The Pervert And The Virgin – Part Fifty-Eight

My thanks to those readers who took the trouble to offer their encouragement. Hopefully I have managed to make reading this tale worth your time and evoked shall we say a suitable reaction in response from you. Please let me know what you find particularly enjoyable so I can consider more of it in future stories. Thank you for taking the time to read and respond.

Disclaimer: Please do not read this story of a man and a boy who choose to become lovers if it is illegal and/or socially or religiously unacceptable within the society you now find yourself. Please do not read this if the love between a grown man and a boy is likely to upset you. However, if you should decide to go ahead and read what I have written please do so with the awareness you have chosen to do so of your own free will. The story is entirely fictitious and any resemblance to anybody alive or dead is purely accidental.


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Bill and Adriana had arrived late at night. I only got to greet them in the morning when Charles brought them over. Caryn slipped inside the tea house with Tim, Christopher and Garth. I had given her my camera and asked her to take pictures. Pauline arrived with Frank just as I was greeting Joseph and Costanzo. Damion came over just before seven. He was glad he had made it on time. I felt very proud watching Tim wheel the A-frame to the main street.


“I won't keep you very long.” Tim said standing in front of the door. “Owning a tea shop has been a dream of mine since I was ten. Thanks to my husband Rohan it has become a reality. Keeping a promise to my adopted parents Christopher and Garth will make this worth it on its own. I'd like Rohan to sing a song of blessing please.”


When I started singing Tim opened the doors to his tea house I stood to the side at the door singing while everybody entered the tea house. I was glad to see Jarvis and Lyle approaching just before my song ended. Tim saw them and waited with me to greet them. He told them to get themselves some drinks and join us. Then Tim led me to a long table where a pot of tea waited for me.


“Frank this is Jarvis and Lyle.” I said after my first few sips. “They might pop in to your bank to change some hundreds into smaller bills. I'm sorry I didn't have any smaller bills to give them yesterday. Please let your staff know they didn't steal the money. Somewhere around two grand.”


“I'll let them know first thing.” Frank promised. “I've seen the cottages and Rohan's home but Caryn keeps impressing me. You three ladies did an amazing job. How does it feel Tim?”


“Very, very good.” Tim said. “I can't believe the number of people coming in so early.”


“A lot of people will walk past on their way to work or the college.” Pauline said. “Your most profitable decision could be that A-frame. Now if you've got a moment I think Rohan has a surprise for you. He's being sweet for a change.”


“Another surprise my Love?” Tim asked. “Will it cost me another pot of tea? My husband's a gigolo Jarvis. He wouldn't let me use his body last night until I promised him a free pot of tea. I suppose if you must marry a gigolo it's good to marry a cheap one.”


“That's true wisdom.” Dylan said. “I'll drink to that. You know with all these engagements and surprises I've gotten through a lot of champagne and Scotch. I might need to do an extra push-up a week to lose the extra weight.”


“Dylan what are you doing up this late?” Tim asked staring at my phone.


“None of us were going to bed until we saw the tea house open.” Dylan said. “Tim it's around ten here so we're not up too late. That really didn't matter. Dad had us on Skype all this time. Lovely speech. Nice and short is what makes it lovely. Care to carry his phone around and show us your place while the others congratulate you?”


“No way I will believe this Scoundrel is useless around technology ever again.” Tim said. “You've even got our friends from Poland to join in. Before I show you around I'd like to introduce you to Lyle and Jarvis. They're my news friends in Chesterfield. Adam your dad is trying to find them some work with his gangster friend. They'll fit right in. Jarvis tried to mug us last night. Rohan invited him to join us for dinner.”


“That's Rohan for you.” Morgan said. “What else do you do in such circumstances? I mean nobody just hands over their wallet.”


“He did that later.” Tim said. “I think he didn't hand it over right away because he didn't want us embarrassed by the lack of cash.”


“That was very thoughtful Rohan.” my housekeeper said. “I see chatting with Vernon about family honor is paying dividends. Pleased to meet you Jarvis and you Lyle. Did Rohan give you enough to eat and drink?”


“He gave us plenty.” Jarvis said. “Grace even packed us leftovers. I've never eaten so well before. Times have been hard and I've lost a bit of weight but Rohan gave me enough to eat very well for a long time. Christopher and Garth are helping us. We're doing some tests.”


“They promised to feed us so we don't mind.” Lyle said quickly. “Hi Leslie. I have no idea what tests. They are to help Rohan find us some work we'll enjoy with his gangster friends. I didn't know he knew a gangster.”


“His religious Order is full with them.” Tracy said. “I hope he gets it cleaned up before I take over. Don't leave it too late Rohan. You guys are welcome to call anytime if you need help adjusting to Rohan. That happens a lot to people.”


“That's what happened to me.” Millie said. “I live in Chesterfield. This is my friend Skye. She will be moving there soon. Rohan is having us look after his garden. You must join us for a barbecue. You've met Rohan so we know we're perfectly safe with you. All it takes is five-minutes and you realize you don't want to upset him.”


“I learned that last night.” Jarvis said. “You're right you will be safe with us and all the gangs in Chesterfield. After his chat with the Italian guys our boss needed three doubles and ten-minutes before he could talk.”


“Okay guys here's the rest of the place.” Tim said. “Phyllis custom-made the curtains. Aren't they gorgeous?”


Frank had gone a little pale hearing that Jarvis had tried to mug us. Joseph thought it very exciting. He told Costanzo we weren't in any danger and look at how I was helping them. He had to kiss me for being sweet. Then he brightened Frank's day by asking if he could pop in later to discuss opening a business account for his restaurant. Frank thanked me when Joseph told him I had recommended Frank.


Grace laughed when Jarvis asked what he needed to open an account. He had this two grand he was looking after for a friend and wanted to keep it safe. She laughed even harder when he added it wasn't safe carrying lots of cash around Chesterfield these days. A friend of theirs nearly got mugged last night walking home Lyle added with a deadpan expression. Adriana collapsed in laughter at this point.


“Saying that with a perfectly straight face is amazing Garth.” I agreed. “I think you're going to have lots of fun with these guys. Remember I need the results of their tests by Friday. Pauline we can have a chat as soon as I find some breakfast.”


When Grace pointed out the tea house was too busy to make us breakfast Tim agreed to join us at the hotel. Pauline suggested he bring over his marketing stuff and business cards. Tim thought it was a great idea and was urging us along a few minutes later. Better chat with the manager before we eat so they don't think we're complaining about the food I suggested. Sister Deanne told me not to worry because I ate so much of it they already knew I approved.


“I like eating out with Rohan because I love the contrast between the wait staff and kitchen staff when he eats anywhere regularly.” Caryn said. “Lyle the waitress knows she's getting a nice tip on a large breakfast order. The kitchen staff know they will have a lot of work to do for the next several minutes. The other advantage is no matter how much I eat it always looks small next to Rohan's meal.”


When Tim finished his seconds he kissed my cheek and left to go back to the tea house. Grace went with to keep an eye on the staff and make certain Tim didn't get in their way. She thought he was being very restrained and wanted to keep it that way. Ingrid, Caryn, Phyllis and Sam headed off to discuss our balcony projects with the city officials. The Hospitallers took Lyle and Jarvis up to their room for their tests.


“I'm just taking soil samples and measurements Pauline.” Sister Deanne said. “You can have your chat with Rohan. I'll manage. Do you mind if I poke around among the plants? Thanks.”


“Yes Jinsong we can spar when you get back from helping Sister Deanne.” I said tossing the nun my car keys. “That's a long walk to the lab from the cottage. I can always text you if I need the car for anything.”


Pauline told me the other couple she'd brought over Friday wanted to sell. They wondered if I'd mind buying the property and renting it to them while they found another home. I understood their difficulty in coming up with a deposit. What I didn't want to do was hand over the deposit money and have them simply stay in the place telling me they couldn't find the perfect home. This might drag on for years.


“Tell them if they find a place they like to let me know how much of a deposit they were going to put down.” I said. “I'll buy their property at a fair price less the deposit I place for them on the new home. So if I'm paying one-twenty and they want to put twenty down on the other place I'll pay the deposit and buy their home for one-hundred.”


“That sounds fair.” Pauline said. “We can protect your interest by having the purchase of the new place put in your name initially. That way if they back out of the sale here they don't have a deposit on the other place in their name. You can transfer your ownership to them. I will present all the paperwork together. They can pay the costs of the transfer in lieu of the rent you aren't charging them. Rohan I believe they are being honest when they say the need a deposit. They will gladly agree to your proposal. I think it is very fair. Obviously when you buy this property you want to get the decorating and renovations started right away. The other family cannot leave until their son finishes school but would you be willing to help them with a deposit? I know you lose some interest on the money.”


“Speak to Edgar and see if there is another way we can go about it.” I said. “Perhaps instead of putting the cash down my company is big enough to stand as surety. I certainly don't mind buying properties and buyers will most often conduct home inspections or I can have the Order monks and nuns look at them.”


“Okay that would certainly make it less complicated of a sale on this end.” Pauline said. “I'll call Edgar and see what his thoughts are. What are your plans for the rest of the day Rohan? There's only one store that sells telescopes which makes it easy. Good idea to spar with Jinsong this morning and go shopping this afternoon with Tim. Weren't you meeting with the Chief about your gangster friend?”


“I'm going to chat with him this morning.” Bill said. “Then when we've chatted I'll put forward the proposal to Rohan. He might want to meet with Rohan, Christopher and Garth this week. I hardly think Rohan is going to let his friendship cloud his sense of responsibility. He'll have a way to make good use of this for his Order.”


Vernon came back to watch my sparring session with Jinsong. The breathing and grounding helped a lot. I managed to go on the offensive for a few seconds at one point. I settled in and tried merging with the pulse of the space. This helped me relaxed which allowed me move easier and a little quicker. When I was showering my Lady suggested I try finding the pulse of something more sentient than a room. The process was worth a few bruises she assured me. No sense in rushing and missing the chance to learn something. Even something that doesn't work is a useful learning experience.


“Grace I'm making some soup and sandwiches.” I said when she answered my call. “Do you want Sister Deanne to bring some to you guys? Yes I can wait a minute. I'll have her set them on the table by the staff quarters. They'll be there in ten.”


When Sister Deanne returned we took sandwiches and soup over to the hotel. Lance told me he was having a lot of fun exploring Chesterfield with Nancy, Griogair and Adriana. Charles had gone with Bill to chat with the police chief. The local guy wanted us to have tea with him one morning. I suggested Wednesday morning so we had a day to take care of stuff before I left for the treehouse. Jarvis told me the tests were fun and they'd be at them all of tomorrow as well. Christopher had arranged a day pass at the local gym for them to do a fitness assessment on Wednesday afternoon.


I headed over to the tea house to wait for Tim. While I waited I did a little research on telescopes. Vernon commented that the number of customers seemed to have stayed very steady. He chuckled when I told him if it stayed this busy we might need to change the name because solitude might not fit. Unsurprisingly Grace brought Tim out to us by the ear. I promised to feed Tim to Vernon before we came back at closing. Only after I promised did she let him go.


“You are lucky we can get to chat about managing a business honorably while you are young.” Vernon said. “That is if you want my advice.”


“My ear would appreciate you tickling it instead of Grace tugging on it.” Tim said slipping between us and grabbing us each by the hand. “Glad the telescope shop is close my Love. You promised to feed me to Vernon and you have no idea how stimulating being in my tea house has been. Very smart of you to call for reinforcements my Love.”


“That's also why I am feeding you to Vernon first.” I said. “Here we are. I'd like to have a look at your telescopes please Joe. The one I'd like to buy is the CGEM 800HD.”


“Here it is sir.” Joe said showing us the telescope on the stand. “Yes it comes with the stand. You really don't need anything else sir unless you need a camera.”


“I'll check on that my Love.” Tim said giving Joseph a call.


Costanzo had a digital camera so all we needed was the telescope. Delivery within the hour to my home sounded perfect. Tim scolded me and Joe for making this way to easy and short. I promised Joe I'd get revenge for us later. Joe blushed when Tim assured me he wasn't going to forget his last switching soon. Especially when the welts had blossomed so nicely overnight. Vernon laughed when Tim told him we'd become big picnic fans and were fond of the nearby woods. I decided to call for a taxi to get them in bed sooner.


While we waited for our taxi Caryn called to let me know they had just received approval for both balconies. The contractor doing the restaurant work was happy to include the balconies and give us a discount for all of it. She would pass on my request they do the upper balcony first so Costanzo could get on with his star-gazing soon. Caryn had nothing else to do. I told her I'd be over with a taxi soon to fetch them. Tim wasted no time leading Vernon upstairs when we got home. The rest of us got started on dinner. A variety of pasta sauces and dishes with lots of garlic bread and big salads.


A beaming Curtis handed us glasses of champagne when we arrived at the tea house after it closed for the day. Grace told us for the first day in business sales of fifteen-hundred pounds was an amazing start. Especially when everything flowed nicely and nobody had felt rushed off their feet. Once word got out about the new tea house Tim could easily be doing over two-thousand pounds in sales a day.


The ten-hour day was split between four employees who worked a five-hour shift. They were very happy with the seventy pounds they'd each taken in tips. The three ladies hugged and kissed Tim. We all laughed when the only guy working today also hugged and kissed Tim. His girlfriend asked me to email her the picture of her boyfriend kissing his boss. She liked it because I had caught them with their lips pressed together. Then she hugged and kissed Tim because of all the shopping she could do with her boyfriend's newfound wealth.


“We are very happy it went well.” Elizabeth said. “The most important thing is we have a job that looks like being here for a while. Yes we will work harder when word spreads but that is fine. Grace has us so well-trained and such a wonderful system in place we could cope with twice as much business without any problem.”


“I just want to thank you for all doing such a great job.” Tim said leaning against me. “This dream would be over very quickly if it weren't for you guys being so willing to work hard and cheerfully. Please stay and enjoy your celebration. The emotion is about to hit me so I'd better go find my therapist. When you're married to Rohan it pays to keep a therapist on call or close at hand. I'll be okay for one song my Love.”


After singing a song of thanks I walked Tim back home where Garth took care of him. Christopher served him a tea Tim told us rivaled Lao's in bad taste. I told him it was worth it to have him join us for a celebratory dinner. He told me it was easy for me to say because I wasn't the one who had to drink it. We were all excited to hear from Ingrid the upper balcony would be finished on Thursday. That meant we could hand over the telescope before our weekend getaway. Garth made us laugh by saying he had taken Jarvis to the bank to open an account with his two grand. He had smoothed things over by confirming it had been a gift from me.


“The best part was watching them splurge on pizza and beer.” Garth said. “Well splurge as they see it. Rohan they asked me if I thought you'd mind them each getting a case of beer with their pizza. I got them to agree a case of beer needed two pizzas each.”


“Are you up for pizzas tomorrow night Dad?” I asked with a smile.


“That is the saddest tale I've heard in a long time.” Charles said. “We have to fix that son. Yes Adriana it is a matter of honor. I can't believe teens don't know how to splurge on pizza and beer. We must fix this right away.”


“I think this is a lesson I must attend.” Adriana said. “What is the correct amount for splurging?”


“Two large or three medium pizzas.” Charles said straight away. “Two or three cases of beer. A minimum of two. That's per person of course. Leftovers are mandatory Grace. You have a traditional pizza and beer breakfast the next morning. Yes we'll attend that as well.”


“I'll have to make certain Holden spends more time with you Charles.” Caryn said. “Rohan and Tim have been drooling over him from day one so I can't take a chance leaving him with them. They might be totally honorable but Holden could feel a sense of gratitude that might lead him into bed with them. I don't mind him sleeping with other guys Grace but Rohan considers an hour a quickie. There is no way Holden is getting that sort of treatment from me.”


“Good of you to spare him the disappointment.” Adriana said.


“Us girls usually know what's best for the guys.” Caryn said modestly. “I'll have a little more food thank you Tim. That will give Holden more to help me work off.”


“Better call in the order tonight.” Griogair suggested. “We'll need close to fifty pizzas at that rate.”


“Don't we have our tea tomorrow?” Tim asked.


“I haven't had chance to tell you but it got postponed to Wednesday.” Charles said.


A laughing Pauline returned after placing the order with Griogair. She told us it was the first time she'd ever got a bulk discount ordering pizza. I gave Charles a high-five. Tim called Jarvis and asked for their address. He told them it was just me and Caryn coming over. We had a surprise lesson for them tomorrow night and needed to see they had everything we needed. A very good thing we decided to visit Caryn told me when we stepped inside their apartment.


“Go through all the furniture to make certain nothing you want has fallen down behind the cushions.” I said looking around the apartment. “While Lyle checks that for us Jarvis you can give me a hand taking measurements.”


“Are you attached to any of this furniture?” Caryn asked while we took measurements of the apartment.


“You're kidding right.” Lyle said. “I'd burn it in the yard if I could afford to pay the fine.”


“That makes it easy.” Caryn said. “Everything goes.”


“Go through your closets and drop off whatever clothing you want at the laundromat.” I said. “Leave the clothes you don't want hanging up. We're going to make it easy and start fresh because we only have tomorrow guys. This place is being redone. I'm calling in a cleaning crew and setting up a regular visit from them. That doesn't mean you get to do no cleaning and trash the place. Harriet will visit the night before her crew arrives and if this place is a mess she will use the cane on you before and after you tidy up.”


“No matter how bad that spanking feels remember it would be worse if Rohan thrashed you.” Caryn advised ending her call. “Harriet has a crew ready. I'll shop in the morning and have it all delivered tomorrow afternoon. Okay Rohan we're finished. Thanks guys.”


Christopher told us Tim was asleep when we returned. The herbs to help him relax had done their job very nicely. They would ease up on the dosage as he adjusted to owning his tea house. The others agreed to wait and give Jinsong a lift to the cottage. He was adamant he watch while I did energy work on Tim. Vernon agreed this might be a time when I went too far and let my emotions cloud my judgment. My Lady made her presence felt very strongly. She sounded a lot like Lao when she let me know I was not going to embarrass her. Jinsong smiled when I shared this with him.


“Your Lady can rest assured you judged that very nicely.” Jinsong complimented me later. “Rohan it was a little strong and not as gentle as it could have been but that was your natural concern. Anything else and I would have worried about your humanity. You've done all you can. Relax downstairs with a novel and a good drink for a bit. Return to bed when you feel better. I hear we are redecorating the gangster pad. Yes I am helping Rohan. Redecorating is lots of fun.”


I had Tim over at the tea house at seven the next morning. I let him spend an hour there before we breakfasted at the hotel. Jarvis handed Caryn the key to his apartment. When Garth asked how they were feeling about us decorating their place he told us they'd called my housekeeper last night. Caryn relented and showed them some tentative designs. Enough of them so they would get a feel for the furnishings but not know the finished design.


“We worried it would look like Rohan's place.” Lyle admitted. “Thank you for going with mid-range stuff. You guys are amazing. I can't believe you're going to move furniture and clean. What did Skye call it Jarvis?”


“Ridiculous.” Jarvis said. “The only ridiculous thing is me about to cry. Garth let's get started on those tests.”


“We'd better go and meet the truck from the thrift store.” Caryn said.


Harriet hugged and kissed me in front of her cleaning crew when Caryn told her what I'd arranged for Jarvis and Lyle. I asked her if she knew of any massage students to help the guys after their physical. A genuine therapeutic massage I insisted. Harriet promised to arrange it for the guys. Caryn told me my housekeeper had emailed her a shopping list for cleaning supplies and food to stock the cupboards. Cookbooks were arriving tomorrow. Joseph was giving them cooking lessons on Friday using the books. He'd insisted on helping in some way.


“I've got cleaning to do and you've got shopping to do Caryn.” I said. “Sam please go with her. She'll need somebody with handyman experience from what I saw of those designs. The problem is where to put the second fridge for drinks. I'm sure you'll figure something out. I can't believe Phyllis and Adriana are making all the curtains for this place in one day.”


