Without You I Have Nothing Ch. 15

Peter didn't have to tell Jennifer the drive from the hospital to his apartment tired him. She watched him creep from the car to the elevator holding his body stiffly, fighting the pain in his chest.

In the third bedroom, Jennifer dragged the twin beds together.

"A shower will make you feel better. Then, get into bed," she reassured him.

Gently, she tugged him to the bathroom. "Do you need help?"

Peter was too tired and too sore to make a comment. After showering, he studied his face in the bathroom mirror. He saw the scar running from his left eye past the corner of his mouth. It was an ugly, red, barely healed, crescent moon and made shaving difficult. He didn't like the scar but he could do nothing about it.

He snarled at the gaunt, battered face staring back from the mirror.

"What's the matter?" Without bothering to knock, Jennifer rushed in looking anxious.

"This scar looks as though I've been in a duel. I must get it removed."

"You'll do nothing of the kind. That's my scar." Standing on tiptoe Jennifer stretched up to kiss it lightly. "That's mine. You got that believing you were rescuing me. It stays."

She put Peter to bed.

That night Jennifer appeared in a pair of her own pajamas and, declining his offer to share his bed, she slipped into the other bed and reached across to hold his hand.

"A girl wouldn't be safe in your bed," she smiled knowingly.

During the following days, Peter enjoyed lying back in bed having Jennifer fuss over him. When he felt comfortable sitting, they sat together on the balcony holding hands and watching the comings and goings on the harbor.

All the while, she remained so particular - demanding he eat a little, slowly and often - yet somehow she always knew when he was drowsy and she'd lie beside him until he slept. When he awoke, she was ready with something to tempt his appetite. Peter knew he was getting stronger when he was no longer hungry for anything but her.

Then one morning as he lay in bed, Jennifer, definitely the boss, brought him back to the present.

"Make yourself decent, you have visitors."

Although it was very early morning, Peter believed he must have been dozing, as he hadn't heard anyone arrive.

"Come on. Sit up!" As Jennifer fluffed the pillows behind his head, she didn't struggle as Peter grabbed her and rolled her over on the bed with him.

"That's unfair!" She smiled up at Peter. "Let me up. I might hurt your ribs."

"By the look in his eyes you'd better break the rest of his ribs and," Bob was chuckling, "both his arms."

As Jennifer struggled to untangle herself from Peter's arms Bob strolled across to the bed, closely followed by Ted.

Jennifer sat up and pushed her hair back from her face.

"I'll get us all a drink."

"Make mine a beer." Ted was quick to place his order.

"You'll have an ice cold fruit juice and like it." Jennifer called back from the kitchen. She was relaxed and comfortable, even with Peter's two friends.

"Well, well." Ted examined Peter's scar. "You don't do things by halves do you? Missing for the week, then a phone call from Joe. We drove to the hospital where the Sister in charge threw us out. She told us next-of-kin only.

"Of course, we were as welcome as pigs in a synagogue so all we could do was go home and wait. Next, we get a phone call from your girl here and one from Susie to say you're home."

Ted patted Jennifer as she handed him his drink then sat on the bed close to Peter.

Noticing Ted's attentions did not offend her, Peter caught her quick smile as if to say, 'Men! They can't keep their hands to themselves. Don't worry, I'm yours and they know it.'

"Don't know what Jennifer's done to you." Bob pointedly stared at the twin beds pulled close together. "Must be magic. Must try some myself."

"Doctor's orders, Bob." Peter reached out to tug Jennifer closer. "My medicine is for me only."

"When are you going back to work?" Good old Ted, the bean counter, was always thinking about profits but Peter was not interested in returning to toil back at the workshop just yet.

"He's returning to work when I say so!" Jennifer interjected firmly. "Not a minute before. It certainly won't be earlier than the New Year."

"But that's over three months away and the work is pouring in." Ted's words died, cut short by the ferocious glare that flashed across Jennifer's face.

"Peter's coming home with me." It was obvious Jennifer wouldn't argue. "Mum will make certain he's fit, rested and well fed before he returns to work."

"Well, Peter, explain what happened." Ted was anxious to change the topic.

"All I know is that I tried to rescue a woman from a burning car. I was knocked unconscious and woke with my fingers in Jennifer's hair."

Jennifer began her story.

