End Chapter 11

     Now this is what transpired in Norman's absence. Xavier was disgusted by Sean's behavior both towards his sister as well as Norman, so Xavier walked over to Imogene, Sean's seventeen year old little sister and said to the young girl "Well now it would appear I have not received a New Years kiss from you." though this girl was a bit over weight, not really attractive, nor was she intelligent Xavier wanted to get back at Sean so Xavier grabbed Imogene by her waist, pulling her close to his body Xavier planted a nice, wet, juicy kiss in the French manner upon her, and the young, plain girl melted in Xavier's nice, strong arms. However, Sean was none too pleased to see this Latin 'Lathario' make out with his sister in front of him, and his friends.
     "Come sit on my lap!" Sean said as he latched on to little Serena by the wrist as she passed by pulling her down onto his lap. Then Sean tried to kiss Serena, and as she pushed him away she slipped off his lap, and as she fell backwards to the floor, Sean reached out grabbing hold of Serena's red dress trying to prevent her from falling. However the strap he held onto ripped, and Serena fell hard as her dress tore, exposing her left breast. Serena screamed as she tried to get up off the hard tile floor, then she witnessed her brother fly across the room in a mad dash balling up his fist, Xavier landed a solid punch to Sean's face. The startled young man fell down as Xavier leapt on top of him, then the two began wrestling one another as everyone stared shocked by the sudden, unexpected altercation. Yet not one of Sean's friends tried to intervene. It was only when Norman stormed back into the room where he saw Serena holding her ripped dress and in tears.
     "Did Sean hurt you?" Norman said anger building to rage.
     "No." she sobbed concerned more for her ruined dress than for the bump on the back of her head.
     "Did he TRY to hurt you?" Norman said waiting impatiently for her answer.
     "Yes." she said telling only half of the truth.
     "Right then, time to take out the trash." Norman said as he always did right before he was going to hurt someone who deserved it. Norman bent over reaching down shouting at Xavier in a loud voice that made all who heard it tremble with fear."That's enough!" with what seemed very little effort Norman pulled the two men up off the floor and apart from each other as Norman pushed Xavier away from Sean. "Go, get your coats and your sisters! Get out to the car!" Norman shouted his instructions at Xavier, then Norman turned and stepped forward, taking Sean in a tight head lock, squeezing hard with his forearm around Sean's throat. Norman walked the impudent wretch out of the room. Kicking the French doors open Norman let go of Sean, who gasped for air, as the enraged stranger took hold of the scruff of Sean's neck as he grabbed the back of his pants. Norman lifted Sean up off his feet and tossed him hard out onto the cold, wet lawn. Everyone rushed out to the terrace to see. Norman was angry, irritated and his bladder was about to explode. So, with all in attendance there at the party, Norman went and stood over Sean unzipping his trousers. Norman unleashed his 'John Thomas' and began to urinate on Sean in a hot, steaming, stream of urine; which saturated Sean's clothes soaking through to his skin. Humiliated, Sean closed his eyes as he heard the giant, bald bastard say to him "Do not fuck with my family! Ever!" shaking it off Norman zipped up and turned towards the house. Those who stood, wide eyed, in shock, jumped back inside and away from the violent man.
     Norman stepped back into the warm room and closed the double doors, locking them behind him. Norman said to the intimidated group of young people "Any man who disrespects a lady, deserves what he gets!" not one person spoke a word against him, or tried to interfere as Norman went over taking the last unopened bottle of chilled champagne from the ice bucket. Norman turned looking over the small frightened crowd and giving a little wink and a strange smile of satisfaction, as if nothing had happened, in a cheerful voice said "Try to have a Happy New Year! So nice to meet you all!" with that Norman turned walking out of the billiard room and went back down the hall to the foyer, where he found Felina fixing her mussed hair as she wiped the corners of her mouth. "C'mon lass! Your comin' with us!" Norman said in a disapproving voice as he escorted Felina from the palatial home, where they would never be welcome at ever again.
  

