Why Lorie? Part II

Chapter 15: Free at Last!

Nicolae and Drogo were on their way back from Boston, where they had dropped Viktor off earlier that day. Their father was sailing from Boston Harbor to Hamburg, and then taking a train to Vienna. Before leaving, Viktor addressed both of his sons:

"Make sure you supervise the construction workers closely. Don't let them waste any time. I want that house finished by the end of August."

"Why so specific a deadline?" Drogo raised his eyebrows.

"Because, I plan to bring Josette and Lorie for a visit in late summer," Viktor answered. He narrowed his eyes, making a quick mental calculation. "It's only mid-February now... that should give you plenty of time to have the place ready."

Nicolae and Drogo exchanged an uncomfortable glance. They didn't quite agree with their father's estimate.

"And if it isn't quite finished by then?" Nicolae asked warily.

Viktor sighed. "Make sure it is."

"We'll do our best, but we can't promise anything... after all, it isn't exactly up to us," Nicolae replied softly.

"I'm counting on you boys," Viktor placed a hand on his sons' shoulders, gazing deeply into their eyes. "If necessary, threaten to withhold pay. That will get the men moving quickly."

Viktor then turned to Drogo:

"Remember! This is your last chance to redeem yourself. If I hear anything about you causing any trouble at all...," he didn't finish his sentence, but the tone of his voice and the glare in his eyes were enough to clearly get his point across.

Drogo gulped. "I'll behave. I promise," he tried his best to look and sound sincere.

Viktor scrutinized him briefly through narrowed eyes. But he must've decided Drogo's promise was good enough, as he turned his attention to Nicolae:

"If you have any problems at the bank, send me a telegram. I know we've already talked about it, but, just to be sure, I left you detailed written instructions at home, inside the office desk drawer. I also spoke at great length with John Mathers, the bank manager. He knows what to do to get you acquainted with everything."

"Yes, father," Nicolae replied meekly. "I think I've got it."

"And don't let him out of your sight," Viktor spoke to Nicolae while tilting his head toward Drogo. "I realize I'm leaving you with a lot of responsibilities, but I trust you, Nicolae. If anyone can do it all... it's you."

"Thank you father," Nicolae said. "I won't let you down."

"Well... I suppose that's it for now," Viktor gazed toward the harbor where his ship was anchored. "Take care of each other and stay out of trouble. I will wire you when I get to Vienna."

"Please send Josette and Lorie our love," Nicolae said. "And tell Peter he can always change his mind and come live with us."

Drogo smirked at his brother's comments. "Oh, and perhaps send us a couple of invitations to your wedding," he added cheekily. "When is it again?"

Viktor sneered. "That's up to Josette. As far as the invitations go... we shall see."

And with that, Viktor took his leave of Drogo and Nicolae, and walked toward the awaiting ship, carrying a suitcase in each hand.

His sons watched his gradually waning figure until Viktor completely disappeared from their sight. As soon as that happened, Drogo clapped Nicolae on the shoulder and beamed at him from ear to ear.

"I can't believe it! He actually left!" Drogo exclaimed happily.

"Maybe we should wait for his ship to sail away... just to be sure," Nicolae muttered under his breath.