"Oh yes, I got a phone call, but I don't know how she got my number." As Jennifer continued, Bob just shrugged innocently. "She talked for such a long time. When I hung up, she even rang back."

"Who for heaven's sake? Who?" Ted was still uncertain.

Grinning, Jennifer patted Peter's hand.

"My best friend and Peter's adopted mother, Susie Williams. She ordered me to Peter's bedside as he was on life support. I thought it was all a conspiracy until I saw him lying there so still and almost lifeless."

Jennifer smiled broadly. Grinning at Peter she continued, "You were supposed to be in a coma and almost on the point of dying. What rot! You fooled everyone - you were only waiting."

"How did you reach that conclusion?" Suddenly Bob was interested.

"Well, the moment my lips touched his," Jennifer reddened from her hair to her finger nails, "this beast flicked his tongue across my lips." She wasn't used to putting such ideas into a conversation.

"Oh my God." Ted rolled his eyes in mock modesty and roared with laughter. "It's a wonder the filthy beast didn't try to drag you into his hospital bed. You know he's an insatiable sex maniac."

"To be truthful, I think that was his intention but he just slept. I ended up falling asleep with my head on the bed and the nurse had to pry his fingers out of my hair."

"I wasn't going to let her go." Peter grinned at his friends.

"Don't blame you. You're a lucky man." Bob had lost that 'win some, lose some' attitude. He sounded almost wistful, as though he recognized their deep feelings for each another.

Listening to the banter between his friends, Peter realized how much he depended on each one. He was enjoying his rest and recuperation.

Suddenly the realization that he may not be at work for the next three months forced him to comprehend that he had to make some arrangements with Ted. He knew he could no longer hide behind the façade of being almost an Alice in Wonderland when it came to business. If he continued his pretence of being weak and unable to gauge people's motives he would gain nothing and instead, stood to lose a lot. From the depths of his mind came the acceptance that he could no longer conceal his competence.

The time had arrived to reveal he was stronger in business acumen than his friends suspected. He had to abandon that veneer he had hidden behind.

Grinning at the thought of how he would shock Ted, he looked at his friends.

"Now, everyone out except Ted! I have some business to discuss with him." Peter was suddenly serious.

As Ted sat on the edge of the bed and the door closed, leaving them alone, the two men discussed the forthcoming bonuses to be paid. Ted was noticeably surprised at the size of the bonuses, especially the generous bonus for Joe.

He was even more astounded when told to pay five thousand dollars to both Bill and Susie as something special in the way of a Christmas present to them both, especially as they would soon be parents.

To alleviate Ted's concern, systematically and patiently Peter took him through the full implications of his wealth and his business empire. By the time Peter had completed his explanation, Ted was astounded.

"But I thought you are - "

Quickly Peter interrupted, "You thought what I wanted you to think. However, this little fracas has made me realize I have to allow you into my business affairs. I can no longer put out a smokescreen of weakness and lack of education. You look shocked but there are more revelations to come. Alongside the workshop is the BMW Dealership, which I own."

Ignoring Ted's reaction, Peter continued blithely.

"I am the major shareholder in your company and, by some strange co-incidence the major shareholder in the insurance company employing Jennifer.

"In fact I am a billionaire. However, all this news is confidential. I'm sure I can trust your integrity."

Ted could only stare at Peter and nod.

"Now, thanks to your suggestion, I also own the motel down the road. Between the motel and the BMW Dealership is a Lexus dealership, which hasn't been doing too well. I had heard the owner wants out, so buy it at the lowest price possible. I want to own all the businesses facing the main road because I have plans - big plans."

Still in shock, Ted could only wipe his glasses as he stared at Peter.

"As you'll be paying cash, the price will be especially low. I will be arranging to pay two hundred million into the shop account and you will have authority to spend."

Peter couldn't help teasing Ted, who had turned white at the huge amount Peter blithely mentioned as though it was just coins in a piggy bank. He continued, "Just give me your passport and don't try to flee the country."

Ted could only grin and gulp helplessly.

"Now, your thoughts. Would Bob be better at managing the Lexus dealership or the motel?"

He could no longer contain himself and chortled at the amazed look on Ted's face.

Unable to curb his curiosity any further, Ted demanded to know the origin of all this money.

