The Pervert And The Virgin – Part Forty-Two

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.

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There was only time for a quick sixty-nine in the morning we slept so late. Despite our desire to watch the recording we took our time with our meditation. Sam and Phyllis had joined us for our sunrise meditation. Benjamin, Caryn and Holden were waiting with Charles for us to arrive. Once we had coffee Christopher started our show. The florist ruse hadn't worked because all people making delivery were on a set schedule and had to call a cellphone to confirm they would be arriving at at a particular time. When the call from the florist truck came through on the general manor phone number they knew something was up.

Out of sight from the gate the monks had built an arrester bed in the driveway. They had covered the top of the bed in gravel that matched the rest of the driveway. When the delivery van stalled in the arrester bed four monks rose up from under their camouflage nets alongside and swung their heavy maces against the doors and windscreens. Designed to crush heavy armor the maces shattered glass and put some very impressive dents in the thin metal of the panel van. They quickly dropped out of any line of sight or fire.

“Why aren't they doing anything else?” Holden asked. “Looks like a stalemate.”

“There job is to keep this group from reaching the manor.” Christopher explained. “The guys in the truck know that while they are sitting there the police are on their way. When they tried coming through the main gate a second group had made their way over Charles' estate from the opposite end. We might not use firearms but we do use concealed cameras and monks scattered at random around the property. Unlike regular sentries they remain hidden and let you pass. Then they send a text on ahead.”

We watched as the special ops guys used every bit of cover available. They were very good and had planned their route so well they seldom had to cross more than a small patch of open ground. There wasn't much cover around the manor though. The moment they ran towards the back of the manor house the barking of dogs sounded. The special ops guys froze against the walls looking for the dogs. A volley of blunted arrows struck them. The arrows had painted heads that left no doubt where they had struck. All of the special ops guys got hit several times. Exposed and pinned against the wall they gave up.

“What about the guys in the truck?” Caryn asked. “Didn't they try to escape?”

“We had archers hidden in the trees and the mace wielding monks right outside.” Christopher answered. “The only direction for them to run was an open field and it would have left them too exposed. Whenever they started to open a door we put an arrow in it. Benjamin body armor doesn't help if you take an arrow through the throat or even the leg. We had monks moving to encircle them as well. Charles our guys would have started at the wall and worked their way towards the trucks as much as cover allowed. They wouldn't expose themselves but wait at the edge of the trees.

Remember if we get attacked we will call the police and army. They will know a VIP is visiting and be on standby. All we have to do is contain them and if we can neutralize the threat without too much risk we will. We got away with nobody on our side wounded and two squads of six men captured or disabled.”

“I'd never have believed it if I hadn't watched this recording.” Holden admitted. “You guys are very good. The van took a pounding. No wonder Rohan like swinging the heavy mace.”

“These are the best we have in the U.K.” I said. “Christopher has worked hard on their training and tactics. I seldom get to see them put to the test against top quality opposition. Yes Tim you could call these our SWAT monks.”

“Tim I think it takes more than a paddle to make you a SWAT monk.” Caryn laughed. “I'm sure you'd be very good at it though. Maybe tonight I'll get evidence. That good wine took us all out last night.”

“There's a soccer match on this evening.” Tim said. “I think tomorrow night calls for brushing up on my SWAT training.”

Phyllis offered to make breakfast sandwiches while we sparred. We said our goodbyes to our friends who were having breakfast at the B&B before leaving for the treehouse. Lance promised Benjamin he remembered. Nancy reassured him she knew of the mission and would help see it through. Tim didn't mind Caryn, Holden and Benjamin watching our sparring so they came along with us.

Because there was no time for meditation I had Tim just do a little grounding and took him through the basics for thirty minutes. Sam helped Phyllis with the sandwiches but requested a little sparring with me. He was proficient enough with the short sword to hold his own. By his own admission he had never taken it to the next level. I used this sparring to show Tim how to glide and some of the classic blocks and ripostes. We ended the bout by simply standing and saluting each other.

We ate our sandwiches on the way to meet with Ingrid. Holden blushed scarlet when she offered them the use of a chapter house bed for the next hour. Caryn swatted my ass quite hard. I kissed her nose and told Holden he was lucky to have found a lady with such a firm hand. Caryn took refuge in an Irish coffee.

“Tim this is the best we can come up with to make this a viable project.” Ingrid said. “We can run water and plumbing along the outside of the building to save tearing up the walls. A faux wood beam will cover them so it will look nice. This will still leave enough room for a bed, two chairs and a desk in each room. These walls will get a door so they have direct access to the existing bathrooms. We'll essentially move the bathroom door from the passage into the bedroom. That takes care of the existing rooms.

I was going to just extend the addition over the terrace but it wouldn't fit the character of the neighborhood. We have to enclose the back. We can put in enough windows for the plants to thrive. Effectively it will be a sun room. Above it will be the new kitchen, dining room and living room. On the top floor of the addition we have two more bedrooms. The new rooms and the two larger rooms will rent for six hundred each. The two smaller ones five hundred. That's the monthly rental. A total of thirty-four hundred. Any questions?”

“This all looks amazing.” Sam said. “Ingrid you have outdone yourself. Who will look after the property?”

“We will create a living space above the garage.” Ingrid said. “I plan on having the manager of the coffee shop also look after the rooms. This will only involve maintenance and leases. The monthly rents get paid directly into a bank account.”

“I'm liking the look of this.” Tim said. “There is the coffee shop as well.”

“Yes there is and here it is.” Ingrid said. “Pretty standard but this a simple, neat, no-frills coffee shop. We really don't have much space so we are encouraging people to have take-out. Our catering and treats will be items that are easily eaten on the go.

Now about the catering. The farm is ideal for functions. Weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries. Our gardeners are coming up with a garden to hold these in. We will keep several large canvas tents on hand to make this a usable space no matter what the weather. Caryn a circus tent is a great idea. I'll pass that suggestion on. Rohan we will just use it for the design not the colors. All of this gets stored in the barn. Half of the barn will become a dorm area. That will run the length of the barn. We will set up stoves and ovens on the opposite side for the catering. Holden we have the prep tables on wheels so we can move them out the way and use this area to spar or practice archery.”

“What about the rest of the land?” Tim asked.

“We will use it to grow vegetables, flowers and herbs for our clinics.” Ingrid said. “We'd like to make this teaching farm. We could put up a straw bale work area for drying herbs and preparing medicines from it. This will have a lounge area for classes and make it a nice space for others to use when they want a quiet comfortable area to read or play chess. The reason I haven't included this is budget considerations. What do you guys think of it so far?”

“I'm in love with the entire project but I really wanted a more formal college, pub and boarding house.” Tim said with a sigh. “I do so hate to give up on this. You've created something stunning. You can see Caryn is itching to work on it.”

“You bet I am.” Caryn said. “Do you know how much fun I would have? Lots Benjamin. Lots.”

“What about the cottage?” I asked. “You haven't mentioned it.”

“That would become the home for whoever we set in charge.” Ingrid said. “I thought I'd work on this together with the new tenant. Essentially we'd do whatever repairs it needs and make it super efficient using natural products. High efficiency appliances, heaters and windows. That sort of thing.”

“More fun for Caryn.” Benjamin said with a smile. “Tim the project you really have in mind is more a business than an Order project isn't it?”

“Yes it will fall under my trading company.” Tim agreed. “Benjamin if you are thinking what I suspect you're thinking you are as bad as Rohan.”

“This would make a lovely tax right off.” Benjamin said with a smile. “A wonderful gift to the Order you have just joined. We could speak to Edgar about a loan since he is working for both of us now.”

“No need to worry on that account.” Tim said with a smile. “I know Rohan loves me three Lance-size bunches so I think I can wheedle a few pounds out of him to cover these projects. I'll give you seven kisses, my Love.”

“Nine.” I said instantly.

“Twelve.” Tim responded.

“Fifteen.” I countered.

“Twenty and no less.” Tim said with finality.

“Done at twenty-six excluding this one.” I said kissing him. “Thank you for this incredible gift to the Order.”

“There are two stipulations.” Tim said fixing his gaze on Ingrid. “There will be a private sparring area somewhere on the grounds. I expect it will be a multipurpose room but I want it easily converted for weapons training. Agreed? Good.

I will be borrowing the funds from Rohan. My company will pay back this loan by matching the donation he makes to cover this project. Whatever names you come up with for these houses or projects is entirely up to you. Please don't include my name in any shape or form. Outside of this room, the people working on it, my new family in America and our friends at the treehouse nobody else needs to know I'm funding it. Are we all agreed?”

“My agreement will cost a kiss.” Caryn said setting herself in Tim's lap and kissing him soundly. “Tim you have no idea how much this will cost yet you committed to it. I think that is the sweetest gesture I've seen. I'd love to work on the project with Ingrid.”

Phyllis and Ingrid kissed Tim thanks for his gift for the Order. Ingrid would spend today preparing for a trip to chat with the local officials. She would have sketches of the garden later today. I asked her to appoint somebody in charge of the funds. Tim texted her Frederick's contact details. I sent Frederick an email asking him to call Ingrid later today to discuss a project. Tim told Benjamin that Frederick would get the details from Ingrid. No need for me to do that work I added.

A quick stop at the department store for the bedding we forgot to get yesterday. Caryn warned the staff she had just got two more larger jobs from me. A lengthier stop in a pub for lunch. Then on to the orphanage.

“This is your new friend Tiny.” I said to the assembled kids. “He needs a quiet place to stay while some unfriendly people leave his life. Yes just like the people who used to run this place. Do you mind giving him a not-so-tiny part of the orphanage to sleep in?”

“He can stay as long as he needs to stay.” Little Henry said. “We're going to help build his bed.”

“What are you all standing around for?” I asked. “Tiny likes lots of hugs and kisses. He'd like to get to know your names as well.”

Caryn snapped plenty of pictures. I stepped aside to sign the necessary paperwork making Benjamin a member of the Order. Tim got in touch with our intelligence friend to see how the background check was getting on. I was glad it would be done this afternoon and kept on record here at the orphanage. One of the monks led me to a quiet area for my lesson with Lao. We stopped on the way to get some hot water for my tea from an urn.

My lesson started by doing a check in on the monk with the broken arm. Then we expanded it to the monk who had attacked me in Poland. Lao agreed with Christopher that comparing what I saw and felt in my meditations with the physical progress would give me confidence. This would also help members of the Order who wished to study energy healing. Now it was not just sketches but a journal as well.

After a break to prepare more tea Lao had me work on myself. When we finished there were still spots within me that refused to accept more chi. I found it very frustrating. Lao let me stay frustrated. Think about it tomorrow when you have less to do he suggested. I entered the dormitory to see Benjamin on his new bed with the kids piled on top of him.

“Rohan you are a strange doctor but the medicine you prescribe is wonderful.” Benjamin said while tickling one of the kids. “I will stay here and join my new friends for dinner tonight. You told me to ask them for help with a problem I have. I will feel better when we have chatted about it. Thank you Rohan for everything.”

“We'll help you and the monks are very smart.” Little Henry said trying to hug Benjamin from behind but his arms could barely span the width of Benjamin's back.

Tim had called for a taxi when he saw me approaching. Once again Phyllis helped me in the kitchen. Sam assembled the pasties with her while I got started on the vegetables. Caryn had Tim roll the dice and he ended up supporting Arsenal. She wouldn't let me roll the dice because I had to support Everton. Tim asked if I was tacitly admitting the Gunners were better before the game started. The Dogs of War will overrun your gun emplacements in no time flat I predicted.

“Wolves. Puppies. Care to try bitch next?” Tim said. “Got you good didn't I?”

“Arse-n-al” I conceded.

“Not entirely but I will tomorrow.” Tim said. “We need a rest day. Like Caryn our sex quota is lagging and you need to catch up on news from Poland.”

“Games starting.” Caryn shouted.

We carried plates out to everybody and told them to help themselves to seconds from the kitchen. Tim promised the Gunners opening salvo would be devastating. I predicted a flash in the dustpan. My prediction came true when they kicked off and ended up getting a weak shot on goal. Tim let us know they were just warming up. All bark and no bite was Tim's response to Everton missing the goal and conceding a goal kick.

“That's not warming up Scoundrel.” Tim declared loudly. “They were so wide of the goal it was stone cold. Cold enough to freeze Hell. Don't worry I'm sure he's realized he forgot to put his contacts in.”

“You can expect some contact with your butt in a bit.” I promised.

We jumped. We shouted. We kissed. We pushed each other on to the couch. Your team let their powder get wet I explained as another Arsenal attack fizzled.

“Scoundrel they know it isn't sex in the shower.” Tim defended his team stoutly.

“They sure have me confused fucking up so much.” I retorted. “Talk about firing blanks.”

“Well at least we're firing.” Tim said. “The dogs of war look more like the puppies of yore. They haven't landed a shot on goal for thirty seconds. I'm worried the cold will cause our goalkeeper to stiffen.”

“That ought to make him feel more a part of a team of pricks.” I said scooping Tim into my arms for a kiss.

Lance called us at half-time. They were watching the game in their treehouse. Griogair told us they were calling to see how Phyllis and Sam were holding up. Sam complained his ribs hurt from all the laughing. Phyllis promised to kiss them better later. Lance prescribed some hot chocolate. Nancy insisted Caryn needed to try the chocolate wrap before the end of the month. She promised to get to it when she visited the house and farm Tim had decided to buy pending council approval and zoning changes.

The dogs of war came out snarling and scored a stunning goal to take the lead. Unfortunately it ignited the Gunners who responded immediately with a goal from the kick-off. Happy to help wake your team up I told Tim. He didn't believe I worried we'd killed the game so early in the second-half. None of the others believed me either. That's when I realized I was the lone supporter of the better team. Undaunted and with beer in hand I cajoled my team on with curses that had Caryn making notes, Holden blushing and Sam falling off the couch.

“Condoms over the cannons would keep the powder dry.” I suggested to Tim. “A pity they don't make condoms that small.”

“Scoundrel you won't call it small when my cannon discharges after the game.” Tim predicted. “Ask nicely and I might muffle the force with a condom.”

“Your Gunners couldn't penetrate a public library at midday.” I said with a disdainful sniff. “What makes you think they have any hope of conquering my cute butt?”

“All I have to do is tickle your stomach and you'll roll over and offer it up.” Tim said. “I'll march right on in unopposed.”

“Better hope I don't break wind or I'll put the Gunners muzzle velocity to shame.” I declared. “You'll go from coming to going so fast both heads will spin. Half your team keeps playing because they'll qualify for senior discount seating at the stadium next year. Cheap ingrates.”

“We don't have a player over thirty.” Tim informed me.

“Ten over fifty and one over sixty judging by their leg strength.” I said nodding in agreement.

Everton scored the winning goal in the seventy-third minute of play. Tim sportingly agreed it had been beautifully constructed with some lovely passing. We celebrated with a round of cobbler and ice-cream after the game. Caryn asked Phyllis and Sam how I'd gotten elected head of the Order.

“Nobody else wanted the job.” Sam said with a grin. “He makes a good decision every so often. Enough to keep us happy.”

“The best part is he usually leaves us alone to screw up and fix the screw ups on our own.” Phyllis added. “Do you know of any other CEO who would make such delicious desserts for their staff? I don't either.”

“In all seriousness I want to offer my most sincere thanks for the gift you two gave the Order.” Sam said. “I enjoyed working on it these past two days. Tim that's very kind. I'd love to stay on as a consultant.”

“Great idea, Tim.” Caryn agreed. “He'll be a mine of useful information about how monks and nuns like their spaces decorated. What games they enjoy and the books they like reading. This will be a lot of fun. I still can't believe you're doing this and taking on another project.”

“Well I have to pay back the loan somehow,” Tim said. “Holden when Rohan loans me money I know he sees it as a gift. I am paying this back because it is a challenge. There's still some things I need to tie up with the cellphone network for the Order. Yes Sam I'm the one crazy enough to take it on. Christopher and Garth have been very, very good to me and I wanted to thank them somehow. I have a fledgling company started in Poland which I need to check in on tomorrow or Thursday. Friday we travel up to Scotland. Rohan officiates and cooks for a very important person afterward. No need to ruin Holden's surprise. The we are off for another ten days to look at starting my other venture.

Then it's Nancy's housewarming. I almost forget that before the housewarming we have a lunch with the mayor of Sunderland. Then two weeks with the gang from back home which will most likely include a side trip. Returning to the treehouses for a week. Check in on the projects at Winchester. Then we'll be doing the holiday thing. There is a big conference of all the heads of the Order in the Andes. Rohan will have to spank me regularly to help my cute ass thaw out.

