Odds of Love: Past Wounds

Episode 27

Richard and Nigel were in bed and about ready to fall asleep in each other arms after hours of lovemaking all through the condo when Richard's cell phone rang. They looked at each other with a small amount of alarm. Calls at eleven thirty at night usually were not offering up good news. Nigel thought it was the real estate agent saying the sellers were backing out the deal they had made earlier for the restaurant space.  Richard was afraid it was his brother or father until he saw the name on his phone.

" Hello," Richard said as he sat up in bed, his words lined with tension. It's my son , he mouthed to Nigel who also sat up in bed and reached out for his hand.  " Is everything ok, Lewis? What time is it there? "

" Four thirty, Dad. I get up early. I usually work on my lessons. Wouldn't want you waste your money if I flunk out," said his twelve year old son.  There was a long pause and Richard was growing concerned that they had gotten disconnected when the boy spoke again.

" Look ,  Dad , Niles told me about your text. He showed it to me actually. I don't.... understand why you're like this now. I mean you always liked women before. You just didn't like mom is all. I don't like her sometimes so maybe I understand. But. But. Dad , it's ok. With me anyway. I love you. I know you work a lot but it's ok. Most of the fathers of my school mates work a lot. Some of their mothers too. Anyway. I just wanted you to know it's ok. I like Nigel. I mean I don't know him but he sounded nice if I ever called the office. More than Mom's husband. "

Richard closed his eyes. Nigel squeezed his hand. " Son. Thank you. You don't know how much..... Thank you. I love you. Are you ok ? "

Lewis said softly," Niles said you want us to go to Barrington Academy there. He won't go. He says.... he says he hates..... Anyway he won't go but I... It might not be completely bad for me. " Nigel could hear a little of the conversation and his eyes met Richard's when Richard reopened his. " I might be interested. But I don't want to live with mom and Him. He hates me. Not now but.... I won't get in the way with you and Nigel I promise. "

Richard had at this point switched on the speaker on his phone. Lewis continued," I f you and Nigel don't want it it's ok. But next term can I go to Barrington and.... maybe live with you? It's ok if you don't want me. "

Richard looked with questioning eyes at Nigel and Nigel nodded without hesitation. Richard smiled at him.

" Son , you are always welcome at my and Nigel's home. Always. There's a reason why I have four bedrooms. "

Lewis paused as he paced outside in the commons area. He ran his hand through his short cut blond hair, his square pallid face looking pensive. " It's ok with Nigel? Harry never wants me home with him and mom even on holidays. I can stay here if it's a problem."

Before Richard could respond Nigel did as he leaned closer to the phone. " Don't be ridiculous, Lewis. This is Nigel by the way, mate. You are always welcome here. This is your home. You are Richard's son. I'll be your stepfather but I hope you shall see me as a friend too. "

Lewis was silent for a long time. Then he said quietly," Thanks. Anyway, Dad, I'm going to go now. I'll talk to you later. " Before he hung up he said quickly," I'm glad you didn't die. I would have missed you. And.... Not just the money and gifts. "