Chapter 11 continues

     The count down to midnight came quickly and right on time all gathered there at the fabulous party each received a New Years Kiss. Shortly after the cheers and the singing of Aulde Lang Syne most of the older guests went home and Sean's parents retired for the evening due to their complete inebriation. It was mainly a few teenagers and a handful of college students who stayed up late into the wee hours as 'Spill the Wine' by Eric Burdon and War played on the hi-fi as those who remained in the billiard room sat, drinking, some smoking a few spliffs. Felina had disappeared with the young handsome Samuel for several minutes when his brother Sean began pawing at Serena, who enjoyed his attention but she did not want him grabbing at her expensive dress, for it was a hand beaded original Oscar de la Renta. So Serena would slap at Sean's hand, now and again, when he would grab her ass. Xavier and Norman did their best to come between the two of them, much to Sean's chagrin. Now this instilled a bitterness in the young drunk boy's heart, so he began  saying derogatory statements to Xavier, calling him Manuel, "Manuel! Go get me another drink!"
     "Why does he call me Manuel?"  Xavier asked Norman as they stood across the billiard table glaring over at Sean.
     "It's a character on Fawlty Towers with John Cleese." Norman tried to explain the reference, though Xavier had never seen the show and still had no clue as to the racist remark. "He's trying to insult you." Norman said as he went over and stood close to Serena who was bending over to take her shot at the table.
     "Oy! Kojak! Outta my way you're ruining my view!" Sean said turning his insults toward the large bald man, whom Sean knew did not belong in these social circles. "Say when I take my next shot can I rub your bald head for luck?" Sean and his college mates all laughed then Sean continued saying "You know what everybody? Doesn't No-man remind you of the monster in Young Frankenstein?" a roar of laughter issued up from the small crowd gathered there. However, Norman, Xavier and Serena were not laughing.
     They waited for Norman's response but he just stood there in silence staring over at the little boy thinking to himself. A surge of anger and rush of blood filled his brain and Norman felt the overwhelming, desperate need to leap upon this stupid prick and beat him about the head and face. However something strange happened, Norman was not sure how this took place. Instead of meting out his anger on the bastard, Norman merely set his drink down, straightened out his tie and said "If you all will excuse me I have to see a man about a Clydesdale." he said as he calmly walked away taking deep calming breaths. Norman stepped out into the long hallway in the great house and he went over and opened up the bathroom door where he was shocked to see Samuel, who had Felina's dress hiked up over her hips as he bent her over the sink and was giving it to her good.
      "Sorry!" Norman said shocked as he went to close the door as Felina laughed.
      "You can come in and watch if you like!" she laughed as Samuel continued with a mighty thrust of his hips.
      "There's another loo down the hall!" Samuel shouted trying to accommodate his guest.
      With a blush of embarrassment to his cheeks, Norman proceeded down the long dimly lit hall. Yet, with so many doors, Norman did not know which would lead to the bathroom he so desperately needed. Norman just opened up a random door but alas it was not a bathroom but a bedroom. As Norman glanced around he noticed this was the bedroom belonging to none other than that little prick Sean. Norman stepped in and closed the door as he switched on the light. There on Sean's desk were photos of him at graduation and picture of him and some gorgeous woman on a white sandy beach. On the dresser a picture of his family at Ascot in the Royal Enclosure and there was a small plain wooden box a little bit bigger than a bible. Norman slowly lifted the lid off the box where he found a little bit of treasure inside. As he looked inside the thought came to him that he should teach this boy a lesson by stealing a few items from the obnoxious brat. So, secure in the knowledge he was doing the right thing our Norman slipped a gold Rolex watch in his pocket, along with a diamond and sapphire tie clip, three sets of platinum cuff links and two gold Mount Blanc pens; which he hid in the breast pocket of his suit. As Norman laughed a little to himself he was startled as he heard a woman scream and Xavier yelling loudly, followed by a commotion coming from the down the hall. Norman switched off the light and ran down the hall to see what was the matter.

