Troubled Waters

by Jerry Cole

  “That might be okay. But we’ll need to take a disposition before you leave, Mr. Ness. You can schedule that with our department.”

  Ness reached over and took Darren’s arm. “I might be able to be here for the trial,” he said.

  Darren looked at him.

  “I’ll explain later.”

  Moretti stood up. “So… gentlemen—ma’am. I’ll be on my way if you have no further questions.”

  “Thank you, detective,” Darren said standing and offering his hand.

  “Most welcome. Let me know if you have any further questions, and the DA’s office will contact you about the trial.”

  ***

  Loretta decided to return home soon, as Ness had only a week and a half before he was scheduled to leave, and she wanted to be sure they had some alone time. Darren’s recovery was almost complete. He still had bi-weekly physical therapy for his hand, and he would need to be monitored monthly for a while after suffering the head injury. However, no overt symptoms of PTSD had appeared, although he experienced occasional bouts of depression, and evidenced some reluctance to go out at night. But those moments were growing less frequent with Ness’ loving help.

  The day before Loretta was to leave, she treated Darren and Ness to deluxe spa treatments for the afternoon, saying she wanted the time alone to pack and make some important calls. The spa package she had ordered consisted of, first, a light lunch, followed by a relaxing soak in a private hot tub, and then a two hour massage. The afternoon would conclude with a traditional English-style tea.

  Darren was aware of the short time left before Ness would return to Europe, and he determined to enjoy every moment they had left together. “The salmon salad looks tasty,” he said, studying the menu.

  “Hmm, I think I’d like the Cobb salad with the side of clam chowder,” Ness replied.

  “That does sound good,” Darren said. He looked over at Ness and beamed. He was so proud of his dear friend and lover and felt such peace when he was with him. Darren worked diligently to keep the dark shadow of their pending separation at bay and, once again, confirmed his dedication to living in the moment.

  “What would you like to drink?” the charming, petite waitress asked.

  “Would wine be a no-no before a massage?” Darren asked.

  “Not at all. We want you to have the most luxurious experience possible, and if that includes a nice glass of wine, then, by all means, go for it.”

  “I’ll have a glass of the Prosecco,” Darren said. “And you?” he asked Ness.

  “I’ll have the same. And the Cobb salad and chowder.”

  “And I’ll have the salmon cakes and grilled vegetables.”

  “Right away,” the waitress said and left.

  “This is nice,” Darren said, as he took Ness’ hand.

  Ness nodded. But he looked, not troubled, but as if he wanted to say something.

  The waitress brought the wine. “Enjoy, gentlemen.”

  Ness took a sip of the sparkling Prosecco. “Darren, I need to tell you something.”

  Darren felt a stab in the pit of his stomach. What this time?

  “I know what we’ve talked before… about us,” he began.

  “Ness, I know. You don’t have to go over it again. I understand your position and I accept it. I’m willing to live in the moment with you.”

  “But Darren, my position’s changed.”

  Again Darren felt a stab of fear. Was this going to be the breakup speech?”

  “What then? I’m listening,” Darren said, bracing himself for a blow.

  Ness hesitated, but finally said, “I can’t tell you how deeply I was affected by the attack. And it scared me more than I can say when I saw you in that coma. I was desperately afraid I was going to lose you.”

  “But you didn’t.”

  “No, and I thank God every day that you are still alive.”

  “Me too,” Darren said, as he put his hand on top of Ness’.

  “It’s made me rethink everything—my life, my career, my love for you.”

  Darren couldn’t help himself—he had to say it first. “You want us to break up.”

  Ness looked stunned. “What? No. What would make you think that?”

  “I thought you were leading up to telling me you couldn’t take it anymore—that you wanted us to split.”

  Ness laughed. “Oh, Darren, you are absolutely, adorably crazy. That’s not what I wanted to say at all. Quite the opposite. I want to be with you as much as possible. I want to change my career—not you.”