I'm sure Rohan will find something else for me to do. There's always somebody to help. The Universe keeps sending them to Rohan. Phyllis I love it. We had Lance an orphan and now we have Benjamin an international rap star. Speak of the devil. Hello Benjamin. Nothing personal Rohan never answers his cellphone. He's gloating in Everton's victory. I don't mind because they are so few. Okay I'll tell him. I'm sure he'll be glad to hear you are paying for the petrol. Round up as many monks and nuns as you need if they can be spared. Benjamin he won't mind. He's nodding his head. I'll tell him. Now go read the kids their bedtime story.”

The predictable had happened when Benjamin spoke to the kids about his dad being ill and unable to work on the cottage. They had helped him build a bed and harvested vegetables from a farm so they would help his parents they decided. A field trip was being held tomorrow and Thursday. Benjamin thanked me for the loan of the Order members. Stops them from getting fat and lazy so he's helping us I responded. They'll have his folks place ship-shape in no time Phyllis agreed. Everybody gets out into the country air for a day or two. Benjamin gets to sing for the hour-long ride there and back.

“Rohan I swear this makes you happier than the monks beating up on special ops.” a smiling Caryn said. “I think it is way too cute. Hold still while I kiss you. I'm going to make certain Holden spends time around you so your influence can rub off. Only your influence though. I'll take care of the other rubbing. Thank you.”

“So possessive.” I said mournfully. “Phyllis I'm quite happy to share Holden with Caryn. I'll also share him with Tim, Dylan, Adam, Morgan, Dariusz, Bryce... Ow! Fine we'll walk you to the Underground so you can relax and sleep soundly. You're a lovely lass and I'm lucky to have you working with me.”

“Yes you are.” Caryn agreed. “I haven't done too badly from knowing you. You bought me the outfit that snared Holden. Between the clinics and Tim's projects I will be busy for a good while. That's a very good thing because Holden has a degree to finish. I'm giving him the remaining two years to escape if he wants. Rohan if he's in arm's reach of me when he gets his degree you will marry us. Phyllis he hasn't flinched.”

“Still in shock.” Sam diagnosed. “Holden if you're really lucky the shock will last another ninety years.”

“Enjoy your day of relaxation tomorrow guys.” Caryn said before she hopped on the train. “Thanks again for a lovely night.”

While we were in the shower Tim promised to treat me to a goodnight blow. The imp's eyes started to close the moment I laid him down on the bed. I agreed to a rain check if he added a kiss to it tomorrow. The poor lad was asleep before he finished agreeing.

“My Love you make the best alarm cock ever.” Tim said looking at me between his legs. “I mean alarm clock.”

“Showing my gunner how it's done.” I said.

There is just the right amount of naughtiness in mounting a cute boy while he is still asleep. This morning I had taken him gently enough to get in three minutes of fucking before he woke. Pressing his legs down to his chest I kissed him good morning all the while pumping my hips. Placing my hands on either side of him I continued to kiss him. A wave of incredible tenderness rose up within me. Suddenly kissing him and nibbling on his ear seemed more important than the fucking. Oh I kept it up. I love young ass clenching down on my cock and the feel of my balls tapping against boy ass.

“I love you so much you imp.” I said smiling at him.

“Good. I'm glad.” Tim said. “I'd hate to think fucking me was a chore.”

I indulged in some edge play this morning. Slipping out of him I let him impale himself on me. Watching his ass slide smoothly up my cock did a lot to make stopping more challenging this time around. I managed though it took slapping his hand to get Tim to stop. Bending him over the desk I held a glass beneath him to catch his cum. Jerking rapidly on his cock I got him off and let his orgasm milk me. My body quivered as sparks of pleasure ignited all over my body. My husband. My boy. My ass to fuck. So fucking hot. So fucking lucky.

“So fucking close to missing sunrise meditations.” Tim said watching me drink his cum.

A very quick shower and we arrived in the garden to find Phyllis and Sam already waiting.

“Rohan was taking his time taking advantage of poor little me.” Tim said calmly.

“Yes I was. I do enjoy our morning sex.” I confessed. “The afternoon and evening sex is also quite enjoyable. I think I'll give myself a reminder of that today.”

Singing in the day with the aid of my Lady helped us settle into our meditations. I let the meditation take up a full hour before getting up. Today it was Phyllis who sparred with me. Her method more closely resembled Christopher's attack the other day. Quick darting strikes and equally fast withdrawals. The elusiveness of her blade made this a lot of fun. Once again I used it to show Tim what I'd been teaching him. This session also ended without a victor.

We were having breakfast at the B&B but we had to stay for tea. Phyllis let Tim know she thought my training was coming along very nicely. They debated if “civilized American” was an oxymoron. I suggested we debate if Tim wanted to pick up the tab for breakfast. Tim calmly agreed to pay for breakfast with one of the three cards he had linked to my bank accountants. Sam agreed that technically he was still paying in the action thereof. I told them I was going to pay attention to my hunger.

Tim and I were lounging after breakfast when Christopher called to say there had been another attack last night. They had obviously thought we'd let our guard down or be celebrating. This time a few of the special ops guys had gotten hurt. I barely managed to keep control long enough to tell Christopher we were relaxing today and would look forward to watching the video this afternoon.

“Let's take a stroll to the shops and cook those guys something nice for dinner.” I suggested. “I'll explain along the way. There is an organic grocer within walking distance isn't there?”

Fifteen-minutes walk was the perfect distance I declared. Tim thought I was joking when I told him the special ops guys got hurt by coconuts. When he saw I was serious he doubled over and burst out laughing. He laughed harder when I told him I was pretty certain they were organic coconuts. Firing them from an adapted rocket launcher would pretty much guaranteed a fair number would be split open. We don't want the milk and flesh to go to waste and we like organic food so it makes it very likely they were organic I explained.

“Yes the image of these special forces guys with their fancy body armor and rifles trying to dodge a hail of coconuts is very pleasing.” I admitted. “Can you imagine telling the medic you got hit on the head by a coconut attacking a manor in Scotland? There is one other aspect you'll enjoy so pay attention when you watch the video. Tim you need to start learning our military songs. You might end up manning the coconut launcher one day.”

“Gods it is hard to take you guys seriously at times.” Tim said. “Even something as important as this is play for you guys. I suppose getting stressed will slow you down. Poor Charles will have to explain to her majesty that her guards are armed with coconuts. I can just hear him telling her they are organic and environmentally friendly. Scoundrel I'll never be able to look at a coconut without cracking up again.”

“Present arms er coconuts for inspection.” I said imitating a sergeant. “Corporal Tim why is your coconut lacking the Oregon Tilth Organic Certification sticker? Give me fifty push ups and get your coconut upgraded immediately. You're a professional soldier dammit. Try to look like one.”

“Caryn won't believe this.” Tim said reaching for his cellphone. “Hello Caryn. There was a second attack. The Order held them off. Nobody gets trained well enough to make it through a deadly barrage of coconuts. Yes Caryn that is what Rohan told me. Several of the attackers suffered wounds from coconuts. Thankfully they're organic so the risk of infection is slight. I'll text you when we know. Rohan thinks it will be around three or so.”

The cashier suggested some beer to calm us down when we assured her we were stone cold sober. We decided to try it. Knowing Lance would try the spinach at the hotel I chose green beans and carrots to go with the beef pot roast which I was going to cook in the slow cooker. Once the beef was cooking I made us some sandwiches for lunch. Then I called Dariusz to see how he was doing.

“Rohan everything is fine here.” Dariusz said. “I'd rather not give you an update yet. That is why I haven't sent you pictures. Please will you let me decide when you get to see pictures? Thanks Rohan. Dylan said you wouldn't mind too much. I promise it will be before New Year.

I chat three or four times a week with Dylan and we text each other every day. My healing is progressing very well. The more work I do with the land more it speeds up. Slowing down is hard and I have gotten impatient two or three times. I am trusting the timing. The feel of the energy is most important. Yes I am keeping a journal for Alida. You can read it when you have seen my garden.

Thanks for the call Rohan. We'll talk again soon.”

“Stay well Dariusz and call me if you need anything or want to chat.” I said. “We'll be in England for a while so we're just a couple of hours behind you.”

We had some time between lunch and Caryn's expected arrival so naturally we chose to fill it with some sex. I was lying in bed with Tim pressed against me when there was a knock at the door.

“Come in.” I called out. “The door's open.”

“So is the bedroom door.” Caryn said with a smile. “Glad you're under the sheet. Did we interrupt?”

“No my young Gunner had just finished discharging.” I said. “Looks like it's time for our shower.”

Caryn turned her back while we scampered to the bathroom. While we were dressing the others arrived. Caryn hugged and kissed Lance who admitted he'd missed her. He'd bought her and Holden a bottle of wine. When he handed me a bottle I asked if he needed more pocket-money. Lance told me he'd made some extra money helping Leanne so he was okay.

“Yes Tim we have the recording of the assault including the coconut barrage.” Christopher said with a smile. “Yes it's true. Unless you've been on the receiving end it is hilarious. A few of them striking my shield buckled my knees. All of us go through it so we know how effective it is. Holden think about how much force a three-pound weight will strike with if I released it fifty feet or more above your head. The helmets save lives but a broken arm or leg puts people at a huge disadvantage in a fight. I won't ruin the surprise but we've recently added a little extra to help create more confusion.”

The assault began with the attackers trying to ram the gates in an armored vehicle. What they didn't realize was they were charging a picture of the gates stretched across the open entranceway. Behind the picture were wooden ramps designed to lift one side of the vehicle off the ground and cause it to flip over. The pictures got printed from photographs taken of the gates at various times of the day so it would look more natural.

“How do you have time to put up the picture?” Tim asked. “These guys are not driving slowly.”

“Our sentries are not just in the grounds they are outside the grounds.” Christopher explained. “Yes Caryn we also have cameras hidden next to the roads. We make a point of asking the police to find out from local security companies what times they usually do their rounds. Even a plain armored vehicle out late in the afternoon is suspicious.”

Camouflaged spike strips couldn't do much against puncture proof tires but got laid out because there was always the chance they weren't using the right tires. The guys in the truck must have felt confident when they made it past the spike strips. I watched in horror as the vehicle tore through the picture and hit the ramp at top speed. There had been nothing to slow it down as it flew over the edge of the driveway and hit the ground with the right edge of the roof. The vehicle rolled over several times before coming to a stop. Moments after it stopped arrows littered the ground around the vehicle.

“They would have been tightly strapped in Rohan.” Garth reassured me. “You buckle up tightly when you plan on ramming metal gates. One of the passengers suffered a slight concussion but that's all.”

This time instead of allowing the other group to infiltrate beyond the trees on the perimeter of the property the monks had driven them back into the trees under a rain of arrows. Looking much like World War 2 portable rocket launchers we could see four coconut launchers each having an arm winched backward. A rod extended back out of each tube. Garth explained these rods would punch the coconuts forward when the arm got released. Like a catapult except instead of throwing rocks it threw the rods forward which punched the coconuts. Inside each tube was a little lip that stopped the coconut from dropping all the way down.

In essence the four launchers were throwing around three hundred pounds of hard projectiles into the forest. The trees had more foliage than branches so the coconuts could be aimed up and allowed to drop on the enemy. When the canopy is thick enough to offer protection the coconuts got fired low so they bounced around at ground level. I started laughing when I heard the singing.

“You're kidding me.” Tim said punching my arm. “They're singing a Monty Python song. Yes it's very appropriate but isn't that pulling the piss a little too much?”

“When you're taking on rifles with coconuts nothing is inappropriate.” I said softly singing along.

“I've got a lovely bunch of coconuts.” the artillery people were singing. “There they are, all standing in a row. \ Big ones, small ones, some as big as your head. \ Give them a twist, a flick of the wrist.”

Four flicks of the wrist released four arms held back under enormous pressure. There was a loud crackle of coconuts bouncing up the tubes and out into the night sky.

“That's what the showman said.” our artillery guys finished when the noise had subsided.

A new shrieking sound was soon heard just before the coconuts started dropping through the foliage. Sometimes we glue whistles on the coconuts I explained to the others. When the sound of the last whistle stopped a monk called out for the special ops guys to surrender. Spotlights were brought up and their beams of light pierced the trees to reveal the hidden infiltrators.

“Arm the launchers.” the same monk ordered. “Looks like they want another dose. This time we'll send them in low so make certain our guys move aside. You don't want a coconut up the arse at that speed.”

“At any speed.” Nancy said fervently.

Unfortunately for the artillery people he gave them a second chance to surrender and warned them a second round would be fired soon. This time the police had made it before the surrender and as our enemy started to retreat they called out for them to surrender from behind. One last volley of arrows landing just beyond the edge of the trees was all it took. The police were unable to stop laughing when they saw what we'd hurled at the special ops guys. While the Hospitaller monks were tending the injured all the monks started singing the coconut song.

“No hard feelings, mate.” the monk in charge said to one of the injured. “Part of our training is to take a few barrages. Scared the living daylights out of me the first couple of times. The ones along the ground are the nasty ones. Especially when they stagger the fire so there's a constant stream. All of us have taken bruises or worse.”

The singing stopped at a wave of his hand. The guys from the overturned truck joined the others. I liked seeing them discuss tactics and a few flasks being offered.

“Tim in America they fire bean bags for non-lethal force.” Charles said. “Next to that a coconut sounds a lot deadlier if I'm asked. I'll be certain to point out the eco-friendly aspect of organic coconuts as well. Much better than synthetic bean bags. Anybody who thinks it's silly can take a shield and face a barrage. Thank you for keeping my gates from being damaged Christopher.”

“Caryn when we have more time to prepare we make a replica of the gates in plywood.” Christopher said. “We're installing some on Friday. A nondescript reinforced car can sometimes slip past unnoticed and we don't have time to put pictures up. The pictures are our least favorite method but all we had time for. The bright lights hung over the wall at the edge of the picture help blind the driver but they are mainly there to make it harder to see it is a picture. Wooden gates are so much lighter they open a lot quicker. Even if we don't get them open the splintering wood usually distracts the driver enough for him to miss seeing the ramps.”

Nancy thanked us for preparing dinner. They were happy to have an early dinner so I got started on the vegetables right away. The beef would be done in less than an hour. Nancy led Lance into the kitchen while Tim helped me prepare the vegetables. Lance tugged on Tim's hand and kissed Tim when he knelt.

“I gave Vernon a kiss from you and he sent one back.” Lance said. “I remembered to ask if it was okay to kiss him first.”

“Yes you did.” Nancy said. “What did Vernon ask you to tell Tim?”

“Tim must deliver the next kiss himself.” Lance said after some thought. “Then he bought me a hot chocolate. I liked it a lot.”

“Thank you Lance.” Tim said hugging Lance tight. “I have to text Benjamin right away.”

Lance declined my offer to make him a hot chocolate because dinner was almost ready. He'd enjoyed his spinach at the hotel. Enough to have a second serving Nancy added.

“Rohan there's an incoming Skype call.” Holden said. “Okay I'll answer it. Hello Benjamin.”

“Hello Holden. Is Rohan available?” Benjamin asked. “My folks would like a word. We heard. Tell him to stop kissing Tim and get out here. The kids need their supper.”

I tried to explain the children had come up with the idea of helping out and deserved all the thanks but they insisted on thanking me. Charles agreed I most likely knew how things would unfold when I suggested the chat. They had finished all the repairs and yard maintenance. Tomorrow they were returning to help get the garden in order. Benjamin's folks knew I had a pretty full schedule but wanted me to visit for a thank you meal. The thank you was not just for the children visiting. Tim promised we would fit it in before the housewarming.

“Rohan this is very tasty.” Lance said when I apologized for not making him pasties. “Will you make me a special dinner tomorrow? Vernon told me lasagna is his favorite dish. I've never had lasagna. Yes I'd love to go shopping with you tomorrow morning. First I must say goodbye to Griogair and Charles.”

“All of us plan on saying goodbye to Griogair and Charles.” I said. “I''l teach you and Tim how to make a great lasagna so you can cook for Vernon when he visits.”

“Thank you Rohan.” Lance said. “May I have a little more beef please?”

Charles gave Tim a mock scolding for not warning him about the price of the wine. When he finished Griogair let us know Charles had bought the remaining three cases and two more would follow. Tim had to know how many people were attending the wedding if Charles needed five cases of wine. I learned I was only cooking for thirty wedding guests. Griogair assured Nancy the queen had requested calzone, salad and tiramisu. This was not Charles' doing. She had enjoyed them so much as a little girl visiting Italy on a state trip but they were not the sort of thing served at official functions. Griogair was happy with the menu because he was certain I'd be willing to bake his favorite cookies.