Chapter 11 begins

     So it was, just about two hours before the countdown to a new year, when Felina, Serena, Xavier and Norman found themselves at a small crowded 'American' bar as a song by Steely Dan was playing on the jukebox, the air was thick with cigarette smoke, loud voices and laughter. Norman had not smoked all night and he could no longer resist the temptation of his nicotine addiction that is when he pulled out his box of Marlboro Reds from the pocket of his coat and lit one up, just as Xavier and Felina returned from the bar with martinis. Finding nowhere to sit Felina spied a small group of attractive men sitting at a table that had four empty chairs so she sashayed over to their group, and through her flirtations and exotic charm Felina was able to secure a seat at the table for the members of her party. The five men were delighted to have the two young beautiful Latina women sitting beside them, as for Xavier and Norman, they were not too pleased, however the young men would tolerate the presence of them, just to enjoy the company of the fine young girls.
     Introductions were made and everyone struck up some sort of conversation. Soon the subject turned to music. Felina went on extolling the virtues of Led Zepplin, Pink Floyd, Jethro Tull, Rainbow, Blue Oyster Cult, AC- DC, Iron Maiden etc.. as Serena said to Sean, a 22 year old, business graduate from King's College, "I really enjoy that Australian band, Blondie."
     "No they're not from Australia." Norman said "I think they're from California."
     "No you're both wrong they hail from Manhattan." Sean informed them as he had a serious crush on Debbie Harry. "Did ya' know she was a Playboy Bunny at one of Hef's clubs?" he added.
     "Really?" Serena smiled and moved closer to Sean and whispered in his ear saying "Do you think I would make a good Playboy Bunny?" she purred.
     "You would be the most beautiful Bunny of them all." her new friend responded as he gave her squeeze on the knee. Now her brother, Xavier, saw this and was none too pleased. However, Xavier was more concerned with the close friendship Felina and Norman were creating for he had sensed a great sexual tension between the pair all night. Now this worried Xavier for he had lost many friends because of his amorous sister whose appetite for sex would make Caligula blush.
     Xavier later made mention of this to Norman when they went into the bathroom. "Listen I have a long list of friends I no longer associate with because of my sister Felina and..," he paused looking at Norman in the mirror as he washed his hands "I do not wish to put you on that list."
     Norman's eyes grew wide and he stood up straight and looking down into Xavier's eyes he said in all seriousness "Listen mate, you are like the brother I never got to have, and your sister's, are like my sister's, if I had any. And I will do what ever it takes to protect them and keep them safe, because I respect you and your entire family, just as you showed me great respect for my mother and myself. My whole life has changed because I met you, because you helped me, and I would never do anything to jeopardize this friendship." Norman said with a smile and this did Xavier's heart good to hear.
     "Thank you my friend." Xavier replied and the two men laughed a little gave each other a brief hug then they went back out across the crowded, noisy, smoke filled bar where they found Felina sitting on the lap of Sean's brother, Samuel. "Boys!" Felina said smiling brightly "Sammy and Sean have invited us back to their family home in Shepherd's Bush for a New Year's Eve party!" she said with much elation for Felina did not wish to see in the new year at the hotel. Felina was always game for a little new adventure "Norman, be a dear and fetch our driver."
     "Are you sure?" Xavier said giving his sister a disapproving look.
     "I am!" she said proudly as Felina laughed along with Serena, who was eager to go to the unexpected party with the handome rich boys.
     "We will have so much fun Xavier! Come on everyone let's go!" the group of, now, nine people paid their tab and split up, Xavier and Norman insisted Felina and Serena traveled in the car with them, much to the protestations of Sean and Samuel who were hoping to make out with the girls on the car ride home, but their overprotective brother, Xavier put an end to that idea.
     Norman was thrilled to be spending this night with the rich and beautiful people of his new world and Norman looked forward to what the new year would bring. He prayed for prosperity. So it was the small convoy of cars pulled up into the exclusive neighborhood of huge estates and gardens on that cold winter's night. The house of Sean and Samuel's family was all lit up with a bright glow from all the windows of the spectacular Georgian style, two story home. The party was well underway, as well dressed guests milled about inside the home; which was warm and inviting. Everyone was welcoming as Sean introduced his new found friends to his parents who were in their late fifties, smiling sweetly, each a little tipsy from all the champagne. Norman was impressed with the string quartet playing music next to one of the large, roaring fireplaces in the elegant home. Norman felt like he was in a palace and he gladly took a glass of bubbly from one of the tuxedo clad servants. Norman Pierce was in a word, Delighted. Xavier and Norman mingled cheerfully with crowd and Xavier asked for Norman's help keeping an eye on Serena, as she was still only sixteen years old and her brother did not want any letcherous jerk try to take advantage of her. Now as for Felina, she was twenty four and Xavier knew well she could handle herself. Besides all that, Xavier did not know any of these people so he did not mind if Felina wished to break a few of their hearts tonight.
    
    
    

