Story edited by Spyro. I would like to thank the editor for doing a great job with the editing of my story. I have made some minor changes after the edit. If there are any errors in the grammar, it is my doing. I hope you enjoy the story and I am open to any comments.

Enjoy.

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Chapter 1

Radio FM: "It's the first Saturday of August, and the temperature will be soaring to its highest today, for all you holiday makers. 40 Celsius in Nicosia, 37 Celsius in Limassol, 35 Celsius in Larnaca and 34 Celsius in Paphos," the weatherman announced on the radio.

"It looks like it's going to be another hot day Charlie," I said to my four-legged companion. "Come on boy let's go and check the vineyard. This time next month we'll be harvesting the grapes."

Charlie is my faithful dog. He's an American Boxer. He is three years old, that is twenty-one in doggy years. I've had him since he was a puppy, trained him myself to be obedient, and that he is.

With my hoe on my shoulder, I commenced crossing the 5-acre field to the other side of the plot. My faithful friend is strolling next to me keeping the same pace as me. Reaching the end of the land, I began shaping the soil and removing any weeds around the vine stems. One hour later the first row of vines is finished. With seven more rows to go, I start feeling the heat even though it's only seven in the morning. Pulling my T-shirt off, at once I sense the warmth on my scars which cover my back.

Looking over at Charlie his tongue is hanging out to one side of his mouth. "Charlie go and sit on the veranda, in the shade?" He just sat there looking at me with his head slightly slanted to one side. With my voice raised, I ordered him this time. "Now boy in the shade!" Quickly turning he leapt towards the house. After having a quick drink of water from his water pan, he lied down, with his chin on his paws staring straight at me.

I was near the end of the third row of vines when Charlie's barking got my attention. Looking up, I felt the sweat run down my face. Raising my arm, I wiped the wetness from my forehead. My eyes sting from the sweat as I squint to see who is driving down the dirt road towards the house. It was a silver Pajero Intercooler. It was uncle Stelios. Checking my watch, it wasn't even nine. "He never comes this early. Something is wrong," I say to myself.

Stelios is not my uncle. I call him that due to respect. He had known my father since 1974 when Turkey invaded Cyprus occupying forty percent of the island. They fought in the war together, ever since then, Stelios has been a very close friend of the family.

Dropping my hoe next to the stem I was working around, I started making my way to the vehicle whilst wiping my hands on my jeans to get rid of any excess soil.

Once the Pajero came to a halt, Stelios climbed out of the vehicle with a recreational bone in his hand. Charlie sprang up, running circles around him, jumping for the bone while Stelios held it up high. Once Charlie was given the bone, he rushed with it to where he was earlier. Holding it down with both of his paws, he began licking it and chewing the ends.

"You're spoiling him you know!" I called out.

With my hand extended for a handshake, he took my hand in a vice grip. Feeling the clutch in my hand, I squeezed as hard as I could, overpowering the big man. Releasing the pressure after a while, letting him over-power me.

"I see you've been working out Michael?" he said with a smile on his face.

"It's been hard work, sustaining my father's land." Gesturing towards the field behind me, with my hand.

"I remember when your father purchased this plot of land, fifteen years ago. The ground was as solid as a rock. Hadn't been ploughed for years, on top of that it was full of rocks. In seven years you have managed to create a paradise." Looking around him, at the vineyard and the small one-bedroom house I constructed out of wood.

"Uncle, you haven't come to praise me for what I have accomplished." I looked at him in the eyes. "What have you come to tell me? What has happened?

"It's your father, Michael. He's at Larnaca General Hospital. He's had a stroke. Paralyzed from the waist down. The doctors said it was a blood clot in his brain stem."

I felt my eyes go moist as the word slowly left my lips, "When did this happen?"

Rubbing his chin, he carried on telling me what he knew, "Your aunt Androulla called last night. She told us it happened three days ago. She said he's stable now, but he can't move his legs."

Feeling something on the side of me, I looked down to see Charlie standing there next to me. Kneeling down to his height, I started to stroke his head. Staring into space, remembering memories of my past.

"Are you ok Michael?" Stelios said, with a concerned look on his voice.

Shaking my head, as I came out of my trance. "I need to go home. I have to be there for dad. He'll need me." Getting up, I commenced making my way to the garage.

"Are you sure? Will it be safe for you to go back? Remember what they did to you. How much they hurt you seven years ago."

We both walked side by side as we spoke. "I have to face my past uncle. I was eighteen then, now I am older and wiser."

"That you are, but still it will be dangerous for you to go back."