The problem of a second fridge got resolved by building a cabinet around it. Sam told me he'd added insulation so the fridge wouldn't need to turn on as often. He had matched the design with the hutch containing the dinnerware so the two of them looked like matching pieces. I told Charles the fact we couldn't get all the beer inside the fridge meant we'd got it right. We'd heat the pizza in the new oven and give it a good workout. The landlord insisted we keep the walls white so Caryn used the drapes to provide color for accent walls along with large headboards and pictures above the bed. Caryn flattered me by using a number of my pictures. The more masculine ones like the church and even one of the graveyard because it captured the trees. A picture of some gravestones were very fitting for gangsters we agreed.


When we finished I liked the simple elegance of the place. The furniture was well-made without being flashy or gaudy. Caryn smiled when I told her she had shown me that economical didn't mean cheap.


“Before you go inside I want you to know apart from the fridges and stove the rest cost as much as I usually spend on a single room for Rohan.” Caryn said. “I hope you guys like what we've done to your place. We'll wait outside.”


“No we don't like what you've done.” a deadpan Lyle said returning after a few minutes. “We fucking love it!”


“Could somebody tell me where you've hidden the second fridge?” Jarvis asked when we stepped inside.


“That's part of your lesson.” Charles said. “You see we heard about your sorry attempt to splurge on pizza and beer. I appreciate you wanting to save Rohan's money but you cannot do it on pizza and beer. Tonight us old reprobates are showing you what splurging means. There will be leftovers and we will be here for breakfast.”


“Very clever.” Grace said when the pizza got wheeled in on two hand carts. “Yes Lyle this is what they mean by splurging. Jarvis please open the door to the closet next to the hutch. That is splurging on beer.”


Jarvis closed the door, pinched himself and opened it again. Charles explained the formula to them. They recited it back to him several times. They promised to call me if they were in doubt. Grace showed them their newly stocked kitchen cupboards. She explained Joseph's offer to help and let them know cookbooks were on the way. Their first lesson was warming pizza. I introduced the guys to Harriet who promised to visit and show them what she expected of them and explain the cleaning formulas from my housekeeper.


Although I wasn't a big fan of carpeting it was all the owner would allow and it had been quick to instal. Chesterfield was big enough to have a shop that carried wool carpeting without any chemicals. They had recommended a particular type of vacuüm cleaner which Caryn had bought. The key being that it used suction instead of a beater bar. Along with the books a delivery of cleaning materials for the carpet was on its way. Harriet told the guys she would be over to show them everything to do with cleaning on Friday. Until then the threat of her cane would have to suffice.


“Quick Tim take a picture for Matilda.” Caryn said when Jarvis hugged me goodnight.


“Never mind Matilda that's just too sweet.” Adriana said. “Two nights ago he was pointing a knife at Rohan and now he's hugging him.”


A sleepy Lyle answered the door in his robe the next morning. Charles wasted no time getting pizza warming and beers poured for the rest of us while our hosts dressed. Grace told them if they attempted anything from the cookbooks today and got stuck to call her. They could also call me but I was attending an important tea this afternoon. Jarvis told us they'd be eating pizza three meals a day for the next two days. The last of the beer had just gone inside the fridge.


“Please don't buy any clothes if you don't have to for a couple of days guys.” Tim said before we left to go to the tea house. “Let me know if you really need anything.”


The local Chief Super liked the fact we would have guys keeping an eye on Antonio. I explained I'd helped him in the past and he owed me a favor. That is how I could get him to agree to stay away from drugs and violence. They wouldn't set up any safe houses for fugitives here either. I told him if he couldn't get hold of me he could contact Garth or Christopher. They would have access to Antonio. Bill pointed out we would be policing them and all drug and violent crime would become isolated incidents if they happened at all within a few months. That would free up his guys and the crime statistics would look amazing.


“That raises a concern.” the Chief Super said. “How do I explain it?”


“Would you mind using some of your force to help with a community policing initiative?” Christopher asked. “I'll have a proposal sent over. This is a plan worked out by the guys at our colleges. You'll have all the paperwork you need if anybody asks questions. The college is a bona fide one so no problems there.”


“You might even get a special mention for taking the initiative and trying out this plan.” Bill said. “You know about Rohan's plans for a college of his own in Chesterfield. That shows a long-term commitment to this town. He can bring in enough trained people to take care of any problems posed by a gangster or two. Their guys protected the queen.”


“This is all very nice and reassuring.” the Chief Super said. “Please send me those plans to look over. All I need from Rohan is his word whatever agreement he brokers will be what he considers fair and his friend will keep to it.”


“You have it.” I said extending my hand. “I'll fix it if he breaks our agreement whatever the cost.”


“Good enough.” the Chief Super said shaking my hand. “I know sometimes even honest men turn and as long as you repair any damage I will consider you to have kept your word. My compliments to your husband on his tea and the treats. I'll put out the word this tea house is worth a visit.”


“Thank you Chief Super.” I said. “Please let me know if we can help you in any way. Christopher and Garth run the Order for Europe if you want more information on how we can help. Please contact them. We have lots of colleges and students studying lots of different stuff so please call us.”


The Hospitallers decided to move their workout with Jarvis and Lyle forward. I called Harriet who told me the two massage therapists would be able to adjust their schedule. Christopher promised to have one of the boys call Harriet when they were on their way home. Once again I cooked lunch for the guys. Tim didn't mind leaving the tea house for his tea with the duchess. The outfits we had worn on our first visit to the restaurant were perfect Charles assured us and we'd be arriving in the right style of car.


Our hostess was a very warm and friendly lady whose willingness to smile and laugh brought a softening to her title. She was a very stately lady in her late fifties but just like Charles acted much younger when she felt she could get away with it. She introduced us to a granddaughter about the same age as Tim. We took a walk in the gardens before tea. She let me know I was a scandalous figure among the nobility. Openly gay and marrying the earl to his butler created a stir through every royal home. Nobody believed I had cooked calzone for the queen's dinner. The granddaughter's eyes got wider when I admitted it was true. I also added how Lance had cooked her a lasagna.


“I'm keeping him away from you so you'll visit my home Duchess.” Charles admitted freely. “I know you love children and Lance is very much a hero. He is the reason I bought an orphanage. Apart from Clan business helping children is the only other useful thing about this title.”


“You've been keeping an entire orphanage of children from me?” the duchess asked with a smile. “There's always a garden project that needs doing Rohan. You say that's all it takes to get them out here by the bus load. I must give the matter some thought. I think our tea is ready. That looks like my maid approaching.”


A knowing smile from Tim was his response when I shuddered a little at the sight of cucumber sandwiches. The sharp-eyed mischievous duchess noticed the interplay.


“Cucumber sandwich Rohan?” she asked winking at Tim.


“No thank your Grace.” I said quickly. “A man should always take his water in liquid form. That way you can add a good Scotch to it Demi. My husband who is still growing into his Scotch would love to have one on my behalf.”


“Nicely done Rohan.” the duchess said. “When we are alone please call me Lucinda or I'll have to start calling you Grand Master.”


“Heaven forbid.” I said helping myself to a scone. “Lovely scones Lucinda. My compliments to the baker.”


“May I be excused to go show Tim the art gallery please?” Demi asked after we had enjoyed our second cup of tea.


“I'd love to see the art but let me just finish this last drop of tea.” Tim said. “There's a painting from the 1600's? That makes it almost as old as my husband. He looks so good because my youth and vitality rub off on him. I also found some nice spa products I get him to use every second century. Yes I am exaggerating a little. He used them at least twice in the last century. A particularly dry spell it was the history books tell me.”


“Yes Lucinda marriage does keep us humble.” I said. “While we are being informal and because Charles bravely brought me here before he could mentor me in the ways of royalty I want to offer my help if you ever need anything. Charles is very fond of you and I trust his judgment without reservation.”


“Thank you Rohan.” Lucinda said placing her hand over mine. “I'd be happy to spend some time tutoring you if you ever want to visit again. Charles please share my contact information with Rohan. I trust you to keep it secure.”


We chatted for bit and were just getting up to go find Tim and Demi when we saw them coming back. Demi was smiling broadly but Tim was wringing his hand. Lucinda just smiled when I told Charles it looked like trouble.


“Tim knocked him right on to his backside.” Demi said excitedly. “He looked so startled sitting there on the ground I couldn't help but laugh. I know it's rude but I couldn't help myself. I will apologize later. I promise.”


“Who did you knock on his backside Tim?” Lucinda asked with a small smile. “I know you must have had good reason.”


“We never had time for introductions.” Tim said. “He was pulling a lady, your maid I think, roughly by the arm. She was protesting so I asked him to let her go. He told me it was none of my business but I disagreed. I told him a gentleman had to make this his business. That's when he let her go and tried to punch me. He missed the first two times. I thought it best not to give him a third chance. Yes a tall skinny man about twenty with very short brown hair. Military looking guy. Sorry to put a damper on our tea.”


“You have made my entire year.” Lucinda said impulsively hugging and kissing Tim. “That is Kenneth you knocked over. A nephew who I know has forced himself on a lot of maids but of course they would never say a word. Even if they spoke up it wouldn't do to take the word of a maid over a nobleman's son. Now I have two witnesses who can confirm his assault on my maid. I can send him packing.”


“That is the only honorable thing for you to do.” Charles agreed. “Now you know of his actions you must defend your staff. Try to lose the smile before we reach him though Lucinda. We must observe the form.”


“Let us go see the maid first.” I suggested. “Her arm might need tending and having seen her bruise you won't just be taking Tim and Demi's word about events. A picture or two is also prudent. His family might try siding with him.”


“The kitchen is the most likely place to find her.” Lucinda said leading us quickly to it. “Rebecca I am here because I did have to see those bruises on your arm. Let this nice man look at your arm. He has a little medical training. We also need to take a photograph. Hush you are my maid and I won't stand for my staff being treated like this for any reason. Demi tells me Tim did a fine job freeing you.”


“Yes Madam.” Rebecca said. “Thank you sir for your help. I'm sorry you got into trouble.”


“Please call me Tim.” Tim said. “No trouble at all but I must find out from Rohan's instructor how to throw a punch without hurting my hand. What a clever husband I have. Next time I'll try a back fist strike. I'll get the bag up when we get home and practice. Then it will be what-for without the ouch on my part.”


I left the others with Rebecca while I went outside for some lavender. She promised to put some more on in the morning. While Tim was at the tea house I'd bring out some salve for Rebecca but the lavender would do until then. Demi agreed I drove a fancy car so driving here tomorrow would be fun. The cook blushed when I gave her a thank you kiss for the scones. She told us Kenneth was last seen heading towards his room.


“I'll be out here if you need me Dad.” I said when we reached his room. “The two of you will do better than me.”


When we gathered in a library a few minutes later Charles told me we would follow Kenneth back to Chesterfield to see he was on his way east to his regiment. Charles had pointed out it wouldn't be good for Kenneth if he chatted with his commanding officer about what happened here today. He was free to see if his word held more weight than Charles' word backed up by two witnesses. Then there was the little matter of having insulted a clan member by calling his word into question.


“Rohan is your husband Tim and can ask for satisfaction through combat to restore honor if he wishes.” Charles said. “He didn't hear your word called into question and I might have misheard but if Lucinda confirms it then Rohan has no choice. I'd suggest Rohan holds off asking Lucinda what she heard.”


“That would be best.” Tim said. “I mean if little me can knock him on his butt Rohan would win that bout before we could blink. Charles you might want to ask his commanding officer to check the level of training they give soldiers today. How can I sleep safe at night with poorly trained men on guard? What about my tax money? I hardly think it's being put to good use. Maybe I ought to have a word with his CO chappy. Two swings and he didn't come close to touching me. I feel quite put out. Awk!”


“Sorry about that ladies but this week has been an exciting one for my husband.” I said when I broke off the kiss. “He'll be fine when he gets his tea inside him.”


“Getting his vile tea inside him is not fine at all.” Tim said. “Phew! Thanks for the kiss my Love. Everything caught up with me. A small brandy would be lovely Lucinda.”


Demi laughed when Tim made faces while pretending his brandy was tea. I told her that was pretty accurate. Charles added just when you thought they couldn't taste worst somehow they did. The sound of a car leaving made us finish our drinks quickly and rush our goodbyes a little. I promised to bring the salve out in the morning. We had no trouble keeping Kenneth in sight. I hung back and followed him past Chesterfield to make certain he wasn't doubling back.


“I thought I'd introduce Rohan and Tim to nobility in a nice safe setting.” Charles explained to the others when we were on the deck. “Tim goes off to look at paintings and ends up knocking a nobleman's son on his ass. I could have asked Rohan for some advice on how to treat a black eye but it slipped my mind. Seems the lad has a way of forcing himself on hired help trusting his standing to keep things quiet Grace. None of the help would say anything even if they thought somebody would believe it wasn't consensual.”


“He was lucky he bumped into Tim and not one of you two.” Nancy said. “You guys are very old-fashioned about such things and have a lot more muscle than Tim.”


“Thank the gods I got that tea down.” Tim said setting his mug on the table. “Jinsong we must have a chat soon. My hand is sore. The idea is to make him sore without me hurting.”


“I will show you tomorrow morning Tim.” Jinsong promised. “Rohan we will go get some herbs after breakfast and I will teach you how to make a salve for bruising. Then I will come with you when you deliver it. Now we must eat before Tim falls asleep. You did very well giving him two swings Tim.”


“How did he miss twice Jinsong?” Tim asked. “Charles told us he is a lieutenant. Surely he knows some unarmed fighting. You are right. I did move just like I do when we fight with swords. He seemed to move very slowly.”


“Glad to hear it.” Garth said. “I like to think the guys you spar with here are fast Tim. You think you are slow because we usually watch Rohan and Jinsong or Rohan doing rolling hands with Christopher. They spar at full speed and make us all look slow. You are pretty good with your sword now. Tomorrow I think you should spar with Sister Deanne. You will get an honest assessment from her. You'll sleep soundly but wake refreshed early in the morning and ready for sparring. We can get up early one day.”


The next morning I set up some cellphones and laptops to record the sparring match between Sister Deanne and Tim. He lost the bout but managed to make it a good bout. Sister Deanne had worked up a nice sweat by the end. Jinsong then had Tim show us how Kenneth had swung at him.


“Please show me again.” Charles said incredulously. “Christopher do you mind if I take a team of SWAT monks over to Kenneth's regiment for a little sparring? Thank you. I'll call his CO today. Will you please text me the contact details for your SWAT team? Jinsong no doubt being a lieutenant faced with a skinny kid like Tim can make you overconfident but this is ridiculous. Even at my old age I would have no trouble dealing with several of them at the same time. Nancy it's about pride. I might not have been a member of that regiment but I was part of the British army. Now if you will excuse me I will go get some medicine.”


The blows Kenneth had swung were easily avoided even by my sons. They were roundhouse punches started too far back and delivered with too much force. Tim had simply squatted and let them sail over his head. Then while Kenneth's arm was in front of his body he had simply stood up and delivered a straight punch over it. I sparred with Christopher while Sister Deanne sent the videos on each phone and laptop to a nun who would edit them and make us one nice video. Jinsong worked with Tim on different strikes and punches.


“I have a favor to ask of you Dad.” I said when we had settled in the garden at the tea house. “You told me things are tight for Lucinda financially and I noticed she has very little staff. The paintings are magnificent. Good enough that even I recognized a few of them. I think guided tours would generate some funds. We have Order members who love and study art. I was also thinking of asking Lucinda to help teach some of our members the proper etiquette in dealing with nobility. They would make fine nannies and chauffeurs. I was also thinking of setting up a small catering crew like we have in Winchester at a nearby chapter house so we can cater functions in the gardens.”


“Lucinda will love having the grounds filled with people.” Charles said. “She always loved her soirees. This will be nice exposure for the local orchestra when they want to practice. I think it will help lift the sadness she has felt since her husband died. This has nothing to do with the favor though does it?”


“No it doesn't.” I agreed. “What I'd like to do is build a small meditation garden in honor of Samuel somewhere on the grounds. I know I don't need your permission for the garden but I'd like to share something about the works he inspired through our foundations. That is why I am asking for a favor.”


“We're so busy now a little more work won't matter.” Charles said. “Nancy is doing very well with all the work and Mary has offered to help if she needs a hand. Mary asked me to find out from you when you can marry her. They're thinking June or July next year but there's no rush. Okay I'll have her call Tracy and set the date. Looks like Tim is ready for breakfast. Here come Jarvis and Lyle. I guess they are getting the results from their tests and physical today.”


After breakfast we said goodbye to our friends from Scotland. Charles promised to have the sparring recorded. Christopher told me the SWAT monks would do it anyway for their own training. I asked Sister Deanne where the lovely nun doing the video editing lived. Turning around and pointing north-east Sister Deanne told me a ten-minute walk in that direction would bring me to a chapter house. Sam and Phyllis promised to keep a close guard on Sister Deanne while they visited the nun. I didn't need to tell Sam what I wanted. Grace promised to keep a close watch on Tim because he'd be at the tea house all day. Tim was happy to go on a lunch date with Grace.


Jinsong took me shopping for salve ingredients and some equipment I'd need to make it. He told me it would be good if I set up a small corner of my office. I got him to agree the storage shed I'd built for the slow-cookers would be large enough. A second shed would provide lovely symmetry I added. I sent a text to Caryn. She replied with a smiley face. I threatened her with a spanking if I didn't work on the construction. Today we used my office.


We were just leaving the house when Sister Trinity arrived to look at the sparring area. I decided to go upstairs with them when she told me she only needed five-minutes. They had stopped at the camera shop on the way to get an idea of what was available. The four of them squeezed in the back of the Mercedes so I could go with and pay for the cameras. Sam told me I had an account at the hardware store if he needed anything. I took him over to the bank and got him a debit card so he could pay for a taxi to take them back or anything he needed to order online. There would be five thousand in the account and it would automatically be brought back up to five-thousand at the end of each month I told Sam. Bigger purchases would go through Ingrid, Caryn or Edgar on business accounts.


Finally we were on our way. I called Lucinda to let her know. She promised to have scones and tea waiting for me. I stopped in the little village near the church and bought some homemade jams. They could spare three dozen of the cutest bottles. Jinsong told Lucinda he hoped they had baked lots of scones. She laughed when I brought out all the jams. Demi came running up and to a screeching halt when she remembered to curtsey. I bowed with the jam in my arm and held my other arm open. When I lifted her up she kissed my cheek. I carried her and the jam to the kitchen.


“Rohan made this salve for you Rebecca.” Jinsong explained. “Here is a list of the herbs. This is a simple salve to make and he has friends in Chesterfield who will gladly make some more for you. Actually he has friends all around England who will make it for you or anybody else who needs it. You can submit an online request at this website explaining what you need and mention Rohan told you to write. That will get things moving.”


“Call this number or email him if you ever have a problem.” I said handing her Christopher's business card. “Here's one for you Lucinda. There are some things I'd like to chat with you about over tea and maybe after tea as well if you have the time.”


“I have nothing but time now.” Lucinda said. “Rohan I might do more than just kiss your cheek if you plan to change that for me.”


“Madam!” a shocked Rebecca exclaimed.


“Oh Rebecca you're such fun.” Lucinda said with a laugh. “I know he's married so he's safe. You on the other hand are not dating anybody at present.”


Cook chuckled as Rebecca's blush deepened. Jinsong lifted Demi up on my shoulders for the walk to the terrace. I explained my plans about staffing the manor in return for her help training the Order members. Guarding the queen had given me the idea that it would be nice if we could offer security in the guise of staff. I also explained about the chauffeurs and nannies. We would be interested in getting help from other families as well. Christopher would appoint somebody in charge here who would also be her butler or manservant. She loved the idea of soirees and agreed they would give us extra training opportunities.


“I'd like to ask for something that means more to me than I can express.” I said reaching out to hold her hand. “Charles has told you about my plans in Chesterfield. I obviously intend to spend a lot of time in this area soon. A long time ago I promised myself when I found a place in the U.K to settle long-term I'd build a memorial garden for Samuel. Yes Charles' son. What I'd like to do is buy or lease a small parcel of your estate.”