When I added the thirty monks plus a dozen staff I was up over seventy. I sent a text to Petersen asking for quantities for eighty people. Charles gave me the name of a co-op in Edinburgh. We'd take a train to Edinburgh on Friday. Charles would send two cars and some monks to help us with the groceries. Mr. McGoo and the Chief Super would meet us there as well. I felt good about having a top undercover cop around.

I got surprised the next morning by Charles and Griogair joining us for sunrise meditations. Then I got an even bigger surprise when Charles tagged along to the sparring. He explained he could keep an eye on Tim while we sparred. Sometimes you see things from the side you cannot see when sparring with somebody and we didn't have cameras to record our sessions. Charles thought Tim was coming along well. What he noticed was Tim tended to come up and forward when the thrust instead of staying centered and low in his hips. Charles suggested we pick up a weighted diving belt when we went shopping today. Griogair added some ankle and wrist weights to our shopping list.

“Tim may I borrow your short sword?” Charles asked when we finished. “Time for me to get a reminder of how they feel. They're easier to use in the confined spaces of the manor if the special ops guys get through.”

Charles remembered pretty darn quickly. I refused to yield through cursed stubbornness. Somehow towards the end of our sparring I managed to press Charles back a couple of steps. Then I grounded myself and held this patch of floor against his attacks. Nobody, including myself, expected my defense to his strike at my calves. Instead of just jumping up over the blade I reacted without thinking and leapt forward to catch Charles square in the chest with a kick. Griogair moved quickly to get between Charles and the furniture. All of us had a surprised look on our faces.

“You didn't cut me this time you old codger.” I said with delight. “Sam do you have any medicinal Scotch around? I need it for the shock of coming through unscathed.”

“I need it because I've never seen Rohan actually press Charles back.” Tim said.

“Your first victory deserves the good stuff.” Charles said coming over and hugging me. “Well done. About fucking time you got over that bullshit. Tim for years Rohan has held back. He usually holds back because he's scared of hurting somebody. Even somebody intent on hurting him. He's held back even more with me because I am Samuel's father.”

“Tim it's not that Rohan has super reflexes or any other physical advantage that makes him so good.” Garth said. “What Rohan has is the time and money to devote to studying weapons training. The ghosts he was running from provided the necessary drive for him to learn meditation. We watched for five years as they drove him from one weapons master to another. When you have to focus completely on your sparring or die you find a way to keep the ghosts at bay.”

“We can defend ourselves against somebody at the level of police or regular military training.” Phyllis added. “When we have our favored weapon at hand we can take on their better trained guys. The special ops guys can only be handled by our SWAT monks. Rohan, Christopher, Garth, Charles and Griogair are the only ones in this room who could match the elite forces. Yes Griogair you. I saw how you moved to save Charles. None of us moved but you caught him. My guess is Rohan started your training and Charles is finishing it.”

“None of us will say a word Griogair.” I promised. “Good to have an ace up our sleeve this weekend.”

Sam had brought out the good stuff. Charles smiled when I offered to help Phyllis make the tea. Tim beamed when Charles said he was proving a very good influence on me. Griogair actually kissed Tim for civilizing me. I took another shot of Scotch to cope with the abuse. When we returned to the B&B Lance was helping Leanne. Christopher told me Lance's pay for today was coming out of my share of the profits. Lance was happy to get paid in hot chocolate. Tim grinned when I said once we'd put Christopher on the train we'd come back for a hot chocolate raid. Garth suggested a team of SWAT monks be called in to protect the hot chocolate.

“Tell them to bring extra coconuts.” Tim advised. “Rohan won't give up so easy.”

Benjamin called to say goodbye to Charles and thank him for letting him stay at the orphanage. Charles told him he'd have an early start tomorrow but wouldn't elaborate. Christopher, Garth, Griogair and Charles were all traveling together. Lance entered all the items I bought in his phone so he'd have a lasagna shopping list. The cashier reminded him to have an adult with to buy the wine. She thought it sweet that Lance had no idea about the liquor laws. I explained to Lance that interfering in other people's lives by making liquor laws just to make yourself feel good was very sad. He agreed to help me send healing energy to all those poor misguided people.

How wonderful it was to teach Lance the basics from how to curl his fingers back when slicing to the right heat for sautéing onions. Tim worked at the same pace as Lance on his own cutting board. Lance made a small lasagna for Leanne. We were actually leaving before the front desk opened but could leave it in the staff fridge for her. Both the boys thanked me for the cooking lesson when we finished the lasagna and garlic bread. Nancy admitted Lance had learned to make bread from scratch before her. He promised to teach her how.

That night Tim made love to me very, very slowly. My thank you for being so open to his friendship with Vernon and for teaching him to make Vernon's favorite dish. We woke early so our morning meditation could end around six-thirty. Phyllis and Sam accompanied us to the station. Tim found the sight of me strapping a dagger to my forearm a little unnerving. The expandable cosh had intrigued him so much I'd had to show him how it worked. I'd also slipped an eight inch lead sap into my coat pocket for use in the confined space of the train carriage.

“Come to see us off?” I asked the grinning trio waiting at the station.

“Actually Sam and Phyllis are seeing all of us off.” Benjamin said. “We've been invited to hob-nob with royalty this weekend.”

“Fine but if anything breaks out on the train Tim and Benjamin will form the second line of defense.” I said sternly. “Don't just sit on your butts in the compartment but take the fight into the corridor. I don't want them using gas or smoke near the others. Nancy if there is trouble make certain Lance doesn't see what happens. Caryn make certain you keep Holden well back. I'm not playing around with these guys. They are simply too good to take chances with. Stay out of it until I go down.”

We didn't get far before things got out of hand. Our waiter who brought our breakfast had his hand under the tray covered by a napkin. His shoes looked like smart Oxfords but were more pointed so I knew they were military boots. Lance was looking out the window. I nodded at Nancy how drew him against her and held him so he kept looking out the window. I slammed my right arm down on the tray and struck him in the throat with the bottom of my fist. He staggered back into the corridor clutching his throat. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a gun drop from the tray. I managed to catch it and tossed it to Tim.

Reaching through the doorway I grabbed the waiter by the shirt and tossed him hard to the left. There was the sound of an impact and cursing. Keeping my sap ready I knelt next to the doorway waiting for their next move. When a stun grenade rolled in my blood boiled over. There was a kid in here. They could have used smoke. I used my sap to knock it back into the passageway. The grenade bounced once off the wall before exploding in the passage.

Trusting the stun grenade had taken the guy or guys approaching from the right I headed left. The special ops guy was on his feet when I came snarling through the door. Using more chi than I ought to I lifted him up and threw him back over my head. Totally unconcerned about where he landed or who he struck. I was about to pummel the waiter when another guy stepped into the corridor in military uniform and his arms open.

“Your defense was successful.” Captain Clarke told me.

“You are captain Clarke? Head of this exercise?” I asked reading his name tag. “Good. Then you authorized and approved of their tactics.”

“Yes, I did.” Captain Clarke said with a smile. “Saw them outfitted myself and made certain they had all they needed.”

“Good. I'm glad to know I'm about to knock some sense into the right guy.” I said coldly.

“Only once my Love.” Tim said from close behind me. “Please make it a good one but only one. I'd like to run my sword through the bastard. He has Genta to thank.”

Before Captain Clarke could react I pulled him forward by the shirt front and drove a fist into his solar plexus. I watched in satisfaction as he dropped gasping for air. Only when he'd finally got his breath back did I look around. There had been three members of the squad. One was still suffering the effects of the stun grenade.

“Tim please get Mr. McGoo on the phone.” I said while breathing deeply to get my emotions under control. “Frank there's been an incident on the train that has me truly pissed off. We're all okay but I want the highest ranking member of special ops and intelligence in Scotland waiting on the platform. Get Charles to use his clout if he has to but be certain you tell Charles if they aren't waiting I'm hunting them down and mobilizing every monk in Scotland to help me.”

I used equipment from the special ops guys to secure them and tossed them into an empty compartment. When Tim asked if we needed to guard them I told him I hoped they manage to get free and try again. The special ops guys had told the train company it was a training exercise but the conductor went white when I told him of the stun grenade. I let him put the boot in to all three of them. He was former military and knew what damage it could have done to a boy of nine. When the guy protested he was following orders the conductor told him there were some orders you didn't follow.

Charles called a few minutes later to say the predicted Thursday attack had taken place. The defense had held and it had been good to see that our escape plan worked. He put me on speakerphone so I could report to all of them about the train assault. Charles promised the two I wanted would be waiting on the station or I had his leave to take up a heavy mace and go find them. Frank would be happy to deliver me to the right address. Charles spoke to Nancy and Lance so I could meditate a little before the train arrived in Edinburgh.

Two men stood on the platform surrounded by four guys in black military clothing and two medics. Benjamin literally tossed our assailants on to the platform. Standing behind the group were four monks and two nuns. I tossed the paper bag with the stun grenade remnants in it towards one of the senior guys and pushed through them without a word. The rest of the gang hurried to catch up and made their away around the group.

“You need a drink before we say a word.” Adriana said taking my hand and leading me down the lane behind the station.

The others all followed including the six member Orders. Tim ordered me three plates of food. The monks and nuns sat grinning at me.

“What are you lot smiling about?” I growled.

“Never seen smoke coming out a guy's ears before.” a brave nun said. “They sure did a good job getting you steaming mad Boss.”

“You.” I said pointing to the monk next to her. “Kiss her for me. I'll kiss her when the steam has stopped. What are you lot doing sitting in a pub drinking sodas? Don't you know they are bad for your health? Beers or whiskey for the lot of you at the double. The honor of the Order is at stake. That's better. This day has been bad enough.”

“I thought dad was frightening when he got mad but you make him look like a boy scout.” Bernadette said. “Really. When you threw those guys on to the platform it surprised the soldiers but they actually flinched when they saw your face. How did the other three get off so lightly?”

“They have Tim to thank.” I said reaching for my third plate.

“He was the bravest of us all in that incident.” Benjamin said. “I wasn't going near Rohan but Tim spoke to him quite calmly.”

“Benjamin he wouldn't hurt any of us no matter how much adrenaline was pumping through him.” Tim said.

“Yes but you put a lot of trust and faith in Rohan's love for you guys.” Bill said. “That took balls. Now what was in that bag you tossed? They rolled a stun grenade into the compartment with a nine-year old? Tim might just have saved their lives.”

“No I didn't.” Tim said with surprising certainty. “Genta did that a long time ago. Rohan wouldn't have hurt them too badly no matter how mad he got. My concern was for Rohan. He feels bad about using violence and he tends to keep all that adrenaline inside himself. Lao explained the dangers to us recently.”

“How did you react fast enough to get the stun grenade back out?” Frank asked. “They usually set them to go off in two or three seconds.”

“They set this one for three seconds.” I said. “I was expecting some gas or smoke bomb so I was ready. All I had to do was knock it back out. When I saw what it was I got miffed.”

“God help the world if our boss ever gets upset or mad.” the nun chimed in. “Allow me to buy this round. Sister Margaret is the name.”

“Yes Tim she does remind me of Tracy.” I said. “Margaret while you are up paying for our drinks step over here so I can kiss you. Thank you for helping me calm down.”

“The others think I'm a killjoy.” Sister Margaret said after we'd kissed. “We have groceries to buy and the energy wouldn't have been right. Think you can finish that pint before me?”

I finished mine and half of Tim's before she finished. She laughed and pulled me up from the table. We really did need to get going. Bernadette was as amazed as Lance at all the food waiting for me. I grinned when she asked me if I knew the wedding was tomorrow not the following Saturday.

“You can't possibly cook all this food and officiate at the wedding.” Adriana said.

“Rohan will get it done.” Tim said taking my hand. “He'll most likely sleep all day Sunday. Bernadette he needs to cook more than he needs sleep. We also need to make certain he chats with the gang back home. Bernadette I'll make certain you have some alone time to chat with Morgan.”

On the ride to the manor I sat in the back seat with Tim close and let my Lady sing to me. I was traveling with the group on the train in an SUV a monk had driven to the station for us. Benjamin was driving with Nancy next to him. Caryn was asking Lance all sorts of questions about the manor and things we'd see on the drive.

“I've had a fucking miserable train ride so get this stuff cleared fast.” I bellowed leaning out the window when we arrived at the gates. “Tom I'll bugger you with that light mace of yours if you don't shake a leg instead of your prick.”

Christopher grinned when I suggested extra practice clearing the gate for his SWAT teams. Garth handed me a glass of water clouded by a tincture and a cup of tea that rivaled Lao's in tasting bad. Sister Margaret waited until I'd finished the tea before handing me a beer.

“Can you spare this brilliant nun for the weekend?” I asked Christopher. “I need an assistant to deal with the unwashed masses of your teams. Sorry my dear it seems you're stuck with the geriatric GM.”

“The good thing is he doesn't mind if you get drunk to put up with him.” Tim said. “Small consolation but better than none.”

“I'll put something up you in a moment.” I warned. “Now let's go greet the only sane people around here. Charles' staff. Where is Charles hiding?”

“He's continuing where you left off with those two chiefs of staff.” Garth said with glee. “Griogair is there to keep a check on his blood pressure. Nicely done at the station Rohan.”

“I was just too pissed to say anything.” I admitted. “Iona you get lovelier every time I set eyes on you. The maids better be careful or they'll be sleeping in cold beds soon.”

“Rohan there's a wee lad present.” Iona said blushing as she hugged me.

“He thinks you're beautiful as well.” I said calmly.

“You are the prettiest housekeeper ever.” Lance agreed earning himself a hug and a kiss.

“Fionola it has been far too long since you kissed me.” I said swinging her off her feet. “No I'm not putting you down. Tim can wait for his kiss. I need to see your garden.”

“Rohan are you trying to carry off my staff?” Charles said joining us in the garden. “No I don't blame you. I'd do the same in your shoes. Is there anything we need to discuss about the train ride? Good. Christopher and I will study the reports and chat with the others. I'll take it from here. Fionola apart from keeping your feet dry holding you is good for Rohan. I think if you kissed him he'll let you help prepare the wedding food.”

“Yes, I will.” I said claiming a kiss. “Garth is there anything I need to attend to that cannot be done in the kitchen.”

The off-duty security staff wanted a blessing from their cantankerous leader. My Lady helped with the blessing. A Gregorian chant and then she naughtily sang the entire coconut song. Tim laughed delightedly and kissed me when I finished. The leader of the security group joined Christopher and me in the kitchen to update me. The train attack took place early because it had been hoped dealing with a kidnap would distract us from the assault here. When the attempted kidnap failed they still chose to go ahead with the attack on the manor. This time with three squads of six.

Two squads had met token resistance and manged to climb through ground floor windows into two rooms prepared ahead of time. These rooms were set up to be easily sealed. The nun playing the queen was taking tea in one of the rooms. She'd left through a secret passage that descended down into the basement when the squad had broken the window. There was a tunnel that led for a mile where a group of Order members waited to take her to safety. We were glad to know this worked.

The other squad had actually engaged in hand-to-hand combat with some monks. Two of the special ops guys managed to fight past the first group but the second ring of defenders captured them. Instructors were studying film of the encounter to figure out how those two had gotten through. Glad that our monks had held their own and earned lots of respect this week from the special ops guys I set about my cooking duties. The monks cooking for our security squads would also cook extra for us. Additional monks and nuns had helped clean the manor yesterday so it was ready. Iona and her staff would do a last thorough cleaning tomorrow.

Sister Margaret put her feet up on a table and grabbed herself a beer. Fionola was a little dismayed when she heard the queen wanted calzone. Sister Margaret thought it was great I had asked and was really going to cook it for her. The best thing about calzone is we could make a lot of them today and keep them in the fridge. They were easy to serve while the next round was baking. Tim visited to share a beer with Sister Margaret. Tavish was making use of Columba and Benjamin's muscle to get a large gate back in place. Lance was directing things from Columba's shoulders. Nancy, Holden and Caryn were reporting on the train ride.

“How will we know which is which when you've filled them?” Fionola asked.

“We are doing four different types of filling so I have four different colored toothpicks.” I explained. “We'll put one in a calzone on each tray. When you slip them in the oven write yellow or blue on a piece of paper so you know. Place the toothpick on the tray when it comes out the oven. Fionola this will take me all night. I'll leave the salads for you to prepare tomorrow. The dressings will be in the fridge. Tim will print out what goes in each salad. I'll leave some extra dough and filling in the fridge in case we run out of prepared calzone. I'm making three for each of us.”

