To Have and To Hold
Angie rested her hand on Jake's shoulder and shook him gently.
“I'm not asleep,” he sighed, making himself more comfortable.
Angie looked over at Jenny and smiled, shaking Jake a little harder this time.
Jake jerked awake. “What?”
“Jim just sent a message back to let us know we're about to start our descent into Kingsford-Smith, so it's time for you to buckle up, hon.”
Jake sat up from the couchette he'd been sleeping on, rubbed his eyes, and made his way back to his seat next to Angie, fastening his seat belt in readiness for landing. He would be glad to get home. He'd been away too long. Now that he'd made his peace with Angie, it was time to face the rest of the family, but a few days relaxing at the apartment in Sydney first would help him prepare for that.
Twenty minutes later they were taxi-ing to the executive jet area and before long they were through customs, emigration and quarantine and heading out to the car park. Darren had promised to be there to pick them up, he didn't want his boss lining up for a taxi after the long flight. They quickly spotted him and were soon on the express way headed for the city. The traffic was unusually light and in less than half an hour, Darren pulled into the wharf residents parking area and jumped out to get the bags.
“Thanks Dazza. You coming up for a cuppa?” Jake asked.
“Don't mind if I do, boss. I'm sure my paperwork can wait a few more minutes,” Darren laughed. That was one part of the job he couldn't get used to. Paperwork wasn't his strong suit, and he jumped at any excuse to get out of it if he could. That was the only thing he missed about the army. Shuffling papers was for the CO, not for the 'Action Men'.
They each grabbed a bag and headed for the lift, laughing and joking as they went. The Sydney air seemed to have revived Jake and he was now wide awake and itching to get into his apartment, have a quick shower, change, and sit on the balcony to watch the boats bobbing about at their moorings in the marina. Man, it was good to be home again.
As they entered the apartment, Jake and Darren offered to take the bags upstairs, Jenny had left hers in the car, leaving the girls downstairs. Jenny went to the kitchen to put the kettle on while Angie opened all the blinds and the patio doors. Jake was doing the same upstairs, opening the bedroom balcony doors to let the breeze blow through the apartment. He then had a quick shower and changed into his sweats while Darren brought him up to speed with work.
They joined the girls on the balcony downstairs and sat down, taking the cups of tea that Jenny offered them. They stayed chatting until the sun turned the water golden as it began its descent behind the harbour bridge and twilight enclosed them in its cool embrace.
“It's time we made a move, Jenny,” Darren said, standing up and stretching. “You'll be wanting to sleep the jet lag off.”
“You're right, Darren. Work as usual tomorrow.”
“Why don't you take the day off, Jin?” Jake remarked.
“There's bound to be a heap of work waiting for us, that's why.”
“Well then, if there's that much it can wait another day can't it. Darren, you got anything special on for tomorrow?”
“Not really, boss. Got something in mind?”
“Yep. Can you come round about ten and pick me up? I've got an appointment at the car dealership. It's about time I spent that insurance money.”
Jenny looked at Jake in surprise. She knew for a fact that he hadn't driven since the accident, and had no idea he was thinking of replacing his wrecked car. A quick glance at Angie showed her that she didn't know anything about it either.
“Jake, you didn't tell me you were getting a new car.”
“How did you think we were getting up to the farm, luv?”
“I thought we would either fly up or I would get a rental.”
“Angie, baby...it's about time I got behind a wheel again don't you think? I can't spend the rest of my life being driven around, or using the bike. Going to business meetings in me leathers won't work,” Jake replied, winking at Angie. “Dazza can take me to the dealership then head on to the office.”
“Are you going to get a taxi back, Jake?”
“No, Jin. I'll drive the new wheels in. I've already decided what I'm getting and they have one waiting for me.”
“And you ordered it when?”
“Just before Christmas. Called them from Chicago.”
“Sneaky bugger!”
“Oi...is that any way to talk to your boss?”
“It is when he doesn't give me the chance to help him pick out his new car,” Jenny pouted good humouredly.
“Stop teasing him, Jen. You know it's a boy thing,” laughed Angie.
They all got up and walked back into the apartment and took their cups into the kitchen. Darren and Jenny said their goodbyes and went back to the car. Darren headed for Jenny's house to drop her off before carrying on back to Paddington and home.
Angie sat up in bed waiting for Jake to come out of the shower. She had a worried look on her face. She hid it with a smile as he came through the bathroom door, wiping his hair vigorously with a towel.
“It's good to be home, though but,” he said, smiling down at Angie.
“Yes, AJ.”
“What's wrong, Angel?”
“Why didn't you tell me about the car?”
“Maybe 'cos I knew you'd worry. We gonna have a fight over this?”
“No, my love. Just be careful for me.”
“Always,” he replied, lifting the sheet and sliding in beside her, switching off the light and taking her in his arms.
The following morning Darren was waiting outside the wharf dead on time. He was looking forward to taking Jake to the dealership. He liked nothing more than looking at cars he one day hoped to be able to afford, and with Jake's love of BMW's, he was sure there would be much for him to feast his eyes on. He looked up and saw Jake jogging down the boardwalk and waved at his boss. Jake opened the passenger door and jumped in.
“Morning, Daz.”
“Morning, boss. This shouldn't take long. Rushcutters Bay, right?”
“No, mate. Herbert Street, St. Leonards.”
“Hang on, that's up north, the BMW dealership is in Rushcutters.”
“Who said I was getting a Beamer?”
“Sorry, I just assumed...”
“No worries, mate. I know that's what I usually drive. I just felt it was time for a change.”