“I loved Samuel with all my heart.” Lucinda said. “He would come out here every year for at least one and usually two of the school breaks. Cook was here for his last visit and many before the last. Rohan we would love a memorial garden to Samuel on the estate.”


“Do you mind if I have the kids build it?” I asked with a smile. “They're much better behaved than me or my husband.”


“The more kids you send to work on it the happier I will be.” Lucinda said. “Let's go find a spot if you're finished with your tea.”


Demi rode on my shoulders as I followed the chi of the land under my Lady's guidance. We came across a little stream that had a small waterfall at the edge of a clearing. Then my Lady surprised me by telling me to hand it completely over to Sanne. I told Lucinda of my plan to put Sanne in charge of the project with her husband Bram. Standing with Demi on my shoulders I sang a song to set the intention. Later I'd come back and do a longer blessing.


“What would you ladies say to a spot of lunch in a nearby village?” I asked as we approached the manor. “Us old men would love being seen in public with such pretty ladies.”


Lucinda went inside to let the staff know she was going for a drive and lunching out. Demi ran to her room to grab a sweater. A few minutes later we were on the road. I told Lucinda anywhere she wanted would be perfect with me. Jinsong laughed when I thanked her for choosing a pub and saving me from some teasing by Jinsong.


“Yes Rupert it's me and it has been way too long.” Lucinda said greeting the proprietor with a kiss. “This kind man has presented me with an opportunity to change that soon. I'm sorry but I might become a frequent visitor again. Is that David at the corner table? The poor man looks like nothing more than a shell. Yes the loss of a spouse is hard to bear. I'm lucky I have Demi. I'll go say hello. We'd all like some of your fish and chips please.”


“We'd also like some of your bread and butter pudding please Rupert.” I added quickly. “Please bring out enough for five. Three pints of your finest ale and a half-pint for the lass please. She'll be the one kissing David soon. I think he'd prefer it to me sitting in his lap and kissing him.”


David was quick to see the light when Lucinda let him know I wasn't joking about sitting in his lap and kissing him better. I got him a refill while we waited for lunch and increased our lunch order. I calmly admitted I was trying to bribe him into accepting a job offer involving a lot of kids. Jinsong suggested I buy him a cask if I wanted him to work around all those kids who would kiss him all day long.


David became curious when I mentioned building a memorial garden and tidying up the existing gardens. He told me Samuel and a friend would steal apples from his orchard. He knew because he would watch them filching the apples. David didn't mind because Samuel would always bring back a fresh apple pie and leave it on his doorstep the next day.


“So you're that David.” I said with a smile. “I'm glad I got to buy you a beer and lunch. Samuel spoke very fondly of his adventures in your orchard. He mentioned how exciting it was because he always felt like somebody was watching him. Samuel never mentioned seeing you. I nursed him David.


You guys have to visit the suite in Sunderland. My sons are visiting soon and we'll arrange a visit. You're welcome to join us Demi but Dylan will be stealing kisses non-stop. Well he might stop to eat, drink and sing Sunderland songs between kisses.”


“Now you will have to bring her along Rohan.” Lucinda said with a smile. “You can't promise a girl endless kisses and not deliver.”


“We will track Demi down and kidnap her.” I said. “Save those kisses for Dylan please lass. Saved by lunch. Yes David that is for you. I'm bribing you.”


“How long do I have to make my decision?” David asked with a smile. “I like being bribed.”


“I imagine it will take a day before people can get out here.” I said. “Did I mention the job includes food and drink? You might need to rent a car to get to work or I can buy you one. That's sometimes cheaper David.”


“No need for a car.” Lucinda said. “We have plenty of empty rooms at the manor. I'd love the company. Oh don't worry about the gossip. I've got my eyes on my maid so I'll leak that scandalous bit of information or we can let them gossip about me, my maid and you.”


“You're the coolest grandma ever.” Demi said in awe. “I can give you more kisses if you stay at the manor David.”


“Well I couldn't refuse such an offer.” David said. “Rohan your bribes have worked but I warn you I've let myself go a little.”


“When Samuel died I let myself go a lot.” I said. “Jinsong there's no need to mention I'm a wanted eco-terrorist in France. Glad you think it's cool Demi. You're in very bad company. A gay priest who is an eco-terrorist and a bisexual grandmother are not the people good girls should hang out with.”


“I'll get Dylan to spank me for being so naughty.” Demi said. “Pudding and another beer. This is a great lunch.”


The food was wonderful I told Rupert as we headed out. He didn't mind me kidnapping David and putting him to work. I promised to arrange for Lucinda to visit him or for him to visit the manor more often. We had to rush so I'd let Lucinda get him caught up on things at her next visit. We only had to wait a few minutes for David to pack his bag. Then we were off to the manor. I asked Rebecca to fetch the cook and bring her to the study.


“Give me ten-minutes to get dressed and I'll be ready to chat with your duchess.” Sanne said when I called. “Yes I can get the kids to say hi. Chat soon.”


“Rohan it is very rude to huddle with the staff and whisper when you're in a room with a duchess.” Lucinda scolded.


“Conspirators always whisper.” I said over my shoulder. “I need to make certain this lady understands me completely and if I spoke loudly you'd object and kick up a fuss. This way I'll be down south before you reach for the belt. You will follow my instructions to the letter? Good. You will include a little something for you and Rebecca? Very good. Don't forget the hot chocolate or Lance will be very sad. He's only ten so let's keep him happy.”


Lucinda teased me for being very rude when I started my chat with Sanne by saying I had to rush off to bless the balcony. She forgave me because I'd arranged for lots of kids to visit her gardens. Once I let Sanne and Bram know this was a memorial garden for Samuel I had wanted to build for more than a decade they promised to spare no expense but keep it tasteful. Sanne thanked me for having such faith in them and leaving it entirely in their hands. I let Bram know David was an engineer. We could get the surveyors that Bram wanted. Between them and Lucinda they would choose the perfect amount of land. I also mentioned we were sprucing up the existing gardens as a thank you.


When we were leaving the study Lucinda was asking Hans questions about their boat. Jinsong laughed when I admitted my life was always like this, There was a continuous stream of projects going on. I really meant to slow down but the momentum just kept building. We arrived at the tea house just in time to get a pot of tea before closing. Business was steadily increasing by about a hundred pounds a day as customers spread the word. The tips were still more than enough to keep the staff happy.


On the way to collect the telescope Tim got a call from the laundry to let him know the clothes were ready. Yes we could make a detour if Jarvis and Lyle were at home I agreed. I carried Lyle's clothes up to their apartment and Jinsong carried Jarvis' clothes.


“When we cleaned out your closets it didn't leave you guys with much.” Tim said when we stepped inside their apartment. “I know times have been lean for you but they have been very, very good for me. This is my way of sharing my good luck. A friend helped us put this together for you. He chose clothing at a price he thought you'd be comfortable with even though I told him cost didn't matter. I'm sure it cost a little more than you're used to .”


“A whole new wardrobe?” Lyle asked. “You bought us each a whole new wardrobe. My room is right this way Rohan. Let me have a look.”


Tim had asked me to make a note of their sizes from the clothing they had left in their closets when we redecorated. I told them if they wanted to thank Lawrence they would need to come with us to the balcony unveiling. Both balconies and the separate entrance were complete so the restaurant space would stay a surprise. Joseph led Costanzo to the bedroom so I could set up the telescope on the balcony without him seeing it. I loved the seating and grill area.


“You guys can come out now unless you need a few more minutes to dress.” I said after I finished admiring the balcony.


“He does love to tease Costanzo.” Joseph said. “A kindly but naughty man is Rohan. Come along Rohan. Costanzo will be kissing you in about ten seconds or less. Looks like less. Oh my it's a lovely looking telescope. Give him a couple of kisses from me Costanzo. We can connect the camera and take pictures. That's amazing.”


Tim asked Costanzo to take a bunch of pictures later tonight and we would pop in before we left tomorrow. Costanzo asked us to join them for a thank you breakfast. Then he turned his attention back to the telescope. Jarvis and Lyle moved away with Tim to call Lawrence and thank him. I draped an arm over Joseph's shoulder and promised him Tim for the night if he gave me a cooking lesson. Joseph got the okay for dinner from Costanzo and we were all set. I grabbed Sam and Phyllis on the way out.


“You've been very busy since you got here Rohan so there's no need to apologize.” Tammy said kindly as she stepped in to the kitchen and kissed my cheek.


“We arrived yesterday but were really tired and stayed in London at your B&B.” Bert explained. “Garth told us Millie's cottage would be available today. Staying in London worked out for the best. Yes he insisted we visit The Queen's Lancer. We had dinner at O'Mally's and breakfast at the diner this morning before our train ride.”


“Rohan it is a beautiful trip.” Tammy said. “You must take it one day soon. Joseph is going to show us around so we can see what you've been up to here. The tea house is lovely and seems very busy. I chatted to Curtis and will help him a little with his office. This is such a fun trip. I'm glad Bert talked me in to accepting Lawrence's offer.”


“I bet Elaine is as well.” I said with a smile. “Would you be a dear and help get an area ready for dishing up and eating.”


Chairs from both balconies gave us enough seating. We ate off our laps because the group was too large for the table. I sang a quick blessing and thanked our hosts.


“This is a tad better than what we cooked today Jarvis.” Lyle said.


“There was nothing wrong with my boiled egg.” Jarvis said calmly. “I think if we practice for the next ten lifetimes we might be able to cook something half as tasty as this.”


“You guys will surprise yourself.” Grace said. “Shepherd's pie is a simple dish although Joseph and Rohan make it something very special. I think it's the love they add.”


“There was a lot of love and gratitude.” Caryn said. “I think Costanzo thanked Rohan thirty times for the telescope.”


“All those kisses means we can skip the foreplay later my Love.” Tim said excitedly. “Thank you Costanzo. You're sure you don't mind us being here at eight for breakfast?”


“I have deliveries and other work Tim.” Costanzo said. “We know you have a long drive south.”


“Now that you mention it I want Rohan to promise not to stop in Winchester.” Caryn said. “Yes I can meet you guys there on Sunday afternoon but we will need to stay there Monday and possibly Tuesday as well.”


“What do you think Tim?” I asked leaning over to kiss him. “I was planning on heading to Blyth early next week but I am happy to go the middle of next week. Yes I want to leave soon or I'll be tempted to interfere with all the work going on at Lucinda's manor. Far better if Garth and Christopher deal with things. I'll explain in a few minutes Garth. Tammy your stay here might be extended I'm afraid. This time I'm giving work to Garth and Christopher. A lot of work and even with the Order to help they might need your help. First I want to settle our plans for the weekend.”


“Caryn would you feel better if we took care of things in Winchester on Monday?” Tim asked. “I'd love a couple of nights in our Arabian home my Love. Let's stop on our way back and see what Caryn has done to Winchester.”


“I am so glad you agreed Caryn.” I said. “You know you will be in a lot of trouble. I want Holden down there with a paddle when we arrive. You have a choice between him or me wielding the paddle. Now before I chat about our next big Chesterfield project Tim please check my phone. I think there will be a few messages from Charles.”


“Yes there are.” Garth said. “He wouldn't tell us anything but he promised you another bottle of the good plonk. A Laphroaig I believe it is Pauline. Yes a bit over five hundred a bottle. I'm as eager to hear what Rohan's been up to as the rest of you. Even Jinsong couldn't keep him from getting up to mischief.”


“Why would I stop Rohan from getting up to good mischief?” Jinsong asked. “He got a little girl to help a man and she is looking forward to meeting Dylan. I think Dylan will enjoy hearing he has to kiss and spank her. Demi is certainly happy about it Caryn. You might want to chat with her. A visit sometime this weekend will be lovely. Garth and Christopher will be visiting her soon.”


“Yes I'm pretty certain you will.” I said after dishing up a second helping. “I'm not certain how much Joseph and Costanzo know about Samuel. Garth please will you chat to them about him over the weekend. Share whatever you feel they need to know. You can share it with anybody who wants to know more. Nothing is off-limits. Absolutely nothing at all. For now it is enough for you to know Samuel was a lover and soulmate who I nursed through cancer sixteen years ago. He was Charles' son.


Charles took us out to meet his friend Lucinda. She is a duchess and he wanted to start introducing me to the nobility because I am Charles' heir. The lean times have affected her as well so I am touching up her gardens as a thank you. Samuel spent a lot of time at Lucinda's home while he was growing up. For over a decade I have wanted to build a memorial garden to Samuel. Until I decided on buying a neighborhood here I hadn't been able to decide where to build the garden. Lucinda kindly agreed to allow me to build it on her land. Our hooligan gardeners will be visiting for a few weeks to work on it and spruce up the existing gardens. Christopher I'd like to recommend Sister Deanne be in charge on this end and work with Sanne and Bram. You are free to appoint somebody else if you wish when you have chatted to Lucinda.


There is more than just the gardening so before anybody agrees to anything hear me out and wait until you know the entire scope of the project. We can learn a lot from books, colleges and the internet but only applying this knowledge gives you the practical experience. Our monks and nuns will make very good nannies or chauffeurs or undercover security if they had experience in the homes of the nobility. Lucinda could do with more staff and we could use the training. She has agreed to help instruct our guys.


The art she has is amazing. I would like to arrange some guided tours for people to view it. Our own art guys will need to assess it first but I hope it can generate some funds for Lucinda. I am also thinking classical music out on the lawn so our guys can learn how to plan, host and cater for functions. Yes Grace just like we do in Winchester. I have no idea how or if Christopher and Garth want to go along with these plans but I'm certain they will chat to you about it if they do.


The British nobility generate a lot of tourism and if we can help them flourish we also help a lot of regular businesses that cater to visitors of noble estates. This might be an interesting assignment for the monks studying economics in the Order and the banking schools. We can use this as a test before spreading it out or we can start with two or three. I'm happy to buy shares in local businesses who want to expand if the tours increase business.


During lunch we met David, a local retired engineer, who I bribed with kisses from Demi to help us with the garden. Lucinda knows him and offered him a room at the manor. Provided he has survived all the kissing he is part of our team. Garth please set him up with a nice salary and make certain he has everything he needs. The cook and Rebecca are calling in a grocery order to the co-op. I was certain we could get it to them tomorrow. Make certain it is enough because I have a feeling they have been frugal for so long what seems a lot to them isn't enough. I insisted on them buying hot chocolate. You know how important this is for Lance.


I'm glad you guys get to take care of the logistics. The hooligans will need the school to travel with them. They might need mobile kitchens as well. We'd better warn the local co-op of the influx ahead of time. Our guys will need an area to spar and exercise. I suggest you think of it as a chance to practice planning a military campaign. I'll chat with you more once you've spoken to Lucinda and your guys. Right now if everybody has finished eating I'd like us to chat with Sanne and Bram for an update before we chat with Charles. Good idea Tim we might want Charles to join our chat. Costanzo and Joseph do you mind if we have the chat here or would you like us to do it at my home?”


“Oh Rohan this sounds so wonderful please do it here.” Joseph said. “That's if Costanzo doesn't mind.”


“I don't mind at all but there is one big problem.” Costanzo said. “These people will drink a lot of coffee. We will be working very hard and finding the beans might be challenging. I don't think the farmers I buy from can supply all we will need.”


“Sister Layla will help you find some more.” I said confidently. “She is the head of South America just like Christopher and Garth run Europe for me. You will need a second roaster. Call Edgar when you find one and he'll arrange payment. I think he'll have fun getting it to you.”


“We'll help you Costanzo.” Jarvis said surprising us all. “We will need some time off to do our workouts though. Wow you have your own workout room and fitness trainer.”


“I'll ask her to design a routine for the two of you using the equipment here if we go through with these plans.” Christopher said. “That is a very nice offer you made Jarvis.”


“Things are going to get quiet around here when the Italians move in so I'm looking to expand my income sources.” Jarvis said. “Thanks to Rohan I've realized how much I miss eating regular meals. I'll keep a few sideline things going so I'm not totally legit.”


“This could be your cover.” Caryn said. “Very smart of you Jarvis.”


“Charles and Sanne can join us in a few minutes.” Tim said. “I told them we'd call back in five once we'd dished up dessert. Lyle if Rohan cooks there will be dessert.”


Realizing the call might be a long one I grabbed two bowls of dessert. Tammy thought I was being very sensible. I hurried the others along.


“Thank you Rohan.” Nancy said a few minutes later. “Charles needs a few minutes to gather himself. Please start with an update from Sanne.”


“We all find it very exciting to work with a duchess.” Sanne said. “She is very kind and loves children. I think working with her will be lots of fun. Lucinda is like Rohan. We had to cut back on the memorial garden Rohan. The parcel of land she wanted to give us was bigger than a farm. When we get through with this project and her gardens we will chat about leasing some of the land to people for farming. A way that keeps the land in her family though. I'm not certain how this will get set up.”


“Our guys can look into setting it up for her.” Garth said. “We will have the legal guys and economic guys work on it together. That was very kind of you to cut back Sanne.”


“While we were getting dessert I chatted with Garth.” Christopher said. “This is something I need to announce now before we chat further. Sister Deanne has just been promoted. The level of her promotion depends on how big this project becomes. She will be in charge of everything to do with the land. That includes figuring out how to accommodate the gardeners and making certain they are happy, comfortable and well-looked after. Sister Deanne you will also see about getting Pauline's garden in shape before the manor project gets started. Congratulations on your promotion.”


“Congratulations Sister Deanne.” I said with a smile. “The head guy has just confirmed it and made it official. I will be gone for a few days so my house is available for you to use over the weekend. Please contact me at anytime if there is anything you need. I don't want to keep our hosts up too late because we have an early breakfast planned with them.”


“Does the Order have surveyors or do we need to get some from outside?” Bram asked.


“The Order has surveyors and engineers.” I said. “Please get the entire estate surveyed. Start with the garden areas but if we are going to work with Lucinda on farms we will need to know what the land looks like and what shape it is in. I will be keeping a close eye on this project because there is simply too much fun for Sister Deanne to have on her own. Yes Sanne the gardening bug has bitten me. I most definitely don't want to see a sketch of the memorial garden. My part is to bless it and enjoy it. All I want is to spend a day there before anybody else. My dad might want to see your plans.”


“No I think I would like to make it a surprise as well.” Charles said. “Sanne this is something Rohan wants to create but if you need a donation towards sprucing the other garden up a bit please let me know. My son is helping Lucinda with staff so she can enjoy socializing again. There is a sparkle in her eyes and joy in her voice. She is happy to have David visiting. Demi is drowning him in kisses because she has to practice. Something about Dylan spanking and kissing her. She doesn't sound too concerned.


I got a call from a very worried Rebecca. She's Lucinda's maid. Yes Bram she needed help adjusting to Rohan. He had given them instructions about groceries and poor cook almost fainted when she heard how much it would cost to get everything on the list. Rebecca wanted to know if they could leave their treats off the list. I warned her that Rohan would spank her but most importantly I reminded her you were my heir and royalty so it would be best to follow your instructions. She agreed and promised to also get the drinks and beer order in. You might need a furniture moving truck to get it out there tomorrow.”


“Thanks for the warning.” Christopher said. “Sister Deanne needs a car. We'll rent something with extra space. Thank you Vernon it sounds like we could also use your car.”


“Tomorrow I am having a chat with the regiment commander.” Charles said. “I will take the head of your SWAT squad with me Christopher. We're having lunch together and then we will go watch a little of the training. Thank you for helping me fix this matter.”


“Is there anything else you need from us?” I asked starting on my second bowl. “Sam has a debit card he can share with Sister Deanne. We'll keep the current balance and increase it if needed. I'll have Edgar set up an alert for when it gets down to a thousand Sister Deanne. There's five thousand on it now. Would you like me to increase it when I mention the alerts tomorrow? No wonder nobody wants my job. I approve her promotion and within an hour she is threatening to spank me.”