"You have been like my father these few years. Teaching me about life, you were my mentor. But I have to go home. My father needs me."

His eyes became moist. "You can use Athina's car for a few days. She doesn't need it this weekend." He tried to change the subject. It was getting too emotional for him.

Athina is Uncle Stelios' wife. A retired nurse. If it weren't for her when I arrived all bloody and bruised, I would have been dead now. For a month, she attended to my wounds. Changing the bandages twice a day. Making sure I did not get infected. If my injuries did not cause my death, my morale would have driven me insane. For what I saw at eighteen, no teenager should witness in his lifetime. But Athina and Stelios were by my side while I healed.

Pulling the metal door open to the garage, revealing a covered vehicle. The green canvas covered in brown dust.

"Don't tell me. You've still got that Jeep. I thought you wanted to get rid of it."

When I first came to Kathikas, my jeep was a total right-off. It looked like a group of hooligans attacked it with baseball bats. Every panel on the vehicle was full of dents. Shattered windscreen, broken headlights, everything was destroyed. Only God knows how I drove it down here that night.

Pulling back the cover, the first thing that took us by surprise was the reflection on the windscreen from the morning sun. Moving to the side to avoid the bright light. In front of us was a fully restored Black Jeep Wrangler 2.8 CRD.

With a smile on his face, Stelios laughed. "Why you, if I hadn't seen it I wouldn't have believed it. Now I know what you and Jimmy were up to down here every evening. There I was thinking he was wasting his time playing video games. But you inspired him to do what he does now."

Jimmy is Stelios' youngest child. I hadn't known him very well when I visited Paphos with my parents when I was young. As he was a couple of years older than me, we did not have much in common. I got to know him better when I moved out here. I was eighteen years old then. Jimmy had just finished his national service. At twenty years old, with average marks at school. The only job he could find was in the hotel industry, as a waiter. Something he was not very keen on pursuing.

When I first came to live in this remote village in Paphos. I stayed with Stelios' family for three months. That is until I healed physically and mentally. In that time, I shared a room with Jimmy. Something he was not too pleased with. He had his issues with his father about his future. I had a long, painful healing process to go through. With only 500 euros in my pocket and a ruined jeep that looked like it had been chewed up and spat out, I began a new life.

I worked hard to build a new life in Kathikas. With a small loan from Stelios and some money, my father sent me. As he could not come to see me, for fear he will give away my location. I purchased and put together a portable house to live in, on the plot of land my family owned. I planted some vineyards with the advice and help of Stelios.

I worked beside my mentor Stelios for three years. He had one of the most extensive vineyards in the region of Paphos. I was in the fields twelve hours a day, Earning my keep. Paid off my loan and put some money aside. But most importantly I learnt everything there was to know about managing vineyards.

After three years of maintaining my vineyards, in the afternoon when I finished work and during the weekend. I was going to have my first harvest. I asked Stelios to come and check the grapes for me, to give me his opinion. I was outside with Charlie, trying to train him. I had him only for two weeks then. He was still a puppy. Stelios pulled up in his Pajero. Jumping out of the driver's seat, slamming the car door behind him. Jimmy was chasing him. It seems they were having one of their arguments again.

"I don't want to work in hotels dad. I hate being a waiter!" Jimmy called out to his father so he could hear him.

"You don't want to work in hotels. You don't want to work for me? What do you want Jimmy?" he yelled at his son as he marched down the field, gesturing me to go with him. "Let's go and check the vineyard, Michael!"

For an hour Stelios and I walked around the vineyard. Together we checked the grapes, while Jimmy stayed with Charlie. Stelios advised me how pest control works.

At the same time, he was telling me he was worried about Jimmy's future. When we got back, Jimmy was nowhere in sight, nor was Charlie.

Next to the house, I parked my Jeep. Covered it and left it there. For four years It hadn't seen daylight. We went and found Jimmy had uncovered it and was inspecting the vehicle.

"Hey, Jimmy, do you know anyone who wants to buy it for scrap?" I asked him.

With a puzzled look on his face, he gave me an answer I wasn't expecting. "Why don't you fix it up."

I sighed and said to him, "got in touch with the dealer for Jeep. Told me it would cost over 10,000 euros to repair."

"You don't have to go to the dealer."

'Where's he going to get the parts, other than the dealer Jimmy? It's an American Jeep," his dad sarcastically said.

"Jeep Wrangler Sahara Sport. Soft top with a 2.8 diesel engine. This is the best model they made that year because It has a 6-speed manual gearbox. 174 BHP, throw on a powerchip, and you can get at least 210 BHP, turning it into a mean beast." A car salesperson couldn't have said it better, that is without the mean beast part. Stelios turned around, making his way back to the car, mumbling to himself.