End Chapter 10

     After a time the foursome found themselves at an old manor house just outside of London. The palatial, two story stone structure was surrounded by towering trees lit up in bright white fairy lights, the grounds of the estate were immaculate, with long rows of perfectly sculpted boxwood shrubs. The owner of the property was a well known chef with four Michelin stars, whom had converted the stately manor into, La Chateaux Anglais, serving the finest french food in all of England. Albert Roux was often seen dining in the upscale restaurant, and on this New Years Eve the dining room was full. All the pretty ladies in their sparkling long gowns of jewel toned sequins, the men in tuxedos and fine suits. Norman was a little overwhelmed for he had never been in the presence of such an 'uptown' crowd. As Xavier helped Felina off with her coat, Norman did the same for little Serena, now the long wool coats covered up their bodies and Norman, as well as a few of the other guests, eyes widened when the women were revealed in their sparkling gowns of red for Felina and royal blue for the young seductive Serena. The heavily beaded silk chiffon clung to the voluptuous curves of the exotic women's bodies and Felina as well as Serena enjoyed the looks of attention and admiration they received. So the night proceeded on.
      Norman along with Xavier and his sisters all got to know more about one another over the seven course meal; which, what it lacked in portion size, made up for in rich full flavors and exquisite tastes that Norman had ever had the pleasure of having in his mouth. He had never tried French food, and though he did not care much for the French, Norman Pierce absolutely loved the food! It was a wonderful night and Norman was so pleased to be sitting amongst his beautiful, wealthy friends, he felt welcome at the table and comfortable in his own skin for the first time, in a long time.
     Now after a few bottles of red wine, and Moet Chandon, with much discussion and fits of laughter the four decide it was time to order dessert and head back to London for the fireworks at Tower Bridge. Which they had planned to watch from the roof of the Savoy Hotel where they were staying. Felina, using her mother's credit card, paid the bill and left a more than generous tip for the wonderful staff of La Chateaux Anglais. As the four went to leave Felina popped into the kitchen where she bid her old friend, the Chef De Cuisine Gareth Blackstock, a fond farewell, thanking him for the excellent food and wishing him a Happy New Year.
      "I do not wish to go back to the hotel." Serena pouted.
      "No, not back to the hotel, not just yet." Felina responded as they went out to the waiting car "I want to go to an 'American' bar and have a few cocktails."
      "I know just the place!" Norman said as he climbed into the back of the sedan the girls sitting on either side of him; which Norman enjoyed feeling their warm bodies pressing close to him on that cold winter's night as Xavier sat up in the front passenger seat, feeling full and a bit drunk. Xavier reclined his seat back slightly taking a little catnap as the driver sped down the M4 heading east back towards London.   

More Chapter 10

     Serena was shocked by the small space, as was her older sister Felina, for it was just one large room, with a small kitchen area along the North wall and a long expanse of windows looking out over the street below on the opposite wall facing South. There was a brand new expensive sofa pushed up against the wall to the right, a small coffee table and a large leather chair with a matching ottoman. It was, indeed,  small living quarters and Serena noted her walk- in closet at home was more spacious. Though there was plenty of space for a dining table, chairs, and a bed there were none whatsoever. Embarrassed Norman reminded them all "Sorry 'bout the place I've only just been in for a few days, haven't got all me stuff in yet." he smiled lying, knowing this was all he could afford now his money was dwindling away into his new enterprise.
     "Not at all! This is a great space!" Serena encouraged him "However..," she paused walking around as Norman poured out four small glasses of the rare blend of whiskey from Scotland. Felina waited on bated breath praying her little sister did not embarrass Norman. "This wallpaper has to go!"
     "Do not listen to her!" Xavier said as he gave Serena a grimace.
     "What would you like to do in here Norman?" Serena asked sweetly as she took a glass from him taking a little sip.
     "I want to be comfortable, I want this place to have some warmth to it." he answered truthfully.
     "Warm colors like reds,orange and gold?"
     "Like a sunset in Marrakesh." Norman said dreaming of the exotic far away foreign land.
     "Yes Norman! I can help you turn this studio apartment into a Moroccan Palace!" Serena said as she envisioned the room filled with silk pillows and golden drapes with iron and glass lanterns a glow with candles hanging from the ceiling. "Felina? When do we leave for Spain?"
     "In three days. Why?" Felina asked knowing full well were Serena was going with her line of questioning.
     "Oh Norman let me and my brother and sister..," she paused seeing Felina roll her eyes. "let us help you fix up this place, upstairs and downstairs! After all.., it is the least we can do to show you our appreciation for befriending our dear brother and helping him that night." she said as she reached across the counter and touched his hand gently.
     "Yes!" Xavier said, as he knew well Norman was just about out of cash "I think this is a wonderful idea."
     Everyone turned to look at Felina who said nothing as she thought about this prospect, for she was the oldest of her siblings and she, therefore, did not have to do anything she did not to wish to do freely. However, as she mulled this over in her mind she gave Norman a kiss on the cheek saying "Of course we would be so honored to assist you with what ever you need."
     Norman felt a wave of warmth sweep over him and he could feel the love and admiration these three fine people were bestowing upon him at that moment. This proved to be a strange new sensation for the twenty four year old man, who had been through much in his short bitter life here on Earth. "I don't know what to say."
    "Come, let us talk more about the matter over dinner! I am famished and we do not want to miss our reservation, they were very hard to acquire on New Year's Eve." Felina said as she slammed back the rest of the whiskey in her glass.