"Where the money comes from is no-one's business but mine. It's legal and all taxes are paid. It's international money and the overseers are extremely tough and brutal. They would make Shylock and his demand for a pound of flesh look like an atheist at a Sunday School Picnic, so keep your nose clean!"

"Which should Bob manage?" He repeated the question to Ted.

After careful consideration Ted could only stammer, "The Lexus dealership. You couldn't let Bob anywhere near the motel. He would believe it was a carte blanche to all the bedrooms!"

"Right," Peter ignored the comment about Bob's wild escapades.

"Immediately start head-hunting Bob and then approach Susie about managing the Motel and don't take 'No!' for an answer. They are my friends and this affair has made me realize how much I depend on all of you.

"Inform Susie she is to keep the Italian chef as manager of the motel restaurant at an increased wage. Tell her that Joe and Maria will be constant guests.

"Now let's look at your needs, my friend. When you return to work, you will find your new office on the top floor. Your position will be CEO."

Peter could only grin as Ted stuttered and stammered, unable to make any sensible sounds even when Peter added, "You will never be poor on your new salary."

"By the way... in your spare time..." Peter couldn't restrain the tease as his eyes sparkled in merriment.

Ted, wondering what else was coming, could only gasp in amazement.

"Purchase the houses at the rear of all the businesses facing the main road so I own the whole block." Peter continued.

"Offer a fair price (market value plus twenty five percent). Once that's done you are to organize the construction of a child-minding center and a Pre-School. Allow plenty of room for parking. All are to have first class amenities and not a penny is to be spared."

Ted could only nod in agreement.

Waiting for questions, Peter stared at Ted.

None came. Ted was in a state of shock.

Eventually their discussion finished and they finalized the arrangements. A full two hours had passed where they both got down to the fine details and Ted had somewhat recovered his equilibrium.

Peter called Jennifer and Bob to rejoin them. They returned to the bedroom with a glass of wine in one hand and a piece of cheese on a cracker in the other, laughing and joking about the fact that Ted and Peter had been in the bedroom for two hours with the door closed.

"Did you two have fun?" Bob passed a cheeky comment.

Lying back on his pillows, Peter tried to look very sick as he reached for Jennifer.

"I need some more medication, Nurse."

Waggling a finger at him, Jennifer leapt away.

"Oh, no you don't. You caught me once - you can't catch me again. You're not going to fool me that way."

Pushing the others out of the room she added, "Peter's getting up now. We're flying to Melbourne this afternoon and he's spending Christmas with my family." She grinned at their surprise.

Ted and Bob didn't remonstrate. With a wave, they walked to the door. There were no cheeky comments this time.

Watching from the bed, Peter looked surprised at the warmth of their feelings as they hugged Jennifer and kissed her on the cheek while she saw them out the door. Obviously, they were pleased with the latest developments.

Alone at last with Jennifer, Peter tried to entice her to cuddle him.

"Now stop that, you're supposed to be convalescing - not behaving like some sex crazed ape. Get into that bathroom. Shower, shave and do your best to make yourself look respectable. You're dining with my family tonight."

Jennifer was still the nurse.

In the bathroom, Peter found it difficult to look in the mirror. That scar! He'd never considered he was handsome but now, meeting her parents, he knew he'd find it difficult to look his best. Still, he'd make an effort just for Jennifer.

"Hurry up, I want to shower too." Jennifer beat on the door.

"We could save water. Come on," Peter chuckled.

"No way! We'd never get to Melbourne. Besides," her giggle was clear even through the bathroom door, "I'd wear you out before I'd paid you off."

It seemed only a few minutes had passed when they were on the plane.

On the flight, Peter had no time to worry about the forthcoming meeting as Jennifer flirted outrageously with him. Fluttering her eyelids, touching and sneaking quick kisses on his cheek, Jennifer was obviously demanding his attention, not allowing him to think of her parents and the quickly approaching meeting.

Eventually, arm in arm and so totally involved in each other as to be blissfully unaware of the world around them, they disembarked. They waited hand in hand for their luggage before making their way out of the terminal.

As the sliding doors opened and they found themselves outside in the glare of the afternoon sunlight, Peter felt a strong hand grip his arm and heard a warm chuckle next to him.

"Unhand that girl, young fellow. That's my daughter."

Shrieking, "Dad!" Jennifer threw her arms around her father's neck while Peter stood watching silently. Suddenly he was shy, a trait he thought he had conquered long ago.

