking sincere.
‘Amy, you are here!’
‘Where else would I be?’ Amy walked up to Frank and gave him a hug.
Frank was frozen to the ground. He didn’t dare move in case she let go of him.
‘I know that my father emigrated with his family to America when he was a child. His parents died after he married my mother and that’s all I know!’
‘I thought you knew?’ Frank asked surprised.
‘Good morning to you all, early birds!’ Justin entered, looking fresh in his tight jeans and shirt, Amy was quick to notice.
‘You will find Monica on the set already - if I’m not mistaken.’ Frank said, quickly composing himself.
‘I know, just been there. She ordered some fresh coffee and breakfast.’ The atmosphere didn’t escape Justin, it was definitely frosty. He’d stepped into the middle of an important conversation.
‘That woman never sleeps.’ Jack was engrossed in his paper.
‘How would you know that Uncle Jack?’ Justin asked testily.
‘Uncle Jack – hey?’ Jack surveyed Justin. ‘If I didn’t know you better I would give you a word of advice.’
‘Don’t get involved.’ Amy said, joining them at the table.
Justin watched Amy and couldn’t decide if he should go over to her for a kiss. There was something going on here.
‘You look lovely this morning.’ He said.
‘You don’t look bad yourself.’ She returned the compliment.
‘Oh for God’s sake give her that kiss Justin.’ Frank interrupted the pleasantries. ‘You two seem to think just because we are old we are also blind.’
Justin was already standing next to Amy. ‘If you insist and she lets me…’
‘You taste even better this morning than last night Amy.’ He whispered and kissed her softly.
‘All right lovebirds, back to reality. I believe all is going well Justin?’ Frank was back to business.
‘Yeah. We should finish in a day or two here with Uncle Jack’s help - Monica says.’
‘I’ll be there when I can finally finish my breakfast. People keep interrupting me.’ The waiter placed a large plate of cold ham and cheese in front of Jack.
‘The dailies were good Justin. You seem to hit the right notes with Monica.’ Frank said appreciatively.
‘Good to hear that Frank!’
‘I will stop by the set later today. I have some important business to attend to this morning.’
‘I’ll join you Frank.’ Amy said.
‘I was hoping you would. How about,… meet you in an hour in the hall? We’ll take a trip.’
‘Exactly what I wanted to do.’ Amy replied smiling. ‘One question, Frank.’
‘Ask away Amy.’
‘Why is my name Ronay?’ She asked quietly.
‘That is the family name of my friend Jani who married your grandmother.’
‘I see, how about my father’s real dad?’
‘Let’s not open healed wounds Amy, what you don’t know doesn’t hurt.’
‘Yes, but…’
‘I can’t tell you Amy, sorry.’
Frank was right, she didn’t need to know, there was enough drama to begin with.
The breakfast changed into a tasting session as Frank insisted they try the Hungarian cuisine of spicy grilled paprika sausages, liver, bacon and kidneys, served with fresh baked bread rolls and special sauces.
‘This is amazing food!’ Jack said. ‘I enjoyed last night’s dinner as well, what was it called Frank? That fried pork…?’
‘Cigany Pecsenye.’
‘What?’
‘Gipsy Steak. Pork chops seasoned with paprika and ground pepper.’
‘It was delicious, you should give the recipe to your housekeeper.’
‘Do you think I could buy a Hungarian cookery book in English?’ Amy enquired eagerly.
‘If I’m not mistaken the butler is already getting you one.’ Frank said, seeing the butler’s eyes light up as they started praising the food.
‘We are being exceptionally well looked after here Frank.’ Justin voiced his appreciation.
; Frank smiled indulgently. ‘I hope so …’
He appreciated the fact that Amy had stayed. What a fool he was, being so engrossed in finding out about Amy that he never paid any thought to what she might have been told. He assumed she knew her father’s story. He could understand why Louie never told her much, maybe there was no need. What would he tell her today? The truth! He wanted to come clean. Leave the decision making to Amy. He will have to see what the day brought.