“You're staying up to cook for us?” Sister Margaret asked. “Tim I hope you're not the jealous type because Rohan will be getting lots of thank you kisses. How often can you say you ate the same food as a queen? Cooked by the same chef who prepared her meal and using the same ingredients. The only problem is I may need more beer. Didn't plan on the boss working all night. I wish I'd known while we were in town.”

“There will be plenty close at hand with Rohan around.” Tim said. “I will leave you to it and go relax a bit in a decent bathtub. Good thing we brought our spa products with us.”

I kept on working even when the others stopped for dinner. The flow was so nice it would have been a shame to stop. Sister Margaret brought us both some food and kept me company. I had to chase Fionola from the kitchen. I explained she'd been a great help and we needed somebody alert enough tomorrow to keep an eye on things in case I missed something. When I hit that little dip right before my second wind kicked in I called the gang.

“Rohan calling me at two a.m is not getting rest like I told you.” my housekeeper said the moment Dylan answered my call. “We've had plenty of practice learning how to convert to your time. You're right I will be unhappy to know you are working all night and officiating at a wedding and playing security guard tomorrow night. Who's wedding? Why didn't you say so earlier? I hope you're making something special. Charles does like pizza. Oh, your VIP asked for calzone. I understand you can't tell us for security reasons. We'll get it out of Tim while you sleep through Sunday and Monday. Why haven't you introduced us to the lovely nun sitting behind you? No doubt she's the only reason you ate dinner. Just because this is Charles and Griogair don't think I won't reach for the riding crop. Rest I tell you and you take on more work. Tracy I need a bottle of wine here.”

“Sister Margaret meet my housekeeper.” I said with a grin. “She tends to keep me more than my house. I'd be totally lost without her. That scurvy knave enjoying my scolding is my son Dylan. The boy was kind enough to let me adopt him. The missing two scurvy knaves are no doubt up to no good or having sex somewhere.”

“Adam is with Juliet and Morgan always goes over there for Adam.” Dylan said. “Hello Sister Margaret. Thank you for taking care of Dad. This is a pretty big deal for my dad to cook, officiate and be part of the security.”

“He doesn't really need to play security guard but he outranks us a little.” Sister Margaret said with a smile. “A pity I forgot to pack my riding crop. That seems to level the ranking system quite nicely.”

“I usually just grab an ear and drag him to bed when he needs rest.” Tracy said handing my housekeeper a bottle of wine. “What trouble have you gotten into now Rohan? I mean it has been almost a week without any excitement. You're making life terribly dull for the British. Think of the news reporters losing their jobs.”

“There's been plenty of excitement.” a laughing Sister Margaret said. “Tim can update you on Sunday. I don't know who the British gang includes but Lance, Nancy, Christopher, Garth, Caryn, Holden and Benjamin came with him on the train. Rohan got upset with three special ops guys who went overboard on a training exercise. Benjamin tossed them off the train when it arrived. Tim kept the two of them from really hurting them but your dad was steaming mad. Yes I'll be certain to have Tim call you at eight Sunday morning.

I'm glad the two of you take good care of my boss but I think you will be willing to forgive him doing a marathon cooking spell tonight and staying up tomorrow when we can share everything. Tim says after the train incident Rohan needs to cook all night. I'm sure he knows how you will react. Boss can they have Leslie call you when she arrives?”

“I'd love to chat with Leslie.” I said. “The more of you I can chat with the better. You are all such good medicine for me. Tell Catherine we are starting to add weights to Tim when he practices his short sword now. What's up over there? How is our treehouse vacation coming along?”

“Sanne has talked most of the group into coming along for the entire three weeks.” Dylan said. “I'm surprised she hasn't hauled you over her knee for sneaking Hans too many treats. She is a very tough lady when she wants to be. The five million obviously spoke volumes to her if not to most of the gang. I think she plans on explaining it to us tomorrow. She has called a meeting. Lawrence and Richard will be joining us on Skype. The rest will all be here in person.”

“Five million is an intriguing figure.” Sister Margaret said. “That sort of figure can only speak volumes. May I ask what it's for?”

“A holiday Rohan wants us to take with him.” Dylan said. “Give me your phone number and I'll text you a link to the hotel website. Got it. Sending it to you now. No it won't cost that much. We're thinking a mere four hundred thousand for the week but we have two weeks to spend and may need to take a side trip. I think half that will cover everything but Rohan wanted to make a point.”

“He made one with me.” my housekeeper said. “I have a debit card linked to an account with a five million balance. Partly why I drink wine by the bottle. I am glad Sanne is explaining it to us tomorrow. The three boys seems to know more about it than me. There will be about fifty of us and he insists on us all having daily spa treatments. They'll have to pour me on a plane I'll be so relaxed. Tim made a new friend and I'd really like to meet him. That's the main reason I'm going. Yes the other is to see Rohan gets six hours sleep for seven consecutive nights. I'll bring an extra riding crop with me for you Margaret.”

“Hello Rohan what are you doing up at this time?” Juliet said leading Adam and Morgan in front of the camera. “Cooking for a wedding. Charles is marrying Griogair. About time.”

“Dad it was wonderful.” Adam said with a grin. “Nothing like a good flogging and fucking your betrothed right after to make a boy's evening.”

“You guys make staying up well worth it.” Sister Margaret said when Dylan introduced everybody. “I can hardly wait to meet Leslie. We might as well keep chatting until she arrives.”

The boys caught us up on their schoolwork. Dylan thanked me for letting Dariusz keep his garden a secret a little longer. He smiled when I predicted the two of them would make it up to me somehow. Clifton was slowly relaxing enough to begin to channel. Alida was confident he'd make great strides now that he'd opened the door. Catherine arrived and asked me if I was staying up for a workout. Sister Margaret told her my daily workout was provided by special ops guys. Catherine responded by saying that didn't qualify as more than a warm up unless there were twelve of them. When she heard it was just three she scolded me for neglecting my workouts and explained again how important they were for releasing adrenaline. She debated sending a riding crop to Sister Margaret overnight.

“No wonder you are so glad you're over here Boss.” Sister Margaret said. “Have another beer. We're only one our second case. I'll keep you a little sober for the wedding or else Charles will have my hide. Sounds like somebody else arriving. I wonder if it's the mysterious Leslie?”

“Yes it is.” Leslie said sitting down with Ivan. “Rohan this is a pleasant surprise. I'm happy because all the overs will have scolded you. Lack of sleep. Working when you should rest. Missing your workouts. Skipping meals. What's got you up this time? Hopefully not old ghosts or another attack on your life? Oh, just a special ops attack plus Charles' wedding. You are officiating aren't you? Good. I see you're also cooking. Glad he's keeping it down to eighty for you. No I'm sure you'll be fine without any sleep for one night. Two nights. I bet that got you a good scolding. Now about this attack?”

“A training exercise for special ops.” Sister Margaret said quickly. “Catherine tells me it's not even a warm up for Rohan. Judging by the way Benjamin tossed them off the train when it rolled into the station she might be right. They cheated a little too much and got Rohan really pissed. Adam you cheat too much by using a stun grenade around children. That's not a good idea when Rohan is around. Nancy kept Lance's head turned away so he's okay. None of us will tell him will we? Good.”

“I'm surprised there was anything to throw off the train and he waited for it to stop.” Morgan said with a grin. “Genta or Tim? Both. I can see that. One in spirit and one in the physical. Tim is definitely growing balls if he approached you while you were about to vent your displeasure on some fool of an officer.”

“There's no way I would have when I saw Rohan get off the train and Rohan had two hours to calm down.” Sister Margaret admitted. “The boy is pretty certain of the protection Rohan's love provides.”

“We all know Rohan won't hit us.” Dylan said. “He might spank us but he won't hit us. I can't wait for my housewarming spanking. Dad we'll be certain to pack the long paddle so you can get all three of us at once. None of us want to wait for our spanking Sister Margaret.”

“Time for dinner.” Abby called in the background. “Unlike Rohan you guys will eat regular meals. I don't care how often you make me my favorite breakfast. Rohan they only do it once a week. Today. You know I really hadn't noticed today arrives seven times in a week. What a surprise. You guys can chat later. Rohan you have cooking to do. What's for dessert? Tiramisu.”

“Rohan will you make the chocolate caramel one you made for us or is that just a cheesecake?” Ivan asked. “Yes I'd really like to know we shared a part of the wedding. I like Charles and if he is choosing Griogair then Griogair must be very special. I look forward to meeting him.”

“Ivan since you put it that way I will make a chocolate caramel tiramisu.” I promised. “Sister Margaret can do a little research before she goes to get some rest. I can manage without her for a few hours.”

“You can but you won't.” Sister Margaret said. “I'll nap here in this chair but that's all. Rohan I have to get you breakfast. Thanks Tracy. Breakfast and Irish coffee. Besides you can teach me how to make this chocolate and caramel tiramisu. Been a pleasure to meet you all. Enjoy your dinner.”

Benjamin and Charles joined us at six a.m. Charles let me know I was taking a break for sunrise meditations. I let Charles know about Ivan's request.

“That's very sweet.” Charles agreed. “A pity I cannot thank the man.”

“Yes you can. Sister Margaret will have them chatting with us in no time.” I said typing in my password. “Charles it's only nine at night there. The boys will love to say hi to Tiny.”

The gang was happy to see Tiny and Charles. He thanked them for their congratulations and well wishes. Nobody objected when he ended the call so we could go do sunrise meditations. There was a large group for sunrise meditations. My Lady sang the day in and a few chants. Some choir members joined in. I set up a chi grid beneath everybody and trusted they would draw what they needed without me telling them. Sister Margaret collapsed into laughter when Fionola scolded me for doing so much of the cooking. I could have taken a nap. Now what was she going to do with her day she asked me crossly. The monks insisted on feeding her and the other staff. Tim suggested she prepare some snacks for us to nibble on before dinner. Fionola thought that was a great idea.

I thanked Tim with a kiss. He thanked me by dragging me upstairs for a bath. My protests died when Sister Margaret threatened to give Tim a hand bathing me. Griogair brought in my official clothing. The queen would arrive at the chapel at two. All the other guests would be seated. Charles and Griogair would wait outside and follow when the queen had taken her seat. Sister Margaret left for a three-hour nap when I promised I was just going to meditate for the next three hours. Right here in this chair I promised pointing to it. Tim will let you know if I do anything else. Three hours and ten minutes later Sister Margaret returned with a tray of tea and cookies for us.

Everybody bowed and curtsied when the queen made her way down the aisle. I bowed when she got to the front pew. When Charles and Griogair entered the chapel my Lady sang them down the aisle. Their faith in her to choose the perfect musical score for the wedding and my ability to channel it was touching. There were cameras recording the event but they promised nobody would give out my name or my secret. Benjamin was standing against the wall in a robe and my Lady motioned him over after the vows.

“I will sing a song of blessing.” I whispered quickly. “You can sing it after me. I will join in.”

Benjamin and my Lady harmonized wonderfully. Benjamin's voice filled the chapel and I supported him. How easily to slip from the lead to support and how fitting. The man had the voice of an angel. We waited until the chapel had emptied and the guests joining us for dinner were well on their way before we escorted the queen out to her car. Instead of the middle car Benjamin guided the queen to the third car at the last-minute. I'd arranged for a fourth car to pull in behind us. The middle car seemed just a little too obvious for my liking. Now there would be two in the middle. I climbed into the last car.

When we got back to the manor I slipped into the kitchen to check on things. Fionola and the Order chefs had everything set up and ready to go. The queen's personal attendant would step in as butler for tonight. I introduced him to the kitchen staff. He thanked us for honoring the queen's request for calzone. He had worked for her for thirty years and was glad she could have some fun.

The queen was having fun. Lance was sitting on her lap telling her all about making lasagna. She got him to promise to make her some one day soon. I smiled when I saw both Caryn and Nancy hovering around Lance protectively. Lance was doing just fine. He thought the queen would like to see Fionola's garden. The queen seemed hesitant so I stepped up and offered her my arm.

“You're perfectly safe Your Majesty.” I whispered. “Follow Lance's lead and you'll have a wonderful visit.”

When we were about to leave the garden Lance came over leading a blushing Fionola by the hand.

“Your Majesty this is Fionola.” Lance said. “She cooks very good food and works very hard in the garden.”

This caused Fionola to blush even more as she curtsied. I thought she would faint when the queen asked her some questions about the garden. I let the two of them go back in to the garden with Lance. Christopher told me I was making his SWAT monks nervous. Sister Margaret thought it was good for them. I merely warned there might be more surprises later. The queen was enjoying her time with Lance and he wasn't bothered about security. The grounds are safe so she's safe I declared. More importantly she's having a good time.

“There's no silverware on the table.” our butler said to me when we returned. “Yes there is a salad fork and a dessert spoon but that's all.”

“That's all we need.” I said patting his arm. “Calzone is best eaten by hand.”

My offer of a finger bowl to wash between calzone was the best compromise I would make. The wise man took it. Naturally I had to sing before dinner and offer a prayer of thanks for the food. Charles agreed with the queen it did save a lot of money if the priest, singer and chef were one person instead of three. While the staff cleared our salad plates our butler whispered in the queen's ear and looked in my direction. The queen merely nodded and smiled in my direction.

There were a few startled gasps when the queen calmly broke her calzone with her hands. Griogair told me some of the other titled guests would not enjoy the informality quite as much as her Majesty or Charles. Such a pity I responded blandly. The queen had a healthy appetite for calzone and enjoyed three of the four different types I'd made. There were some in the fridge of the other she hadn't tried so we promised to freeze them and send her home with some. I smiled at the sigh of relief that rippled through the titled guests when they saw they could eat dessert with a spoon.

The darts and dancing helped our guests see we weren't too terribly uncouth. There were an equal number of us untitled guests to make certain they got more comfortable with us regular people. Sister Margaret joined in without hesitation. Bernadette was happy to dance with me. Tim had gotten her some private time with Morgan. Charles had gotten out his hot chocolate urns and Lance had made us all hot chocolate. He politely added that Fionola had helped a lot.

Nothing happened through the night so I spent eight hours in meditation. The next morning I felt wonderfully refreshed as we all gathered for sunrise service. The queen even joined us and stood with the rest of us as we greeted the day. I gave a small sermon and sang a little more. Then I led the entire group out to where the monks had their tables set up. All of us ate together. The queen, monks, nuns, manor staff, regular folks and titled members of society.

We decided to play some soccer after lunch. Charles, Christopher, Garth and Griogair had accompanied the queen to her jet but I hoped they'd be back to join in the second half. There was just one problem. Bernadette was standing on the sideline with a wistful look on her face.

“Excuse me miss but the game is about to start and I'm curious to know why my goalkeeper isn't ready to play?” I said to Bernadette. “Caryn you're about the same size. Do you have a shirt and some pants for her to wear? Then get ready because we kick-off soon. No buts or I will make your pretty butts hotter than the chili.”

“That chili was quite hot.” Caryn reminded Bernadette. “Don't worry. This titled lot will be firing blanks to quote Rohan. Damp gunpowder I believed he called it. I'll tell you on the way so we don't get spanked. That would be very embarrassing. I don't want Holden to know how aroused I am after a good spanking.”

“Saying that within earshot of Rohan might not have been too wise.” Bernadette said as they walked away.

“Oops. I'm sure he wouldn't say a word about something he overheard.” Caryn said winking at Bernadette. “He's a member of the church after all.”

The monks passed around refreshments and snacks after the game. The staff had today and tomorrow as half-days for putting up with all the upheaval and stress. They had joined in the soccer and were lounging about. Sister Margaret and Tim took my hand and led me out to play the second half with the monks. There was a lot of body checking and tossing people aside. A few got slammed hard. I concentrated on staying upright. Tim had wisely chosen to play goalie. I kept a nice safe space around him whenever he went to catch the ball. One monk charged in hard but his eagerness and momentum worked against him. He landed some ways off the field.

Tim rushed off to chat to the gang the moment the game ended. I promised we would shower together after his chat. I chatted with Bill, Frank and Adriana. Adriana thanked me for including Bernadette in my team. I told her Bernadette deserved it and pulled off a couple of great saves. Bernadette came over a few minutes later with a thank you beer for me. She told me she'd arranged for a certain somebody to make me a thank you mug of hot chocolate later.

“No I didn't do it because I felt sorry for you Bernadette.” I said kneeling so I could look her in the eye. “You were feeling sorry for yourself. I'm not going to say you can go out there and play forward or defender but if you react early and trust your instincts it's possible for you to become a very good goalie. There is something else you need to think about. A man I know got measured by an Order doctor. He meditated on growing taller for a full year and succeeded in adding two inches.