“So, what dealership is in St. Leonards then, boss?”
“Holden.”
“Wow...so you're gonna fly the flag.”
“Yep. Have you seen some of the beauties they're producing these days? I think you'll approve, mate.”
Darren shook his head and headed off for the harbour tunnel. When he thought of Holden, he couldn't help but think “Ute”, not what he envisaged Jake driving to business meetings in. They drove in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. Traffic was heavy heading out of the centre of town and it took about an hour to reach Hunter Holden. Jake was expected and was greeted by the branch manager.
“Good morning, Mr. Mitchell.”
“Morning, mate. How ya going?”
“I'm good, thanks. Now, would you like to take them out on a test drive?”
“Them?” Darren repeated, looking at Jake with a puzzled expression.
“Mate, you look like a stunned mullet. Another good reason not to replace the Beamer...VFM.”
“VFM?” Darren queried.
“Value For Money,” Jake and the manager quoted in sync.
“Cheapskate,” Darren whispered.
“Wait 'til you see them before you judge,”
Jake and Darren were taken through the showroom to the back lot. Darren looked around him and thought he spotted Jake's new 'babies' right away. Matching colours but different models. He nudged Jake.
“That them over there, Jake?”
Jake looked to where Darren was pointing and smiled. “Yeah, ain't they perty?”
Parked away from the other cars on the lot stood two gleaming vehicles. Jake headed towards them grinning like a Cheshire Cat. He ran his hands over the smaller of the two cars, admiring the paintwork.
“I hope the colour's to your liking, Mr. Mitchell. It's Evoke Metallic as requested.”
“It's Jake, mate, and it's even better than on the web site. What do you think, Dazza?”
“They're beautiful, Boss, but can I ask something? Why two?”
“That's easy, mate. Take a look at this one. It's the Holden Caprice. 6 Litre, 6 speed automatic transmission, loads of extras, a snip at $79,500.00.
They walked round to the second vehicle. Once again it was in Evoke Metallic and a classy piece of machinery.
“This is the Adventra LX6, 4WD. It's for the farm.
“Angie has the jeep, and it's handy for running around, but, mate, it's an eight hour drive from Sydney, and the jeep isn't the most comfortable car on a long run. I don't need 'flash' or I'd have replaced the Beamer, and I still have the Roadster for my 'boy racer' moments. This one has comfort AND performance, and look at the space. Think of all the hay and feed I can get in the back.”
“Dare I ask how much this one was?”
“Hey...Who Dares...” Jake smiled. “This one, with extras was $72,500.00. Think Angie will like it?”
“You gonna let her drive it?”
“Hell no!” Jake giggled. “Now, which one shall we test?”
“How about the Caprice?”
They were given the keys and were soon on their way. The car drove like a dream and after a while Jake pulled over. Grinning at Darren, he jumped out, jogged round to the passenger side and opened the door.
“Budge up and let me in then.”
“You mean...”
“Yep, home James, well back to Herbert Street anyway.”
Darren was in 7th heaven by the time they got back and it was all Jake could do to stop himself from giggling at his friend.
“Would you like me to drive you back to the office, Jake?”
“No, I'm not taking that one,” Jake replied, turning to the manager. “You can deliver this one to the address I gave you?”
“Yes, that's not a problem, Mr...sorry, Jake. We can get it there for you tomorrow as requested. And you'll take the Adventra with you now?”
“I most certainly will. Dazza, you can either head off now, or wait for me to finish up the paperwork and follow me back.”
“I'll head back. I want to be there before you to see the reaction as you drive in.”
True to his word, Darren was standing with Angie and Jenny when Jake pulled into his designated parking spot, and couldn't help grinning when the girls realised he was in a 4WD. As he got out and locked the car, Angie gave him a hug.
“A Holden! Jake, it's beautiful, but why do you need a 4WD in the city?”
“This one's for me, love. We're using it when we're up at the farm. I decided to treat myself to a company car as well. I've been using my own for too long. The insurance was more than enough to pay for this one, and the company cheque book can pay for the other.”
“I wonder what Mike will say about that.”
“You know what? I don't give a flying fuck what he thinks. The firm paid for his wheels, it's about time it paid for the CEO's as well.”
They took the lift up to the 12th floor and Jenny went to make them all a hot drink. Angie followed Jake into his office and closed the door behind them.
“Jake, you didn't get another car just to piss Mike off did you?”
“What if I did? He deserves it. But no, I didn't. I've used my own car for years and it's about time I stopped. Hell, Angie, even the PA's have a company car. It must look strange to clients that the CEO doesn't. It's a bloody nice car too. You'll see it tomorrow.”
“Jake, when are you going to put things right with Mike? You were almost back to normal and now you're at each others throats again.”
“Angie, he sacked that girl for no reason. I begged him not to, but he wouldn't listen. Told me it was none of my business for fuck's sake!”
“She defied company policy, Jake.”
“It was the Christmas party. So she tried to flirt with me, it was all in fun. She knew she wouldn't get anywhere.”
“We were still apart then, my love.”
“She didn't know that, only Mike, Alex and Rox knew.”
“Jake, I think that he came down hard on her more for the fact that she spiked your drink than the fact that she was flirting with you.”
“Maybe so, but I was more than happy for her to stay, but no, he wanted to make an example of her. It's not good for the staff to see us at odds with each other, and underneath it all, she was a good kid.”
“Then she won't find it too hard to get another job.”
“You on his side then?”