Chapter Twenty Four
Don informed Frank last night, that he’d successfully organised the meeting he had requested with the village parish council. Frank had enough time to meet them before the trip with Amy.
Frank preferred the smaller morning room for the meeting. He found he was agitated whilst waiting for the meeting to start.
There was a knock, Don opened the door without hesitation.
A young man with a stern expression entered, followed by an older man wearing a well cut grey suit. His appearance presented a sharp man. His stern face didn’t move when he saw Frank standing up to greet them.
The men surveyed each other. Frank stepped forward and introduced himself in Hungarian. He didn’t recognise the faces apart from the older man Jozsi, he was told his name yesterday.
Frank proceeded to tell them about himself and his background, whilst finding it difficult to remember the language. Don listened and made notes as the interpreter translated the conversation.
‘I can’t believe you are alive Frank!’ Jozsi exclaimed, after the initial shock discovery that Frank, or Feri as he used to call him, was here in front of him. ‘I remember when you disappeared, nobody could tell, what had happened to you. Your sister wouldn’t speak of you.’
‘Times were hard. I had to make a decision Jozsi, a difficult one at that. Eva and I lost touch for a long time.’ Frank said, not wanting to elaborate.
Jozsi understood what Frank was saying. He introduced the younger man as Sanyi, who was a member of the parish council.
‘I’ve made some enquiries Jozsi, I appreciate that you are trying to stand on your own as a village.’
‘We were a part of the neighbouring small town.’ Sanyi started talking. ‘A year ago we gained our independence. We are a small village but well run.’ He said proudly.
‘Why this meeting Frank?’ Jozsi enquired.
‘I would like to offer you help to rebuild and expand your village.’ Frank said.
‘In the form of….?’ Jozsi asked.
‘Money.’ Frank said plainly.
His announcement was followed by a shocked silence.
‘Thank you, Frank but we don’t need help - we like our freedom. It has taken us years to break free, sorry, but we don’t want to get tied down again.’
‘Excellent! I like the sound of that.’ Frank looked at Don who was listening to the translator. He handed Frank a document.
‘I want you to accept this.’ Frank said. ‘This is an agreement drawn up by my lawyer for a certain amount of money, which I’m giving your village as a gift.’
‘A gift?’
‘Yes a gift.’
‘There is no small print or conditions. I was born in your village, I lived there, my family lived there. I want to help!’
‘Good Lord!’ Gasped Jozsi, as he saw the amount of money they were offered.
‘Problem?’
‘We cannot accept this Frank!’
‘Yes you can, all I ask for is that you spend the money wisely. I am aware of certain things your village might need. I would be glad if you would consider spending the money on those but whatever you think is more important to you, I will not interfere. I will issue a cheque made out to your village. Simple.’
A waiter came in pushing a trolley stacked with drinks and food.
‘I have to make a phone call.’ Frank said. ‘I will leave you to think it through, have some refreshments, take your time.’ He got up. ‘Jozsi, I would like you to accept it.’
‘Frank, it is a lot of money!’ Jozsi said.
‘It is a lot of money to you perhaps but I can afford it Jozsi, trust me. One more thing,’ Frank hesitated for a moment. ‘I said I won’t interfere, yet I must say that I would like you to use local tradesmen, builders, painters, the full lot. Maybe there is a seamstress or two in the village who could make the soft furnishings. Not to save money, but to give a chance to your residents to earn some money and be involved.’
‘Of course, Frank. Everyone helps out in our community.’ Jozsi said proudly.
‘This time, they will also get paid.’ Frank said. ‘If you are looking for a catch – there isn’t one, however I wouldn’t mind an update later on to see how you got on with the developments of your village.’
‘Naturally, we keep our accounts in order Frank.’
‘Good, think it through. By the way, if you prefer I could also offer further assistance via a team of experts if you need help in some areas. That’s up to you.’
Frank left the room with Don and with mixed feelings. He wanted to help his village, to get what they needed. Money was tight in the country, but he had the means to help. He hoped the people managing the village had the same vision as he did and his money wouldn’t be wasted on insignificant matters.