  Darren was shocked. “You do? But your career is your first priority.”

  “Not anymore. You are.”

  “Ness…”

  The waitress brought their lunch. An awkward silence fell over them as she served the meals. When she was gone, Ness and Darren sat staring at each other, not touching the food.

  “Then what does this mean?” Darren asked.

  “It means I want to be here with you. I want to give up my crazy, insane life and be with you.”

  It took Darren a moment to integrate that. “Ness, my beloved, I can’t tell you how happy that makes me, but I don’t think that’s entirely right.”

  “Why?”

  “Because your music is your life as well. I couldn’t accept you giving up everything for me… for us. We’ve got to think about this. We’ve got to find a way that we can be together, and you can still have your music.”

  “But how? I cannot go on as I have.”

  “Think about it. There must be a way to create a career that’s less stressful. Maybe you could concentrate on just writing songs. Or maybe you could perform in smaller, selected venues here in New York. You could still record, but more modestly. No need to travel as often, but still have an outlet. I’m sure I can help you find a local manager and a recording company. I have lots of contacts—and lots of money.”

  “And remember, I do too. I’m not some newbie anymore.”

  “Oh, Ness… I’m sure we can find a way.

  “Yes.”

  “Then what’s next? Any ideas?” Darren asked.

  “I still need to go back for a while. I need to work things out with Philippe. I owe him so much, and I’d like him to still be involved, somehow if we can find a way that works for all of us.”

  “Then you must go. Do you want me to come too?”

  “Not yet. I need to work this out myself for now. But what you can do is begin exploring options here. And I was thinking maybe you could join me later for Kori’s wedding. How does that sound?”

  “You can count on it.”

  That afternoon Darren had the best, most relaxing, and peaceful massage he’d ever had, and every care and worry just melted away.

  Chapter Twenty

  There was a strange tension in the air as Ness and Darren entered the penthouse after their afternoon at the spa. It was quiet, but also strange. There were too many lights on and amazing arrays of wonderful aromas coming from the kitchen.

  “Mom?” Darren called out. “Are you here? What’s going on?”

  They took off their coats, hung them up and wandered from the entry hall toward the living room.

  Suddenly the whole penthouse erupted with shouts of “Surprise!”

  Darren and Ness were stunned. Loretta stood in front of her guests. Tyler ran forward and hugged his Dad. Mai stood with Ned, smiling. Reggie waved, and Melissa and Brandy stood just behind Loretta holding glasses of wine.

  “What is all this about?” Darren asked, taken aback

  Loretta laughed. “Well, it’s sort of a ‘glad you’re well’ party—a ‘housewarming’ party and an ‘I’m going home’ party all rolled into one. But mostly it’s just an excuse to eat, drink, and be merry with your friends.”

  “Sounds good to me. How nice to see you all. Welcome.”

  Tyler looked up at Darren and pulled at his shirt. “Hey, Dad, I’m so glad you’re better. You really scared me.”

  “I scared me too, sport.
”

  “Dad, guess what?”

  “What?”

  “They’re advancing me a grade at school. The way things are going I will graduate in time to go to MIT at fourteen.”

  “Never doubted it. And when do classes start?”

  “In two days. Mom and Ned are driving me there tomorrow.”

  Reggie was chatting with Ness. Darren excused himself from Tyler and went over.

  “Reggie, how exquisite that you could make it.”

  Reggie put his hand on Darren’s arm. “I was devastated to hear of the attack, but I couldn’t come down then. Classes, you know.”

  “I do, and you’re excused.”

  “And your darling boy here tells me all about his grand success with the tour, and what’s this he says about moving to New York? Do I hear wedding bells?”

  “Unlikely. Never been a big fan of marriage.”

  “We haven’t really discussed that yet,” Ness interrupted.

  “And how’s Diane?” Darren asked.

  “Increasingly frumpy, but charming in her own way.”

  “Give her my love.”