“No, I actually think he overreacted, but I think you should bury the hatchet...and NOT in his head.”
Jake laughed and kissed her gently, just as Jenny walked back in with their drinks.
“Am I interrupting something?”
“No, Jenny. Jake and I were just discussing his new company car.”
“Yes, when do we get to see it, Jake. You're heading up to the farm in a couple of days.”
“It's being delivered tomorrow, to the apartment. Come round for lunch and we'll take it for a spin.”
“It's a date. Now, is it a Holden too?”
“Yep, didn't want the CFO moaning that I was wasting the firms money on a fancy car.”
“How much was it then?”
“$79,500.00 with extras, which is around $65,500US, so it's a LOT cheaper than the one he's driving around in.”
“Good, so when he sees the statement and calls up in a stink, I can tell him that he car is dearer than yours. That should unruffle his feathers.”
“Thanks, Jin. Sorry you'll be the one fending him off, but I'm switching my cell off the minute we leave for the farm. I won't be needing any distractions in the next few days.”
“Don't worry, I'll keep him off your back.”
They set out early Saturday morning. Jake wanted to make the trip all in one day, although he was pretty sure that Angie would insist on stopping along the way. With any luck, they would be there by around 2.00pm. He wanted to get there during daylight, so he'd let Angie talk him into a breakfast stop around 9.00am, and then it would be non-stop from there.
They made their food stop in Forster-Tuncurry, almost half way home, and smack on 9.00am. The sleepy town was slowly coming to life as they drove through, stopping at a little family cafe for the best home cooked breakfast Jake had tasted since leaving the farm months before. They ate leisurely, chatting about what they would do when they got home. Jake admitted that the first thing he intended doing, after making his peace with his Grandmother and Uncle, was taking Lupo out for a long walk on his own. Angie understood, squeezing his hand in agreement.
After about an hour, they were back on the road again. Angie offered to drive, but Jake said he was fine, joking that he wasn't going to let her loose with his new 'baby'.
Around 1.30 they were heading up a rise, the black top fell away steeply both to the right and left of the road, the slopes strewn with boulders. There was a screech of brakes and the car came to a shuddering halt at the top of the rise.
“Jake?” There was no reply. “Jake?” Angie turned to see what was wrong, and found Jake staring straight ahead, his knuckles white as he held the steering wheel in a death grip.
“Honey, what's wrong,” Angie placed her hand on one of Jake's. “You're freezing, what is it?”
Angie looked out of the window and suddenly realised where they were. This is where Jake and Mike had been forced off the road. It was the first time he'd driven on this road since the incident.
“Jake, take a deep breath, slowly exhale and try to relax your grip on the wheel.”
“I can't,” Jake hissed through clamped teeth.
Angie unclipped her seat belt and got out of the car. She walked round to the passenger door behind Jake and climbed back on board. Reaching forward, she reached over the back of the driver's seat and began gently massaging Jake's shoulders, talking softy to him as she worked the severe tension knots from his neck, back and upper arms. After around ten minutes she felt him begin to relax a little.
“Can you release the wheel yet, honey?”
Jake opened his eyes and looked down at his hands. He tried to let go of the wheel, but his fingers had locked.
“I think I need a bit of help here.”
Angie got out and opened up the driver door. Reaching in she gently rubbed Jake's hands and fingers, slowly straightening one at a time until she could lift his hands from the wheel. She leaned over and unclipped his seat belt, swinging his legs around and out of the door as she stood back up. She held out her hands to him.
“Take my hands, Jake. Let me help you.”
Jake looked up into Angie's loving eyes and shakily reached out to take her hands in his, letting her pull him up from the driver's seat. She led him round to the front passenger door, and pushed him gently into the seat, lifting his legs up and settling him in. She fastened his seat belt and as she straightened up she turned towards him and kissed the tears that had begun to fall down his cheek.
“It's okay, Jake. You're going to be fine. I'll get us home in no time. I love you.”
She closed the door and sprinted round to the driver's side and got in. After adjusting the seat, steering wheel and mirror, she belted up and put the car in drive. Checking the mirror, she pulled out slowly and headed down the road. They were soon on the outskirts of Clouds Creek and she drove down the main street, pulling up outside the Tea Room. Before getting out, she looked over at Jake. He was staring through the windscreen and hadn't seemed to notice they had stopped. She rushed into the cafe and was soon back with a travel mug. Jumping back in the car, she placed the mug into Jake's hands. He looked down at it, then questioningly at Angie.
“Drink it, hon. It's a Mary 'special'. Hot steaming tea.”
Jake sighed as he raised the mug to his lips and drank the soothing liquid. Mary's tea was second to only Emily's and Jake always teased her, calling it 'Nectar of the Gods' whenever he popped in for a cuppa when they were at home on the farm. It seemed to revive him and he looked a little more relaxed by the time they were headed out of town towards home.
Jake was silent as Angie eased the car up the drive. She drove slowly, worried about any gravel chipping the new paintwork. Under normal circumstances, Jake would have ribbed her over her caution, the car was bought to use when they were around the farm after all, it wasn't going to stay showroom perfect for too long. But he just sat there staring out of the passenger window. Almost home, he thought. How would the family react to his arrival.
Angie pulled up outside the main house and opened the door. She started towards the house when she realised that Jake was still sitting inside the car. Turning back, she walked to the passenger door.
“Are you staying there all day?”
“You go on, I'll be right behind you.”
Angie sighed, then leaned in through the window and kissed him on the cheek. “Don't be too long, AJ.”