‘They seem honest.’ Don volunteered.
‘They do Don, and I know they are.’
‘Still, you aren’t convinced Frank.’
‘No, but this is the only way I can help them.’
‘I don’t think you will be disappointed Frank.’
Frank made some calls and returned with Don to hear the decision.
Jozsi was ready with their answer. ‘Frank, we will accept your help, thank you.’
‘No problem, it is my pleasure.’ Frank sat down to sign the cheque Don had prepared earlier. ‘If all is well, I need your signatures.’ Frank produced an elaborately decorated ‘gift certificate’ stating his donation to the village. ‘This is for you to prove where the money has come from. If you need help with anything give me a call and before you ask, there aren’t any legal issues here – this is a single gift!’
Jozsi and Sanyi signed their names below Frank’s. They still couldn’t figure out why they’d got so lucky. Frank must be a rich man now, Jozsi thought, already planning a new grocery store and a village hall.
Frank stood up, indicating the meeting was over and the two men followed.
‘All the best, for you and for the future of your village.’ Frank said, shaking their hands.
‘Thank you Frank, we don’t know how to thank you.’
‘No need, enjoy building your future.’
****
For Jack, the next few days flew by as he got drawn into the filming alongside everyone else. Jack was on a high and wondered why he had never taken up Frank on his offer to get involved in his business. By the end of the week everything was finished.
Jack decided to throw a wrap party for the crew before they flew back to California. Frank had promised Amy a short tour of the country to show her where he and her father grew up. She wanted to know everything. Frank hoped the bond they were slowly building was to last. He spent most of his free time with Amy regardless of his workload as Don kept Frank very busy.
Amy had no time to think about Justin. Frank had taken her to an ancestry records library where he hired an expert to construct their family tree. It all fitted into place.
Justin was thinking about Amy, more than he wanted to. Monica never stopped questioning him. Yet working on the movie was a thriving success.
Monica never said a word about Jack; she was also engrossed in her work. Justin was amazed how the crew respected her. He had seen some bad treatment of women in powerful positions in his time but Monica was strong.
One late evening, Justin and Monica sat in the bar having a drink when out of nowhere Monica started to talk about Al and her previous failed relationships.
‘Don’t say anything Justin.’
‘I am sorry,’
‘Don’
t be, my mistake. I should’ve known…..’
‘You couldn’t know….’
‘Oh come on Justin,’ She said bitterly. ‘We women know when something isn’t right, but choose to ignore it! We dream of better days, we say it’s only temporary or a phase. Deep down we realise we are only making excuses for the other, because we don’t want to be alone and hope as we cling to every little word or action, that it’s all changing for the better. We ignore our friends and family who see right through the situation and continue to hope and wait a little longer. We forgive and forget just to give another chance to the person we love or think we love. Have you heard the old song; Wishing and hoping …’
‘Monica….’
‘Jack and I haven’t invented anything new, not in the slightest.’
‘I wasn’t saying that Monica.’
‘I don’t know why I feel I have to defend the relationship. I actually don’t have to do anything.’ She ordered another Martini.
‘I am happy for you. Jack is great and a good friend.’
Monica wasn’t listening, she continued. ‘……and when we find someone we actually like and they like us back, we question it. We think it’s a substitute, not the man for us, because everything is right! - how can everything be right? We ask, where is the chase, the drama, the endless waiting for that call. We cannot accept that someone actually loves us for what we are and doesn’t want us to change. We can dress the way we want, say what we want, think what we like, do the things we enjoy, we can be ourselves. When we tell our friends about the new man, we are surprised when they don’t start lecturing. What about the age gap? We ask. Doesn’t matter, they say, as long as you love each other.’
‘Girl, I didn’t know you were so philosophical, but you have a point.’
‘Jack is a man who makes me laugh.’ Monica finished her drink and stood up. ‘I am having a great time with him Justin.’
Monica had no expectations of Jack but for what it was, she intended to enjoy every minute of it.
Chapter Twenty Five