    

Chapter 10 continues

     Christmas came and went in a glorious fashion, fun and merriment were had by Xavier and his dear sisters. London was cold and dark and dreary but on New Years Eve the skies parted early that afternoon and it proved to be a wonderful bright and sunny day. This brought a great cheer to the hearts of the people who dwelt in the old city of London, whose citizens all looked forward to a new year and chance to start off fresh hoping for a prosperous new year, 1978.
     Xavier was most excited to meet up with his friend and introduce him to his beautiful sisters. So it was at exactly six o'clock in the p.m., as a gorgeous orange sun set over the ancient buildings and newly erected steel towers encased in glass; which reflected the glorious display of nature, Xavier, Felina and Serena arrived at  Norman's little locksmith shop in the back of the black sedan; which their mother had provided for the two week stay. The three, were in a fine mood for they had already started drinking champagne at lunch that day, feeling giddy and laughing bundled up in their long wool coats against the winter cold, their breath coming out all silver upon the air as they went up to the front door.
      Norman, dressed in his finest most expensive new suit, looked up from behind the long reception desk seeing the luxury car pull up and he hurried over to open the door of his little shop welcoming them in from the cold. "Hello! Happy New Year! So good to see you all!" he said cheerfully as the three came in to the warm space.
     "Norman! Happy New Year mate! Good to see you!" Xavier said as he crossed the floor and gave him an embrace, slapping one another on the back as the two friends face's lit up in each other's presence. Xavier stepped back saying "I have the pleasure of introducing you to my sisters." Xavier took his younger sister by the hand smiling with the fondness of a father "This is my Serena."
     "Well hello gorgeous!" Norman beamed as he beheld the tiny dark eyed young lass, with a short sexy Italian hairstyle, she reminded Norman of Elizabeth Taylor in National Velvet, however Serena also possessed many erotic qualities of a young Sophia Loren, if they were from Argentina.
     "So nice to meet you." Serena smiled a sparkle to her amber eyes as she went up on her tip toes to kiss the tall young bald man on his rosy cheek.
     "And I am Felina!" she shouted pushing her little sister out of her way as she too went up on her tip toes to give the giant man a hug. Norman was overwhelmed as he squeezed her she felt like a little bird, so light and delicate in his strong arms. She was absolutely ravishing and smelled of jasmine flowers. Felina reminded Norman of Racquel Welch, if she were in her early twenties, five feet tall and Latina. Norman gave her a hug and a squeeze kissing her on the cheek as he gently set her back down on her little high heels. Norman suddenly had the notion that Xavier perhaps had a different father as he was well over six feet and these 'little women' were only about 5 foot 2 inches in their sexy stilettos. They looked like little girls standing next to Norman who towered over them.
     "Here this is for you." Felina said handing him a bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue in a decorative blue tin box with a big red bow on top.
     "Ah, cheers mate thanks a lot." Norman smiled giving Felina another kiss as she smiled up at him sizing him up and down.
     "My God look at you!" Felina said with a look of awe. "You are as big as a door!" she said admiring the width of his broad shoulders. "You look like that robot-cowboy from West World! You know.., Yul Brynner.., except you are much younger, taller, wider.., and better looking than he! You would make an excellent body guard and I just love a newly shaved head!" Felina smiled sweetly flirting with the, suddenly bashful, Englishman, causing Xavier to make a mental note to remind his good friend NOT to sleep with Felina, or Serena for that matter. It was not that Norman was particularly good looking or charming he was just a large, strong, hard working, blue collar, virile man and women, all women, would find the size and shape of his body quite intriguing.
     "Alright then," Xavier said as he reached out taking his sister Felina's hands off of the smooth skin of Norman's bare scalp. "Show us around, give us the tour." Xavier said trying to change the subject. "Yes girls, Norman is a new business owner here in London, he recently set up shop here and has a flat upstairs so he can keep an eye on the place."
     Serena looked around at the drab, dark old interior and said sarcastically, as young girls have a tendency to do, stating "Oh Norman, that's wonderful! You are at the very beginning of a rags to riches story." she laughed glancing around the 'dingy' surroundings.
     "Thank you..?" Norman replied trying to be polite not quite sure if he had just been insulted by the spoiled little rich girl.
     Felina gave her sister a disapproving look saying "I think what Serena means to say is you have a great start here, a nice location, this little shop has so much.., potential." Felina tried to intercede but now thought she sounded as if she had only insulted the giant of a man even further.
     "Norman.., may I tell you something?" Serena asked taking him by the hand and walking him around the space "You need to paint all this dark, dingy wood a bright white, paint the walls, the ceiling, the floor, this old counter, paint it all white. You could update this space, take it out of the forties and bring it into the new age!" Serena said holding up her hands as if he could just picture it in his mind "This is the best advice I can give you, bring in some bright green palms, lighten up the space, make it not so.., dark and dreary." she said giving him a reassuring look as if she had just imparted one of the secrets to the universe to him.
     Norman said nothing as he did indeed 'picture it in his mind' "Oh Norman do not let Serena fill your head with her ideas. She is studying interior design and everywhere we go she is always giving out unsolicited advice!" Felina said embarrassed by Serena's behavior as she yanked her away from the tall, bald English business man Felina suddenly found herself drawn to.
     "Ya' know something Felina?" he paused as he looked over at Serena, who looked a little miffed, giving her a wink saying "I think she is absolutely right!"
     "Hurray!" Serena smiled as she was glad someone finally agreed with her style and vision.
     "Xavier, Serena, lovely Felina come up the backstairs to my flat and we can see what she thinks of my little place upstairs. We should all have a shot, or two of this Johnnie Walker!" Norman took the trio behind the old wooden counter/desk and opened up a door which concealed a small narrow staircase which led to his apartment above his little corner shop.