Christopher and Garth will have his contact information if you want to chat with him. Remember that energy follows where the mind leads. Instead of mind over matter think mind creates matter. Oh, would it be rude of me to mention he grew two inches upwards and two inches outwards?”

“Very rude.” Bernadette said hugging me.

“Then I won't mention it.” I said calmly. “Your dad might have me arrested.”

“Never mind her dad you have a much sterner judge to face.” Tim said. “Your housekeeper would like to know why you were out playing soccer and not in bed the moment the queen left. Sister Margaret is busy chatting with them while I fetch you. She wasn't going to miss this for the world.”

“I hope she has a beer handy to hide her disappointment.” I said calmly heading over. “Before anybody says a word Lao will confirm that eight hours of inner smile meditation is worth much more than a night sleeping. Tracy can call and confirm it but I feel better than if I had slept for ten hours. Yes I will go to sleep as early as I can without being rude. Why wouldn't I cook calzone for the queen if she asked? I think she enjoyed it.”

“The best dinner engagement she's had in twenty years was what she told us on the drive to her jet.” Charles said entering the room and kissing me shamelessly. “The best part was the lack of silverware and eating with her hands. I think she enjoyed the thought of how her manservant would have reacted to the table setting. She had a great time with Lance and Fionola. She can't wait to try his lasagna. Thank you Rohan for making my friend very happy.

When she returns to London the queen is going to have a word with the Prime Minister about those two dignitaries you brushed past. Her personal manservant heard some monks talking and didn't like what he heard. She asked me point-blank about it. Between the orphanage and special ops she's concerned about a growing disrespect for children in the government.”

“You had the queen eat with her hands?” Leslie asked in disbelief.

“That was the manservant's reaction.” I said with a smile. “The queen didn't hesitate to break her calzone open with her hands. She even took some home with her. That will cause an uproar in the palace.”

“Do them the world of good.” Charles said. “Griogair we need a drink to celebrate.”

“Something like this.” Griogair said immediately holding out a tray with three double shots of whiskey.

“Perfect.” Charles approved. “Married life is a lot of fun.”

“We ought to call you three the scurvy knaves.” Leslie decided. “The sooner we get you separated the better for Scotland. How long have you been a friend of the queen?”

“All my life.” Charles said. “We grew up together. She'd spend time at our family's estates and I'd visit her home. We both helped each other get used to living a life with a title in important families. Last night we sat and talked until late. Thanks to Christopher's SWAT monks we were able to relax. They certainly impressed the special ops guys. Allowing the special ops guys to work with the monks was a great move by Christopher.”

“We're on the same side.” Christopher said entering the room with Garth on his arm. “Speaking of same side it's time to put Rohan to bed.”

“We've studied how meditation restores and revitalizes and compared it to sleep so we know you're not feeling too badly.” Garth said. “We also know there are some things the body does while sleeping it cannot do while you meditate. You were still on alert no matter how much you protest. I'll chat to Lao while you rest. You have a choice between Tim or Benjamin tucking you in.”

“Bullies the lot of you.” I protested. “Come on Tim. I think Benjamin would prefer it if you kissed me good night. None of you can leave tomorrow while I'm asleep. Plan on staying here another night.”

The silly sods let me sleep through until ten the next morning. Fionola was supervising Lance who was making his lasagna. Sister Margaret was learning how to make it. We were all having lasagna for dinner. I promised to deliver the lasagna on Tuesday. I kissed everybody loitering in the kitchen before sitting down to breakfast. Fionola had prepared some breakfast wraps for me.

“Rohan it's a go from the town council.” Caryn said. “Ingrid spoke to the neighbors first. She got their permission before offering to replace all the windows with triple-pane windows. I'd love to see the properties.”

“Ingrid you are amazing.” I said when she answered my call. “Where are you staying? Are you willing to spend another couple of nights there? I have to deliver a lasagna to the palace tomorrow but we can drive down early Wednesday. I'm bringing Caryn and hopefully Sam with me.”

“My Love I feel like a yo-yo.” Tim said when he heard of my plans. “From southern England to Scotland and back down again. Then we'll be back north for lunch with the mayor of Sunderland. Then we might need to head southeast to look at other sites. Back up for the housewarming. Then off on a mystery trip of yours. Somehow I have to work out and keep up my sword practice amidst all of this cavorting. Margaret I'm having a blast. Speaking of a blast when Rohan finished eating I'll get to give him what-for again.”

The others laughed as Tim struck at me with a butter knife. The rest of the day was magical. I spent it relaxing and socializing. Tim conspired behind my back with the others to arrange for us to leave right after sunrise meditations the next morning. The lasagna had been frozen overnight and was traveling in a cooler packed with ice. Fionola had cut some flowers from her garden. We arrived in London shortly after three and took a taxi directly to the palace.

My religious credentials convinced the guard to call the queen's manservant down to meet us. He smiled when I handed over the lasagna and flowers. Then he surprised me by saying the queen was still talking about her Saturday night dinner. Tim let him know he'd made recipes of our calzone and promised to email it him. Benjamin was glad to know I'd stop to visit his family when we returned in a couple of days. We would head out together on Friday afternoon to his folks' place. Benjamin got mobbed when we dropped him off at the orphanage. The kids told him they hadn't rented out his bed.

Dinner and darts at The Queen's Lancer made for a lovely evening with Tim. Once again we were on the road right after sunrise meditation. Phyllis had chosen to join us as well.

“Tim you'll be in trouble with my housekeeper if you don't call Vernon.” I said as we headed out of London. “See if he'd like to spend some time with us today or tomorrow. There's plenty of room in the car. Yes it is part of the reason I rented the SUV. I enjoy Vernon's company as well.”

We drove down to fetch Vernon from Southampton. Some work colleagues gave him a ride so we wouldn't have to drive all the way to the hotel. I bought us all tea. Then we headed back to Winchester. I had arranged to meet Ingrid at the cottage so we could park the car and walk to town. Vernon smiled when Tim tossed a stick to me and we sparred a little. Our sticks had leaves on the end so it was more a tickling match than sword fight.

Ingrid led us around the property and showed us where everything would go. The garden for events would be sheltered by hedges. The vegetable garden would be on the other side of the hedge and include some seating areas. She admitted to being inspired by pictures of our gardens in Poland. There were a couple of nuns marking out the gardens and taking soil samples. The private sparring area would be on the other side of the garden and would include a bedroom. Tim kissed Ingrid when she confessed she had designed it so we would have our own space when we or other dignitaries visited. Phyllis laughed at the thought of calling me a dignitary. Caryn was also grinning.

Before visiting the house I insisted we have lunch. Vernon led us to a little known treasure. A haunt from his college days here. Over lunch we heard he was retiring soon. Tim made him promise not to retire until after the gang had visited. I would appreciate being able to introduce you to our extended family as well I told him. Vernon didn't have any plans for his retirement. He thought he'd get a cottage somewhere and spend his time fishing.

“What's the fishing like in these parts?” I asked. “No I don't fish but if you know of several good fishing spots near here this would be a great place for you. All we would need to do is find you a cottage. Ingrid you wouldn't have happened upon any cottages during your visits here would you?”

“Well it just so happens I know of one pretty close but unfortunately it comes with a part-time job.” Ingrid said with a smile. “A caretaker post of sorts. Vernon would you be interested in a little supplemental income and free rent?”

“That's very nice but I'm not a member of the Order.” Vernon said.

“You wouldn't have to join the Order.” I said. “I can trust you to keep quiet. All you would need to do is keep an eye on things and maybe accept deliveries from time-to-time. You get to set your own salary. I have no idea what sort of pension you will be getting or how much you'd like to earn. There is one stipulation I will insist on and it involves Tim.”

“Oh, you've got me curious now.” Tim said. “What could you possibly want Vernon and I to get up to together?”

“You're certain?” Vernon asked me before I could say a word.

“Yes I am.” I said keeping our eyes locked. “I'd also like you to help me again. Later there will be three other young men who will need your help. They're very close to me and will get tested a lot more than the others. I'm sure you understand.”

“How long has it been? Twelve years?” Vernon asked me.

“Thirteen years. Outside Madrid.” I said. “You saved me from having to duel with three others. I've always been very grateful for that and your instruction.”

“You relied too much on dirty tricks.” Vernon said. “A man with your talent resorting to such tactics was a stain on the art of sword fighting I had to remove. Tim it took me a while to place Rohan and I wasn't certain until I saw him teaching you. He is using the same method I used to teach him.”

“You cheated?” Ingrid asked.

“The man was a fool who thought too much of himself.” I answered. “All I wanted to do was end the fight as quickly as I could. I scooped up some dirt with my foot. Hard to fight with a face full of gravel. Unfortunately that got his friends irate enough to want to defend his honor. I didn't speak much Spanish then so I never knew what you told them.”

“I merely pointed out you had no idea of how honorable men fought so it would merely be more dishonor heaped upon dishonor.” Vernon said with a smile. “Was I right?”

“Yes you were.” I admitted. “That is something I learned from you later and was later refined by Genta when I returned home. We chatted about my travels while we got drunk Tim. How did you end up working at the hotel?”

“Ghosts from my past caught up with me.” Vernon said. “Material possessions mean little if you pay for them with your honor. I earn more than enough. Sometimes we get generous visitors who tip well. One passed through very recently. He also made life easier for the staff. Obviously a man of honor.”

“Obviously a man who had a good teacher.” I countered raising my glass. “Now let's go see the house. Ingrid and Caryn will want to chat with you if you decide to accept our offer.”

“Please accept it.” Tim said. “I will need somebody extra special to teach me if I am ever going to give Rohan what-for or what-five. You also need to keep an eye on him so I don't come to you with too many bad habits. Even if you don't teach us anything we'd love to have you around. Please say yes. Please. I'll find us a secluded alcove or two this afternoon and thank you properly.”

“When is the extended family visiting?” Vernon asked. “Three weeks is perfect. I will give them a month notice at the end of this month. Will you keep the post open for me? That's about six weeks from now.”

“Yes, yes, yes.” Tim said. “Your days are numbered my Love. Soon I will give you what-for. I'll do it without using dirty tricks to boot. Now Vernon you will need a car. Lucky for you one comes with the job. What would you like? I'd like to say I'm surprised but I'm not. My Love we will need to visit the Ford dealer here. Vernon you will want to visit and see how things are progressing on the remodel. The sooner you drive it the sooner we can find out how reliable it is.”

Vernon was happy to hold Tim's hand when we left the pub. We stopped to thank the neighbors for being so accommodating. The contractor and architect were at the house discussing how best to go about the remodel and addition. I let Ingrid chat with them while I showed Vernon the house. Ingrid asked Phyllis and Sam to join in the chat. Caryn promised to check with Petersen about the equipment for the coffee shop. I was happy it would all be done just before Vernon moved in to the cottage.

Everybody was enjoying Tim's excitement as we headed to the Ford dealership. Vernon asked Ingrid some questions about what they intended to do out at the farm. He took a Kuga Titanium X for a test drive with Tim. I laughed when Caryn asked if kissing in the car was comfortable. She thanked them for testing that aspect of it for her. I told her I remembered she was getting married soon and agreed it was important to know these things. Vernon was protesting he didn't need such a big car but Tim pointed out if he went fishing he'd want something that could be used on gravel roads and get him to the river.

Tim called Edgar to arrange payment for the vehicle. Twenty-minutes later Vernon drove us back to the cottage. I took Tim aside for a chat while Vernon and the others discussed the remodel of his cottage. The two of us went for a walk and found an alcove to do a little kissing. A lot of the kissing took place below the belt. I listened to the plans for the remodel while Tim went for a walk with Vernon. When they returned Vernon kissed my cheek and insisted we do some sparring before we left.

“You will do just fine teaching Tim.” Vernon decided when we finished our bout. “That is some very interesting footwork you are using. I also like the small movements of the sword. Relax a little more though. There is still a slight tension in your forearm. Thank you Rohan for this time with Tim.”

“I am glad he is able to spend it with you.” I said hugging Tim hard. “Now scram before I change my mind. I can take a train to London if the rest of you want to return tomorrow and keep the rental car.”

“I think we've done all we can here.” Ingrid said. “There are things I need that are back at my office so I'll head back if you don't mind.”

“There's nothing more for me to do here.” Caryn said. “I'll work from the drawings Ingrid gives me. Do you think you could talk the two British hooligans into ordering us pizza for dinner? Pull rank if you have to Rohan.”

The British hooligans had pizza waiting for us. Tim's absence surprised them but didn't ask any questions until I was enjoying my third slice. Vernon is one of my weapons instructors from Europe I explained. He also instilled in me a code of honor that I live by for the most part. There are things Tim needs to know about my time training with him I added. Garth agreed the picture of them holding hands definitely showed there was some bond. How or why didn't really matter. What was important was keeping the bond strong. The rest would be revealed in time.

“Yes Caryn I am missing him.” I said with a sigh. “We've been together this entire trip. I think it will be good for Tim to train with Vernon tomorrow morning.”

I excused myself early to catch up on my meditations. A couple of minutes after I'd settled down there was a soft knock at the door. Caryn handed me a laptop without a word and left. Turning the computer around so I could see the screen I saw three scurvy knaves smiling at me.

“We thought it had been way too long since we meditated together.” Morgan said calmly. “The family that lays and prays together stays together.”

“Yes we will wait.” Dylan said.

“Get your cute butt back here Caryn.” I said poking my head out the door. When she stood in front of me I kissed her. “Thank you.”

“You are welcome.” Caryn said brightly.

The meditation was wonderful. When we finished we chatted for a bit about their schoolwork and the preparations for the holiday. Everybody was looking forward to the trip. Franciszek had asked the boys to let me know the garden was filling out very nicely. They were looking forward to my next visit. I was looking forward to some more drop scones and homemade jams. There was also the tight bubble butt and two-inch erection to snack on as well. Tracy had picked up the pace of her training with Lao and Catherine since hearing of the train incident. The boys warned me she would soon be asking me to explain how I expected her to go up against special ops guys. I thanked the boys for hanging out with me and climbed into bed early.

Christopher sparred with me the next morning. This time he insisted we spar in the garden so he could swing freely. I enjoyed the opportunity to practice the tips Vernon had given me. Garth called time and insisted I join them for breakfast in the B&B. Benjamin called and asked me to join him for his meeting with the lawyers and Edgar.

Everything had resolved itself nicely and Benjamin was free to start again.

“Benjamin I can arrange for the sale but you might want to give it a little more thought.” Edgar said. “Well if you're certain I will arrange for a nice realtor I know to sell the house.”

“Thank you, Edgar.” Benjamin said. “I'm sure she'll get me the best price. Sell it furnished or unfurnished. Whatever furniture the buyer doesn't want you can auction and have the money given to the orphanage. Those kids have been incredible. Here's the keys to my car. Do you mind driving it to the orphanage for me? That's all I want. All the personal papers I need are in the safe.”

The lawyers promised to go through the house and take care of things so Benjamin didn't need to go back. Edgar handed them the car keys when they offered to deliver the car since they would be there. Garth called when we were leaving the office. My grouchy chef had taken a turn for the worse. Benjamin had to see my bedside manner in action. Especially when Garth thought it the only thing that might help.

“Where's the worm that won't drink a tea just because it taste like the Devil's shit?” I said loudly as I entered the diner. “The paramedics can sod off. I'm calling for a mortician.”

“What mortician and who are you calling a worm?” the chef said. “I'm not dead yet.”

“Your wife will tell you how long you've been dead.” I said calmly. “Now drink this shit or I'll turn you over and feed it to you in an enema. Do you think Garth called me here because of my endless compassion and quiet demeanor? Fuck no! He called me here because I know what it's like being a worm in human clothing. I didn't care a damn about honor. I won my first duel by kicking sand in the guy's face. Some poor guy spent the next two years beating honor into me. He stiffened by spine.”

“Sod off I'm sick.” the chef protested.

“Bullshit! You're just lazy.” I retorted thrusting the glass at him. “Don't look at your wife. Drink it because it is the honorable and right thing to do in this situation. What would you expect your son or daughter to do in your place?”

“Don't have any kids.” the chef said. “Doesn't matter what I'd want them to do.”

“How many kids would you like?” I asked. “Benjamin make the call. I want all of them and the monks here. Christopher get some cleaning supplies and call in some maintenance guys. I don't give a shit what the doctors think you have. They can't help you if you don't want to stand up and be a man or bang a man. Quite frankly you could drop dead and my only thought would be how long this would delay my lunch.