"What do you suggest Jimmy?" I asked.

"We can order the parts that you need from the states. New or second hand in good condition. The parts that are repairable like the bodywork I have friends who can do an excellent job, which will cost next to nothing," he said with enthusiasm in his voice.

"When can you start on it?" I asked.

For six months that is what we did. Jimmy would finish work, and he would come to the farm and work on the Wrangler for a few hours a day. Once we completed the Jeep's restoration, he took on other projects. Now he doesn't work in hotels anymore. He has a garage, where people order parts they can't find cheap in Cyprus. Orders them from abroad, makes a profit and they also save money.

With the battery connected, I turned the ignition. The engine fired up after a few turns. Letting it run for a few minutes before I slowly drove it out of the garage.

"Last time I saw you in that driver's seat, you were an eighteen-year-old teenager. Now I see a man. A man that has beaten the odds to live again," He said this while nodding his head. "What now Michael?" Stelios asked with curiosity in his voice.

"Now I go to visit my father."

Pausing for a moment, before continuing.

"Then I face my Demons!"

Chapter 2

Stelios reassured me, he will have some of his employees take care of the vineyard, while I was gone. Before he left, I put out my hand for a handshake. Instead, he embraced me in a tight hug.

"You look after yourself, son," he mumbled in my ear. Releasing me, he wiped his eyes.

"Always uncle," I tried to comfort him, with my words. I watched him get in the Pajero and drive off. Leaving a trail of dust as the vehicle disappeared.

I tossed some clothes in an old duffel bag. Arranged some beverages in the cool box, for the journey. The drive was only two hours, but the heat was unbearable. We would need some refreshments. With the top of the Jeep rolled down, Charlie and I commenced our journey. Driving into Paphos central town from Kathikas, Charlie was running from the back of the jeep to the front. Backwards and forwards, barking every time he would see pedestrians. I let him do his thing, as it was his first time this far away from Kathikas. Hardly leaving the farm, this was an adventure for him.

Before getting on the motorway, I stopped at Jimmy's garage to have the Jeep inspected before my journey. Rolling into the garage, Jimmy stopped whatever he was doing to come and greet me. Once I went to a halt, Charlie leapt out of the vehicle. Running to Jimmy, while wiggling his tail in joy. Going on his knees, Jimmy started rubbing the dogs head, "I bet you missed me, boy? Because I missed you," Jimmy said to Charlie.

Looking up at me, Jimmy said, "what brings you down here my good friend?"

"I have to go back home, Jimmy. My father is not well."

"I'm sorry to hear that. Will it be ok for you to go back?"

"I need to go Jimmy. This journey is well overdue. I need a small favour from you. Can you check the beast, as it has been sitting in the garage for a while."

Pushing his tool trolley over to the Wrangler. Popping the hood open, he commenced work on the car. He called his mechanic to do a diagnostic on the engine. With the electrician, Jimmy got some items from the storeroom. They worked for three hours to install some gadgets in the cockpit. Explaining to me after, how everything worked. Once finished, he ordered some kebabs for his staff and us. Charlie is enjoying his bowl of food I put for him. Quickly cleaning his bowl, he came over to us for some kebab. While eating, Jimmy kept insisting on coming with me. I assured him everything would be ok and I'll be back in a couple of days.

It was after six in the afternoon when I managed to get onto the motorway. With all the excitement, Charlie had exhausted himself. Rolled into a ball on the passenger seat, he was fast asleep. Listening to the roar of the Wrangler, I cruised down the motorway towards Limassol, remembering flashbacks of the past.

******

Seven years ago:

It was the village fair in Avgorou, at the end of June. After taking our final exams, we were celebrating our graduation. Tony and I were cruising around the village in my Wrangler. Something all teenagers did at our age. We wanted to have as much fun as possible before Tony went into the army for two years. Something that all young men did, once they finished school. Myself I was an exception. At the age of fifteen, my mother had passed away from cancer. It was my father and me. As I had no siblings and my father had some health issues. I had been omitted from doing my national service.

Driving past Tony's house to get some CD's. His father Mr Savvas insisted on taking Tony's younger brother with us, Mario and his friend Lucas. Tony protested but, what his father said that was it.

Mr Savvas was a powerful man in Avgorou. When I say dominant, I mean money. He controlled the running of the village. Even had connections in the police. What he said happened. Tony didn't want that. He would always say, "once I finish my national service I am out of this village." His brother Mario, who was a year younger was different. He was following in the footsteps of his father, possessed for power. That is why Tony did not want his brother with him when he went out.