“I know you guys don't want to know the details but we might get stuck.” Bram said. “Even with Sister Deanne and all the other wonderful people you have there. We need somebody who knows a lot about Samuel or who knew him very well.”


“You can call me if you are really stuck.” Griogair said. “I'll find a way to find out what you need without my husband's surprise being ruined.”


“Lawrence will email Sister Deanne a list of different digital cameras.” Bram continued. “Nothing like Rohan's but we need good quality pictures. Good idea to consult with Harriet on it Rohan. I think that is everything on my side. The faith you have in us is very touching guys. I've never been given such trust by royalty before.”


“I'll spank you.” I growled just a split second before Charles.


“Good night guys.” Sanne said laughing. “Have fun at the treehouse.”


“They're stopping at Winchester on the way back to see that surprise Sanne.” Caryn said. “I've been told to bring Holden down to spank me or Rohan will.”


“When he sees what you've done there you can expect to spend some time with Juliet.” Sanne said. “I will give her a call for you later today Rohan so she can start planning something special. That's a very good idea Rohan. A couples' week or two sounds great.”


“What!” Caryn exclaimed. “You're including Holden. Yes Tim I'm shocked and blown out the water. Your husband is a fucking genius. Let me set that empty bowl aside Rohan. I need to sit right here in your lap and kiss you. This just might be the one thing that makes me send you off on a romantic weekend with Holden. Juliet is a professional and very respectful. This is the perfect introduction for him. I know you thought of that before suggesting it. We'd better leave. I need some alone time in a shower. Thanks for dinner and the chat guys. I'm very excited to meet Lucinda this weekend.”


Garth told me we could chat after they met Lucinda. I agreed it was essentially an opportunity to help Lucinda while getting as much training out of it as we could for the Order. They thanked me for my faith in leaving the entire thing in their hands. I thanked our hosts and bundled everybody out of there the moment we had washed and put away the last dish. Everybody headed quickly to their beds because they all had a busy day tomorrow.


When we drove off I thanked Tim for getting me away before Caryn sank her teeth into me. Jarvis and Lyle laughed at the thought. Lyle promised to throw himself between Caryn and me if I needed saving. Tim predicted he'd just be a warm up on her way to me.


“Before you get out the car Jarvis I want you to know I really appreciate your offer to help Costanzo.” I said. “He is marrying a very, very dear friend and means a lot to me. We might laugh and joke about you guys being gangsters but if you ever need help call me. Whatever you need I will give you without judging you and if you cannot get hold of me for some reason call Tim or Tracy.”


“Please don't make the mistake of not calling.” Tim said. “That really would make Rohan a tad miffed. I will spank you for making me sleep with a miffed Rohan.”


“You're our friend Tim so we will call.” Jarvis said. “Wouldn't be right to make a friend uncomfortable. Please call us if you have time on the weekend.”


“We'd like to hear all about the real gangster.” Lyle said. “There's lots of beer left if you guys want some for the road. We'll be back down with some. When you drink the beer you will remember to call us Tim.”


The kind hoodlums brought us down a six-pack each. On our way home Tim told me the gift of the six-pack was as sweet as gifts that cost a lot more. I told him he had chosen some good guys to befriend in Chesterfield. While we drank our nightcap we chatted about our surprise in Winchester. All we could agree on was it involved some properties and Sanne had helped in some way.


“What time are we meeting up with Antonio?” Tim asked as we headed to bed.


“We will have drinks around five and then enjoy dinner together.” I said pulling his pants down as he climbed the stairs. “Plenty of time to rest up tomorrow afternoon.”


A smiling Tim looked back over his shoulder at me. The stairs helped make it easy to raise his ass level with my face. I found it very easy to lean forward and take a nice chunk of cheek in my mouth. Reaching down I pressed on the back of Tim's knees causing him to kneel on the steps. His upper body rested on the landing outside our bedroom. I finally finished gnawing on his flesh and began rimming my husband. Teasing the surface of his hole drove us both wild with desire. Reaching down I unfastened my pants and pushed them down to mid-thigh. My cock was achingly hard. Tim's ass was nicely drenched in saliva. Putting two and two together was pretty elementary.


“Here? On the stairs?” Tim asked in surprised when I mounted him. “You are amazing and a fucking genius. No complaints Scoundrel. Pleasantly fucking surprised is all. I'm very happy to lie here getting fucked. Keep fucking me Scoundrel. None of that tender nonsense. We mustn't be late for breakfast. I love you Scoundrel.”


The steepness of the stairs made it easier for me to press my body against Tim. I decided staircase sex was worth repeating very soon. Fucking on the stairs just seemed so naughty. This feeling was all I needed to ensure I fucked Tim good and hard. My husband warned me he was getting close. I warned him I was even closer but didn't make any move to change our position. Hunched over him with my hips pumping was very animalistic. Cursing while hunched over him with my hips twitching and cum spurting inside him made me one happy animal. I loved being pressed against Tim's exposed ass when it shook as he climaxed.


“Scoundrel you will get me hard again doing that.” Tim said looking down at me as I licked his cum off the wooden stairs. “This is why you insist on natural cleaning products. I think it's very sensible. Fuck it is amazing to think you love my seed so much you'll lick it off the stairs. See I'm already fucking hard.”


He wasn't hard when we left the shower and he wasn't the only one of us to go to sleep with cum in their ass. I had warned everybody our morning meditation would be even earlier than usual. That didn't stop the others from joining us. I had an Irish coffee with them and let them know there were two breakfast casseroles in the oven for them. They told us to have a good time. I carried our bags to the car because Tim had packed them for us.


Tim took care of Costanzo's surprise while we enjoyed an Irish coffee before breakfast. Joseph and Costanzo both kissed him at the same time when a slide show screensaver appeared on their TV. Using pictures Costanzo had taken Tim had created a nice screensaver. He set it to play on the TV in the living room and the one in the bedroom. While I helped Joseph place the food on the table Tim showed Costanzo how to add pictures and adjust the rate they changed. After reading part of the instruction manual he realized the computer on the telescope would display images on the TV. This was news to Costanzo as well. He thought the computer just helped him find specific stars automatically. I loved how Joseph got excited right along with Costanzo.


“Classic and exquisite just like the chef.” I said when Joseph protested it was just a traditional little breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, fried tomatoes and potatoes.


“The perfect breakfast for our trip.” Tim said munching on toast with jam. “Driving without stopping it would take three-and-a-half hours. We'll stop for tea and make it for lunch.”


“Rohan can you arrange to visit us next Wednesday at eleven?” Joseph asked.


“We will be here.” I promised. “One more plate for the road please. I don't need to know why Joseph. You asked me. That is all the reason I need.”


Joseph told me I was acting more like a kid than Tim when we were saying goodbye. I confessed I was looking forward to seeing Antonio again. This was very exciting but there was the surprise in Winchester as well. Before we left Chesterfield I bought another two cases of the beer Jarvis had given us.


“Hello Sioned.” Tim said in surprise when his phone rang. “You want to know when we are arriving? Rohan asks if you plan on fleeing before we get there. We're about an hour from you guys. Will we make it in time for lunch or should we stop in Southampton? Okay we will lunch with you. My husband needs steak. I'd like some chicken please. Thank you for arranging it. I'll text you updates on our arrival.”


Such good service was worthy of flowers Tim agreed when I took a detour through Southampton. I called out for him to grab four bouquets as he entered the florist shop. Sioned smiled as she watched Tim peek inside the lobby to confirm there were two ladies working. I gave Sioned her bouquet. She promised to put the other one in water until I could get it to my treehouse. Tim took great joy handing flowers to the ladies when we checked in. They promised to send Antonio right along to join us. I had reserved a private treehouse for us to share with Antonio. There were separate areas with their own entrance.


Sioned complimented me on my car and agreed to let Tim take her for a drive in it tomorrow. We were glad to have Alfie join us for lunch. He was glad we were staying in the treehouse so we could comment on the new breakfast hampers. I promised to let the gang know all the staff missed them. Tim was quick to point out we would be passing nearby in my little tub. He told Alfie of my planned boat trip to France. Alfie agreed we could moor the boat nearby and rent a car. Before we could say treehouse we'd be in one. Tim kissed my cheek for spoiling my sons rotten.


“A lot has happened since we visited.” I said. “This evening I am meeting an old friend here. We're having drinks and he is joining us for dinner. I hope he'll be here the entire weekend. Why don't we get together and chat over afternoon tea? I need a little nap. This was an excellent lunch. Thank you guys.”


A smiling Tim woke me from my nap with a kiss and a gentle shake of my shoulder. He couldn't believe I had fallen asleep so quickly. One moment he was chatting to me and the next I was sound asleep. He thought it was very cute but insisted on an apology. Forgiveness came right after him. I predicted he would be receiving many more apologies over the weekend when I finished swallowing his load. We dressed quickly and made our way to the terrace.


“I brought my laptop because it is easier to show you what we've been up to.” Tim said. “There has been a lot going on. You watched Adam and Morgan's wedding but you haven't seen their wedding gift have you? Some of it they gave back to the Order for training and to help a friend with her healing practice. The land is magical.”


“Looking at that surgery I understand why you didn't ask how much this all cost Rohan.” Alfie said. “I like the layout of that straw bale home you built for Bryce and Innogen. There's no need to talk about the unpleasant things in life Tim. They happen and we deal with them. There's little gain in dwelling on them.”


“Things seem to have worked out well for them like they did for Lance.” Sioned added. “Mr. Hot Chocolate is hard to forget Tim. What are you up to in Chesterfield?”


“I went to clean a friend's cottage to escape the thousands of thank you kisses my little surprise would have gotten me.” I said. “Well I decided I really liked the town. A friend of mine is settling there and it is very central. I bought a cottage for a friend of my friend and a home for myself. Then the heads of the different regions in the Order wanted to thank me by helping decorate the place so I'm stuck in that area now.”


“And where you get stuck things tend to get a little out of control.” Alfie said smiling. “Why don't you tell us about the explosion Tim while your husband has some tarts?”


My husband didn't need a second invitation. He did need a second pot of tea which arrived promptly. Tim told Sioned the Blyth development was going to cost seventy to eighty-million so spending two or three-million in Chesterfield was pocket change. That is without the memorial garden he added. I got a small measure of revenge by letting them know Tim knocked an army lieutenant on his ass. Sioned kissed him several times for being so chivalrous and called him the true nobleman. They liked what I had planned and asked me to keep them updated on my plans.


“Still eating too many desserts I see.” Antonio said sneaking up behind me.


“What else would I eat with no Italian men to nibble on?” I asked getting up and hugging him. “Let me introduce you to the two most important people at this hotel. Alfie is the head chef and Sioned will serve you the perfect food and wine at every meal without you asking. That grinning imp who let you sneak up behind my back is my husband Tim.”


“A pleasure to meet you all.” Antonio said. “I hope I am not disturbing you.”


“We were relying on your arrival to tell us it is time to get back to work.” Sioned said. “Come along Dad we need to go make certain there's no low-fat or no-fat ingredient in Rohan's dinner. What can I bring you guys to drink?”


“May I order the first round please?” Tim asked. “Thank you Antonio. You are as brave as Rohan told me. Do you know what a Champagne Charlie is Sioned? Hang on I'll get my people to talk to you. Hello is Abigail in? Praise the gods. Yes I'd love to have a quick word. Abigail there's a lady standing next to me who is as brilliant a waitress as you. Would you mind sharing the Champagne Charlie recipe? Rohan is meeting up with his old friend and nothing less will do. Here's Sioned.”


“Hello Abigail.” Sioned said accepting the phone from Tim. “Well if it's the only way to get the recipe from you I will gladly share some gossip about Tim and Rohan. I know Benjamin if you mean the man-mountain they call Tiny. You owe Rohan several kisses for the transformation in Tiny. Whatever Tiny tells you about how bad his life had become you can believe it. I'll get Tim to text you my phone number. Now I'd better go get Rohan a drink because he's down to his last six custard tarts.”


“My mistress is having one last shopping spree in London.” Antonio said with a grin. “She wouldn't trust you to pick somewhere nice and wouldn't join me. That is a clue I need to let her go. One day I will meet the right lady but until then I pay for their company. Here are our drinks. I think you paid a high price for them. When two pretty ladies gossip about you it means trouble. Go ahead Rohan.”


“Love, light and life.” I said touching my glass to theirs.


“A good toast.” Antonio said. “You always knew just what to say even when you were getting into trouble. Rohan on the drive and most of the flight I tried to think of the right time to share this news but there will never be a right time.”


“I'd like to hear the bad news before dinner or else I'd get indigestion.” I said calmly. “The cost of this place alone is enough to do it. What is it and how long?”


“Cancer. Mattia has about a year.” Antonio said.


“Good. We have some time.” I said. “Mattia is in Milan? Rachele is with him? Please give Tim their phone number. Then call them and tell them to make certain they have their passports ready and tell them to let their doctor know Dr. Cameron Sullivan will need access to their medical records. They're going to Bigfork, Montana.


Good morning Tracy do you have your notebook handy? Rachele and Mattia need help. Tim is texting you their contact number. They need to give you their doctor's phone number for Brother Cameron to call. I need somebody to travel with them from Milan. Kasper if he is available. Call the British Hooligans if you need to find somebody else. Maybe Dr. Everett. They are flying to Montana.


Tracy I will let you decide if you are joining them in Montana and when you get there. This is the Italian I spoke of the other day so spare no cost or comfort. He has cancer. I'll call Brother Cameron now. Thank you Tracy.


Dr. Cameron Sullivan it is one of those momentous days. Cancer with a year. The patient is in Milan and Tracy is making arrangements for him to travel to you. Tim will text you their contact information. Tracy will send you the doctor's information. My friend is letting them know to expect your call and to give the doctor permission for you to see their medical records. Mattia is the patient. Rachele is his sister. They will both be coming to visit you. I'm hoping Kasper will travel with them. I'd like Innogen working with with him. Regardless of the travel plans Kasper will be part of the team. I didn't need to tell Tracy to include him. She's putting the team together and getting them to Montana.


Antonio is my friend and he will call you later for an update. You can trust him implicitly. He is almost as big a crook as us and more honest. Now I have to go. Our glasses are empty and I'd like another drink before dinner. Tim another Champagne Charlie is perfect. No idea what we're eating. The waitresses in England have a habit of skipping the menu and just feeding me. You know if you need me I'll return sooner but it looks like this trip will continue for another month or six weeks. Yes he means enough for me to operate on.”


Tim rightly deduced when I called him doctor instead of brother it was my way of saying it was something serious. He also deduced when I mentioned my willingness to do surgery it meant the patient meant the world to me. Sioned sensed the shift in energy and could tell from Tim's expression it was serious.


“A friend is very ill Sioned.” I said. “Thankfully Antonio had the good sense to share the news before dinner. I have mobilized the troops to look after my friend. They have enough time to work their magic and I have a few new tricks up my sleeve to help. Worrying and being miserable won't help Mattia the slightest so we will enjoy our dinner and our health.


How long before dinner is ready? Half-an-hour is just enough time for me to show Antonio some of the garden. I'll have Antonio stand guard if I need to bugger Tim to get him to smile. Come on Beloved. I don't think Kasper will have a problem with cancer if he can cure Daisy. No it wasn't cancer Antonio it was mad cow disease. Daisy is a heifer.”


That got Sioned and Tim to laugh. Antonio joined in their laughter when Tim shared Donat's tale about getting a call telling him to let Kasper know the mad cow Daisy was doing well. Sioned had to sit down when he added Donat worried Kasper would start his examination as a doctor but end up treating him as a veterinary surgeon. Antonio was willing to bet Donat hadn't gotten sick once since that phone call.


On our walk Tim thanked Antonio for helping him make some friends in Chesterfield. Antonio laughed when I admitted there was a very small amount of cash in my wallet and I couldn't have handed it over without embarrassment. He thanked me for going to all the trouble of having some vocational testing done. When we had decided on a plan for Chesterfield he'd have a better idea of what work was available. Antonio enjoyed hearing about Jarvis and Lyle's conversation with the bank manager.


“What else? How did you know there was more Antonio?” Tim asked curiously. “I guess with Rohan there always is. Rohan's dad, Charles, wanted to teach them how to splurge on beer and pizza old-timers style so Rohan went over and redecorated and refurnished their home. I bought them some clothes. Jarvis offered to help our friend deliver coffee if he got too busy so he would have some legitimacy. He isn't ready to give up his life of crime. I don't know what weapon Lyle uses but Jarvis has a knife.”


“When he asked me to prove I could defend myself he used a reverse grip cross-cut at my stomach.” I said. “Yes Antonio he is smart. Tim a cut like that proves you are serious but is unlikely to prove fatal. The police will take a death a lot more seriously. A shallow cut is enough to convince people to hand over their wallet. Looks like Sioned is waving us in.”


“Hello Rohan.” Tracy said when I answered her call on the way in. “Brother Cameron tells me you are about to have dinner. I'll be quick. Mattia and Rachele arrive in Bigfork tomorrow. A nun in Milan is traveling with them. She has family in Colorado and we're paying for her visit to them. Innogen is meeting Kasper and me at the airport Monday. Brother Cameron is calling the hospital in Milan as we speak. The three scurvy knaves I'm about to tickle say they love you and Tim. Enjoy dinner. Bye.”


“Very efficient Rohan.” Antonio complimented me when I relayed the information. “We will chat about the cost tomorrow. You are right in saying we must enjoy the beauty around us. Sioned I wonder if you can help me with a problem I have. You see the cost of the meal gets charged to the room but I am sharing a room with Rohan and would like to buy dinner tonight as a thank you for helping my niece and nephew.”


“I can charge your card and just make a note in the computer.” Sioned said. “Rohan and Tim usually let me order for them and I wanted your food to arrive together so I ordered your dinner as well. I'll bring you some champagne with dessert. Red wine will go better with dinner.”


“My friend was correct in saying I could place myself in your hands.” Antonio said. “Thank you for being such an angel.”


Thankfully my dinner companions followed my lead and had their best end of lamb without mint sauce. Sioned smiled when I thanked them very sincerely. I told them outside of tea outside is where mint ought to stay. Sioned promised she would be back with a second helping shortly. I didn't think Tim needed to hear about me being arrested at a the Roma versus Lazio game. Yes he did ask to hear about my time in Rome. I became a hero because the policeman I fought had Lazio socks on. He should have been with the Lazio fans dressed in those socks. Honor demanded somebody chew him out. He pushed me. I pushed back a lot harder. He fell over. Other policemen rushed in. Fans decided to help me. A small riot ensued for several minutes. Lots of fun was had by all except the police.


“The most important thing was we won the game two nil Tim.” I said. “Coincidentally it took me two weeks to heal. Sioned you don't need to hear about my days as a soccer hooligan in Rome. I wasn't there very long. Antonio telling her I packed a lot in my time there is only encouraging her.”


“Yes I must hear all about it.” Sioned said gaily. “Pay attention Tim and share all the details with me on our drive tomorrow. A soccer hooligan in Rome. How romantic. Did you get arrested? Then you are a bona fide soccer hooligan. I'm very impressed. Six times in four weeks and you were still healing Rohan? Still the current record Antonio. I must attend the ceremony when you go in the soccer hooligan hall of fame Rohan.”


“There were some Champions League games during the week and weekend games Tim.” I explained. “The fans are very passionate in Italy. I thought it was just friendly roughhousing. None of the police there have any sense of humor or fun. We should bring back the Roman games in the Coliseum and feed them to the lions. I suppose that would be cruel to the lions. What did they think would happen to them when they ran between two sets of fighting fans? We weren't handing out flowers to each other. Twits!”


“I love how it still upsets you Scoundrel.” Tim said kissing my cheek. “Obviously you don't have time to check if it is a fan or a cop grabbing your shoulder.”


“See if Tim knows this I don't know why a trained officer can't figure it out.” I said kissing Tim in return. “You must do something about improving the training for the police in your home town Antonio. That's true. I guess criminals like poorly trained police. Now where did Sioned disappear to? I am ready for dessert.”


“How did you avoid getting thrown in jail Scoundrel?” Tim asked. “You would think on the fourth offense they'd be a little miffed.”