Emily and Sam had seen the strange car pull up outside and guessed that it was Jake and Angie. She had called to warn them that they were on the way, and Jake had new wheels. As the door opened they smiled, eager to see Jake again after so long. Their smiles faded when Angie walked through the door alone.
“Don't worry,” she said quickly. “He's here. We had a bit of a hiccough on the way into town and he's a bit shaky. He's just calming himself down a bit before he comes in.”
“What happened, sweetheart?” a worried Sam asked.
“Jake has been doing all the driving up from Sydney. He joked that he wasn't going to let me loose with his new baby. Everything was fine until we hit the rise just west of town. He stopped the car and just couldn't go any further. I hadn't given it any thought. It's the first time he's driven up the rise since the incident, and he just froze.”
“Is he alright now?”
“I think so, Emily. It took me about ten minutes to relax him enough to let go of the steering wheel, but I stopped at Mary's for a cup of her 'Nectar'. I think it calmed him down a bit.”
They chatted for a few more minutes before Emily started fretting because her grandson still hadn't made an appearance. She headed towards the kitchen door and looked out. The car was empty!
“He's not there!”
“He can't have gone far, mum. I've got an idea where he might be. Come with me.”
Sam led his mum and Angie round the side of the house and walked past the kitchen garden. They could hear a low growling and looked at each other. As they rounded the corner, they saw Jake. He was on his back on the floor of Lupo's compound, and his wolf was jumping for joy all over him. Then they saw and heard something that brought smiles to all their faces. First, a grin lit up Jake's face, then a full bodied laugh escaped his lips as Lupo straddled his body, licking his face as if his life depended on it.
Lupo sensed their presence before Jake did and growled, then saw who was there and wagged his tail. Jake turned his head to see three faces beaming at him. He cleared his throat, got slowly to his feet, brushing the dust off his clothes as he stood, and smiled shyly at his Uncle and Grandmother.
“G'Day,” Jake said softly, coming out of the compound and standing a little distance from his family.
Emily moved quickly towards him and wrapped her arms around his waist, hugging him tightly. She reached up on tiptoe and placed a kiss on his cheek.
“Welcome home, darling.”
“Thanks, Gran.”
“Good to have you back, sport,” Sam ruffled his nephew's hair and placed a kiss on the top of his head. “You've been missed.”
“A good miss,” Jake muttered in reply.
Emily took his hand in hers and led him back to the kitchen. “There's a nice pot of tea waiting for you, and I've done a casserole for your tea.”
“You shouldn't have gone to any trouble, Gran. I'm not worth it.”
“Right, let's get one thing straight from the get go shall we? You're my Grandson and I love you. You shouldn't have taken off like you did leaving us all to worry for months on end not knowing if you were alive or dead, but it was a difficult time for you, for all of us. I'm not going to forgive you, there's nothing to forgive...BUT...if you don't stop calling me Gran, you WILL be in trouble, young man.”
“Sorry, Gra...Emily. I thought I'd lost the right to be so familiar.”
“Strewth, mate. Get over yourself will ya. You know mum hates you calling her Gran. Do us all a favour and forget what's happened. Let's start over shall we? Sit down, have a cuppa, then go get changed. There's work to do before we eat.”
Jake smiled at Sam, and hugged Emily, picking her up and swirling her around before she beat her fists against his chest, laughing and demanding he put her down.
“It's good to be home. I've been away too long.”
“Amen to that, sport.”
True to his word, Sam took Jake out to the paddocks after they'd had their cuppa, and kept him busy mending fences until the sun went down. After a quick shower, they all sat down around the kitchen table and ate the hearty meal Emily had made for them.
Jake pushed his chair back and groaned. “I can't stay here too long, I'll get fat.
“No worry of that, Sport. There are still fences to mend out there.”
The smile left Jake's face as he looked at his Grandmother. “There are fences to mend in here too.”
“Don't you worry about that. Aaron. You've had a long drive up and Samuel has kept you busy since you got here. You go to bed and rest. We can talk in the morning...no arguments.”
Jake shut his mouth on the retort he was about to let loose, walked around the table and bent down to kiss Emily. “Okay, you win. We will talk in the morning though. Goodnight.”
Jake was awake with the dawn the following morning and got up slowly so as not to wake Angie. When she finally woke to find his side of the bed empty and cold, it was close to 10.00am. She shot out of bed, pulled on her old sweats and headed to the kitchen. She found Sam there sipping a cup of coffee.
“Morning, luv. Want a cuppa?”
“Where's Jake? Sorry, morning, Sam. Yes please, I'd love a cup.”
Sam got up to put the kettle on, turning to look over his shoulder as he filled it at the sink. “He and mum are having that heart to heart. They've been in the study since about 7.30.”
“Oh, Lord. Any screaming and shouting?”
“No. Don't worry. Mum isn't going to read him the riot act, well..maybe just a little. She was just too relieved to find out he was okay when Jenny finally defied him and let us know where he was. I think she's going to be trying to get him off his guilt trip.”
“Sam, we've been in Sydney over a week to give him time to pluck up the courage to come home. He was terrified that neither of you would want to see him again, let alone welcome him back.”
“For fuck's sake. He owns the place! Even if he didn't, it's his home. It's where he should be, with the people who love him.”
“Thanks, Sam, that's good to hear.”
Sam and Angie both spun round at the sound of Jake's voice. He was standing in the doorway, his arm slung over his Grandmother's shoulder. They were both smiling, and Jake looked rested and relaxed.