What I care about is this pretty wench standing here with love and genuine concern in her eyes. Worrying that you might drop dead on her and fearing this might be the day your physical body joins your spirit in death. This dear soul is thinking of the good times. The holidays you promised but never took her on. The meals together at your favorite restaurant you haven't visited since your last drug-free erection. You're dead on your feet. The least you can do is thank her and tell her in person you want to go lie down in your grave. We'll dig it for you. Most of it anyway. We'll leave enough so that finishing the job kills you.”

“Who the hell do you think you are?” the chef said angrily but he did start drinking his tea. “Fuck you're right. This does taste like the Devil's shit. My name's Isaiah and this is my wife Paula. Who the fuck are you apart from a loudmouthed pain in the ass?”

“Rohan. Pleased to bitch at you.” I said calmly. “Finish that shit so we can have a beer. The monks will bring some for us. They know better than to show up without some around me. Garth the man drank the tea. The least he deserves is to wash out his mouth with good beer. All this talking has me working up a thirst. Fine we'll sit at the table here and insult those two loitering chefs. Paula will answer your questions about the menu for a bit. Ah here come the kids you didn't have.

You guys are doing a lot of helping this week. First it was Tiny here and now it is a grouch called Isaiah and his lovely wife Paula. Give his kisses to Paula. She can give them to him later. What are the rest of you waiting for? This old fart won't invite you to clean the place. Paula will show you where things are kept. The place is only half full so clean the empty half now and seat new customers in the clean section. Enlist the kids help to get people to move if you must.”

Paula looked stunned as the kids and monks got to work cleaning the place. A maintenance guy came over with a clipboard. He grinned when I handed him a beer and told him not to bother me with details. Garth explained to Isaiah that was my way of telling them to fix whatever needed fixing. Isaiah's anger subsided when Garth told him he could give a gift to the church to cover the cost of the repairs when they were back on their feet.

“Saints keep us.” I said reaching for another beer as a smiling Caryn bounced up to our table and kissed the top of my head. “Always happy to see you Caryn and you Ingrid. Paula grab yourself a cup of tea and have a chat with these two ladies. They're giving this place a makeover.”

“Go ahead Luv.” Isaiah said. “Whatever you decide on will be fine. Now what?”

“This is the new menu if you approve.” a chef said handing a copy of the old menu with items scratched out and new ones added. “Your wife says hardly anybody orders those other items. Can't really blame them. Yes it's a third of what you offered. Less work. Less supplies. Less waste. More cash. Don't mind if I do have a beer. Cheers! Right Sam it's a go. They're printing out the new menu at the office shop next door. No sense in waiting.”

The kids were having a blast switching between cleaning and taking orders. There was always a nun or a monk close at hand. Benjamin mingled and his presence stopped most wisecracks before they got uttered. A few of the diners recognized him and he signed a few napkins, shirts and caps. When the kids asked why he merely told them he sang a bit. Caryn heard and suggested the kids get the two of us to sing a bit. I went over to where he was and let my Lady sing with him for the kids and diners.

“Paula says you are good at fixing things.” a little girl said approaching Isaiah. “My bow came off my dress.”

“Well I can pin it on for you but I think it best if we fixed it properly.” Isaiah said. “Rohan if you could get a nun to go with us to the dress shop on the corner. They'd be able to fix this properly.”

Garth insisted on a second nun to go with them so one could fetch us if anything happened to Isaiah. Isaiah agreed with me that it would be a shame to drink such nasty tea only to drop dead an hour later. Ingrid swatted my ass when I asked Caryn if she wasn't feeling well because she had only made minor changes in the décor. The kids giggled when I tried hiding behind Tiny. Paula agreed it was safer for me to stay seated with a beer or six. While Isaiah was away Paula thanked us for our help. The Hospitallers had left her their number and explained we would be on hand to help the moment she called. Wisely she hadn't told her husband.

The bow had been sewn back on and the little girl was ready to help again. Isaiah headed over to watch the cooks. Caryn dragged me and a couple of monks with her to get the stuff she needed. The maintenance guys went shopping for paint, trim and other supplies. I bought more beer on the way back. Isaiah was arguing with Garth about the need for a more thorough physical. I dragged him out by the ear and warned I'd put my boot in his ass if he tried to come back in before Garth or Christopher gave him permission. Paula agreed to a physical as well. The nun leading her out grinned and promised me she'd arrange a couples massage with champagne and chocolates for the two of them. She'd get Garth to pay for it with my card. I told her to get herself one as a thank you.

When it was time for the kids to head back for dinner I decided to call it a day. The maintenance guys promised they'd be done in a couple of hours. They knew what Caryn wanted. Ingrid had printed plenty of pictures and was on call for them.

“So the old guy finally gave in did he?” Tim asked from behind me. “Eek! Holy crap you did miss me. Scoundrel there are children present. Fine one more special kiss for now. I can walk if you set me down. Phew. You really missed me so much we have to go to O'Mally's?”

“Yes he did.” Caryn said kissing Tim on the cheek. “I had to call for help from America. Rohan did some meditation with the three scurvy knaves.”

“Let me call the hooligans.” I said. “Christopher grab Garth and meet us at O'Mally's for dinner. Tim returned a few minutes ago. You can fill us all in on the details later. Have you called Holden or would you like me to call?”

“I'll call.” Caryn said quickly.

“Rohan your bedside manner was just as lousy as I imagined.” Benjamin said ushering the last of the kids out. “Don't forget dinner with my folks tomorrow. Meet me at the orphanage at three. We'll have tea with my folks and I'd like your help with a couple of projects before dinner.”

Tim had shared tea with Vernon at a small village outside London. This spared Vernon from navigating the London rush hour. A twenty-minute train ride was all Tim had needed to join us. Garth had texted him to let him know where to find me. Dinner at O'Mally's was a very exciting prospect for Holden who thanked me three times for inviting him. Tim told him I was afraid Caryn would spank me if I didn't. Christopher and Garth were waiting for us. Garth calmly admitted having a debit card to my account was very handy. This card was paying for our drinks, dinner and a couples massage with chocolate and champagne.

“Garth you shouldn't have said that aloud where Caryn can hear.” I protested. “I knew she'd think it was sweet and kiss me. Now she's got Tim started. You might as well kiss me now Tim. There will be very little kissing when we get back to the B&B. The only foreplay will be me putting some color in your cheeks with a firm hand.”

“Seems I ought to make these nights away a regular thing.” Tim said sipping his beer.

“Good luck getting away from him for the next six weeks.” Garth said. “Thank you for letting us see how cute Rohan is when he is pining for his love.”

“Tim the scurvy knaves asked if he was okay because he went to sleep at ten.” Christopher added. “Lights out right after their meditation and chat.”

“I'm sorry to put you through that my Love.” Tim said. “I'd never have stayed away if I'd known how much it would upset you. Yes it was worth it. I can see how much he influenced you now and am so grateful he got you off the streets of Europe. Vernon misses your cooking. He is pretty good in the kitchen though. We had a lovely meal of steak in green salsa.”

“Ask Vernon if he'd like me to cook and bless his cottage as a housewarming gift.” I suggested as our waitress approached. “I'd like to switch to whiskey. A nice Springbank or Islay Mist would be perfect, thank you. I'd prefer the Mist if you have it.”

The good-natured teasing about me missing Tim continued until the food arrived. I enjoyed my steak and potatoes with a nice bread-and-butter pudding to end the meal. Despite my eagerness to bed Tim it was my suggestion we take a stroll after dinner. The others all agreed to join us. I deliberately led us to the area where we'd had our run in a street gang on a previous visit. There was a new guy in charge. He tried getting a little belligerent but I talked him out of a fight. The others laughed when I asked him if he really wanted me to give him a warm up spanking before I bedded Tim. When I pointed out Christopher trained guys to go up against special ops guys they saw the light. Much better to let me buy them a beer or two they decided. Tim reloaded their fifty pound credit without me asking.

“Billy got caught up in a sweep.” Riley explained. “His girl was doing hardcore drugs and the police wanted her to turn on her supplier so they raided the flat one night. She refused to turn. Billy didn't know the names so they both ended up in jail. He'll be before the judge tomorrow morning.”

“Christopher why don't we see what we can do to help Billy?” I asked. “A qualified lawyer overseeing some senior students. This will be good practice for them. Maybe take in a model of an alternative sentence for the judge to consider. I think you might want to use Charles' connections this time.”

“We'll pass on your best wishes.” Garth promised after taking down Billy's details. “Rohan we will send some nuns around to help his lady.”

“Nuns? You're sending nuns in to a prison.” a startled Riley exclaimed. “Well if you're certain they can handle themselves. Come on Rohan there is no lady going to take on gang members who work the London streets.”

“Be at this address tomorrow afternoon.” Christopher said handing over a card. “They'll expect you at three. Call if you get delayed. Better to get your asses kicked by the ladies in private don't you think? Yes I am serious. Sure you guys are tough and can handle yourselves against other gangs but a trained expert in unarmed combat will make you look like schoolboys. There will also be people there to patch you up if you get hurt.”

“Rohan thinks you guys are part of London's charm.” Garth added. “He'd rather not have to hurt any of you just to prove a point. No he won't force you to give up crime or anything else. The only thing he won't tolerate is bullying and drugs. Watching drugs kill a family member will do that to a man. Leave the ladies and kids alone as well. We are helping look after an orphanage so we have a soft spot for kids. Riley we will always find a bed for kids in need.”

“Billy had a kid with his girl.” Riley said. “Do you think you guys can help the lad? Welfare has him. Billy will be glad. Now I must get back to work. We're taking bets on the games this weekend Tim. Tom what's the odds on Sunderland? Five-to-one draw and fifteen-to-one win.”

“Rohan let's put a hundred on them to win shall we?” Tim asked me with a huge grin. “Riley it's easy being brave when Rohan is paying. No need to write it down. We trust you.”

“That's something I never figured to hear somebody say about me.” a surprised Riley said.

“These two are full of surprises.” Caryn said. “I'll put twenty on Sunderland as well.”

“Have fun with the ladies.” I said getting up with the gang members. “Promise me you won't insult them by holding back? Thank you. Have a good night. Now Holden there is somebody I want you to talk to. Tim take Caryn into an ally and kiss her if you have to. I need some time alone with Holden. Yes it is about a comment I never heard and wouldn't share from last weekend.”

“Come on Tim we need to catch up with the hooligans and leave these two alone.” Caryn said grabbing Tim's hand.

A startled Holden promised to give Juliet a call and ask for some pointers. She's very kind and understanding so be open about how shy you are I explained to Holden. His eyes opened wide when I told him Juliet was a professional dominatrix. He agreed he did want to make Caryn as happy as he could.

“I don't know if anything will come of it so save the kisses.” I protested while we waited for the train.

“You got things moving. That's all I can ask.” Caryn said kissing me again. “Keep that number close at hand because if nothing materializes in a week I'll call for some pointers. They do say it is better to give than receive.”

“I think Holden is smart enough to realize what you've just done.” I said hugging her quickly as the train pulled in. “Well played.”

“Thank you and have fun tonight.” Caryn said hopping aboard. “Thanks for dinner. Good night guys.”

Standing in the bedroom with Tim in front of me I found myself uncertain about what I wanted to do. My desire to spank him had left. The most overwhelming desire was simply to hold him close. Wrapping my arms around him I pulled him close. Tim wrapped his arms around me and returned my hug.

“I'm so glad you're back.” I whispered. “So very glad to hold you.”

“So very glad being held in your arms.” Tim said. “My Love your relationship with that gang seems so right for you but so unnatural at the same time. Do you really think crime is OK?”

“Crime has its place or we wouldn't have created it within our society.” I said between kisses. “Who knows why a man chooses crime. Maybe those gang members have evolved from violent crime and rape to illegal gambling on street corners. This could be nothing more than a resistance to allow others to define what makes a person good or bad. So far they have treated us well. We can only live in our world.”

“I suppose if we must have crime then non-violent crime is preferable.” Tim said pressing close to me. “What is a crime is the lack of violence taking place in this bedroom. My butt is itching for a good warming. I expected I'd be kicking and squirming by now. What's up my Love?”

“Right now holding and kissing you is all I want.” I admitted as I started unbuttoning his shirt. “Would you be terribly upset if I didn't give you much of a spanking tonight?”

“No my Love I wouldn't.” Tim said. “Being held and kissed by you would be perfect. I must admit I'd like some of those kisses below the belt. There's quite a bit of pressure built-up down there.”

“I can see that.” I said with a smile.

Tugging his pants down to his ankles the pressure building up was easy to see. Tim stepped out of his pants while I kissed his bulge through the material of his boxers. Reaching in through the front of his underwear I drew his thick rod out. Keeping my hands outside his boxers I fondled his ass while I sucked on his cock. A simple sucking that paid homage to his dick. The head and shaft got treated to a gentle tongue-lashing and firm sucking.

Soft sounds of pleasure drifted down to me and his hips bucked gently under my ministrations. Sooner than anticipated Tim began grinding his hips against my face in a circular motion. I kept on licking his gorgeous cock trusting it would lead to the inevitable result without any further action on my part. Tonight was becoming a night of separate acts. A play that would unfold to a script I hadn't seen. So I relaxed in the moment. Sucking cock and squeezing ass was more than enough for now. When his cum spurted into my mouth I let myself focus on detecting as many textures and flavors as possible.

When I finished I pulled his boxers off. Some lingering kisses later I lay a naked Tim face down over a couple of pillows. Smiling I tossed a dildo and lubricant on the bed by his head.

“You could be putting this time to good use.” I said undressing.

My smart husband got the hint right away. How gorgeous he looked reaching back to fuck himself. Who could blame me for getting distracted by the sight and taking a few or even several minutes longer than necessary to get undressed? I defy any man to tell me the sight of a hot teen fucking himself with a dildo would not prove distracting. The kisses and treat had built up pressure in my groin so I tore myself from the distraction before me and picked up our paddle of hearts.

“Ouch! Ow! Thank you Scoundrel.” Tim cried out as he jerked in surprise beneath my initial flurry of blows.

“Let's make Rudolph jealous shall we?” I asked bringing the paddle down with a snap of my wrist.

I delivered the blows with no more than a flick of the wrist but they were forceful snaps. I was soon forced to place my left hand in the small of Tim's back he was jerking up so much. Sixteen or seventeen smacks was all it took for me to feel the rush of lust that spanking a cute ass stirred within me. He would lie there until I decided his ass glowed enough for my liking. What a rush. What a gift. Then to top it off I'd be on top of his sore ass dumping my seed inside him.

Faster and faster the blows rained down on his ass. The more he received the less force I needed for him to feel it. Speed became my main priority. Covering his entire ass in a lovely pattern of hearts I kept on thrashing him. Now! Tossing the paddle aside I swung my leg over him and plunged my cock inside him. A long thrust that left me balls deep and ready to continue with the fucking. I was going to fuck him. The spanking had driven all traces of tenderness and desire for something soft out of me.

Joyfully I mounted him and joyfully I fucked him. Dimly his sounds of pleasure or pain reached me but I was too lost in the sensations of the fuck to pay any heed to them. Placing my hands on the top of his cheeks I squeezed down on his flesh. Holding tight I drove deep down his tight passage. Forcing myself down into his flesh. Imagining my cock inside the muscular bowel charging forward to reclaim his inner territory. His ass was mine.

Generously I bestowed upon his inner flesh a wet benediction. I kept on pounding his ass long after the last of my balls emptied. Well if the imp expected me to do something about the tension I'd replaced in his groin then I would. Dildo up ass and lips around cock took care of it in spectacular fashion. Slinging him over my shoulder I carried his battered and bruised carcass to the shower. A long hot shower followed by a generous amount of massage oils was spoiling him I know but love will cause us to act unreasonably at times.

“What are you grinning at?” I asked when I slipped in bed beside him. “I'll wipe that smile off your face the moment I wake from my nap.”

The imp's smile grew broader and he pulled me close for a goodnight kiss.

“What now?” I shouted in response to the knocking on the door. “Can't a man bugger his Brit in peace?”

“Would you like us to begin morning meditations without you?” Garth asked calmly. “We all know you're happy to see him but even you should be done by now.”

“What do you mean by now?” I asked keeping on with humping Tim.

“You've been at him for over an hour.” Garth said. “I came up earlier to let you know we'd be having breakfast at the diner but heard the sounds and came back. Then I came back again and again and...”

“All right I get the picture.” I said grinding myself against Tim. “A pity I don't have time to beat my Brit for making us late.”