“The judge was a die-hard Roma fan.” Antonio said. “I think he has a shrine to Rohan in his home. He would love an autographed picture of you with your family Rohan. Every time he fined Rohan it was the cost of a glass of wine Tim. The one he would toast Rohan with at lunchtime.”


“Those were the good old days.” I said with a smile and touched my glass to Antonio's glass. “Salute!”


“Good timing Sioned.” Tim complimented her. “The old-timer was just calling those the good old days. When old-timer starts with the good old days wise men reach for ear plugs.”


“I'll plug something other than your ears you scurvy whippersnapper.” I threatened kissing my husband.


“Are you certain he said good old days not good old lays?” Sioned asked as the kiss continued. “Glad you came up for air before I called for an ambulance. Try to keep your clothes on long enough to finish dessert and the champagne. I'm still following your housekeeper's orders so four bowls is all you get. Get her to call me on Skype and increase it Rohan. I want to make certain it really is her increasing your allowance.”


“She really is a very smart lady Antonio.” I said. “Sioned I would do the same in your place. Yes Tim I'd try getting an Order nun to call to up the allowance but my plan just got flummoxed. There might be one or two things I wouldn't do in love and war but nothing is too dishonorable in getting the dessert allowance increased. Look at these bowls? I've seen begging bowls that were larger. Could you do me a favor tomorrow and make it two soup bowls Sioned?”


“Yes I can.” Sioned said kissing the top of my head. “Only because you were honest about your deceit.”


“I'll give you some lessons Rohan.” Antonio promised. “The gods know I am overly qualified when it comes to deceit or anything illicit. I'm an entrepreneur in the field of organized crime Sioned. Yes Tim a real-live gangster. Matilda sounds like a waitress I have to meet.”


“Tim if we give up a night in Winchester we can visit Matilda early Wednesday.” I said. “The choice is yours.”


“Do you need to get back to London soon Antonio?” Tim asked. “I'd love to show you our Winchester project. We're in for such a big surprise Rohan has his designer and her boyfriend booked for an extended visit with a professional dominatrix.”


“The only reason I had to rush back was Mattia but now there is no need.” Antonio said. “I could fetch Giro and Gaspare if we stop in London and go explore Chesterfield. Well if you are certain your friend won't mind me tagging along I'll go see what this surprise is all about Rohan. One in Winchester and a second in Chesterfield all in three days sounds perfect. Are there any other areas of this country you have invested heavily in?”


“Tim and I have a little project going in Blyth and Sunderland is my holy grail.” I said finishing the last of my dessert. “Tim our sailors don't arrive for another ten days after we go to Blythe. You're right it would be good for Antonio to join us for a game. Why don't we ship him and his lieutenants to Montana for a week and return them with the sailors?”


“That sounds like a splendid idea.” Tim said with his head close to mine. “Why are we whispering?”


“Conspirators always whisper and keeping our heads close makes it easier for me to kiss you.” I said before doing just that. “Don't mention a word of our plans to Antonio. We need to share the surprises.”


“You have a lot of work to do with this guy Antonio.” Sioned said. “Now scram. Scoot. Antonio hasn't seen the treehouse. I hope he brought earplugs if he is sharing one with you two. Well what are you waiting for? All you need is Tim and your friend. My job is to take care of your food and drink needs. I got trained by the best.”


“Yes you did.” I said kissing her cheek and hugging her. “Things are well with your dad and Juliet? You've spoken to Garth? I'm glad. Us old fogies treat all the young girls as our daughters. The old gay fogies are the worst. Come along Antonio the treehouse awaits. No need to stop at the bar. Sioned just told us she has it covered.”


“Thank you for arranging for me to pay for dinner Sioned.” Antonio said hugging her. “The food was exceptional. I'm coming Rohan.”


There were two bottles of wine in ice-buckets waiting in the treehouse. Antonio explored the treehouse while I opened the wine and poured us all a glass. The view of the treetops from the balcony took his breath away just like it always did to me. Tim told him he'd understand a lot more after he had gone through our surprise and conspiracy. Antonio was happy to let the setting ease his concerns about Mattia. I suggested he chat with Brother Cameron. Antonio motioned us to stay when we got up to go indoors and give him some privacy. Tim brought the wine out before he sat down.


“Let me put you on speakerphone so Rohan and Tim can also hear Brother Cameron.” Antonio said. “They are right here on the balcony with me. I am in a very magical setting. A very healing space. Really? I can ask Rohan to prepare a tea to help ease my concerns. You mean the comment about surgery was both secret code and fact? I have lots of catching up to do. They are surprising me with a visit to Montana soon. I'd appreciate your help getting caught up on Rohan.”


“You are so busted my Love.” Tim said delightedly.


“I got busted when I shared with the hooligans I was a Hospitaller under a different name.” I said calmly. “Yes Brother Cameron that secret is out as well. No I didn't mention the further studying. They will be going through every medical registry looking for somebody graduating in Samuel's name after his death. I expect they will greet me with a dossier in hand on Wednesday. Now about Mattia. I assume he is on a plane now.”


“Yes he is en route and Tracy wasn't happy with comfort level of business class.” Brother Cameron said. “She booked them first class tickets. I'd be delighted to give her a thank you kiss from you Rohan. That is a pretty nun. Two from Antonio as well. How many from Tim? One it will be. We are on the cusp when it comes to the cancer. This has passed beyond the early onset stage but it hasn't become rampant yet.


I had stern words with the doctors. They are killing people because they are too lazy to take their heads out their asses and consider a different approach. Thank the gods there are enough doctors willing to think or humanity would die out in fifty years. You better hope they listen or you will be buying the biggest hospital in Milan soon Rohan. I told them we'd buy the hospital to teach them medicine Antonio.


Anyway the nun traveling with him was more sensible than the doctors which isn't difficult. Lance is more sensible than the doctors. Oh yes the nun. She is teaching them both some simple breathing exercises. She made some smoothies and medicinal teas. I called your legal friend who is dabbling in politics Rohan. Yes Giovanni. He didn't ask for it but I'm sure he'd appreciate your vote Antonio. Thanks to him there was no trouble getting the smoothies and teas on the plane. I have as much patience with the idiots who check carry-on as Rohan has with customs. Honestly how they think a sick man or even a healthy man can survive on that food is beyond me.


I wish I could give you more information but until I sit down with Kasper on Monday there is not a lot I can tell you. There is good reason for optimism. We have some time for our treatments to kick-in and Mattia is healthy enough to go through the detox. The biggest concern I have is psychological. Unless he has a reason to heal he won't Antonio. The disease only shows up at our invitation. Obviously Mattia needed a pretty strong signal to grab his attention.”


“We'll find him all the reason he needs.” I said confidently. “I am living proof that anybody can find a reason to turn their life around. You know I will come back if you call but I feel I can help more with energy work. I'm also waiting to see what Kasper and the others have to say. This is a nice challenge to open the clinic with isn't it?”


“That all depends on Kasper.” Brother Cameron said. “Donat called to warn me Kasper is as crazy as Daisy the cow. Maciej tells me he is like a heavy-mace carrying Hospitaller now. The Katowice chapter house has never been so healthy or virile. I think we will enjoy his visit. Yes Rohan once we've got Mattia settled and on a protocol I will chat with you about our mad Hospitaller. I will keep an eye on him but we mustn't rush into making him a teacher or he could end up like Brother Murray.”


“The clinic over in Montana is a test run but I might have forgotten to mention that to you guys.” I said. “Thank you Tim I'd like another glass of wine.”


“You didn't forget Rohan.” Brother Cameron said. “Mentioning it would have made it more stressful for Innogen without any benefit. I'll keep it between us.”


“There's one more thing I'd like you guys to prepare please.” I said. “A list of all the indicators you are looking for that show a movement towards health. I'm certain Rachele, Mattia and Antonio would appreciate it. That will also help Tracy and Innogen stay focused on the healing instead of the illness.”


“Happy to hand out the assignment and give you the credit for them Rohan.” Brother Cameron said. “Do you have any other questions Antonio? We know this is hard on the family of our patients. You will all have our full support as well.”


“Thank you for everything.” Antonio said. “I think it best to wait until Kasper examines Mattia and reads the doctors' reports. There is one quick call I need to make before we go to sleep. Have a good day Brother Cameron. Ciao.”


The call he had to make was to thank Tracy. First me and now Tracy was coming to the rescue for Mattia. She tried to downplay her role but Antonio was adamant she deserved credit for upgrading to first class. He wasn't about to let that kindness go unnoticed. They would talk again soon he promised. Tim helped him arrange a flower delivery for Tracy while we finished the last of the wine.


My very understanding husband settled for a sixty-nine before we fell asleep. I was both concerned and weary. Memories of Samuel had obviously surfaced. I promised Tim if these thoughts persisted I'd call Leslie. Tomorrow while Antonio called to check on his nephew I would chat with Hui. Then if needed I'd have a word with Leslie. Now it was time to rest.


“Antonio there's a pot of tea here if you'd like to join us.” Tim said knocking gently on the door the next morning. “I've got my husband in the kitchen making more and we have robes on. There's a snack on the table. See you in a few.”


My favorite part of the new hamper was the smoothie in a flask. I was glad it was all full-cream unless you asked for non-fat. There was bread, cheese and cold meats with some olives and tapenade. There was jam if you wanted something sweet. Alfie knew it wouldn't be enough for me but was glad I enjoyed it. A very pleasant snack to take the edge off.


Sioned and Alfie joined us for breakfast. She couldn't wait to go for her drive. I suggested they find a place for tea and take a longer drive. Sioned worked from one until nine when we visited Alfie told us. That way she got to take care of us for lunch, dinner and afternoon tea. Alfie kindly offered to lend us his car but I wanted to stay near the hotel. Hopefully we'd get our chat done with enough time for a massage before lunch.


“The two of you drive like Italians.” Antonio said as we watched Tim speed off. “I'm glad you also drink wine like Italians. His capacity is very impressive for a teenager. Mid-teens and he already has a cellphone network and a multimillion dollar property investment. A good partner for you Rohan. Crazy in a very good way. Why don't we go for a walk in the forest while we chat?”


“I think it would be good for both of us.” I said and kept quiet until we reached the trail. “Unfortunately there is not a lot of opportunity for you in Chesterfield. You can run some gambling operations if you are discrete. I think it might be best if you used it as a place to run your empire. Somewhere to do the accounts or meet to plan your strategies for the rest of the country. Sorry I cramped your style with the no violence or drugs.”


“You did me a favor Rohan.” Antonio said kindly. “I nearly lost Rachele to drugs a couple of years ago. Thanks to my generosity the parties kept getting wilder and wilder. You know that the tolerance builds up but the body weakens over months of drug use. I am very grateful the wake-up call came at a party in my house. Ciro and Gaspare spent the last two years divesting me of these interests. There is a lot of violence around drugs so I lessened this as well.


A neutral venue would be very nice for me to discuss business. The problem is we must keep it neutral. I cannot call it neutral territory if I have gambling taking place. How do you feel about becoming part of a criminal gang Rohan? I hear you say you are part of an organization full of gangsters but I don't know enough to judge. Okay we can save that chat for later. Can you provide security for people who have lived all their life with violence?”


“My guys went up against special-ops guys and did well enough to guard the queen.” I said. “The security is not a challenge. What you must know is we will make note of any intelligence we gather at these meetings. We are not going to use it to line our pockets but we will use it to keep other people safe. Don't make any promises yet. We are just chatting and putting stuff out there. I will show you some of my organization tomorrow afternoon. You will see a lot more in Chesterfield.


Excuse me while I call a friend about getting the gang set-up. Good morning Mr. McGoo. I hope this is not a bad time for me to call. Fifteen-minutes will be plenty of time. A friend of mine needs us to provide neutral ground for him to have meetings with his business competitors. The only way they will trust us is if we can convince them were are part of their business world. They are in organized crime. No drugs, violence or people trafficking for my gang. Will you put something together for his guys to crack? I'll have my friend keep this between us for now. Thought it might be nice to work on the other side. Thank you for all your help. This is not a top priority but sooner would be good.”


“Mr. McGoo?” Antonio asked with a smile. “I hope I get to meet these clever sons of yours soon. Oh, if all goes well with your conspiracy I will get to spend time with them soon. I will look forward to it. So you have a PRO office for your Order. I'm impressed at your level of organization. Especially considering the Rohan I met so long ago.”


“Speaking of that I think there are some people you need to chat with who can help you get an idea of the changes I've gone through.” I said quietly. “Let's recap where we are on the business side of things quickly. You are okay doing some discrete gambling, accounting and other business administration and chatting with other organized crime leaders in Chesterfield. You won't make plans to carry out any violent crime or drug deals at these meetings which will be on neutral territory controlled by my gang. This is what I will tell the Chief Super over a cup of tea so it is important we are clear on our agreement.”


“Right now that is the agreement we have.” Antonio agreed. “This might change a little depending on what I learn about you and your organization. You can safely present that to the Chief Super at your next tea. I think we could do with some tea of our own. Shall we head back?”


Tim decided a massage room was a great place to discuss business. He sat down in front of us with his cup of tea and chatted about the drive. There was a lovely little harbor we could dock my tub in after our trip to France. Within walking distance if I carried him on my back he assured me. Well maybe a good hike he amended. My car was so sweet to drive. Really nimble, really smooth and really fast. Tim had made friends with another police officer today.


He let everybody know the best thing about driving in Britain was they had my debit card linked to the car to pay the fines. I mentioned we didn't want too many fines against our names. Tim smiled and let me know he had taken care of that for us. I agreed it was good to live in a world with the Internet and not all hackers were bad people. Some were very good and very cute and a very good very cute hacker had better hold off on the kisses until after lunch or I'd be having him for lunch.


“I'm serving your lunch in fifteen.” Sioned said stepping in to the spa. “Come along Tim. He'll never be showered and dressed in fifteen-minutes if you wash his back. Our police officer is going to try our spa treatments because she swears it has made William here look years younger than his license says. Yes ladies this sweet lad gave you the credit.”


“Very quick thinking Tim.” Antonio said. “Let me know if you have some free time and would like to spice up your life.”


“There's nothing like a sword coming at you to keep your life nicely spiced thank you.” Tim said. “I'll go check the wine is fresh while you shower. No need to thank me.”


Today it was chicken for me and Antonio while Tim had steak. I was glad our chat had gone well and our business was mostly settled except for a few tweaks. Tim told me setting up a gang through Mr. McGoo was going to earn me lots of street cred and possibly get me laid by Matilda. The boys will be so proud of their dad Sioned predicted. When I threatened to spank the two of them Tim thanked Sioned for giving him her spanking. I granted her a pardon when my dessert got served in two soup bowls. Tim wanted to give Giovanni a call to see if he had grounds to appeal the pardon. Antonio wanted him to call because it would be a very interesting conversation.


“No idea why Brother Cameron suggested voting for him Antonio.” I said reaching for my second bowl. “Aren't you having some big election soon? There aren't too many Giovanni on the ballot surely. Yes I think the man wanted to reach the top one day. I tried to talk him out of it. He's running for president already? Tim we chatted at some Order conference in Venice just the other day. When? Oh my that was ten years ago now. He agreed to let the Order practice their political campaign strategies with him. They seem to have worked really well. I wonder if they didn't have a hand in my election. You're right Tim we don't hold elections. I got told I had the job Antonio.”


“For somebody so high up in a large organization you seem at ease with so many telling you things.” Antonio said. “What are our plans for this afternoon?”


“William here is getting a facial and a few other quick treatments before tea.” I said offering my cheek for a kiss or two. “That way there will be record of an appointment and I'll take some pictures for our scrapbook. While Tim is busy I'll call a couple of guys to see if they have time to chat with you. My dad and my mentor in Spain. I have to chat with my applied philosophy tutor about some issues that have resurfaced but I can do that after dinner while you check on Mattia.


Before tea I need to contact some people in Chesterfield who might want to scold me for giving them too much work. They're helping a duchess and working on a memorial garden for me Antonio. The project might have gotten a smidge bigger than I anticipated.”


“Says the man who gave his housekeeper a debit card with five million on it.” Sioned said. “That is the lady who will give you the scoop on Rohan. No rush. You can speak to her as part of the conspiracy these two have cooked up for you. I think it is very sweet of them. Off you go William. Better tell the ladies your new name.”


“Oh, it's okay if they call me Tim instead of William.” Tim said. “My full name on the license is William Timothy Rothbury. I wanted to make it easier on me. This is my first secret identity. Well off I go to keep up my youthful appearance. See you at tea Sioned.”


There was no need to spell it out to my dad. All he needed to hear was a former lover had been flown to Montana and I'd like it if he would chat to Antonio. This way Antonio could share what he felt comfortable sharing. My dad was well aware of my lack of restrictions. I told him about our trip to Winchester tomorrow to introduce Antonio to the Order. Charles had updated Christopher and Garth on his visit to the army base. I'd get the scoop from them. Vernon was happy to chat with Antonio. I gave him Antonio's number and asked him to send him a text with a good time to chat. Vernon let me know he was bringing Ingrid, Caryn, Grace and Holden to Winchester tomorrow afternoon.


“Let Tim know the tea house has already done over two-thousand in sales today.” Vernon said. “Yes I know we are just past lunch and another three hours of this will put him close to three-five. They will hire more staff. This weekend we are using monks and nuns to wait tables and help with dishes. A good thing Tim isn't here or we'd have another Christian episode on our hands. Grace told us all to go find some barmaids to harass instead of getting under her feet.”


“Instead of ending up with a Christian episode on my hands I'll just ask Tim to call Curtis or Elizabeth at five-thirty.” I said with a chuckle. “Things are going well between me and Antonio. He let me know Mattia has cancer. I had Tracy ship Mattia to Montana. There is a hospital in Milan my friend Brother Cameron thinks needs a little of our attention. They are not as open-minded as he'd like. I'm going to speak to Christopher and Garth to see if the Hospitaller Order could do with a training hospital.”


“Suggest it now so they can start the investigation but I think you need to chat about it when you have your conference in the Andes.” Vernon said. “Please speak to Hui.”


“You sound just like Tim.” I said. “Thank you for caring. I think it is sweet and a good reminder of how lucky I am to have you in my life. The two of you. Tim's being pampered. He made friends with a police lady this morning. He might speed a little but he isn't reckless. I've driven enough with him to know that much. I'll let you take him for a spin in the Mercedes so you can see how easy it is to go over the speed limit.”


By the time my call with Vernon ended my dad was already chatting with Antonio. I left Antonio on the terrace and headed to the gardens. Christopher told me all non-essential staff were banished from the tea house by Grace. She couldn't check her systems amidst all the clutter. They had met with Lucinda yesterday when they delivered the groceries. Cook had almost fainted when she saw her pantry filled to capacity. She had insisted on cooking them all lunch because there had been supplies that wouldn't fit. Christopher promised to have one of our people look at it. That was part of their training he reminded me. They did have people responsible for keeping the pantry at a chapter house full. Unlike me the two Hospitaller hooligans couldn't wait to see what Sanne came up with for the memorial garden.


Unsurprisingly he loved the idea of a training hospital in Milan. He laughed loudly when I told him about Brother Cameron's comments. Yes it would be cruel on the staff to send him there to get things started. Yes we really couldn't let such an opportunity pass. Montana is very cold in the winter and having a nun tutor Brother Cameron in Italian would serve a number of purposes. Things would be easier for his translator in Milan if she had studied with him and knew what he wanted. Arriving Monday with Tracy and Kasper would get her involved with Mattia's treatment right from the start. Brother Cameron won't mind if he knows he will be visiting the hospital I assured Christopher. I wasn't surprised Christopher had seen the medical records. He was pretty confident of a full recovery for Mattia.


Christopher had already sent me a copy of the report from the squad leader of the SWAT monks that had visited the army base. The original unedited report because although not what you would expect it had been too funny to change. The result of the visit was three nuns staying behind to whip the guys into shape with the help of some regiment sergeants. They were spending the next five days getting the sergeants into shape. Mere coincidence our squad leader had left three nuns no taller than five foot six to train them I agreed. He must have been upset to embarrass them this much. Griogair had poured him and Charles into bed Friday night. They had taken a lot of medicine.