Chapter 10 begins

     Xavier had left a message with Norman's answering service, but he did not return his call for several days leaving Xavier wondering if something had happened to his friend. During the first few days of his sisters visit to London they spent their time together shopping for Christmas presents before the fast approaching holiday. Serena and Felina were delighted with the cold crisp days that winter in England, for in their homeland it was the beginning of Spring in South America and the two young ladies did not care for a warm humid Christmas as they had been accustomed to. So praying for a snow, dreaming of a white Christmas Serena and Felina had the time of their lives spending time with their much beloved brother hanging out all over town, sightseeing, shopping, eating fabulous meals drinking exquisite wine. The lights and the city all dressed up in evergreen garlands and wreaths with bright red bows, it was Christmastime in the city. A wonderful magical time for the trio who were, for the first time, not under the thumb of their overbearing mother and could do as they damn well pleased.
      So it was Serena, ever dreaming of fairy tales and Prince Charming insisted her brother and sister take her to the Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels, she made them go out twice to Buckingham Palace to see the changing of the Queen's Guard. They had once, just before Christmas Eve, caught a glimpse of Prince Phillip as he drove past in the back of a chauffeur driven Rolls Royce Silver Ghost escorted by two Motorcycle Officers, as they were leaving Kensington Park. Xavier envied the Queen's Consort for he had a deep desire in his heart and mind to be as rich and as powerful as a King. Yet he had not established any wealth or means by his own hand or mind and Xavier was angered to be tied to his mother, financially dependent upon her benevolence.
      It was after this chance encounter, a glimpse of Royalty, when Xavier, Felina and Serena had settled back in their adjoining hotel rooms when the telephone rang. The three had gathered on the large bed in Felina's room where they sprawled out on the bed together watching television and it was Felina who answered the phone thinking it was probably her mother or father who were on a skiing holiday in Switzerland.
      "Hello." Felina said in her sultry Latin accent.
      "Hello!" Norman said cheerfully "This is Norman Pierce am I reaching Xavier Diaz's room?"
      "Oh! My goodness, Norman Pierce is it?" she asked sounding delighted upon hearing his voice. Xavier sat up in bed pushing Serena's head off his lap as he he excitedly got up trying to take the phone from his older sister. "I can not tell you how happy I am you were there to help my brother!"
     "No trouble at all." he smiled as his face reddened a little on the other end of the telephone line.
     "I just have one question for you?"
     "Ask away." Norman replied unsure of what she would ask him.
     "What is your favorite whiskey darling?" Felina asked giving her brother a wink, wanting to give Norman a small token of her appreciation.
     "Johnnie Walker Blue." he answered truthfully.
     "Fair enough sir. I look forward to meeting you."
     "And I as well." Norman felt his pulse quicken a little as he spoke with the young beautiful woman, whom he had only seen in photographs and heard her brother speak so highly of. Then he heard her pass the phone to his good friend. "Xavier! How the hell are ya?"
     "Excellent, good of you to call, I was a bit worried." Xavier said a relieved cheerfulness to his voice.
     "My God what a week I've had!" he sighed saying "Well, I did it! I went out and got a little corner shop down in Soho and I even rented out the small flat just above the shop on the second floor!" Norman informed him with much excitement and pride swelling up in his heart.
     "Congratulations! We should take you out and celebrate!" Xavier exclaimed happy for his friend.
     "Well about that, I have so much more to take care of. I am trading in the old van me Dad had and getting a brand new one! I just sold off all the old equipment and tools and the new ones are being delivered first thing tomorrow morning. I haven't got a stick of furniture upstairs. Then there's fucking Christmas to deal with, spend time with me Mumm. Christmas Eve service at the Abbey. Christ I probably won't have time at all this week."
     Disappointed to hear this Xavier asked "What about New Year's Eve?"
     "Fuck Yeah! That would be perfect! Can you come by and pick me up around six? I can show you all the shop and I will be all settled in upstairs. Then we will all go out and have a nice dinner and I can get better acquainted with your darling sisters and we'll celebrate the New Year in style!" Norman said glad to know Xavier's sisters, Felina and Serena, would still be in town.
     "Right then." Xavier said sounding a bit like his British friend "That sounds like a fine plan to me. Again congratulations and call me if you need our help with anything. Tell your Mumm I said Happy Christmas! Have a nice holiday and we will see you on New Year's Eve."