“Me?” Tim said grinning at me from between his legs. “Why on earth would I interrupt a three orgasm morning bout of fucking? Yes Garth you heard correctly. Give us fifteen. That's right Scoundrel pick up the pace. Oh yes that's perfect. Such a sweet fuck. You're really hitting the spot now.”

“Damn but you are one naughty horny husband.” I said with glee. “Kiss me. We'll get done quicker if you shoved that dildo up my ass. Yes like that. Fuck me Tim! Harder. I'm no tender virgin. Pound my ass like you fucking mean it. Oh gods! Yes that's it!”

“Stroke me you bastard!” Tim commanded while he fucked me with the dildo. “Harder! No don't. Fuck you! Ouch! That hurts! Oh yes. Yes! Yes!”

Spanking his balls got him off and his orgasm rippling through him drew my third load of cum from my balls. I swear I heard my balls sigh in relief when I slipped out of his ass. We rushed our shower and dressed even quicker. The others were already seated and meditating in the garden when we sat down. I grounded myself a little before channeling a soft song of greeting. Then I sang a Gregorian chant.

“You can tell Tim's back just listening to his singing.” Phyllis said. “Sounds like my Lady missed Tim as well.”

“No it's more her having been filtered through my sadness that changes it.” I said as we unsheathed our swords. “Yes we're practicing even after our little workout this morning.”

“Little workout.” Tim protested assuming his guard. “Since when is ninety-minutes a little workout? Take that Scoundrel! And that and that and..”

I took it all with a smile as Tim swung at me. The boy was learning to keep his form and if he came up out of his hips a little I chose not to notice. He swung at me happily for twenty minutes. Then Christopher slid in without giving me any warning or a break. I grinned at him and adopted Tim's carefree what-for attitude. Two can play the surprise game I thought as I went straight on the offensive. Startled by my onslaught Christopher gave ground rapidly. Then his defense stiffened and he fought me to a standstill. I kept on attacking over and over until Garth called time.

“Damn you Rohan.” Christopher gasped. “I feel as buggered as Tim now.”

“And doesn't it feel good?” Tim asked delightedly. “Come on Scoundrel we have to take a quick shower before heading out for breakfast.”

Before we left our rooms I grabbed us all a beer from the fridge. Christopher kissed my cheek when I handed him one. Tim joined me in singing the coconut song as we made our way to the Underground. A few of the commuters joined in. I stood at the door of the diner for a couple of minutes taking in all the changes. Amazing what a good clean, fresh paint and a new linens could do to a place.

“What took you so long?” Caryn asked.

“You can guess and we'll spare you the details.” Garth said. “We need food. Lost of food. Any food.”

“Any cooked food.” I shouted out. “Make it a double order of baked beans. Yes Tim the second serving is for Dylan.”

“I miss the scurvy knave as well.” Tim said with a sigh. “I'll have some baked beans to. Thank you.”

After all the sword play in bed this morning Garth declared it miraculous we could do our sparring this morning. Tim told Caryn he'd only survived because I'd insisted on doing most of the work. His role had been to lie there and take it again and again and again. Third time is the charm she agreed. Then she burst out laughing. Holden was blushing which delighted her even more. Phyllis asked Christopher why the head of the Order got elected for life. Christopher decided it was so you couldn't elect two of me in one lifetime.

“Excuse me but there is still a square inch of exposed plate here.” I said pointing to the naked area.

“Sorry O' exalted one.” a not-at-all-sorry nun said before catching a slice of toast thrown our way by the chef.

“That's better.” I said when she set it over the open space. “I'll give you a second chance to get it right. Please start a second round in about ten-minutes. Thank you. Lovely place you have here. I shall have to visit more often.”

“Naturally. No good deed goes unpunished.” the nun said with a smile as she left.

Garth told me Isaiah and Paula would be in shortly. Paula had insisted they get started on their health regimen and workout routine right away. She was taking Isaiah for a morning walk before work. Tim told me I tipped the chefs and kissed him when I started to head to the stove. Isaiah beat Paula to where Caryn and Ingrid were sitting. He kissed them both and stood back to admire his diner some more. When Paula had thanked Caryn and Ingrid she let a nun lead her and Isaiah to a table at the back.

“Christopher's in charge of this island.” I said to Isaiah when he approached me later with a business proposition. “You can take our seats. Tim and I have to go check in with the staff at The Queen's Lancer before we meet up with Tiny.”

On the way over Tim found us a bookstore to visit so I could pick up a novel. He assured me he hadn't chosen Hatchards because of its age. The bookstore was on the way. There were a couple more if I didn't find anything to my liking. I picked up a complete trilogy and rewarded him with a kiss. Things at The Queen's Lancer were going well so I settled down to read a bit while Tim chatted with his partners in Poland. By the time he finished chatting to them I was financing the windows and heating for a state-funded college for a percentage that Frederick would decide.

“Do you have any idea how much you just invested?” Betty asked as she set a beer down at our table. “I didn't think so.”

“Thanks for the beer, Betty.” Tim said. “I worked up a thirst haggling my partners down. Betty just because it is a government project is no reason to up our profit margin. Ultimately the Polish people would be paying for our extra earnings. Rohan can spank me later for whatever percentage of fifty thousand I just cost him if he's upset.”

“How do you guys split the profits?” Betty asked sounding intrigued and getting me to pay attention.

“Fifty for me and twenty-five each for the other two.” Tim said. “The other two will buy my shares over the next five years until I own twenty-five and they split the rest. Less Rohan's share I guess I just cost myself about twenty thousand and them ten thousand each.”

“Now I have to know how you got them to agree to let that much go.” Betty said.

“I explained I wouldn't rob the Polish people and let them know if we kept our mark-up reasonable there would be other projects.” Tim said. “Good beer. Thank you.”

“You are as bad as Rohan.” Betty said as she leaned in to hug and kiss him. “This place has turned into a gold mine since we started offering breakfasts. I have so much fun it hardly seems like work at all. Every time I deposit my paycheck I feel a twinge of guilt. You can imagine how much of a twinge I feel when it comes to my share of the profits.”

“Chat with Garth about that soon.” I suggested. “A twinge of guilt has a way of growing. Things wouldn't be flowing so smoothly if you weren't doing such a good job. Drink up Tim it looks like Benjamin is calling. Sorry Betty but we must dash.”

Benjamin warmed the car up while my Lady sang a couple of songs for the kids. This was the least I could do for them after their work at the diner. Tonight the children were eating a meal paid for by Isaiah and Paula as a thank you for their work. Tim sat up front so I could stretch out on the backseat and read my novel. He told Benjamin I obviously wore myself out between last night and this morning. Benjamin laughed when Tim said his initial despair had turned to rapturous delight. When he heard Garth had made three trips up to our room before interrupting I thought he drive us off the road he laughed so hard.

Unsurprisingly Benjamin's folks were the solid, dependable sort. Their thanks for all we had done to help Benjamin were sincere. Angie and Benji had prepared a lovely tea for us. They showed us around when we finished our tea. Nothing the kids or monks had done for them went unnoticed. Everything got pointed out to us and they spoke with excitement about upgrades Benjamin was going to have done now that his affairs were in order.

The monks had cut out pieces for us to make benches for the garden. Stained with the help of the kids all we had to do was assemble them. I helped Benjamin hold the pieces together while his dad drove in the screws. Tim made it more of a workout for us by sitting on the bench. Angie laughed when he let us know thanks were not necessary for this brilliant idea. When Benjamin suggested spanks would be more appropriate Tim thought that was fair. I promised to wait until tomorrow to settle up so he could recover from last night. Tim kissed me. Benjamin groaned. Angie decided the god of our Order had a great sense of humor.

Somehow we got the two benches done in just over an hour. This left us with time to enjoy the sunset and a beer before dinner. Both Benji and Angie had started taking some remedies suggested by the Hospitallers. They thought they'd noticed an improvement in their energy but wanted to give it a little more time. I was certain the food had a lot to do with improving their health. The roast beef was delicious. We had trifle for dessert.

Tim shared our encounters with the gang. Technically Tim placed the bet so my conscience was clear I explained. Fifteen-to-one odds on a Sunderland win was way too flattering to Sunderland. The team is so bad they hover at fifty-to-one if any sane man is setting the odds I told the others. I support them because they are intrinsically tied to one of the great loves of my life. Tim had plans to spend our winnings on a few spa treatments. He confessed to having plans for spending my money on some spa treatments if we didn't win. Angie agreed with him it sounded like a win-win situation all round.

There was a murder mystery on TV for us to watch. Tim sat on my lap and covered my eyes a few times. I enjoyed the show even though it made me homesick just a touch. We left shortly after the show so Benji could get to bed. I asked them to excuse us so Tim could be out of bed in time for sunrise meditation.

A weekend of relaxation was in order I told Benjamin. I'd like to take Liam, Frances and the kids out to lunch. We needed to check with Charles about the luncheon with the mayor and see if we could get Tim's business started. Unwind a little more on the weekend and then head out on Monday. I agreed to lunch with Benjamin on Sunday. Tim promised to call Liam tomorrow to set up a visit.

I chose to give the staff at the diner a break and had breakfast with the two British hooligans at the B&B. They reported that Caryn was busy working on our Winchester projects and managed not to cause any mayhem in London. The nuns had enjoyed beating up on the street gang. They had also enjoyed kissing the sore spots better. Some of the hurts needed a lot of kissing which led to a little more than kissing. Tim laughed when Garth told us the gang got fucked up and fucked.

Our lawyers had gotten Billy released into the care of the Order while the judge and prosecution considered our alternative sentencing proposal over the weekend. Billy was effectively under house arrest until he appeared in court on Tuesday. The judge had kept Monday open for us to deal with their questions. Billy's son would be moved to our orphanage later today. The welfare people had agreed to supervised visits at the orphanage and park thanks to the support of the judge.

Shortly before we left to meet up with Liam and his family I called the gang back home. Apart from my workout routine and sparring with Tim I'd spent the rest of my day reading or having sex. The scurvy knaves were glad to hear Sunderland had won us fifteen-hundred pounds. My housekeeper was in favor of Tim's plans to spend it on spa treatments for us. I promised to call again tomorrow before we headed out. Charles had let us know our luncheon was on Thursday. The queen had declared Lance's lasagna a very nice treat. She had asked Charles to bring Lance with on his next visit to the palace so he could share the recipe with the kitchen staff.

We met up with our friends and decided to collect our winnings before dinner. I had no qualms about taking the kids to meet the gang. Riley knew of my protectiveness when it came to kids. The nuns had made it quite clear we could handle street toughs. Frances was a little nervous but Tim reassured her. Riley was sporting a black eye and a split lip. He had enjoyed the nursing of his wounds that followed. Tom told him his pride had caused the shiner. A sensible man would have stayed down once his lip was split I agreed. Tom let Tim know it was his lack of good sense that had got him elected leader of the gang.

“Our former leader tried pulling a hidden knife on his opponent yesterday.” Tom explained. “We knew how you felt about ladies and kids so the rest of us tossed him out before the nun could take care of him. Frances if Rohan is the head of a group where the nuns don't break a sweat kicking our ass the last thing we need is to get him upset. Better to play it safe. Besides we were glad to have an excuse to get rid of him.”

“He might even be stupid enough to join a rival gang and try muscle in on our territory.” Riley said.

“One can only hope so.” Tom agreed. “I can't believe how easily they took us down.”

Tom felt better when I explained we had guys from across the world working on our training. They got together to spar and work on the training program every six months. We did the same with the workout routines. This meant our style was a mix of martial arts so it was hard for people to face. You know what to expect from a Karate expert or a Kung Fu fighter but couldn't really predict what one of our guys was going to throw at you. Even among our members we had our own preferences but used a blend of different techniques. Riley agreed if he worked three hours a day on his fighting skills he'd have fared better. He was thinking of going back for another sparring session just for the nursing after. I suggested he speak to the nuns about skipping the sparring and go straight to the nursing.

“I'll be away for a week or so.” I said to the gang. “I own The Queen's Lancer and there's an open tab there if you work through the fifty pounds here. Food and drink if you need it. You just need to tell them I sent you over.”

“That's the fancy place that serves breakfast isn't it?” a guy asked. “Dunno if I want to take a second bath this week just to get a pint.”

“Nice place to take the nun for a thank you meal.” Tim suggested. “I'm sure she'd be happy to make your second bath something special.”

“There is that.” the guy agreed. “Problem is them nice ladies could make a guy start thinking of leaving the gang and settling down. Much easier just to visit Belinda’s place for an hour and pay for some companionship. Then come back here and drink our way through your fifty quid. Mighty generous of you. Been meaning to thank you but never got the chance. Took balls to kiss our fearless leader like you did that first day we jumped you. Glad you did or I might still be recovering.”

“That's taking make love not war to the extreme all right.” Liam said. “Only Rohan would meet violence by kissing his attacker.”

Tim shared our phone numbers and email addresses with the guys. Garth had sent a couple of monks around to update them on Billy and his son. I told them nobody at the orphanage would mind them visiting if they called ahead and didn't mind the visits being supervised. Tim explained a bit about the trouble at the orphanage. Sam thought it might be best if the gang stayed away but I told them if they made themselves presentable and helped keep an eye on the kids at the park they'd be welcome.

“Do I detect a softening of the toughs?” Frances after we left the gang. “Rohan you are too astute not to know what spending time around those kids will do to these guys. Your faith in people is wonderful. I'd have been nervous about our sons' safety if I was with anybody else.”

“Yes Michael those were real gang members.” Liam said with a smile. “Remember you are only safe in their neighborhood and don't think other gangs will be as friendly.”

The curries at the Indian restaurant were amazing. I loved discovering these little gems hidden below street level. Between my second and third courses I talked my way in to the kitchen. The chef offered me some of his whiskey. He agreed it would be impolite of me to leave him without any for the rest of the night so I handed some money to his son with a list of what to get. The boy scampered away and returned with two bottles. When I told him to keep the change he double checked because there was a twenty in it. His dad beamed when I complimented him on his son's honesty and good manners. After another round I was back at my table.

A large group came in and took over three tables so I excused myself again and helped in the kitchen. I surprised the Indian family who owned the restaurant by making some roti without instruction. A few found their way to the little guy who was our dishwasher. I left the seasoning of the curries to the chef. He was hesitant to get four of them going but I insisted. Getting two bottles of scotch was wise he agreed as we drank and cooked together. Tim came in and took some pictures. He helped take out some roti on his way back to the table. While the chef took care of the four curries I threw together a potato and pea curry for the family to try with roti. Once we were ahead on the orders I returned to my table.

I promised we'd be back when we were getting ready to leave. They listened closely as I explained about the Order chefs. They would be happy to help in return for learning how to make good curries I explained. A small gift to the Order would be welcome. The wife's eyes lit up at the thought of taking a holiday after they'd trained a couple of chefs. Merely helping the Order chefs get trained and if it helps them get a break even better I told Liam on the ride home.

“Michael the gangs don't frighten me but the best fight is one you avoid.” I said earnestly. “I can afford to pay for a taxi and get us home without a fight. This makes it the right thing to do. The honorable thing as a friend taught me. When you can fight and have fought you know how bad it is being hurt. I don't want other people to go through that pain. Sometimes you will end up cornered and have no choice but if you can avoid it please do.

Stan if your mom and dad approve I will arrange for you to study with the Order but not until you are eleven. Your body has to develop so you can manage the exercises. There will be more physical stuff for you to do than at a regular school and more to learn. When you are a little older you can decide if you want the extra work. Right now have fun being a kid and playing. Tim is trying to teach me how to relax and play more.”

“Frances it is more challenging than you think.” Tim said. “Rohan is very playful and lots of fun when helping others but for some reason he finds it hard to give himself time to play and relax. We're getting better at it.”

A little playful sex before bed got me relaxed. The next morning Tim tried sparring with the weighted belt. I ended up removing some of the weights but it proved very useful in helping him stay centered and low in his hips. Unknown to Tim I'd mobilized some forces to help us get his business finalized. Petersen and Leif were flying in soon. Benjamin wanted to join us for the meeting. Ingrid, Sam, Phyllis and a couple of Order architects were going to join us. Christopher and Garth were going to arrange catering while we had lunch.

I hauled Tim off before our guests arrived from the airport. My invitation to buy him tea was all it took. I found myself led to a new teahouse Tim hadn't tried. A lot of lace and delicate pastries. The tea tasted good even to my untrained palette. I loved the British scone which was closer to what Americans called a biscuit. Strawberry jam and cream made a lovely topping. Even Benjamin was able to guess where we'd been without Tim saying a word. Benjamin had ordered for us as we made our way over to the steakhouse. Lots of ribs and two baked potatoes with baked beans covered my plate. The food was delicious and we ate mostly in silence simply because we didn't want to stop.