“Hi Christopher.” Tim said when I handed him the phone. “Glad things are running smoothly at the tea house. I've been worried it would be too busy for the staff to cope. You're right I can trust Grace. Antonio is a very nice man. He cares very deeply for his family. We're bringing him with us to Winchester and Blyth before we send him off to Montana for ten days. We'll chat soon. I came over to fetch Rohan to join us for tea. No more raccoon eyes for a while. The police lady told me the treatments made me look fifteen or sixteen instead of eighteen. She was so sweet. I offered to send her flowers for being so kind. Well must dash or our tea will be cold.”


“Go ahead Tim.” I said as we made our way back. “I need to pick up my laptop so we can look at a video and report Christopher sent me about the regiment training.”


“Oh no my Love you're not fooling me.” Tim said tugging on my hand. “Why did you stitch the wound and reveal your Hospitaller training? That's right. Your housekeeper told you to quit playing the fool. You will slip like you are now but we both know you know how to show us this video and report on your phone.”


“Thank you Tim for catching me.” I said sincerely. “Sometimes I have so much to think about I tend to backslide into old patterns. Hui might have more work to do than he thinks. My dad didn't scare you away did he Antonio? Oh there's custard tarts. How sweet. I love the sugar lumps. There's no place like Blighty. I love it Antonio.”


Tim made me a cup of tea while I found the video. Standing behind us Sioned watched a few seconds and asked if this was a comedy skit we were doing for the kids. She went inside for a medicinal Scotch when I assured her it was the British army at its not-so-finest. They are engineers so I guess they don't expect to fight much I suggested in their defense. Antonio decided that was a very, very good thing. Tim had me pause the video to explain what the soldiers were doing wrong and how to counter it. He smiled when I predicted the strikes used by the monks and nuns.


“When you spar with the Order guys go with options two or three for your first responses but throw in a first choice as well.” I advised Tim. “You want to keep them guessing and even using a second or third choice becomes predictable if it is your first choice. Against anybody else you can go with the first choice. Yes especially against hoodlums like Jarvis or Lyle. The first choice is first choice for a reason Tim. Unless you know the other person isn't well-trained play it safe. How they respond to first choice strikes or defensive moves will tell you a lot about their training.”


“Little wonder you had no trouble dropping a lieutenant on his ass.” Antonio said. “Even ill Mattia would not fight this badly. I cannot wait to hear what your squad leader had to say about this lot. Now we know why he left three small girls to kick their ass. Please read us the report Rohan.”


“Calling this piss-poor would be an under-exaggeration and a kindness it doesn't deserve.” I red with a smile. “There has been no greater waste of time in the entire history of the British military than the time spent on this faux unarmed combat training. I'd rather spend time watching a four-foot, three-hundred pound naked hooker masturbate than one of these guys throw a punch.


Tomorrow Sir Charles has kindly arranged for me to chat with their instructors in a private room. I shudder to think what horrible disease makes an instructor sign-off on something of this low quality. No doubt Rohan could find some way to look upon this compassionately but I cannot bear to look upon it at all. Ugliness like this has no place in even the most uncivilized of societies never mind Britain. Satan has far better taste and enough pride not to allow such nonsense in Hell.


Now I'll go partake of some medicinal hot chocolate served by a fine young gentleman called Lance. Lots and lots of medicinal hot chocolate.


PS: unfortunately I discovered today that the horrors of yesterday were a real-live nightmare.


PPS: I'd not have made it through these two days without the medicinal hot chocolate.


The follow-up report simply says he is leaving three nuns who deserve a special commendation for their courage and a psyche evaluation for volunteering to train this lot. He calls upon all the gods of all religions throughout time to help these brave ladies. The rest of the squad being of greater sanity are retiring to the local pub. They're taking Lance with them to thank him for his kind service to the Order.”


“What a great group of guys.” Tim said. “Lance is an orphan Rohan spotted on the Underground and brought into our lives. He has a hot chocolate addiction we plan on helping him get over a few hundred years from now. A very sweet boy Antonio. I'm glad Rohan found a mom for him and built them a cottage. Charles adopted Lance into his clan the same day he adopted Rohan. That was such a special day.”


“Sounds like it will take me a while to get caught up on everything Rohan as been up to.” Antonio said. “I do not mind because it sounds like you have been on a wonderful journey Rohan. Charles shared a little about your time with Samuel. He has asked me to attend a Sunderland game soon.”


“That's part of our conspiracy.” I said gladly accepting another plate of custard tarts. “The guys won't visit Blyth without going to a game. Antonio if I told you that you would be traveling with them it would ruin the surprise. Huh, I'm not worried about your gang. All I have to do is get my housekeeper on board with my conspiracy and you're doomed.”


“He's right Antonio but try to go along with our plans so you get to meet her in person.” Tim said. “She's one of only two ladies in the world who can bully him. Belinda is the other one. You must chat with her later this week. This will be such fun. I'm looking forward to your reaction. They are such loving people.”


“Finish your tea Beloved you are one of those loving people I intend loving before dinner.” I said. “Excuse us Antonio but I've neglected my husband and it would be good for both of us to remind each over of our love. We'll join you for sundowners before dinner.”


“Any chance of us doing some sparring my Love?” Tim asked setting down his cup and standing up. “A duel with paddles at two-feet perhaps. I think I can handle the disappointment and settle for a hands-on experience. All depends what that hand is on. See you guys later. Thank you for the spa treatments my Love. I'm so glad you think the cellulite treatment is preventative. Yes just like the facials to keep raccoon eyes at bay. Tomorrow I am chatting to them about treatments for when I'm at sea. All that salt and wind could undo the good work I've done my Love. I don't want all this time in the spa to end up being for nothing.”


“Yes Antonio they make a great couple.” Sioned said. “Now what would you like to drink while you chat with Vernon? He trained me. I promise I won't say a word about your drink having no alcohol in it. There really is no point in trying to keep up with Rohan when it comes to alcohol intake. Antonio let me bill it and the other meals to the treehouse and you can give something to the Order. I'm certain there will be a project or two you'd like to support. This way Rohan is happy because he gets to treat you to a nice weekend and he'll be happy when you help the Order. I just love the way Tim can leap into Rohan's arms like that. He'll end up over Rohan's shoulder in a second.”


“You know them very well.” Antonio said watching me drape Tim over my shoulder. “Such a wonderful man to let a teenager smack his butt without concern for what other people might think. He saved my niece and nephew when they foolishly strayed in to a neighborhood controlled by a rival gang. When I asked how I could thank him he told me it had been a lot of fun and there was no need. I will find a way one day to thank him. I'd better do it quick because it looks like he is helping save my nephew a second time. Here is that call from Vernon. Hello Vernon, Sioned sends her love and orders for you to visit soon. She is an exceptional waitress. Your training she tells me.”


A smiling Tim lay on the couch looking up at me as I pulled his pants off. He thought it was both wise and kind of me to check they had done a good job of the cellulite treatment. That was the only reason I wanted him to roll over while naked from the waist-down I assured him. The only reason in this present now I told myself silently. Who knows what might happen in the next? Well that wasn't a difficult prediction. A near-future now would see my cock in his ass.


“I like what I see from up here but I'd better get closer.” I said kneeling alongside the couch. “Looks just as good from up close. Tastes just as good. There isn't even the slightest trace Beloved. Now what about in here? I must do a thorough job examining you or I'll embarrass Lao.”


“Scoundrel the cellulite treatment didn't extend there.” Tim said when my tongue probed his hole. “I'll tell them to include that area the next time. No need to stop your examination though. Fuck that feels so good. Rampant good Scoundrel. Please don't wait my Love.”


“What a wanton lad you are.” I said with a smile as I slid up to kiss his neck.


Fumbling down between us I opened my pants and pulled out my cock. There would be time tonight for going slower. Fuck we couldn't go any faster. I didn't even bother to push my pants down before I pushed my cock inside him. My husband let me know right away that this was exactly what he wanted.


“Me to.” I said. “We are so alike we should get married.”


“We did Scoundrel.” Tim said with a laugh and a sigh.


“See that proves it is a good idea.” I said getting my hips moving. “The thought of having your ass in my bed every night is so fucking hot.”


“How hot Scoundrel?” Tim asked with a smile.


“We could stick a thermometer in your ass with my cock and find out.” I suggested. “Only I'm not getting up to grab one.”


“Sensible man.” Tim complimented me. “Thank you my Love. This is perfect. I love being fucked by you.”


“That's good because I'm a tad fond of fucking you.” I said grinding my hips against his butt. “My perfect husband with a perfect ass. I love you Tim.”


“I love you Rohan.” Tim said. “I love it when you fuck me hard and fast. I love it when you get my subtle hints. I love that cock pounding my inside. Fuck do I ever! A little deeper. A lot harder. Split me open Scoundrel. Fill me with cock and cum!”


“Gladly!” I said collapsing on top of him and letting my hips twitch as my balls drained.


“Scoundrel it's so demeaning when you just lie there pumping cum inside me.” Tim said. “Very, very demeaning Scoundrel. I love it. There's just one problem. You got done so fast I haven't caught up. A little tricky to do anything about it pinned beneath you. Yes that's a hint to lift up. Now if I roll over I'm sure my Hospitaller certified husband will come up with a treatment. Hardly a kiss of life when it kills my erection. No I want it dead. Don't stop. Suck that cock. Don't forget the balls Scoundrel.”


I had no intention of forgetting his balls or finger-fucking his cum filled ass. Three fingers spreading out inside him had a rather stimulating effect on him. Almost as stimulating as my tongue lapping at the head of his cock. I growled as I sucked. Jerking my head from side-to-side made my husband laugh. A laugh that got cut off by an orgasm that lifted him off the couch. Fuck the boy came hard and long. I loved every delicious moment and every delicious drop. I gulped down cum. Lots of the salty-sweet stuff slid down my gullet. Enjoying myself so much I needed the pressure of Tim's hands on my head to remind me to let his sensitive cock free.


“There's something else we need to discuss Scoundrel.” Tim said looking down at me. “Yes the hands-on. Well if this is just the foreplay I don't mind you putting it off. Gods you did an amazing job of getting me off. Glad you liked the role I played in it.”


We still had an hour before meeting up with Antonio. I texted Sioned to ask if somebody could bring over a bottle of wine. She texted back to say she'd be over in ten and we'd better be suitably covered. I felt relieved when she agreed being covered by the water in the hot tub was suitably covered. We nearly ruined it by jumping out the tub to thank her for the sandwiches. Gods I was one lucky guy to have such wonderful people in my life. What a sandwich it was I complimented her.


“They had a lot of fun preparing it when I told them who it was for.” Sioned said kissing the tops of our heads. “I'll tell them you liked it.”


“No we love it!” I said in sheer joy. “Perfect crunch, plenty of meat and cheese and the fresh spinach takes care of any guilt. Something light and fizzy in a nice big pitcher for sundowners will be great Sioned. You'll come up with something delicious if you stay away from mint. Please tell me there's another sandwich Tim. Oh thank the gods. One of them would leave me feeling like I'd been half-fucked. Well don't just sit there with a satisfied smirk get the second sandwich for us. I'm busy drinking my wine.”


“That's my cue to head back.” Sioned decided turning her back. “You guys are the cutest couple ever.”


“Thank you.” I said as Tim hopped out the tub. “We'll be on time. Stop dawdling Tim. We have to eat, shower and relax.”


Antonio took one look at us and decided we looked a lot happier. When we both started talking about the incredible sandwiches simultaneously Sioned burst into laughter. They are the perfect match he agreed with her. Yes we did get laid but you really should have seen those sandwiches Tim insisted. We were glad Antonio got to enjoy one.


We thanked him for testing the freshness of the drink in the pitcher for us. Tim decided the first time he had rum, kola tonic and ginger ale would most definitely not be the last time. He hoped they had plenty of the ingredients on hand. I hoped a second pitcher would be out soon considering how fast Tim was drinking his. Tim slowed down when the first two rounds started to kick in surprisingly hard. He was a little tipsy when we went in for dinner.


“Abby!” Tim said in delight when our roast pork with crackling arrived at the table. “I'll give you my body tonight and tomorrow night if you arrange for an Abby breakfast Monday morning. So good to see bribery works in this technological age just like it did in ancient times.”


This time without asking Sioned brought me a third helping. I gave Tim a piece of my crackling when he agreed to let me spank him tonight. Antonio agreed it wouldn't do to freely hand over a piece of crackling. Sometimes it is more challenging to value something if you don't pay for it he explained to Tim. My husband calmly thanked me for making his life easier before asking for dessert. Antonio laughed when dessert was large bowls of custard with a small piece of sponge-cake floating in it. Sioned apologized for the sponge but she hadn't been able to convince the chefs I'd enjoy a bowl of simple custard. She thanked me for humoring them by eating it because they had prepared such good food for us this entire weekend. The second bowl will be right out she assured me.


A walk was definitely in order after such a meal. Sioned had never heard me admit to being stuffed before. I agreed it was a good thing Tim had helped me with my third serving of roast pork by eating a sliver of crackling. That was when Sioned shooed us out of the dining room. Tim had the good sense to grab the bottle of wine. He was growing into a very sensible husband I complimented him. I learned if I kept complimenting him I would get lucky tonight. The compliments continued all the way outside interspersed with some kisses.


Antonio laughed when Tim asked if the three of us could spank balls tomorrow morning before we left. He agreed to spank balls with us because it was our last morning. I was planning on heading to Winchester right after lunch tomorrow. That would give us time to show Antonio what we had done so we could devote Monday and Tuesday morning to the surprise. I wanted to spend Tuesday night in London. Then we would have breakfast at The Queen's Lancer before heading off to Chesterfield to meet Joseph at eleven. Tim thanked me for letting him know my schedule and immediately sent off a flurry of texts.


“That smile smacks of conspiracy.” Antonio warned me when Tim leaned against me with a grin that was only part tipsy.


“I'm certain it does but you're traveling with me so I don't mind.” I said. “Why don't you give Brother Cameron a call? I'm as eager as you for an update.”


“Ciao Antonio.” Brother Cameron said. “Ciao Rohan and Tim. I'm just reading a very nice letter of complaint Tracy wrote on your behalf to the manager of the local airport Rohan. They told me even if I was a doctor I couldn't fetch Mattia from the plane because of security reasons. When the monks with me drew their short-swords they suddenly agreed we would be safe enough and if the patient was really very ill they had better not risk a lawsuit.


Tracy explained about the healing clinic and how we would have other patients traveling through the airport. She asked if it would save time if we arrived brandishing our weapons. Every minute counts in treating serious illness and we really want to minimize any delay. Tracy also advised some staff training to help them realize delaying a doctor left them open to a lawsuit even if the patient survived. Inflicting needless suffering on a person was morally wrong and as an outreach of an old mendicant order we had to defend the moral aspect. I thought adding any out-of-court settlement would be tax-deductible was a very sweet touch. Follow it up with a call on Wednesday or Thursday please Rohan. Let them have time to digest the letter. Tracy has mentioned you are busy for a few days but they could expect a call from the cardinal soon.


No trouble at all Antonio. I always carry a mace or a sword when I visit an airport or government office. Pardon the pun but it helps cut through a lot of the paperwork and speeds things up considerably. The monks enjoyed themselves. There were a few startled looks on the faces of the staff on the plane but they didn't seem too concerned. I thanked them for taking good care of my patient. They enjoyed the blessing I gave them and their aircraft.


Mattia and Rachele are both taking a nap after their lunch. I will have them text you when they feel up to chatting. Expect the text a couple of hours from now. The nun traveling with them tells me they are doing fine. She asked me to pass on her thanks for her holiday Rohan. All things considered this has been a splendid day. I shall have to open a bottle of wine to thank the gods for providing me with such fun.


Garth says there is more fun on the way for me thanks to my boss. You know I appreciate anything that keeps me warm in the winter Rohan. Thank you so much. Ciao.”


“Ciao Brother Cameron.” Antonio said. “I liked his joke about the swords. I'd better have some more wine Tim if he wasn't joking.”


“Nobody will believe me when I say we have found somebody with less patience than my Love in dealing with airport staff.” Tim said with a smile. “One day I simply have to send you and Brother Cameron through customs where Gregory works. Think of the publicity when the video goes viral on YouTube. Mace wielding monks take clearing customs literally. What a killjoy you are. Looks like it's time to return to the treehouse. Our wine bottle is empty. A soak in the hot tub will be good for us. Lawrence actually included some swimming trunks in our wardrobe for trips to the spa my Love.”


We decided we'd soak until Mattia or Rachele were ready for a call. I told Tim if Hui couldn't chat at that time I'd set a time for tomorrow. He agreed after our time this afternoon he thought I was getting back to my old bastard self. Rachele called an hour after we got in the tub. Antonio promised to call her right back when he'd dried. I headed off to call Hui who did have an hour to spare me.


“Jinsong says a friend of yours is very ill with cancer.” Hui said. “I have red about Samuel. The stuff on the website. Rohan I was certain there was a lot more to it. Does Lao know all the details? I will arrange for both of us to visit with Daizan and Mu soon. The drive will be good for us. I will email you so we can set up a time for either Tuesday or Wednesday. We can chat about the now Lao always uses to irritate people. You seem to manage to work with it very nicely under stress. What about when you are not under stress? I think realizing your friend is in good hands and focusing on your experience now would be very good practice.”


“I wish I could think of a time when I wasn't practicing under stress.” I said. “My friend being ill is proving very stressful. All the old stuff is coming up.”


“What comes up is not nearly as important as realizing who is dealing with it now.” Hui said. “Your friend is ill but it is your friend who is in danger of dying. The workouts you and Dabulamanzi call crazy are crazy. Lao gives thanks every day he found not one but two people crazy enough to do those workouts. When you say Lao comes up with a killer workout it is true in every way. Yes Rohan if you had not got the lesson and kept your mind in the now you would have died. That is what Lao was showing you. You do not live and die by the sword. You live and die and live again by the mind. A greater mind than the one in your head as you now know.


That is a chat for another day. Back to your friend Mattia. He might die. You will be sad but that's okay because you like being sad. Sad when friends leave. Sad when you leave. Sad when you cannot have dessert. So if Mattia dies you will meet another old friend called sadness. Jinsong will help you experience another level of growth when you are ready. Your lady will tell you when you are ready. Now we will work with what we have.


Our work is easy. All you need is a reminder. When did you start studying medicine with the passion you have for cooking? Right after Samuel died. Your are a Hospitaller I hear. Were you grand master when you knew Samuel? No I didn't think so. Essentially you became a Hospitaller and the guy in charge of a global network of healers and doctors after Samuel died. Then the Rohan treating Mattia is not the Rohan who nursed Samuel. A new set of lessons wait for you now. You can do energy work that makes Lao proud. I thought I'd see somebody raised from the dead before that happened. Even with all this knowledge, resources and treatments available Mattia might still die. There is one law that supersedes all others. Do you know which law I am talking about?”


“The Law of Free Will.” I said softly. “The greatest test of our faith in this entire process. Like a cork bobbing in the ocean we have part of ourselves in the unseen world and a part in the physical world. The ripples on the surface are like the events in life but we can keep bobbing without any concerns if we know the totality of what surrounds us. The presence rather of the seen and unseen worlds in one vast container. Even though we may not know how everything works we can trust it does. Hui I have seen too many miracles to doubt it works perfectly. Yes I do have complete faith that it works.”


“Then all you have to do is enjoy your time bobbing in the ocean of life.” Hui said. “That was a lot easier than even I thought. Lao was right in saying you are full of surprises. Now while I have some time I will call Daizan and Mu. Yes I will tell them to look out for your text. Bye Rohan.”


“Bye Hui and thank you.” I said. “I'll start by bobbing in a hot tub.”


“What did Hui have to say my Love?” Tim asked when I returned to the hot tub.