"Steady on, steady on." Jennifer's father pretended to push her away.

"So this is the young man who was shot in an attempted truck hijack and who rips cars apart with his bare hands trying to rescue my phantom daughter. This young man caused all the worry! My word, he is a handsome fellow."

Jennifer took Peter's hand and quietly introduced him.

"Dad, this is Peter."

Peter didn't know what to say.

"Cat got your tongue, eh lad?" Jennifer's father was kind. "Or are you the strong, silent type?"

His smiling, steely-grey eyes made Peter feel welcome and his features were weather worn from a lifetime of toil in the sun, but there was also a soft air of kindness about him. One calloused hand swept his hat from his head, wiping his tousled brown locks from his eyes while the other shook Peter's hand in a grip that made Peter wince.

"Call me Dad or Eric, whichever you like. I don't mind."

Trundling the luggage cart before him, he led the way to a truck labeled 'Blake Pastoral Company'.

"Dad, you brought the truck! Whatever will Peter think?" Jennifer showed her embarrassment.

Smiling Eric turned to Peter. "I brought the truck as it takes three across the seat and I need all the space in the back for Jennifer's luggage.

"No point in bringing a car. Knowing Jennifer's actions over the past few months, I didn't think she would let go of you to allow you to sit in the front of a car with me!

"Dinner will be ready when we get home." Then he began to chuckle. "Your mother will be jealous, Jennifer. Peter is so handsome."

With the city behind them, Eric drove off the bitumen highway onto gravel roads, leaving billowing clouds of dust behind.

The drive was long but certainly not boring. Peter had forgotten the pain in his ribs as Jennifer and her father drew him into their incessant chatter and laughter, doing everything possible to make him feel part of the conversation.

Peter took notice of his surroundings. He noted that they had passed a pine forest. Next, he noted that a white post and rail fence had started. Obviously, it was for decoration and standing back from it was an electric fence. It seemed to stretch endlessly over the hill and he was about to comment when at last they turned off the road and carefully crossed a cattle grid - the bars of steel on the road between the fences so vehicles could cross but not animals, eliminating the need for a gate.

Flanking the grid were two enormous stone walls and carved into the sandstone walls was the sign, Deep Springs. The Home of Blake Pastoral.

"Welcome to Deep Springs, Peter," were Eric's kind words. Then he added, "I had to build these grids everywhere. When Jennifer and Andrew were small they always left the gates open and I had to spend hours every day rounding up the sheep and cattle and returning them to the correct paddocks."

"Dad, you still tease." Jennifer's eyes were full of love for her father.

The road was not two wheel tracks in the clay but a well-formed and graded road. Arrow straight it led to the horizon. Two lines of huge paperbarks bordered it with a second border of red bottlebrushes gaily showing the way. Someone had been busy mowing the grass between the trees.

"You can see your Mum has had some of the men busy on the mowers, Jennifer. She is out to impress your handsome young man."

Ignoring Jennifer, Eric proudly pointed out the various landmarks of his property until they topped a steep hill and Peter could see, far below in the valley, a colonial mansion. Further in the distance were buildings that he took to be shearing sheds, shearers' quarters, workers' quarters, machinery sheds and silos.

Running through the center of the valley was a creek bordered by stands of she-oaks, peppercorns and weeping willows. Dogs were barking a joyous welcome in the distance and two came bounding up the road, howling their delight at being the first to greet them.

Eric ruffled Jennifer's hair. "You're almost as beautiful as your mother but I dare say you'll improve."

He drove up a curved red graveled driveway through well tended, well loved gardens and lawns before stopping at the marble steps leading to the grand, old, double-storied stone homestead with its slate roof and wide verandahs. The building shrieked of elegance and money.

"Come on, young fellow. Get the worst over quickly. Don't worry about Elizabeth." Eric leaned across Jennifer to grin at Peter. "She's a bit bossy. Worse than a mother hen with her chickens, so expect her to protect this little chick."

He patted Jennifer on the knee. "Leave the bags. Come on, or I'll get the blame for keeping you late."

As they clambered down from the truck, the huge, heavily carved oak front doors of the mansion suddenly burst open.

Jennifer's mother flew down the flight of wide white marble steps to greet them. At the bottom, she stopped and she stood quietly, smoothing her frock and patting her hair into place as Jennifer led Peter by the hand.