  Reggie looked sadly at Darren as he said. “We all miss you terribly at the college.”

  “I know. And I miss you guys, but I’m happy to be involved with my new project. We’ve had our ups and downs, but we’re learning and moving forward.”

  “Good for you.”

  Loretta announced, “Dinner’s ready. In the kitchen, buffet style—so help yourselves.”

  Melissa came by while headed to the kitchen with Brandy. She patted Darren on the arm. “How you doing? Worried about you.”

  “Better every day.” He turned to Ness, “And even better now that he’s moving here.”

  “Really? That’s great news. Will he be working with us?”

  “Not directly,” Ness said. “But I would be open to doing a concert as a fundraiser sometime in the future.”

  Darren beamed. “That’s a splendid idea. It would help us and advance your new career in the U.S.”

  Loretta came out of the kitchen. “Did you enjoy your massage?”

  “Oh, Mom, it was great, and I’ve got some great news.”

  “Always love that. You’re going to finish assembling my rocker?” she asked beaming.

  “Don’t tell me it’s still in the middle of the library?” Darren scolded.

  “I’m ashamed to say it is.”

  “I’ll do it,” Ness offered.

  Loretta looked at him with surprise. “I thought you were leaving soon for Europe.”

  “Change of plans,” Darren said. He leaned in and whispered to her.

  She stood back and looked at him wide-eyed. “Oh, Darren, that’s splendid news. I’m so happy for you both. Now, this is a reason to celebrate.”

  ***

  Darren and Ness were in the shower, the hot water pouring over them. Darren stood behind Ness holding him tightly in his arms. They had been together nearly a month now, and this was the afternoon Ness was leaving to return to Europe. Darren was having a difficult time letting him go.

  Yes, they’d come to a new understanding of their relationship, but that didn’t make this parting any easier.

  In the past week, Ness had met with several musical managers and promoters, looking for the right fit for what he wanted to do next. Silvester Lockhart’s approached had appealed to him the most. Silvester suggested a regular gig at one of the premiere clubs in mid-town Manhattan. It attracted a number of folks from the music industry, and during each gig, musicians would come up on stage to perform a number or two with the musician being featured that evening. It would be a splendid way for Ness to meet the crème de la crème of the up and coming, and even established, featured, and session musicians.

  Silvester also had contacts with many recording studios and music labels, as well as being in a position to publish all of Ness’ original work. As soon as Ness completed what he needed to do in Europe, he was ready to sign with Silvester.

  “Darren, I’m getting all wrinkled. I think it’s time to get out of the shower, don’t you?”

  Darren laughed. “You’re probably right. It’s just…”

  Ness turned to him. “I know. But it won’t be long, I promise. I’ll be back before you even realize I’ve gone.”

  “I doubt that,” Darren said, toweling off Ness’ back. “Are you all packed?”

  “Just about, but I’m not taking that much.”

  “I was thinking we should turn the corner bedroom into an office for you. You’re going to need your own space for work and practice. Maybe even make it into a simple studio. What do you think?”

  “Great idea. But let’s just go one day at a time. You still aren’t totally in the moment, are you?”

  Darren laughed as he started dressing. “You sure got me pegged.”

  “I’ve got my own issues,” Ness said, as he turned to Darren and put his hands on his shoulders. “Would you be horribly upset if I asked you not to come with me to the airport?”

  Darren was surprised. “Really? Why?”

  “I want our good-bye to be here. You get too emotional in public. And I look like I’ve just announced the end of the world.”

  “But you are my world.”

  “I know. But it’s not the end—it’s the beginning, so lighten up, okay?”

  Darren laughed and said, “I am a basket case, aren’t I?”

  “Not this time.”

  When it was time to leave, Darren accompanied Ness to the sidewalk in front of their building where he’d ordered a car to take Ness to the airport.

  “Now, no scenes. We’re sort of in public,” Ness instructed.