“He told me to bob.” I said kissing my husband. “I thought you might like the sound of that.”


“You bet I do.” Tim said snuggling up against me. “I'll make certain you get lots of practice. Antonio I'm helping Rohan bob. See my Love even Antonio thinks it's very good of me to help you with your bobbing. A bobbing of your head. Then a bobbing of the hips. I like this spiritual path you are on my Love.”


“More people should walk such a path.” Antonio said sitting in the tub. “I shall send all my lovers to study at the feet of this wise man.”


“How is Mattia?” Tim asked handing Antonio a glass of wine.


“He is planning on becoming a sword carrying monk when he gets better.” Antonio said with a smile. “I nearly cried when he spoke of getting better. I don't care what he is as long as he is alive. Once Rachele learns she can become a sword carrying nun that will be two more recruits for you. I'm glad you are becoming more involved with the secular world Rohan. This gang of yours filled with hoodlums is something I must learn about quickly it seems.”


“You sound more hopeful as well.” Tim said. “Are they happy with their quarters? There's enough discomfort from the disease without a lumpy mattress or a lack of hot water in the shower. They have to visit the bathhouses and enjoy a long soak.”


“There is a problem with their quarters.” Antonio said. “Rachele tells me your low-key is the same as what I call luxury. She has the name of your designer now. Yes Caryn. That is the one. I'm glad I get to meet her tomorrow. Tim I might be able to lessen the damage if I chat to her before Rachele calls. We will have to keep her away from your home in Chesterfield if it is even more luxurious.”


My friend paid close attention when I explained about bobbing. He told me it was a good start but he would need to think on it some more. I told him Jinsong was the man to talk to if he had any question. Antonio's energy did feel lighter. He smiled more often as Tim spoke about the sky and the telescope. That reminded me about the tea house. When I mentioned it to Tim he thought it best we called Curtis and Elizabeth before we chatted to Costanzo.


“Three-four in sales today.” Tim said in amazement. “How did you guys manage? Thanks my Love for the loan of your monks and nuns. I'm glad Grace is getting some more staff. Do people still like the place and the food? I'm glad they've had good things to say. I want you guys to have job security. You guys must visit here one day. I'm certain it's more expensive than you would consider now but that will change. Especially if things stay this way. I must chat with Christopher and Garth soon. This is a good busy so I don't mind. Besides I'm relaxing with two wonderful guys in a hot tub under the stars on a balcony in the treetops. There are definite perks.”


“Sounds like your tea house is doing nicely Beloved.” I said. “Congratulations. I think we can keep a secret. What's up?”


“You know we need more staff at the tea house.” Tim said. “I'll chat to you later about keeping quiet. Well I was planning on surprising the staff with a profit-sharing proposal at the end of the month. I wanted to see if it was worthwhile and the tea house was going to succeed before suggesting it. The pay period runs two weeks so I need to let them know when they get paid Monday week. Do I tell them about it now to entice the new staff or do I wait?”


“Aren't the staff on probation?” Antonio asked. “Four weeks to see if they like it and you like them sounds fair. Then announce it at the end of the four weeks or wait six weeks until the end of the month. Six weeks might be better because then your extra weekend staff will have worked their probation.”


“I like the six weeks.” I said. “They are happy with their salary and tips now. I think it would be good to let Grace know of your plan and how you plan to share it. Betty will be happy to chat with you about how their plan is working. Matilda thinks it works too well in her favor. Antonio there might be a limit to how much money you can make and still call yourself downtrodden or an anarchist. Accepting the scolding is easier than trying to understand it.”


“Thanks guys for the suggestion.” Tim said. “Now let's call Costanzo. Hello Costanzo I hope this isn't too late for you. We were enjoying some time in the hot tub star-gazing and we thought of you. How are things going? I hope my tea house isn't making too much work for you. They had a very busy day.”


“Grace thought it might get very busy on the weekend so she increased the order for Friday.” Costanzo said. “The telescope is amazing. I love the preset star finder. Thank you guys for an amazing gift. The balconies are lovely. Sweet Joseph cooks out here while I play with my telescope. Thank you Rohan for bringing him into my life. Here's Joseph.”


“Rohan you haven't forgotten we have a date have you?” Joseph asked. “We are on speakerphone aren't we Tim? Good. Well Rohan? Oh I'm so glad you will make it. Absolutely thrilling. Your friend is most welcome to come along Rohan. I know you keep calling him a gangster but I think you're teasing me. He'll be a perfect gentleman. I'll get to listen to him and Costanzo chat in Italian. That will be lovely.


I'm sorry to hear your friend is ill Rohan. Glad he's in good hands. Rohan why didn't you tell me Antonio is with you? I'm sorry about your nephew being ill Antonio. You are most welcome to join us Wednesday. I'd love to meet a friend of Rohan.


You're very brave to get in a hot tub with those two. Better take a picture because nobody will believe those two own swimming trunks. Tim we all got chased out the tea house today. Couldn't toast a slice of bread. I'm glad it is doing well.


I won't keep you guys. Have a lovely night. Ciao! I'd love some wine Costanzo. Ciao! Not you Costanzo them. Love you!”


“How do you keep track of it all Rohan?” Antonio asked. “There is this constant stream of things going on and you keep adding more to your plate. I thought my criminal empire took a lot of managing but you have America, England and Poland just for your personal projects. Then a conference in the Andes. Sailing with your family. Then a trip through Spain on the way to Africa. People to marry in England and America. Why not consider buying a hospital in Milan? I'm sure there is a thirty-minute window open in your week that needs filling. Then I come along and give you more work in Chesterfield. Yes it will be good for us to spend more time together. Now you are helping Mattia. I know you have people in America but you will be hovering like a hawk over their shoulders. Hawk is okay. Vulture not so nice.”


“Antonio it has been like this since I met Rohan and it most likely won't stop.” Tim said. “There have been a few missteps along the way but minor ones. We are lucky that Rohan keeps track of things so all we have to do is show up and enjoy the festivities. Somebody tried to explain how he does it once. Something to do with layers but the explanation made my head hurt so I've stopped trying to figure it out.


I don't suppose it would be wise to sleep in the hot tub. All that wine and the rum you forced upon me is making me sleepy my Love. I'm definitely drunk enough for you to take advantage of me. Very considerate of you to make certain our bedroom is at the end of a bridge otherwise we'd be disturbing our gangster neighbor. He's been a perfect gentleman so we ought to let him get his rest. Goodnight Antonio. You'll have to carry me Scoundrel. The only location that concerns me about the spanking is that you choose my butt. Then surprise me my Love. Don't forget we need to practice your bobbing. Ciao Antonio.”


“Ciao guys.” Antonio said. “Have fun.”


My location did surprise Tim. He kindly let me undress him while the water in the shower warmed up. Then he hopped inside the shower to stay warm while I stripped. Yes I knew this long-handled brush was for dry-brushing the skin and exfoliating. What I had also noticed was the nice flat back it had. No ridges at all which made it ideal for rewarding husbands with a spanking. Before we got around to the spanking though I needed to make certain my husband was good and clean.


“You're not going to scrub me down with it are you Scoundrel?” Tim asked with widening eyes. “All over? Every nook and crack? Oh my. Do I get to return the favor? I can wait until tomorrow morning. Go ahead Scoundrel scrub away.”


I learned that if I was gentle it tickled. The process involved a lot of soap and a lot of kissing. I loved watching the brush leave Tim well soaped as it worked down his body. How wonderful he looked all soaped to the waist. I worked down the front of his legs before I focused on his cock and balls. That took a gentle touch but it was lovely to see his balls resting on the top of the bristles. Tim agreed it looked very hot.


By the time I got to his ass Tim was laughing uncontrollably from the tickling. Sliding the brush in his cleft wasn't easy but I got it in. I took a soap-covered Tim in my arms for a long hug and kiss before turning the water back on. Tim stood with his arms around me as the water washed away the soap. I loved holding him close with his head against my chest. A little too soon for my liking a tired Tim was ready for his spanking.


Although I turned off the water I intended to give a wet Tim a sound spanking. The long-handle made it tricky so I had him brace himself against the wall. Leaning slightly forward Tim spread his legs so his cheeks pressed tightly together. I thought the small target he presented would make a nice challenge.


“Go on Scoundrel.” Tim said with his head turned to the side. “I'm very sleepy and very aroused by all that brushing. Please spank me. Ouch! Ow! Fuck I hope you kept the receipt. That hurts like blazes Scoundrel. Holy crap! Where's the warm-up?”


Ignoring his protests I kept a steady rhythm and the same force. Once he adjusted to the implement Tim's cries subsided. Now there was just the hiss of breath at the bite. When I took it from warm-up to spanking I kept the added force as minimal as I could while making it a noticeable difference.


“Thank you Scoundrel.” Tim said after the sixth blow landed at the same force. “This is very nice. You are a bastard at times but you can also treat a boy to a very erotic spanking. I'm liking this one a lot. Oh ouch! You'll have me bristling Scoundrel.”


I only gave him a couple of swats with the bristle side of the brush. This was a lighter, much longer spanking to the ones I usually dished out. Tim made my heart melt as he stood there longer than I expected before begging me to fuck him. How sweet it was to know he had broken under the pressure of his pleasure instead of pain. I had another surprise in store for my sweet, loving husband.


Kneeling behind Tim I kissed his sore ass better and rimmed him for several minutes. Then tugging him backwards I sat down with Tim's ass on top of my cock. He took the hint. Soon he was kneeling with his back to me holding his ass still so I could guide my cock to his hole.


“Now Beloved.” I said holding my cock motionless at the entrance to his ass. “You're almost there. A smidge more. Right there. You've got it.”


“Lovely as this is Scoundrel weren't you meant to bob?” Tim asked as he rocked back and forth on his knees. “I'm demonstrating am I. There will be a test tomorrow morning to see if you paid attention to my fine demonstration. Scoundrel what other reason could there be for me to impale myself on a cock? There is the growing pleasure. A lovely feeling of fullness. The wonderful stretching when your cock throbs is driving me crazy. Apart from all that what other reason could there be but to demonstrate?”


“None that I can think of.” I said. “You are very sweet to an old man. Now if you'd pick up the pace I won't fall asleep on you. That's it. There we go.”


Red cheeks squeezing on my cock proved a magnet for my gaze. I locked on them and kept my gaze there as he slid down me. My husband was learning to keep it interesting by clenching down on my cock at random intervals. Sometimes he'd do it at the base of my cock. Another time it would be just a third down my shaft. I rested beneath him content to let him do the work.


A determined Tim had gone very quiet on me. Soft gasps of pleasure or groans of delight accompanied his bobbing but the loudest noise was wet flesh slapping against wet flesh. I climax towards the end of Tim's orgasm. He had almost finished spurting cum on the shower floor when I grabbed his hips and held him motionless against my groin. My cries of pleasure were more whimpers of relief. We had both found ourselves at the very limit of our pleasure tolerance tonight.


“Up you get Scoundrel.” Tim said offering me his hand. “Rinse, kiss, dry, kiss and off to bed. Got it? Good.”


Rinse. Kiss. Dry. Kiss. Off to bed. Goodnight kiss.


“Dylan, the scurvy newlyweds, Juliet, Bryce, Tracy, Abby, Sophie, Caryn, Joseph, Garth and Antonio.” Tim said taking brushes from the shelf. “Better send one to Dariusz.”


“Please don't ask.” I said to the grinning assistant. “Yes Tim I did enjoy the skillful way you brushed my skin this morning. You definitely got the blood flowing earlier. Sioned do you really need a picture of me blushing? I suppose it is a silly question. Tim I'm certain you have enough products for our sailing trip across the channel. We'll be there in less than a day.”


“We also need to get back my Love.” Tim pointed out. “We're stopping here so I suppose I could replenish. This will do for a start. I'll consult with Zachary when he arrives so I can have more mailed to us.”


“Rohan you are just too sweet for words.” Sioned said kissing my cheek. “The man has enough on that counter to keep me happy for a year. You haven't flinched once. I hope I find a man who loves me like you love Tim. Antonio is way too afraid to leave Tim alone with any of his mistresses. What about the products you bought the last trip?”


“They ended up getting scattered.” I said. “We stay in so many places it is hard to keep track. Yes Tim we will do an inventory at Winchester and London. I'm sure the lady has a list of essentials. We can have more mailed to our different addresses. Christian will restock Winchester. Leanne will take care of London. I'm sure Joseph won't mind taking care of Chesterfield. True we could just get that now because we have nothing there yet. Don't forget Blyth.”


“You were right Sioned I do have a sweet husband.” Tim said with a smile as he chatted about the essentials and maintenance products we'd need. “I couldn't be selfish and just buy products for me my Love. Hold still so the lady can examine your skin. He has weathered well hasn't he? Miraculous considering his lack of grooming products. You're certain we're not leaving you short? We could always have stuff mailed if you wanted to order more first.”


“Hard to believe I know but not too many guests have to keep four homes stocked with beauty products Tim.” Sioned said. “You won't believe how excited the staff at the spa get when they hear you are visiting. I swear getting laid by their favorite Hollywood star wouldn't generate as much excitement as you do.”


“Why don't you go start saying goodbye to Sioned and Alfie guys.” Tim said. “I don't think Rohan needs to see how much he's spoiling me. Alfie if he sees how much he might stop. I'd hate his flow to stop. Here you are Antonio. I think you'll enjoy the added benefits of this brush.”


“Any brush that can get Rohan to blush is one I need for my shower.” Antonio agreed. “I'm certain I'll figure it out without a demonstration. Thank you for the offer though. Rohan even if you can stand it I don't want to see the total on that sale. Cleopatra would be jealous Tim.”


“This is why I do it.” I said when Tim approached the cars. “Hold still Beloved while I hug and kiss you.”


“Tim whatever you spent you got a bargain.” Sioned said taking her turn to hug and kiss him. “You really do get such joy from this don't you? No Tim there isn't anything wrong with the joy you are radiating. I don't care if it arises from shopping instead of meditation. You come back soon and buy some more products. Before you can follow your bliss you need to fill yourself with it. Right now you are overflowing with bliss.


Now get in that car quickly before I embarrass us by saying how much I love you. 'Bye guys. Can't wait to see the others and Rohan's tub. Have a safe trip Antonio.”


“Do you think I should have told Sioned there was a parcel of maintenance products for her in the spa?” Tim asked as we drove down the driveway. “I thought she might prefer them to flowers. You're right I'm sure the ladies in the spa will get them to her. I hope she doesn't think I believe she needs them. Sioned is really pretty. That was quick. A text from Sioned. Oh my, she says she'll be waiting when we dock with bath brush in hand. What a sweetie.”


I laughed and pulled him close to me. Everything was right in the world now. Tim agreed somehow even with Mattia very ill things felt pretty good. Knowing we would be joining the catering crew for tea helped keep the good feelings flowing. Tim sent a text to Sister Colleen to let her know we were heading straight there for tea and were bringing a guest. I drove with Tim leaning against me the entire way. There was a good number of people from Chesterfield waiting for us.


“Is there anybody left in Chesterfield to look after things?” I asked as I greeted everybody. “I was just expecting Ingrid, Caryn and Holden. Grace you didn't need to come down. I could have given you a report on the food. Obviously if the surprise involves the Order then you two hooligans had to attend Garth.


Everybody this is my friend and business partner Antonio. I became the head of a gang of criminals yesterday. Mr. McGoo is working out the details. We're going to offer a safe meeting place for Antonio to chat with people in his line of work. They will be resolving issues not planning bank robberies and such stuff. Once I hear from Mr. McGoo I will have a clearer picture of our role.”


Pastor Ewan and Sister Faye were holding hands. A much fitter and healthier Pastor Ewan shook my hand. I told him he looked weeks younger than when I last saw him. Tim insisted on treating them to tea he was so impressed. Antonio was being very quiet so I kept an eye on him as he eyed Sister Colleen. I was more concerned about Antonio than her. Underneath her quiet demeanor was a dedicated nun who could easily have been a SWAT nun. She would take care of Antonio soon enough. How soon it happened surprised me.


Antonio had gone off to explore the grounds after tea which naturally led him to the garden. We could hear the sound of voices by the tables. We knew they were speaking in raised voices. Garth glanced at me but I shook my head so he stayed seated. A few of the monks closer to the garden headed through the gate to investigate. I kissed the top of Tim's head. Grace suggested Tim speak with her and Garth now and devote tomorrow to the surprise. Give it a few more minutes before you wander off I suggested when I noticed Sister Colleen leading Antonio back to the tables by the hand. They sat down at the end of the table without saying a word and waited.


“Excuse me Grand Master may I have a blessing.” a monk said sitting opposite me and Tim.


“I would be honored.” I said calmly taking his hands in mine and opening to my Lady.


“Thank you Grand Master.” he said when the chant ended. “Love, light and life.”


“Love, light and life.” I responded.


A few minutes later a nun took his place and asked for a blessing. Then another monk. Sister Faye and Pastor Ewan asked me to bless their deepening friendship. Then Sister Colleen led Antonio over to the empty seat. She asked me for a blessing first.


“Pay attention Antonio.” she said when he took her place and asked for a blessing. “Keep your focus now. There do you see it? Precisely there is no change. I am sorry I was harsh with you in the garden but I wanted to get your attention. Antonio when you look at me or another nun there is a hunger in your eyes. When Rohan looks at us it is with the same love he feels for Tim or his sons. That means everything to us.


Why do you think we chose somebody who enjoys sleeping with young boys as our Grand Master? Rohan wasn't as good with weapons as he is now so it wasn't because he was a mighty warrior. We chose Rohan because he seeks always to love you before anything else. He'd never go to bed with somebody without finding that love for them. Even when he drags a boy working at a coffee shop in to the bathroom for a quickie he has to find that love for them. Tracy told us about that incident and the two blockages you needed to release. Whatever we might think about him and his boys we knew we couldn't go wrong with somebody so loving.


Did you see any change when he offered a blessing to the monks and nuns? When he finished blessing us and kissed Tim did you see any change in his expression or feel a shift in the energy? Neither did I and I don't think Garth felt it either. Garth is a therapist and the one most likely to notice any shift in energy or body language. He didn't notice anything either. I do not know how Rohan does it Antonio.


This love is what allowed him to help a monk who tried to kill him. You will have to chat with the three terrors from Katowice to find out more. We've all heard how this same love influenced Tim in his first blood fight. The first he had ever fought. He broke a nun's shield arm and caught the shield before the weight could cause her serious damage by pulling her arm out and down. We gossip a lot Tim and if it involves somebody close to Rohan word will spread even quicker. The weight of the shield would have pulled muscles and tendons. Thanks to you it was just a clean break. That was very well done Tim.


Antonio I do not know how you can get from here to where Rohan is but if you do and I am still single then please visit me. I'm certain Rohan wasn't born loving people this way so he found a way. We all follow our own unique path so even if Rohan could explain it you would still need to find your own path. I wish I could be of more help.”


“You have been of immense help.” Antonio said. “Thanks to you I am taking the first step on this journey. I will speak to the people close to Rohan. He has his teachers who have done very well guiding him. I shall speak to them when I can. That all depends what he has in store for me. He has conspired with Tim and made plans for me. I do not know what they are but I know of the plans until Wednesday. Any hint Rohan?”


“You are going to Blyth on Thursday and London on Friday so you can fly to Montana.” I said. “Hopefully you can take either Ciro or Gaspare with you. Maybe both if your business can spare them for a week. Then you will fly back with my sons and their moms to London and make your way with them up to Blyth the following Friday. We will go to a Sunderland game on Saturday. I am sailing to France on Monday. We will spend a few days in France. Then we visit Sioned to drown my sons in kisses. I have to take them to a fancy restaurant in London and show them my home in Chesterfield, Tim's tea house, the cottages and introduce them to Lucinda and Costanzo.