They all sat down for a late breakfast, and Jake looked up at his uncle. “Sam, I made a promise to Gran, and I'll make the same promise to you. I will NEVER intentionally do anything to hurt you again. I've been too stupid for words, and my stubborn, pigheaded pride made all our lives a misery. I'm so sorry.”
“No worries, Jake. Water under the bridge. Let's forget it happened shall we. You're back home, that's all that matters.”
Breakfast over, Jake and Angie cleared the dishes and rinsed them off before stacking them in the washer, giggling and nudging each other as they worked. Emily looked at Sam and rolled her eyes. What was it about the farm that brought the child out in Jake? She wished she could bottle it.
Jake kissed Angie and whispered in her ear. She touched his cheek gently and nodded, smiling as he opened the door and walked out towards the compound. He could soon be seen with Lupo at his heels, walking towards the barn.
“Where's he off to?”
“He's going to take Whetu out. He said he needs to say G'Day to the boys.”
“He'll be gone most of the day then, they're working the other side of the hill today. The ride will do him good. Blow the cobwebs away.”
“Yes, he said he had some thinking to do as well, and he does that best when he's with Whetu and Lupo.”
“Sounds serious.”
“That's what I thought, Sam, but he didn't look worried did he.”
“And the way you two were giggling when you cleared the dishes didn't sound like he had anything heavy on his mind.”
“Sorry about that, Emily. Must be the country air,” Angie giggled.
It was late afternoon when Jake got back from his ride. Angie had been sitting out on the swing seat on the verandah, dozing in the midsummer heat. Lupo's bark woke her up and she smiled as she watched Jake swing down from the saddle and walk Whetu to cool him down before taking him into the barn to brush him down and feed him. She waited until she saw the horse walk into the paddock adjoining the barn and smiled once again, knowing Jake would soon be back with her.
Jake walked out of the barn, knocking the dust from his clothes with his Akubra. Looking up, he saw Angie on the swing seat and waved. Running up the steps to the verandah, he threw himself down on the seat next to her, making it rock wildly.
“Hi, Angel.”
“Hi, AJ. Did you have a good time?”
“I sure did. I went to our place. I had a few things to sort out in my head.”
“Did you get them sorted?”
“I need to speak to you.”
“I thought we were speaking.”
“I'm serious. Come inside for a minute. It's important.”
Angie frowned a little as Jake stood up and reached out his hand to help her up. She wondered what was on his mind. He'd seemed fine when he whispered in her ear after breakfast that he was going for a ride. He held her hand and pulled her gently through the kitchen and lounge room, then on down the passage until they reached his study door.
“Come and sit down, luv.”
“Is everything alright, Jake?”
“I'll soon know,” Jake replied as he squatted down in front of her, taking both her hands in his, rubbing his thumb over her engagement ring. “Angel, you know I'll never forgive myself for what happened last year, and I know I'll never live long enough to deserve your forgiveness...”
“Jake...”
“Please, let me finish. Those few months of my life without you were empty and hollow. I wasn't living, I was barely existing. When you took me back with no reservation, I felt reborn. I love you, Grace. Please marry me.”
“Oh my love,” Angie looked at Jake through eyes blinded with tears. “All the time you were gone I never once took your ring off. When you first gave it to me I willingly agreed to be your wife. You don't have to propose again.”
“Baby, I know, and I love you all the more for it. I mean please marry me NOW!”
“OMG!! Jake...YES!!”
Jake jumped up and hugged her, pulling her out of her chair and swinging her round, whooping in delight. Angie had left the door open, so they could be heard from the kitchen, where Emily and Sam were getting the evening meal ready. They both turned as the young couple burst through the door.
“Whatever's wrong?” Emily gasped, seeing tears on both their faces.
“Get your glad rags out...we're getting married!”
“Oh my word, when?”
“As soon as possible. Do you think Great Uncle Rawiri would be willing to conduct the ceremony?”
Emily gasped. “You mean you want a traditional Maori wedding?”
“Of course we do. I wouldn't feel married any other way.”
“Oh, darling boy. I'll call him right away.”
Emily rushed off into the lounge room, dabbing at the tears which had begun to flow. She dialled the number and was soon heard chatting away to her brother.
“Well, if nothing else, you've given her the excuse to babble away in Double Dutch,” Sam laughed.
“Aw, fair go. You speak it too remember, Uncle dear.”
“And proud I am of it, as I know you are. Seriously, Jake, you've made mum really happy. She loves the old traditions.”
Emily came back into the kitchen beaming from ear to ear. “Rawiri is able and more than willing to officiate. He said he'll get Rangi and Tipene to start the preparations, then when you let them know dates, they'll be more than ready. Thank you, Aaron. You've made me very happy.”
Jake hugged his Grandmother, kissing the top of her head and trying to stem the flow of his tears of joy. Pulling away, he looked over at Angie. “I guess we'd better start a guest list, eh?”
Angie's face clouded over for a second, but it was long enough for Jake to catch it. “What are you worried about, darlin?”
“Are you worried about what your father will say, sweetheart?”
“No, Emily...I've made up my mind. He's had time enough to get used to the fact that Jake and I are together. If he can't stand the thought of us getting married because Jake's heritage, then he doesn't have to come to the wedding. Of course, we'll invite them, but he's not going to spoil things for me.”
“You're a star, babe, I guess I'll have to bite the bullet and let Mike bring 'his woman'.”
“Yes, especially if you want him as best man,” Angie teased.
“That's a call I'm not looking forward to making.”
I think you should speak to him in person. Much better than a phone call.
“Baby, we've just flown home. Please don't say you want me to fly straight back to Chicago!”