  “No scenes, but can I kiss you good-bye, at least?”

  “A manly kiss,” Ness insisted.

  Darren shook his head. “You are an utter tyrant.”

  Ness took Darren by the shoulders. “Good-bye, my man. We’ll be meeting real soon. And find a lovely wedding present for my sister.”

  “Something from Tiffany’s?” Darren asked.

  “Nah, something much more personal. Something that expresses you.”

  “I’ll do my best, but I may need my mother’s help.”

  Ness reached over and passionately hugged Darren. He whispered. “Take care, my dear. I will miss you, and know I love you.”

  “And me you.”

  Darren stood back, determined to be the man Ness wanted him to be. He shut the door after Ness was inside. Ness looked out the passenger window and waved as the car pulled away from the curb.

  ***

  Athens was almost exactly as Darren had remembered it. The traffic, the crazy drivers, the beauty of the Parthenon, the simple rustic charms of the pláka were all the same. He was restless and too excited. It was almost time to meet Ness. But knowing how things went in Athens, he didn’t expect him to be on time.

  They’d arranged to meet at the bar across from the B&B where they’d had their first drink together. And, as he’d expected, Darren was there first. They had the Crete plane to catch just after seven, so Darren knew Ness couldn’t afford to be too late.

  Darren was sipping anouzo when Ness, with his gigantic smile, appeared, carrying his bags toward the bar. Darren got up from his chair and opened his arms.

  “My dear boy,” he said taking Ness and holding him closely.

  “Darren…”

  “What would you like to drink?” Darren asked as he let go of Ness.

  “A beer.”

  They sat down and Ness ordered from the waiter.

  “How did it all go with Philippe?”

  “Not all bad. He was disappointed at my decision, of course, but he understands. A lot of big opportunities will go away, but he’s become so successful with his management of me that he’s got more new prospective new clients than he can handle. And he’s such a hustler, he’ll do quite well even without me.”

  “And you’re still okay with all of this change?”

  “I am.” Ness sc
ooted closer to the table. “Anything new in your world?”

  “We’re getting ready for the next rotation of the water teams. But glad I’ll not be going this time.”

  “What are you going to do with yourself—besides making love to me, of course?” He chuckled.

  “I’m still involved with the company, but more administratively now. And I’m thinking to do some more writing.”

  “Oh? What you got in mind?”

  “A novel about a fabulously successful gay megastar.”

  “Hmm. You gotta get my permission first.”

  “Oh? And who says it’s about you?” Darren teased.

  “You got another megastar on the side?” Ness teased back.

  “Hey, I’ve got your room all set up at the Penthouse. But you can arrange it anyway you like when we get back.”

  “I’ve been chatting with Silvester, and he’s got some really great things lined up. Don’t imagine I’ll have much to worry about,” Ness added.

  “Are you excited about the wedding?” Darren asked.

  “I’m more excited about seeing all the family. I’m happy for Kori, of course, but mostly I just want us to be with them.”

  “And it won’t be a problem that I’m there?”

  “Are you kidding? They love that you’ll be there.” Ness looked around the table. “You don’t have a bag?” he asked.

  “I checked it at the airport.” Darren looked at his watch. “And we should get going soon. And I remember—the metro, right?”

  “Exactly.”

  “Oh shit, I forgot all about making room reservations in Crete.”

  “I did it,” Ness reassured Darren.

  “The same place?”

  “And the same room.”

  “Then let’s go,” Darren said, rising from the table and grabbing one Ness’ bags.

  ***

  “Kori, you look beautiful,” Ness said as he stood back and admired his sister in her wedding dress.

  “Well, thank you, dear bother. I’m so happy you and Darren could make it.”

  “Wouldn’t miss it, you know that.”

  Tanis and Rhea were fussing with Kori’s hair. “Hold still,” Tanis demanded.

  “Forget the flowers, just put on the veil,” Kori said. She was beginning to fidget.