After all that I shall return with them to America and go visit Mattia as soon as I can. A lot depends on how things unfold in Chesterfield and the gang business. I think if I leave Mattia with the healers for three or four weeks before I visit we will have a much clearer idea of what needs doing. I think I can get back two weeks after the gang arrives. What you choose to do after you watch us set sail will depend on what you learn this week and the next week back in Montana. I think by that Sunday you will have a good idea of your plans.”


“My business in Chesterfield can wait.” Antonio said. “Mattia is more important than any business. I know this trip with your sons was already arranged so it needs to go ahead. I might join you at the treehouses or in London. We will see what happens as I learn more about you and this wonderful organization of yours. The chats with your teachers will influence my plans. I can go along with the trip to Montana and will be glad to travel back with your sons. Your departure for France is nicely timed.


I mustn't waste time or I might find Sister Colleen is no longer single. That would be a tragedy. Rohan you always seem to throw my life into turmoil within hours not days of entering it. That has not changed no matter how much you have. Please tell me there is some medicinal wine close at hand? I need a glass and some time to think.”


“I'm chatting to Tim with Grace for a few minutes.” Garth said. “I'd be happy to chat with you later. Where are you spending the night Antonio?”


“That hasn't been decided yet.” Antonio said. “That is very kind of you Sister Faye. I will gladly accept your offer of the spare room. I'll make certain I get my fill of alcohol before we go to your cottage. Honestly I could do with the break.”


“Tell me Grand Master what plans did you have while Tim chats with Garth?” Christopher asked with a smile.


“Looks like I need to remind a Hospitaller hooligan why he should call me Rohan instead of grand master.” I said with a smile. “Looks like we will have to wait because everybody wants to watch. Grace when you're done chatting let us know how long we can have before dinner. Thank you. Does anybody know where my resistance bands are? I want to experiment a little. Thank you.”


This time I drew on chi right from the start to extend the resistance bands. Christopher brought over some kettlebells and set them on the ground near me. Holding the image of a cork bobbing gently on the waves I did squats and lunges because they involved a lot of bobbing. Breathing and relaxing into each rep I found it got very easy. My body and mind seemed to have no trouble working with the image while drawing on chi without any conscious effort on my part. The more fun I had playing with the image the easier it became. I ended with a little Zulu dancing for fun. The stamping and kicking was a blast.


“Fifteen-minutes for sparring tonight.” Grace said. “You guys will have to get up early tomorrow morning if you want more. Rohan needs rest.”


“Maybe it will help to know I will be here to extend the sparring in the morning.” Jinsong said stepping into view.


“Jinsong! Good to see you.” I said lifting him off the ground in a huge hug. “Thanks for driving him down Sam. I've missed you guys so much. Yes I know time is ticking. Tim please call out every five-minutes for me.”


Christopher had warmed up with other monks and nuns while I did my resistance band experiment. We went at each other freely right from the start. One cannot really get a good swing or work your muscles with a short-sword like you can with a broadsword or claymore. Your shield gets used a lot more which is a different type of fun. Pressing my shield against Christopher's made me think of rams with their horns locked.


“Rolling hands for the last five?” I asked Christopher and set my shield aside when he nodded.


“Something new.” Jinsong said approaching with two short swords. “Expand your reach a little. Hands in but elbows slightly outside your body line. Roll the wrists. Enjoy.”


We smiled at each other after two minutes. That's how long it had taken for us to get used to swinging two swords or rather rolling two swords in front of us. The four blades dancing and kissing were amazing. The flicker of light off the blades was pretty. I felt such joy. So very much like a kid.


“Why not toss in a few balls and ask them to juggle as well?” Grace asked when Tim called time. “Hit the showers quickly. Stay where you are Tim. I said quickly. You'll be quick on your own Rohan or I'll send Sister Faye with you.”


“Come along Christopher or your dawdling will get me a chaperone.” I said giving Tim a quick kiss in passing.


There was a lot of teasing about how effective Grace's threat had been when I returned before Christopher. Sister Fay blushed when I told them I found her too pretty to have in such an environment now that she was deepening her relationship with Pastor Ewan. I warned them both they wouldn't sit for a week if we weren't at the wedding. Sister Faye decided me agreeing to attend a wedding without alcohol was truly special. She promised to call Hafiz about the drinks for her wedding if things went that far.


Christopher finally joined us and we headed inside to dish up. There were trays of shepherd's pie and vegetables. A truly wonderful sight. I insisted on the others going first so I could enjoy the scene. Antonio got the others to laugh by saying this was how they had recruited me. Showing me all this food was all it would have taken Tim agreed. The food was top class I assured Grace. Sister Coleen told me the fresh herbs were from the garden. She promised to give me a quick tour tomorrow morning before I headed off to see my surprise. Garth confirmed the hooligans would be at Lucinda's manor now. I bided my time and under the guise of kissing Tim whispered instructions.


“We're all moving over to the grill area.” I said. “Those who want more food can stock up on the way over. Your boss has to introduce you to some hooligans. The difference between these hooligans and the ones you work with every day is the cuteness factor. Lucinda if you don't leave any hooligans for me to enjoy Wednesday afternoon I'm treating you and Rebecca to Holden's paddle.”


“I'd deserve nothing less if I was so greedy.” Lucinda agreed calmly as she sat with a hooligan on each knee. “These guys are such a blessing. I've tried to tell them they are welcome to stay. No need to do any work. Little Henry told me it wasn't work because they have lots of fun. What a lovely boy. Speaking of Holden's paddle somebody arranged for my pantry to get stocked beyond bursting. Rebecca had to find a hamper to store our treats in to keep them in our rooms. Cook is upset because now she can cook so many meals she has a hard time deciding which one to prepare.”


“That's a nice problem to have.” Caryn said. “How did your visit with the contractors go?”


“That is another thing Rohan.” Lucinda said. “Seems we are going into business together with tours of my paintings. What I didn't expect was an advance to extend the manor. These sweet workers need a bathing area Rohan. I'm borrowing your contractor to build one. The additional toilets will be useful when we have music and functions in the garden. Caryn came up with a design that allows us to separate the showers from the toilets. There is a connecting door we can lock between the toilets and the showers. Never mind me you really need to feed Caryn to Holden's paddle. Ask her to show you what she has come up with.


Christopher has engineers lined up to go over the entire manor house. I have surveyors making a note of each blade of grass. Thankfully I have the children to calm my nerves. Between the engineers, surveyors and you there is no limit to the amount of damage you can cause.


Yes Tim I do feel better knowing Rohan is arranging for Caryn to enjoy a lengthy stay with a professional dominatrix. Thank you Rohan. I won't scold you as long when you next visit. These little guys need to get settled for the night. What's that? I don't think it will be any trouble at all. You could ask Rohan for anything in the world and he would get it for you. I doubt a song is any trouble. Cook may have retired but I'll send Rebecca to see if she wants to join us.”


Cook was making hot chocolate for everybody so we chatted a little longer. When everybody including Lucinda had a mug of hot chocolate I sang for the hooligans. I kept singing until they all finished their drink. Then I sang one last lullaby for them and us.


“You are one of the most dangerous men on the planet.” Lucinda said when I finished singing. “Rohan I am glad I will get to see your impact on the nobility but won't have to live through all the changes you will bring with you. Thank you for the songs and everything else. I look forward to seeing you on Wednesday for afternoon tea Rohan. Now I must help tuck these guys in. Good night everybody.”


Garth waited until we had dessert before sharing our plans with everybody here in Winchester. He asked them to let him know if they had any ideas or suggestions. There would be regular updates on the website. Tim let everybody know to protect the duchess some information would be on a secure page. He was sending out an email for them with instructions on how to view it. The information about our involvement with the gangsters would be on it. This caused a stir among the monks and nuns.


“You guys have trusted me so in return I am trusting you.” I said calmly. “I am helping Antonio who is a member of a crime organization. His nephew and my former lover Mattia is very ill. He's being treated at the facility in Montana. We won't know for a few days how much he chooses to share with the Order. You know we don't put everything up online and we will not use his real name. What we share is to help our monks and nuns learn about healing.


I'm a member of the hierarchy of an ancient religious order so naturally I'm up to something devious. Antonio trusts me not to force anything on him or his business associates. There are things I will ask of the Order that I won't share with Antonio until I feel my plan is sound. My loving husband is going to show me how to add a secure journal to two websites. One will be for the Order and the other will be for Antonio. Only the people he shares the URL and password with will have access or knowledge of the site. The decision to share it with the Order will be his to make. I am not going to share the Order side with him because that's where we are planning our conspiracy.


Antonio I intend to bring a little Genta to your world. Well maybe more than a little. I think we will call it Operation Genta Phase І. Nothing will get forced upon you nor will you be under any pressure to accept any of our proposals. The agreements we make are not dependent on you going along with my suggestions.


To help reassure Order members I want to make it clear our role is to offer a safe, neutral venue where personal differences get settled. We will offer our help to them just as we offer it to anybody else. Antonio has agreed to keep violent crime and drugs out of my new home town of Chesterfield. He has divested himself recently of any drug related business within his organization. This made my decision to help him much easier.


They may discuss how to get along better with other gangsters but no specific criminal plans like bank robberies or fraud get discussed under our protection. I have let Antonio know we will use whatever information we gather if we feel lives are in danger. Otherwise whatever we hear will stay within the Order. The courts and the gods judge others not us. We cannot be an influence if we are not around people. My aim is to help bring about change through education and suggesting a different way to view things. The same approach we have used to come up with an alternative to the sentences imposed by courts.


You guys know I tend to bumble along and stumble a few times on my way to my destination. Any input you have will be most welcome. I am writing the journal as a way to work through my thoughts so you will see my unedited first thoughts. Please go back to the journal in a couple of days before emailing me. I may just need a day or two to catch up with you guys. Garth and Christopher will be available to listen to your concerns. They will be busy in Chesterfield and it might take them a day to respond or chat with me. I will be available for about a week from Thursday while my husband has sailing lessons. During this week I hope to come up with a clear plan and strategy to share with you guys. Then I'm going sailing with my sons and their moms to France.


There is a lot of potential here to bring about huge change in the world. Honestly I do not believe we can let this opportunity pass and still feel we are being true to our Order principles. I wouldn't have made such a lengthy speech if I didn't feel strongly about this or if you sorry lot weren't too lazy to fill my dessert bowl.”


While somebody gets our esteemed leader something to eat I'm getting some medicine.” Sister Coleen said. “That was at least three times longer than any speech Rohan has given as head of the Order. I need time to get over the length of it before I can even begin to think about what he had to say.”


I'll help dispense medicine for everybody.” Tim said. “I just heard my husband say he is going to create, update and upload an online journal. The usual for him is to unload on web pages Antonio. When he throws in the word Genta we all know he is up to something that will be felt around the world. Hard to imagine the guy who sings lullabies to little kids is busy scheming to transform organized crime across the globe.”


You don't mind if I tag along to Blyth with you do you Rohan?” Jinsong asked. “I need not tell you of my experience with organized crime. I might be able to talk Lao into sharing some of our ideas and make it easier to come up with a suggestion or two for Antonio. His church as been working on new models for a few centuries now.”


All you want to do is keep on bullying me.” I said with a smile. “Your help with this project and my sparring will be invaluable Jinsong. I also think it would be good for Antonio if you are in Blyth when he returns.”


Don't worry I'll keep my speech shorter than Rohan's speech.” Antonio said when the monks had refilled glasses and bowls. “I want to share this is a sign of my openness and faith in the Order. Part of it stems from what Sister Coleen said earlier. The other stuff is private and Rohan wouldn't mention it.


My niece and nephew are everything to me. I do not have any children of my own yet. A few years ago my niece collapsed at a party I was holding. She had overindulged in drugs. That is what got me to order my guys to relinquish my drug interests. In my world to suddenly drop it would have been suspicious enough to start a war. Only when people heard of my niece's trouble with drugs could I safely let go of my drug network.


When he heard Mattia was ill Rohan made some phone calls. The next thing I knew my niece and nephew were on a plane to America. A nun traveled with them. Rohan's personal assistant took it upon herself to buy them first-class tickets because she wanted Mattia to travel comfortably. My nephew has gastric cancer. Brother Cameron says it is not too late but we are definitely past the early stages.


Tracy arrives in Montana tomorrow. She is meeting up with another healer Kasper from Poland. On Thursday I travel to Montana to spend a week with my family and to spend time with the healers. Nobody hesitated to help us. Tracy and Kasper were willing to drop everything and go to Montana to help. They did this not just for a stranger but a gangster. No questions asked. So I hope you understand and can feel my sincerity when I say I will listen closely to whatever suggestions Rohan puts forward. I will give them a lot of thought.


This may come as a surprise but even gangsters can feel trapped in their jobs. When we talk about a dead-end job we really mean it. I can walk away but what of the people who work for me? You might not have sympathy for us hoodlums but what of our children, our wives and the parents we care for in their old age? Rohan has access to many brilliant minds. Sister Coleen showed me this earlier. Where I have been unable to come up with a way to change my career or organization maybe you guys can. I am more than willing to listen. My role might be to give some insight into how to put forward the proposal to the others or I might see what parts of the proposal will be flatly rejected.


Rohan saved my niece and nephew many years ago. He stayed with us for a while and managed to get arrested six times in four weeks at soccer games. Our waitress this weekend wants to attend his induction into the soccer hooligan's hall of fame. I am slowly catching up on what Rohan has been up to these past years. Looking at him and you guys I hope I can transform my life just as he did in a way that allows me to meet my responsibilities to my employees as well as he cares for you.


Please keep this in mind when you read Rohan's journal entries. This is the gangster he is getting involved with to see if he can transform our lives. I'd like us all to raise our glasses and wish him good luck. To Rohan!”


After the toast Tim shared our encounter with Jarvis and Lyle with everybody. They laughed when he mentioned I was too embarrassed by my lack of cash to hand over my wallet until I'd filled it with a couple of grand. When Grace told them about Jarvis and Lyle's conversation with the bank manager they were holding their sides. Then Garth told them about the tests to see what criminal career suited them best. Caryn showed everybody pictures of the redecorated apartment and pizza splurge night. I was glad to hear the monks thought we had judged the pizza and beer perfectly.


Right before we called it a night I asked Caryn to show me what Lucinda meant about the bathroom for the kids. Instead of plonking a separate structure on the land Caryn had thought it would be nice to change the L-shaped manor into a U-shaped manor. The toilets were in the front half of the room with doors that could be locked leading to the back half and bathing facilities. She had run into two challenges. One being the length of the sides had to match. No problem extending the new addition because a ballroom that transformed into a workout room added the extra length. The second challenge was height. The manor had two floors so she needed something above the bathroom. A drawing-room or study was her solution. A quiet space for reading or chatting with a friend over a cup of tea.


The room is too long for a simple study.” I said. “Why not subdivide it with a bedroom and bathroom behind the study so it can become a guest suite when people visit? There’s plumbing being put in just below it. I also like the idea of the workout area being able to transform itself to a TV or playroom for the hooligans. Lucinda loves kids and with winter approaching they will need an indoor area. Don't forget to find space for a sauna and steam room.”


Lucinda is already complaining about the cost.” Caryn said.


All the women in my life are complaining about the cost and luxuriousness as if they were all undeserving of good stuff.” I said with a sigh. “Amazingly enough I no longer give a shit. Yes Caryn you can quote me on that. I don't care if it's the duchess Lucinda or barmaid Matilda. Every person has a role to play in keeping the tapestry of Life from unraveling. Knowing you play such a key role in creation I'd like one of you ladies to tell me why you think you're undeserving of nothing but the very best? I'm all out of patience with this rot.


Now I am off to find my bed because Jinsong is here to bully me early tomorrow morning. I have a tour of the garden planned with Sister Coleen before breakfast. My husband will want to join both of those and if I don't get him bedded soon we'll all be hearing about raccoon eyes all day.”


I told the others we would return in the morning between six-thirty and seven. Caryn told me she wanted to unveil the surprise around nine. Grace had arranged breakfast burritos for tomorrow morning so I could eat on the go if I ran out of time. I thanked Pastor Ewan and Sister Faye for looking after Antonio. I stopped for some beer on the way home. Somebody had kindly aired the place and set some fresh flowers on the coffee table. I poured us a beer while Tim unpacked some clothes for us. He called out to me a reminder that Antonio would need to see this space before we left Tuesday.


Scoundrel why do we have three empty beer bottles on the counter when there are just two glasses with beer in them?” Tim asked accepting his beer.


I had to check the freshness and quality before serving it to my husband.” I said kissing him. “You have no idea how terrible I'd feel serving you poor beer.”


“Glad to know it passed quality control.” a naked Tim said stretching out on top of me. “I wonder what the surprise is my Love. This is so exciting. I'm glad we are getting an early start and staying busy until the unveiling. I need more meditation practice before I can appear as calm and unruffled as you.”


You will get there and are fortunate to have an early start on it.” I said confidently. “Look there's a travel show about a little French village on the Mediterranean. I buggered my first police officer in that village. What a sweet boy he was. The first time I stripped him completely but on the second time I just pulled his pants down to his knees and fucked him in uniform. Sometimes doing your civic duty isn't too onerous. That was before some fishing boats sank Tim.”


Tim enjoyed hearing all about the locals. My little room above the bakery where I'd wake to the aroma of fresh-baked bread and other treats. How I would share my wine with the retired folk in return for teaching me French. I even made a little money modeling for the daughter of the local gentry. Her father was overjoyed to find a gay guy for his daughter's model. The church got a fresh coat of paint in thanks. I got a few bottles of wine from the grateful pastor. A good three months in a very tumultuous period in my life.


Losing our clothes when we got home saved us some time before going to sleep. Lying with a naked Tim pressed against me meant I was nicely warmed up. Tonight I wanted some tender and gentle sex. A smirking Tim asked if I was still feeling the effects of the hairbrush when I started off gently. I didn't hesitate to tell him I was still feeling a little sore. No I certainly don't mind rolling on my stomach so you can kiss it better. The sneaky imp went from kissing to rimming which was very nice of him.


You sneaky, sneaky imp.” I said when Tim pressed the head of his cock against my hole.


Merely checking for any lingering internal tenderness my Love.” Tim said pressing his cock into me. “No need to thank me.”


Good. Then I won't.” I muttered into the pillow. “Give a guy the outer half and before you know it he's taking the inside as well.”


Sounds like I've unleashed my husband's inner grouch.” Tim said fucking me steadily. “I never knew you had one in you.”


Merely teasing you just like your slow pace is teasing me.” I said smiling up at him. “I'm just as happy getting fucked by you as I am fucking you. This really is perfect.”


Yes it is.” Tim said. “Thank you my Love. For everything.”


Oh Beloved you are more than welcome.” I said meaningfully. “You're also welcome to up the pace and put some effort into fucking me.”


Now you tell me.” Tim said leaning down to kiss my cheek.


Good hard sex is lovely at times but so is just lying beneath the guy you love with all your heart while he slides his cock in and out of your ass. Lying there I could feel Tim's love. The pleasure he was feeling eventually overshadowed it for a while when he let his orgasm consume him. Feeling my husband's cum against the inside of my ass almost got me to unload. I clenched my pelvic muscles and gritted my teeth as I rode out the urge to unload. My husband was oblivious to my struggle until his pleasure subsided.


For me?” Tim asked with a smile when I rolled over to show him my erection. “First a bunch of beauty products and now a load of cum. What a lucky lad I am. This has been the best Sunday in seven days my Love. You deserve these two kisses.”


Rolling over with my cock in Tim's mouth I let him know I wouldn't be long. Tim barely got his fingers into my cum-filled passage before I cried out in pleasure. Holding myself as still as I could I looked down to enjoy the sight of my husband gulping down my load. He noticed my gaze and smiled up at me around my cock.


I love you.” I mouthed silently when he released me.


There wasn't any chance of Tim carrying me to the shower. When I told him I was buggered he just smirked and told me he knew. I pulled him close for some kisses. A little tickling for being such a smart-ass. His punishment was to wash me. My pleasure was to return the favor. Tim kissed my cheek when I lifted the covers for him.


We'll make up for lost sleep tomorrow and Tuesday night.” I promised Tim just before we fell asleep.