“Rohan you seem to have the most outlandish contacts so I'll put something out there and see if you know of somebody who can help me.” Benjamin said while we waited for our steamed pudding and custard. “Music will always be my path and I have enough money to put myself through music school without any concerns. Honestly I don't want to stop producing albums. I love the challenge and creativity.

You and the kids have proven such an influence my music will change radically. I need a new agent, producer and publicist. People I can trust and who are willing to listen to me as I try to express this change in music. Somebody who can coach me so I can share this change with my fans. They've been loyal. I wouldn't be in a position to go to college without their support. Any ideas?”

“Explain the changes and say thank you in your next album.” Tim suggested. “You can buy some time by saying for personal reasons you are taking a few months off. I think you should speak to Eddie. He's gone through something similar thanks to Rohan.”

“Tim's right.” I agreed. “Eddie will be able to help you sort it all out.”

“Thank you.” Benjamin said. “I'll get in touch with him later today. You guys are amazing. So Tim what are your plans for this afternoon?”

“No idea.” Tim said. “Rohan has shanghaied me. I found a lovely spa for us to visit for a few hours but for some reason we lack the time. Do you have any idea what he plans?”

“A little but he is playing his cards close to the chest.” Benjamin said. “The sooner we get finished with our steamed pudding the sooner we will find out.”

We had to take a taxi back to the B&B because Tim couldn't wait. I had him call Garth to see if it was okay for us to go back so soon. Everything was ready and waiting so we hailed a taxi. Tim started crying when he saw Petersen and Leif.

“Rohan's done it again hasn't he?” Tim asked as Petersen held him.

“Yes he has.” Petersen said. “There's still plenty of scope but I honestly couldn't find fault with his suggestion. Now come sit down and say hello to Tomek and Emily.”

There was an array of computers and TVs strewn around the room. Emily and Tomek smiled at us from the flat screen TV. Caryn, Holden, Edgar and Darrin were present. Darrin had brought his wife and kids with him. Ingrid introduced us to the two architects. Daniel and Miriam had helped her put together some proposals yesterday. Petersen had looked them over while he waited for us. Caryn was there with Holden. She winked at me which explained the silly grin on Holden's face. I returned her wink.

“Tim this is only a suggestion.” I said holding his hands in mine. “Honestly I'm not certain what these guys have created. All I told them was you wanted a boardinghouse or B&B near a pub and a small college. You know we have guys working on education models and dream colleges. I'm certain Ingrid chatted with them but that's all I know. My intention is to give you some options. Hopefully by the time we're done this afternoon you will know what type of buildings and layouts work for you. We need to narrow down our search if we are to get it done before the Sunderland luncheon. Ready to see what these guys have created?”

When Tim nodded I led him over to the couch. That's when Petersen sprang his surprise on us. Leif pressed the power button on a second TV and the gang greeted us. Dylan told Tim getting up at six was good practice for sunrise meditations. Tracy let Tim know if it was important to him then it was important to them.

“Looks like Dad wants you to have your own village.” Adam said when Ingrid brought the sketch up. “I'm sold on the idea. Send Dad the bill. No I don't want to know how much. I've just gotten used to wrapping my mind around the five million figure. This looks about three to four times as much.”

“Good eye.” Ingrid said. “I'll keep it vague and say it's in that ballpark. Unless you go along with everything we suggest. The foot in the door price is around twenty million. The only reason it is in that ballpark is because these three warehouses got condemned last year. The foundation and frame are still good but that's about it. We can recycle the metal cladding and roofs. What we are more interested in is the size of the lot. The four warehouses give us plenty of space for all the business plus others that will come in handy to pay for this project.”

“That's a relief.” Tim said sipping on his beer. “Those green roofs look like the work of Sanne.”

“Yes they are.” Sanne said from a nearby computer. “Hello Tim. What do you think?”

“I'm too young for the post of mayor is what I think.” Tim said. “What are these other businesses?”

“Bookstore, department store, brewery, garden supply store, coffee shops, restaurants and a spa.” Ingrid said. “The list might change depending on the college you choose. Tim the college needs to be specialized to keep it manageable. This is a decision you will have to make. Do you want it to focus on healing or the sciences or religious studies.”

“Healing.” Tim said immediately. “Two Hospitallers took me in and I've been waiting to pay them back for their kindness. Healing and fitness. Do you two mind sharing with Ingrid your ideal college? I know you have discussed what your ideal college would look like. Is that a second pub I see?”

“That building in the back is more a sports bar.” Ingrid explained. “The first one is a place to go if you want somewhere quiet to relax. We'll play soft classical music, jazz and other easy listening music. The brewery will be above it so we want soothing music for the beer. The sports bar will have two spaces for people to rent for functions. A group from work who want to watch cricket can rent one while another group watches a soccer match in the second space. When there is a major event it will be on TVs in the main area. Something like cup finals or world cups. This building is behind the others so the noise won't intrude.”

“We have our college and our pubs so now we just need the B&B.” Tim said softly. “An entire warehouse? Oh, one on each end with stores in the middle. That sounds perfect.”

“One will be for the students and the other will be for regular travelers.” Ingrid said. “There will be two levels to the B&B. Budget accommodation on the lower level with dorms. There will be larger private rooms on the second level. The student accommodation will have their own cafeteria that will serve three meals a day. We'll include food and accommodation in the cost of their studies so they won't have to worry about starving and we will have working capital to buy the food. Tim you need to make some profit for upkeep and to pay salaries. Petersen has offered to chat with you about that if you want.”

“Why is there a boat in the background?” Dylan asked

“There is a village on the opposite side of the bay.” Ingrid said. “The downturn of the economy has caused people to move to larger cities looking for work. There are a number of empty homes in the village we will restore for staff and teachers at the college. So Adam was right in saying Rohan was funding a village. Rohan I know you'd prefer to let the original owners keep their homes but if you want them properly renovated and upgraded with eco-friendly products you will have to own the homes. A lot of local businesses will benefit from people moving in to these houses. Unlike other property speculators you know you will have tenants. The owners of the west side of the village are all eager to sell.”

“How do I decide who gets to sell and who stays stuck with their property?” I asked. “Edgar I will need your help. Looks like I'm buying half a village. Tim if you want to buy half the village along with all the other property that is fine with me. I want you to know it isn't necessary. We could both have an interest in the area but I have plenty of other interests.”

“This place is really for sale?” Tim asked. “I mean it isn't just a proposal for me to approve and then you go find the place.”

“A little north of Newcastle is the river Blyth.” Ingrid said. “That's where these properties are. I thought you could have a look at them since you are heading to Sunderland. Rohan is right in saying you don't need to take this just because it is the first we are showing you.”

“This is a bigger than I expected but I learned from Winchester that a small place won't pay for itself.” Tim said. “My only concern is traffic and keeping the boat eco-friendly. Can we set up a streetcar? Bicycles will be good but some people can't cycle.”

“The pub and college have their own access from outside so people can park there.” Ingrid said. “There will be a central delivery area and we will use the same vehicles they use at airports to move luggage to deliver the merchandise to the stores. This will take place at night. Each store will have a storage area with a combination lock. The stuff will be left there for them. There might be one or two emergency deliveries that will occur during the day. There's no reason we can't keep traffic out. This is just like a gated community.

The boat will be a catamaran and large enough to hold half the staff for the college in each trip. We'll use the sail whenever possible but it needs to have an engine for emergencies or storms. Some smart nun is looking to set up a cable system to pull the boat across when there is no wind or it is too stormy. The winch will be electric and use solar power. When it is really rough we will use the college bus to fetch and carry staff.”

“Who went to see the property?” Tim asked.

“I went with Daniel and Miriam.” Ingrid said. “Caryn did the sketches of the interior. We aren't supposed to let Rohan know she stayed up very late getting them ready.”

“Holden can give her a spanking or two for me.” I said calmly. “Two if she was up past 2 a.m.”

The gang said they were here to support Tim and whatever decision he made would be perfect when he asked them for their thoughts. I told Tim he didn't need my advice. Yes I would be happy to help restore the village if it helped him feel better about the project. Caryn suggested he take a drive and walk around to get a feel of the place first. Ingrid, Daniel, Miriam and Petersen truly believed the project was a massive undertaking but necessary if he wanted it to pay for itself. Petersen felt there could be a balance between making money while helping people get started in their own businesses. Ingrid had chatted with him about the Winchester projects so he knew Tim had to make some money to pay for that loan. A lot of the management could be provided by the Order to help students gain practical experience.

“Kiss me Scoundrel.” Tim said leaning against me. “That's what I needed to know. I hope you guys are all happy your love and support for me has got me to agree to this project. Let's hope the gods can protect Blyth from too much mayhem. Scoundrel the village is yours. I'm not that brave yet.”

“Tim you are a lot braver than me.” Abby said. “You're half my age and taking on such a large project. Well done. Now why haven't we heard about your Winchester project?”

This led to Ingrid pulling up the sketches and pictures of Winchester. Tim explained he'd wanted to show them in person. My housekeeper thought it sweet doing something so nice for the Order left him feeling so embarrassed. I calculated it would take three hours for him to get through their promised kisses.

“There goes my honeymoon.” Caryn said with a sigh. “Tim if we are very lucky we will finish it in two years. That's another thing you need to consider. Your money could be tied up for three years. Now I have to study how to decorate shops and restaurants.”

“The project will completed in phases so Rohan will get to earn interest on some of his money.” Ingrid said. “Petersen has suggested we start with the sports bar so you can get some money flowing in right away. We'll also do some landscaping around the bar so we can cater weddings and other functions. Yes Tim it will be similar to the Winchester project.”

“We'll help you a little with the restaurants and pubs Caryn.” Leif said. “I know a couple of guys I've used from New York who will be able to put us in touch with somebody here to work on the other shops.”

“Tim kiss Rohan as many times as needed for him to agree to show us both sites.” Sanne said. “We all want to see it and the village but I need to take soil samples and collect local weather data. I don't mind sharing and working with the Order but I have to work on both projects. There's no need for Rohan to know I'm charging you a discounted hourly rate. You are very brave to take on a project this big and the Winchester project. Congratulations.”

“Sanne and I enjoy the chance to work together so we are happy to charge you one rate for both our time.” Bram said. “There are some things I need to discuss with Ingrid and the architects in the next few days. Well done Tim. This will be a lot of fun.”

“Tracy obviously had faith in you.” Benjamin said when glasses of champagne started being handed out.

“She suggested I have some on hand here.” Garth confessed. “I thought you'd want to see the site first.”

“Why don't you want to see it first Tim?” Leslie asked.

“Dariusz is building a garden where nothing can grow.” Tim said slowly. “What is on the land now is nothing at all like we are planning. Like Dariusz I realized I must trust the people who have faith in the vision. Dariusz trusts Rohan and the feel of the land. I didn't want any unanswered questions lingering when I first visit the site. I'd like to visit it before our luncheon on Thursday to meet the land and let it get to know me. There might be a few things I want to change but I have to step on that land committed. Walking down the aisle unless you are fully committed is not a smart idea.

This could be a financial disaster. Many businessmen have had a venture and project go bust. Rohan has taught me to focus on the people not the money. Let's say it costs twenty, thirty or even forty million and one of the graduates finds a cure for a disease that saves hundreds of lives or the life of a future world leader who brings peace to a troubled area. Was it really a bad investment? I might never know. We could be successful and help somebody save lives. I honestly don't know.

What I do know is that like Dariusz this scoundrel had faith in me when we first met. He asked me what I wanted to do after I graduated. I told him of my dream. Here he stands willing to put his faith and his money in the belief we are here together for a reason. Rohan hasn't shared everything and I might be wrong in my guess but I believe he knows the downside to letting go of a dream. I believe he knows how much pain it causes and being the man he is he'll spend millions to spare us that pain. Any of us.

The buildings, the wonderful decorating, the college, the pub where we'll watch games together and entertain crowds would mean nothing if I didn't share Rohan's belief that we are standing here now for a reason. Saying the amount of money required is too much means I have shifted my focus from the people. I might not have Rohan's faith or trust in this path yet. Right now even with all your support I feel very alone and terrified but I will not build my faith in humanity if I don't try. I will not experience the power of your love to impact my world physically if I don't let it support me. So I have to say yes to the purpose. Only when I commit to this path can the rest follow. Gods I've never been this scared before and the bastard I married won't allow me to get drunk.”

“What a rotter!” Adam said in his best British accent. “Spank him Tim. Long and hard.”

“The problem is if I do a good job he'll think it's a thank you.” Tim said stepping into my arms.

“The bastard.” Dylan said with a smile. “He's got you coming and going. Let me know if you figure a way out. I haven't.”

“You haven't really tried too hard.” Morgan said. “None of us scurvy knaves have tried very hard. Don't let it stop you from spanking and bedding Rohan. That's a lot of fun.”

“The spanking certainly is.” Juliet said. “Don't you agree Holden? Thought you might. Don't worry Caryn all of us are too polite to mention the extra cushion you're sitting on.”

“Good to know I'm in with the polite crowd.” Caryn said. “I must warn you to expect some flowers soon. We're off to a good start. Any start would have been good. One day we must chat about this magic you worked.”

“I never worked very hard at all.” Juliet confessed. “I handed the phone to Dylan. You really ought to thank him.”

“I'll thank you both when I see you in Scotland.” Caryn said. “The grounds are extensive so we can take a very long walk and chat.”

“Leslie has ten to eleven open tomorrow morning if you need to chat Tim.” Abby said. “Send me an email. I'll check it before I give that spot to somebody else.”

“Thank you Abby.” Tim said still holding me tight. “I think I'll see what healing I can find in Rohan's love for me. A good thing there's a lot of it.”

“There's always the orphanage if he runs low.” Benjamin said. “The kids have plenty to share which is incredible considering the lives they've lived.”

“Rohan won't ever run that low.” Tim predicted confidently.

Tim would spend Monday chatting to Petersen about the financial side of it. He'd also spend some time with Ingrid, Christopher and Garth to learn more about the college. While Tim socialized I called Charles to ask if Petersen and Leif could join us for the luncheon. He promised to check first thing in the morning. I explained about the project and how I wanted to take Petersen and Leif with us when we visited the land. I laughed when I overheard Tim describe his feelings as being similar to the state of shock Holden was in. The gang was taking this opportunity to get to know my British friends.

The catering included some large shepherd's pies with vegetable sides so everybody stayed for an early dinner. The gang enjoyed breakfast while we had dinner. Benjamin chatted with Eddie who promised to give the matter some thought and call him back tomorrow. Tim needed me to reassure him a couple of times the money was available. I'd have to let Edgar know some of the details of my foreign accounts and companies but it would be there. Edgar understood when I explained I'd need to share this information with Frederick first. He'd taken such good care of me I wanted him involved in Tim's ventures as well.

I was confident the money left over from our holiday fund would be enough for me to renovate my village homes or most of them. Ingrid confirmed three million would cover the purchases. I might have to invest another two million in upgrades. She reminded Tim that buying property was an investment for me. All I had to do was wait a few years and I was certain to break even. In the meantime we've provided housing for people and collected rent I pointed out. Emily and Tomek were happy to help Caryn with the decorating. I wasn't going to allow her to decorate forty homes with the main construction, Winchester project and clinics on her plate. Before she could protest Tim advised her to stick to spankings from Holden for now. The tone of his voice made her pay attention. He suggested she chat privately with Juliet at the housewarming to learn why she didn't want a spanking from me on this issue.

When everybody had left I took Tim for a walk. Naturally we ended up at the local where Thomas worked. I let him know we were celebrating Tim's big project. Once we had a clearer picture on what it would look like I promised to bring over some sketches. Charmaine popped in and joined us for a round or three of darts. We helped Thomas close and headed home.

Our lovemaking was a reminder of people first. We took our time pleasuring the other. Then we took our time tormenting each other with some edging. Riding the crest of the wave for as long as we dared before switching to pleasuring our partner. Our shared orgasm had us groaning in relief more than pleasure when it finally arrived. I laughed when I saw the expression on Tim's face.

“I'm sure I have a similar expression on my face.” I agreed. “Promise you won't do that to me again in the next thirty seconds or I'll have to spank you.”

“Such a promise will cost you three kisses.” Tim said with a smile. “Now that's settled you may carry me to the shower and bathe me, my good man. Yes you may. Do a good job of it and you might get to bathe me again in the morning.”