fathers’ financial situation is unclear but whatever it is, it appears you are not receiving support from him and you certainly have a career to consider. In my opinion there will be limited opportunities for white advancement in the impending new South Africa. We need to look to personal and financial security for our family. I need not remind you how confidential this discussion is. The time has come to uproot ourselves and immediately set in motion a move to the United Kingdom.”
I was dumbfounded. What a blessing in disguise. The Jewish survival instinct had prevailed and definitely to my advantage. No need for half cocked stories of quitting my job and leaving the country. A good reason for doing so had been handed to me on a plate. My delight quickly turned to anxiety. Rachel was talking.
“But Daddy, I am so happy here. This is where all my real friends are and besides, Charlie does not have to concern himself about keeping money safe. His already is!” Oh you stupid girl if only you would recognise sound advice when given was my silent reaction.
“Freddie, this African business scenario has been a concern of mine for some time. In fact plans have been in the making for months and all that is required is a final decision and taking action without further delay. Rachel, my love, this is what I was going to discuss with your father this evening coupled with the intention of us talking once we got home tonight. There is a situation in London which requires me to fly there as soon as possible. I will talk to Hetherington first thing in the morning asking for urgent leave of absence.”
I turned to Rachel and told her she had no choice in the matter. The decision was taken. She was furious.
It was a turbulent and sleepless night. The severity of the situation engulfed my entire being, a smothering anxiety throttled my mental system and controlled my innermost thought process. Finally as dawn broke a switch within me clicked. I was released from the throbbing negativity and a light directing me forward swamped me. I dressed and left the house, my destination the gym. It was the right place to be. My exercise programme took control and once completed, a fresh tingling shower left me revitalised, ready to face a day of divergent decisions and positive actions.
I was about to leave when Jeremy walked in. He looked at me and said.“ Time for coffee?”
“Of course,” and we sat down in his office, machine coffee in hand.
“Charlie, you look dreadful. Let me help.”
I smiled. “ Thanks old chap, not exactly what I need to hear but I can believe it. Yes, it is going to be a day of dramatic decisions with life changing consequences.”
“Anything you want to share?”
“I am in a hell of a situation. Not sure confiding in anyone is an option at the moment.”
“We go back a long way and talking might help. Phone me if you change your mind.”
“Will do,” I said and got up and left. I sat in my car outside the gym for a good ten minutes. It was patently obvious talking to someone was a necessity for peace of mind, someone not in my work and social environment. Jeremy was my man. I re-entered the gym.
“Jeremy, I need your advice. Can you spare a few minutes?”
“Definitely.”
The next hour was spent outlining my political predicament and family problems.
“Hell , this is Scotland Yard stuff! You are underestimating the danger surrounding you. There is no way you can face this alone. Forgive me for saying this but you cannot involve your wife and it is questionable her family will be of much help. If I can assist in any way, please name it and you will have my utmost support. Just say the word, but you have to get out of the country and view the situation objectively. I am myself going through a rough time. Claustrophobia is a constant problem. The routine of the gym is driving me insane. Let me come with you and help. I also need to get away and you will be doing me a favour. My Manager can handle the gym. What do you say?”
“This is major. Do you understand that?”
“Of course I do.”
“Very well, your offer is appreciated and accepted. I cannot thank you enough. It means so much to me. Thank you again. Leave the arrangements to me and we can speak later.”
“Destination?” he asked.
“London.”
I left, my brain exploding with details, things to do and more importantly what I was going to tell my wife.
Everything fell into place. Hetherington never asked why I was off to London so urgently and Rachel accepted my going without much reaction. The one condition set by me was that she and Sophie go to her parents for the duration of my absence which met with no complaints. She actually sounded disinterested. I promised to give her my full itinerary from London.
Конец ознакомительного фрагмента.
Текст предоставлен ООО «ЛитРес».
Прочитайте эту книгу целиком, купив полную легальную версию на ЛитРес.
Безопасно оплатить книгу можно банковской картой Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, со счета мобильного телефона, с платежного терминала, в салоне МТС или Связной, через PayPal, WebMoney, Яндекс.Деньги, QIWI Кошелек, бонусными картами или другим удобным Вам способом.