End Chapter 9

     The residence hall was cold and mostly empty save for the few students who stayed behind unable to travel back home for the holidays. So Xavier slept most all day Saturday not venturing off campus and late that evening alone in his tiny dorm room Xavier became bored listening to Radio 4, so he cracked open the Bible his sister Felina sent him. He fell asleep half way through the book of Ecclesiastes, resting peacefully under his down comforter, until he arose early the that Sunday morning. Xavier hurried to dress himself and call for a taxi to take him out to Heathrow where his sisters plane was scheduled to land around half past eleven. Xavier was anxious to see his sisters whom he had not seen since the following days after the accident at the St.Regis cup. His heart raced with anticipation as he waited outside the gate for the jumbo jet to land.
     Now the plane was delayed for about twenty minutes, Xavier began to worry a deep stirring feeling of dread built up in his heart and mind as each minute ticked by, he waited impatiently for the plane to pull up to the jet way. Just as he grew more worried, right before he was about to go up to the desk and inquire as to the delay, the gate announcer came over the loud speaker saying 'Flight Number 4762 from Buenos Aires is landing and will be arriving at International Gate Number 48, shortly.' Here a relief swept over him and the group of people gathered there at the terminal. Xavier walked over to large glass wall of windows as he looked out on the tarmac watching the huge British Airways jet pull up to the causeway. After a few minutes the passenger began to disembark, but each one, to Xavier's shock, had a look of terror mixed with relief as they passed by running up to their loved ones embracing one another tightly. This was strange for all the passengers face's were pale as if they had all seen a ghost.
     "My Brother!" Felina shouted as she laid eyes upon Xavier a note of stress in her voice.
     "My Sisters!" he answered with a rich clear voice that did their frightened hearts good to hear.
     The two attractive, well dressed, young ladies ran over to Xavier throwing their arms around his neck and weeping a little as they trembled in his arms. As he held them tightly to his body he felt the nervous anxiety in their energy so he asked "My darlings what happened? Everyone looks as if someone just walked over their grave."
     "Oh God Xavier it was horrible!" Serena said through her tears.
     Felina tried to stop shaking for a moment as she composed herself wiping away the little tears welling up in her eyes. "We were out over the ocean, the plane hit turbulence, we lost altitude." she said through panting breaths. "People were screaming! Babies were crying! I actually grabbed the knee of the gentleman sitting next to me, I think I drew blood with my fingernails." Felina said with embarrassment "See, that man limping away over there." she pointed out calling after the man saying "I am so sorry! Please forgive me sir!"
     The man turned back with a nervous smile and said "It's quite alright madam, merely a flesh wound."
     "I do not ever want to fly again!" Serena said her mind filled with thoughts of crashing into the Atlantic and never living to see her seventeenth birthday.
     "Ssh, ssh, You are safe. You are here with me now. We are still a family. Everything will be alright." Xavier said as he comforted his sisters, whom he towered over and they too remarked how much taller, and tanner he was now since the last they had seen one another. So after a few deep, calming breaths the trio found the driver their mother had arranged to take them to the hotel, and out about town during the duration of the girls stay in London. Now were it not for the fact that Aphina, Xavier's mother, had taken away Xavier's car, the hired driver and sedan would not have even been necessary. Regardless Xavier and his sisters were relieved to get out of the airport. Now when Xavier learned his mother had booked two rooms at the Savoy for his sisters stay he was even more delighted. For though he had traveled all over the world and stayed at some the finest hotels with his family Xavier enjoyed the comfort and luxury of this hotel above all else by far.
      His sisters were very tired from their perilous journey but the hunger in their tiny stomachs outweighed their need for sleep so the trio went out for a nice light lunch talking and laughing together, the girls telling him funny stories and the latest gossip from home. Xavier was all smiles as he sat next to his beautiful, dark eyed sisters whom he loved with all his heart and soul.
     Then the conversation turned to Xavier when Felina and Serena asked how he was getting along at school, if he was able to make any new friends. "No, not at school really, they still treat me like an outsider." he sighed knowing his lack of his family's money and his nationality prevented him from socializing like he used to. "However," he gave a soft smile when he said "I have met someone, outside of the University."
     "Oh?" Felina smiled "A nice young English girl perhaps."
     "No, no. I met this guy named Norman Pierce, and he very well may have saved my life!" Xavier said as his sisters gave a strange look of confusion so he told them all "Remember when I called you crying, homesick, and you told me about the money you left in the bible for me?"
     "Yes?" Felina said recalling the phone call and the money.
     "Well, I will tell you, I went out that night for dinner and a few drinks and I ran into a spot of trouble." Xavier relayed the story of the night, however Xavier failed to relay any information about the jewelry they had taken and the money etc... Xavier was embarrassed and ashamed to let his sisters know just what exactly he was up to. Now as they listened to the tale Felina became upset by the 'revenge beating' her brother had received at the hands of those 'Goddamned Polo players' as she refered to them. Serena was just relieved her brother was alright.
     "So where is this Norman? I would very much like to meet him and thank him for saving you." Felina asked thankful her brother had someone to help him when she was not there to protect him.
     "I am sure he would love to meet the both of you too. I am always going on about you both. I am sure he feels as if he knows you already. I have shown him your photograph." Xavier told them and he was delighted to have the two of them meet his friend.