“Well, I was actually thinking that Mike should come over here. After all, if he accepts he'll have to fly over, and as you want the wedding 'yesterday' he won't have to hang around too long. He can make himself useful and start getting the books ready for audit.”
“Is it any wonder I love you, brains and beauty all in one package. I'll call Chicago tomorrow, it's getting late and I want to be fresh before I speak to Mike.”
“Good morning, Michael Taylor's office.”
“Morning, gorgeous. Is he in?”
“Jake! How are you? Hang on...Sorry, he's on the other line right now. Do you want me to interrupt him?”
“No worries, Alex. Just let him know I called eh, and ask him to get back to me. I'm at the farm, or he can try my cell.”
“Will do. We're missing you.”
“Yeah, right. I've only been gone a couple of weeks,” Jake laughed as he said goodbye and put the phone down.
“Everything okay?”
“Didn't speak to him, he was on his other line. He'll call back.”
“Ah, okay. Does that mean you get to hang around the house?”
“He has my cell number if he misses me here. I think I'll hang around though, we can work on the guest list in the study.”
They started with the work side of the list first, and Jake held up his sheet of paper for Angie's approval:
Jason, Lynn and Marie from the London office.
Jenny, Dee, Sandi, Kiri, Darren and David from the Sydney office.
Alex, Roxanne and Mike from Chicago.
Jim and the jet crew
All the invitations would state 'and guest' and Jake winked at Angie when he wondered aloud who David might bring. He started another sheet, this time with friends and acquaintances:
Tom Fisher, Will Morris, Jamie Bedford, Robbie Davies, Peter Edwards, Marcus Gordon from the regiment. Jake paused, pen in hand, wondering if Tom would invite Jenny and vice versa.
Andrew Sing, Pete, Carol from the cafe in the Botanical Gardens. Angie raised her eyebrows at this inclusion and laughed when Jake said she deserved to come because she made the best cappuccino in Sydney.
Angie had made a list of all the hospital staff she would like to invite, starting with Doctor Williamson and working her way down through the nurses and admin staff.
They finally got around to family. Jake said they didn't have to make a note of them as it went without saying who would be invited. Angie insisted on doing it right, so the list went on.
Emily, Sam, Jake's dad, Uncle Rawiri and his sons Rangi and Tipene. Jake then added 'all the other kiwi folks' as there were too many to list. A glaring omission was Susannah and Jake's mother. No matter how much Angie pleaded with him, he refused to add their names to the list. He finally conceded to her request to allow his father to invite them. Angie added her parents and her sister and brother. She was pretty sure that her father wouldn't even reply to the invitation, let alone come to the ceremony. Her mother would have to either defy him, or stay away. She knew her sister would come as she'd been in love with Jake all her life, and her brother hero worshipped him, so that would be two from her family there.
They'd been at it for a couple of hours when they both looked at the clock and then at each other. Realisation hit them at the same time that Mike hadn't called back.
“He must be busy. I'll give him another call.”
Angie watched Jake's face as he spoke with Alex. When he put the phone down he looked up at her. “Alex says he can't take my call.”
“Did she give him your message?”
“Yep, apparently he said he didn't have time for idle chit chat!”
“Call him back.”
“And say what?”
“You'll think of something.”
“Good afternoon, Michael Taylor's office.”
“Alexandra, Aaron Mitchell here. I need to speak with Michael...NOW.”
“One moment, Ja...Mr. Mitchell. I'll see if he's free.”
“Tell him he'd BETTER be free,” Jake hissed.
“What?”
“What do you mean, what? This isn't 'idle chit chat'. It's company business. Get your sorry arse on the first plane over to Sydney. Call Jinny with your arrival time.”
Jake slammed the phone down and looked at Angie. “Two can play at that game. He wants to play high and mighty with me, well, I'm still the CEO, and he can dance to my tune.”
“Oh lord, remind me not to be in Sydney when he gets there.”
“You mean you're gonna miss the fun?”
“Too right. I'll be up here too busy sorting out our wedding.”
“Angel, that's the joy of getting married back home. The family in Waitakari will sort it all out. They will arrange the Põwhiri and the actual ceremony over at Waitako. All we have to do is get over there.” Jake smiled at her, leaning over the desk to give her a kiss.
“Aaron Mitchell's office.”
“Where is he?”
“Well, good morning to you too, Mike.”
“Sorry, Jenny. I didn't mean to bite your head off. Where's Mitchell?”
“Oh good grief. What's that matter with you two boys now?”
“He called me up yesterday demanding I get over to Sydney. What the fuck is going on?”
“Don't ask me, Mike. I'm only his PA. So are you going to ignore him like you've been doing lately, or are you going to come over. It would be a chance to clear the air over this Bella business.”
“You're right, it's been going on too long, and I guess I deserved his wrath yesterday. I made Alex tell him I couldn't take his call, and said something about having no time for idle chit chat.”
“Michael Taylor, you are worse than a child, and before you say anything, I'll tell Jake the same. He isn't here right now. Are you going to leave a civil message?”
“Yes, sweetie. Tell his majesty I'll be on the early flight in from LA on Wednesday. I'll get a cab from the airport.”
“Don't be silly. I'll send someone. I might even send Jake. You can check out his new company car.”
“Yeah, got the statement. Can't wait to see what he got for 'our' money. Don't tell him that though. Get those lovely girls ready for my arrival. I love it when they fawn over me.”
“Oh, behave yourself. I'll see you on Wednesday. Sleep on the flight, I want you in a good mood when you get here.”