Chapter 9 continues

     That cold and rainy Sunday night Xavier delighted in putting his new clothes and shoes, shirts, etc... away in his little closet. Then he took a nice hot shower afterwards as he slipped into his new black silk pajamas Xavier splashed on a little of his new French cologne, Givenchy III; which was new to the market.  The fresh clean scent, with subtle notes of bergamot oil, the light citrus scent reminded him of the orange groves growing on his family's estate. Xavier curled up in his small bed securely satisfied with the knowledge he had over 12,000 English pounds or about $22,000 American. With this money safely hidden away Xavier spent the next few days studying hard for his final exams which were on Wednesday and Thursday just before his three week Winter Break. Being that Xavier Antonio de la Rosa Diaz was an extremely well educated young man with the mind of a financial genius Xavier, of course, passed with honors at the top of his class; which brought his mother great satisfaction serving to melt a bit of the bitterness she held in her heart for her only son.
      So it was early that Friday morning, two weeks before Christmastime, Xavier called for a taxi to take him off campus and out to London where he visited a bank, a brokerage house and a travel agent. Xavier opened up a private account for his money, started a financial portfolio investing he and Norman's money in 150 shares of I.B.M., then he purchased a round trip ticket to Paris. Back on campus Xavier spent the night packing for his week long stay in SaintTropez. This was a most exciting adventure for the young lad to take,  normally he had only ever traveled with his family, however, he was young, strong willed and adventurous, on the verge of turning twenty. There was only one place he wished to escape to, to get away from cold, grey London and that was along the long stretches of beaches on the south coast of France, the cote d'zur, with the warm sun on his face, with his toes in the sand, the endless blue Mediterranean lapping against the shore, as white sailed ships slipped by far off on the horizon, the sweet scent of coconut oil, and all the gorgeous topless women sunning themselves beside the ocean.
     Here Xavier spent the week relaxing and enraptured by the French maidens who were more than hospitable to a handsome young stranger traveling through their country. This was a most exciting time for the Argentine and he got along well with many of the women as he spoke not only Spanish and English, but was also well versed in the French language as well. Xavier delighted in taking from his conquests all their charm and graciousness. Now we all know how quickly one week can go by as we enjoy ourselves, so too Xavier found himself, all too soon, back on a plane headed North to dreary, old, wintry, London. They only thing that served to lift his spirits was the knowledge he would be seeing his sisters soon, as they would be arriving in two days time up from Buenos Aires to visit him for Christmas.