“Will do, doll. Catch you later.”
Jenny dialled the farm number as soon as she disconnected from Mike. Angie answered on the third ring, and Jenny swore she could hear Jake singing in the background. Ah well, at least she would catch him in a good mood.
“G'Day, Jin. What's up?”
“Good morning, Jake. Your little playmate has just been on the phone. He's not very happy with you.”
“Good.”
“When are you two going to grow up...no, don't answer that. He said he'll be on the early flight from LA on Wednesday. Any chance you'll be in Sydney to meet him?”
“We'll leave tomorrow, Jin.”
“Are you driving down?”
“No, could you arrange for Jim to get up here and pick us up? I want to be nice and fresh for when Mike gets there. I've got an important meeting planned.”
“Care to fill your PA in on the details?”
“I'll tell you in good time, luv, promise. Thanks for the call. We'll see you tomorrow, dinner's on me.”
“You say the sweetest things, boss.”
“Tell me about it. Bye, luv.”
Jake was at the airport bright and early on Wednesday morning. He'd checked the eta of Mike's flight and was told it was due in on time. He positioned himself just inside the main doors, leaning up against the information desk and waited, watching all the expectant friends and family with their helium filled brightly coloured balloons, emblazoned with the legend “Welcome to Oz”. He wondered if he should get one for Mike to break the ice, then shook his head, smiling to himself at his childish idea. He looked up at the arrivals board and saw that Mike's flight had landed, then checked his watch, working out how long it would take for them to de-plane, wait for their baggage, and clear immigration, customs and quarantine. There was only one other flight in, so he hoped it wouldn't take too long. His leg and back were both aching, but he didn't want to go and sit in the meeting area in case he missed Mike coming through.
About thirty minutes later the first tired passengers started filtering through the arrival area. Jake soon spotted Mike. He looked wide awake and alert, but his usual upbeat demeanour was missing. He had a slight frown on his face as if he was worrying about something. Jake grinned. Instead of walking forwards, he stayed where he was, still leaning against the side of the information desk. He decided to wait and see how long it would take Mike to spot him, and was interested in what his reaction would be.
Mike followed the other passengers out through to the arrivals area and looked around. There was no sign of Jake. He was sure that Jenny had said she would send him to pick Mike up. Ah well, at least it delayed their meeting until he got to the office. He looked around again, but couldn't spot anyone from the office. Not a problem, he'd told Jenny he would get a cab when he called, and made his way towards the doors, resigned to join the ever lengthening taxi line. As he walked past the information area he heard a voice.
“G'Day.”
Turning, he came face to face with an unsmiling Jake.
“Morning, Jake,” he replied, watching as Jake pushed himself away from the wall and turned to walk in front of him out of the door. He noticed Jake seemed to be a bit stiff, and was limping a little. Perhaps that was why his greeting was a bit on the cold side. Who was he kidding...their relationship had been frosty for weeks. Jake didn't need any excuse to be frosty with him.
Jake walked towards the short term parking area and looked over his shoulder at Mike. “Need help with your bags?”
“No, I'm good, thanks. Jake, are you okay?”
“Why shouldn't I be?”
“Let's see, your back is stiff and you're limping. Shall I go on?”
“Yeah well, standing around waiting for planes is enough to make anyone stiff, mate. The car's over here.”
Okay, thought Mike. That went well. Maybe Jake would open up once he was in the car. Mike looked around for a shining new BMW and spotted what he thought was Jake's new set of wheels. He was surprised when Jake walked right past.
“Isn't this one yours?”
“Why does everyone think I have to have a Beamer? I got the same question from Darren when he took me to pick it up.”
By now Jake had reached his car and clicked his key to disarm it. Opening the boot, he walked round to the driver's door, leaving Mike to throw his bags in the back. They left the airport in silence and were soon on the express way headed for the CBD
Jenny looked up from her desk when she heard the lift doors open. She's been waiting expectantly for the boys to get back from the airport, wondering what the mood would be like when they arrived. She knew the real reason why Jake had called Mike over from Chicago, and couldn't wait for the reaction when he was told. She was sure Jake wouldn't have let anything slip in the car.
As soon as Mike left the lift he shouted out a greeting to Jenny and rushed up to give her a hug and a kiss. He then greeted Sandi and Dee in the same fashion, making them giggle like school girls.
Jake walked past, heading for his office. As he opened his door he looked over his shoulder at Jenny. “Can you organise a hot drink, luv? Then hold all calls, we don't want to be disturbed.”
Mike took this as his cue to join Jake, and he winked at Jenny as he went past her, shutting the door as he entered the office. He walked over to Jake's desk and stood to attention in front of it. Jake looked up at him and sighed.
“Sit down, ya hoon. You're not on report.”
“I was beginning to wonder after that demand to get down here.”
Just then, there was a knock on the door and Jenny came in with a tray, which she set down on the coffee table at the informal end of the office. There were two mugs, tea for Jake and strong black coffee for Mike, together with a selection of pastries.
“Where's yours, Jin?”
“On my desk. I thought you two might want to talk alone.”
“Go get it and join us.”
“Yes, darlin', I might need your support,” grinned Mike.
Jenny rolled her eyes as she headed back to her desk to retrieve her drink. She was back immediately, shutting the door behind her and sitting on the sofa next to Mike.
“Before this meeting comes to order. I want to say something, Jake. We need to clear the air, and I need to apologise for the way I rode rough shod over you regarding Bella. I told you it was none of your business, and that was totally out of line, especially in front of others in the office. Can we put it behind us?”
Jake sat looking at Mike for a few moments, saying nothing. He put his tea down before he spoke. “Sure, mate. Consider it forgotten.”
“Just like that?”
“What else do you want me to say?”
“Nothing, that's more than enough. Geez, I thought you were going to bust my balls.”
“No, mate. I think we've been there already. Time to move on. It's coming up to that time of year again, and thought you should earn your keep as CFO and help get the books ready for audit.”
Jenny smiled, and wondered how long it would take Jake to get around to telling Mike the real reason for flying him over.
“More than happy to. I've got a week or two I can spare. The Chicago books are ready, so I'm all yours.”
“I was hoping you could stay for a bit longer than that, mate.”
“Why?”
“I'm taking a trip and need you to come with me.”
“Where to?”
“New Zealand.”
“Ah, the motherland. Business or pleasure.”
“Definitely pleasure, Mike.”
“Go on.”
“Mike, I find myself in need of a best man, know anyone who might fit the bill?”
It was a good job that Mike wasn't holding his cup, or it would have been on the floor. As it was, the pastry he was about to bite into landed back in the plate.
“Best man...you mean...”
“Yep, Angie's going to make an honest man of me.”
Mike looked at Jenny, smiling beside him, and gave her a 'you knew about this' look before smiling back at her, then he jumped up to give Jake a bone crushing bear hug.
“Man, oh man. I'm honoured, Jake. I can't think of anything I'd like more. When's the big day?”
“March 23.”
“Hang on...that's your birthday.”
“He doesn't want to risk forgetting the anniversary,” Jenny laughed.
“It was Angie's idea,” Jake offered in his defence.
“Man, that doesn't give us much time to gets things sorted.”
“It's all under control. My cousins have everything arranged in NZ, and Jin has all the invites ready to go. All you have to do is write a speech, look after the rings, and leave the bridesmaids alone. It's going to be a traditional Maori ceremony, mate. Think you can handle that?”
“Hey, just coach me on what I have to do and I'll be there for you.”
“Thanks, Mike.”
“No, thank you, Jake. After all we've been through lately I'm surprised that you even thought of inviting me, let alone do me the honour of being your best man. Can I bring a guest?”
Jake's face clouded for a second before he answered in the affirmative.
“Jake, don't worry. It's not going to be Susie. There just hasn't been the opportunity to let you know. What you said back when you found out about us was right. She used me to get the contract and advance her position in her firm. Not long after the deal was signed and sealed she kept making excuses not to see me, then she dumped me.”
“Oh, mate. I really am sorry. I know you had deep feelings for her. You okay?”
“Yeah, you know what? I thought I was head over heels for her, but I got over her REAL fast.”
“That's the Mike we know and love,” Jenny grinned.
“So, who you going to bring to the wedding?”
“Wait and see, my friend. Wait and see.”
“Alrighty, moving on. I want Alex and Rox to come over from Chicago. Think they can be spared?”
“Try and stop them. I'll get Jim to fly over and get them.”
“Yeah, he can fly back via London and pick up the guys from there too. We'll need to charter a bigger plane to fly across to NZ though, then we can all go together. You gonna approve the expenditure?”
“Hell, yes. It will probably end up cheaper than your new car, which I'm very impressed with by the way.”
Jake laughed, reminding Mike that his company car was more expensive than the Holden Jake had just bought, and telling him to wait and see what his other new car looks like.
The weeks flew by, and before they knew it, the big day was upon them. It was a beautiful late summer day, and they all gathered for the ceremony. It all started with the põwhiri, the traditional Maori welcoming ceremony.
Jake's cousin, Tipene took the role as the warrior standing guard at the entrance, and called out to the Pa (village) that the visitors had arrived. His other cousin, Rangi performed the wero. Once completed he stepped back and looked at Jake...waiting. Jake stepped forward and picked up the fern Rangi had placed on the ground in front of him, and the residents of the Pa performed a Karanga (song of welcome). The visiting wedding group entered, singing their own song in reply. Jake greeted his New Zealand family in the time honoured way by performing the hongi
Jake's great uncle Rawiri officiated at the traditional Maori wedding ceremony, which culminated with Jake and Angie exchanging green stone wedding rings and infinity loops.
The ceremony ended with a great feast after which the speeches began. Mike was funny and respectful to the tribal elders, and there was a long list of Jake's male relatives waiting to stand and give joy to the union. Finally it was Jake's turn. He looked at Angie before slowly getting to his feet. He let go of her hand reluctantly, and she realised that he was very nervous. He waited for the guests to stop their good humoured cheering, and cleared his throat before speaking.
“First of all I would like to thank you for allowing me to come home to share the most important day of my life with all of you. This won't take very long, but I would just like to say that I am a very fortunate man. I have found a lady who is as kind, loving and wise as she is beautiful (Jake looked down at his hands)...I don't deserve her. I dedicate all that I am to her...she is my life, and I shall spend eternity striving to prove myself worthy of her. Please raise your glasses to Mrs Angeline Mitchell . Jake turned to his angel, raised his glass of orange juice and bestowed on her the most radiant smile she had ever seen.
Wero – a challenge and approach to the visitors in a war-like way to say “we're tough and we're waiting to attack if you don't come in friendship”. The warrior then lays down something, usually a fern, on the ground in front of the visitors. If they pick it up, they come in peace – if they don't pick it up, it means war!
Hongi – traditional Maori greeting. Pressing noses and foreheads together to symbolically share the breath of the ancestors.