"When did you buy this Micky," Mario sarcastically said to me as I drove out of the driveway.

Snapping his head around to look at Mario. Tony yelled, "His name is not Micky, it's Michael. If you showed some respect for people, maybe you would have some friends."

Looking in the rear-view mirror, Mario and Lucas were mimicking Tony as he spoke.

We drove around for a while. Then we decided to go to Ayia Napa to a club that had opened recently. Meeting some friends from school, we decided to go to a beach party held at one of the five-star hotels. It was after two in the morning when the party had finished. Everyone had gone, including our friends. We were still there as Mario decided to take a swim before we go.

"You had too much to drink you fucking idiot!" his brother Tony screamed at him. Pulling his T-shirt over his head as he chased him into the water.

*****

Present day

As we were entering Limassol, I turned to see if my companion was still asleep. Charlie was sitting there, looking at all the buildings, all confused. Yawning and stretching, making me yawn at the same time.

"Great passenger you are, Sleeping most of the journey."

Putting my foot down, the Wrangler roared as it accelerated to the next lane. Overtaking a convertible Beamer, Charlie commenced barking. The girls were screaming and owing him as I flew past the car. Exiting the highway, on the next roundabout. I entered Jumbo superstore car park. Parking the car next to McDonald's. Taking Charlie's bowl, I poured him some water to drink before I walked into the fast food restaurant to get myself a beverage.

Sucking hard on the straw, I could taste the vanilla shake in my mouth. Trying not to consume too much, as to give me brain freeze. Opening the restaurant door, I hear Charlie barking. Looking over at the jeep, I see a young man provoking Charlie with a stick. Getting nearer I recognised the car, it was the girls from the Beamer. They were screaming at the young man, "stop provoking the dog, Terry."

"Charlie," I shouted. Charlie straight away stopped barking and stared at the young man, eyes glued to the stick.

Walking up to the young man I said, "my advice to you is to put what you are holding down before the dog rips your hand off while you're still holding that weapon." I was bluffing, as far as I know, Charlie wouldn't harm a fly. When I was near enough, I grasped the stick from his hand, throwing it under the beamer.

"What was that all about?" I said to him.

One of the girls yelled, "he was trying to impress us, by scaring the dog."

"Really?" I called out as I walked back to the Jeep. Charlie's vision still on the young man.

"Don't walk away from me." Now, this guy was pushing me.

"Charlie get in the Jeep." Turning around, he ran and leapt into the vehicle. Sitting there, he carried on staring at his enemy. "You stay their boy." Climbing myself into the driver's seat, I started the Jeep up. I drove past Terry. The girls left him standing there and went into McDonald's. Checking my rear-view mirror, he chased after his friends once we had some distance.

Once I was on the highway to Larnaca, Charlie came from the back and sat in the passenger seat. "troublemaker," I said, smiling at him. Turning away, he put his head out of the window, enjoying the breeze as the vehicle picked up speed. It was getting dark, at the same time the temperature dropping. With humidity at a very high level as we entered Larnaca.

It was late when I got to Larnaca General Hospital. Finding a parking spot, opposite the entrance. I sat there and waited. It was nine in the evening. Visiting times were until eight-thirty. People usually did not leave until nine. I did not want to confront any of my relatives just yet. Like I suspected, a group of people came out, it was my uncle with my father's sister Androulla and my two cousins. Crouching down, not to be seen. I hoped that none of them would recognise the Jeep.
Once they left, I waited a while longer before I made my way to the hospital reception. The night nurse at the desk found my father on the computer. She wouldn't let me go up to the ward, insisted it was after visiting times. At that moment a doctor came with the hospital security guard.

"Like the nurse said sir, visiting time is over." I looked up. It was a female doctor. The security guard came next to me. He was ready to take action if I refused to leave.

"Please understand, it's my father. I haven't seen him for seven years," I pleaded.

"Michael, is that you?" The doctor called out in surprise. "It's ok Yianni," she said to the security guard.

Gesturing me to the lift, we walked together. Inside the elevator, I looked at the doctor. Trying to recognise her. For her to call me by my name that means she knew me.

"You don't remember me, do you?" she said while smiling.

She looked the same age as me. Blonde long hair. Can't be from school, none of the girls had that hair colour. Maybe from the year above or below. "Sorry doctor, I don't recognise you."

With the lift door opening, she marched out of the lift, walking down the corridor, towards the wards. It was dark in the room. The lights were dimmed for the patients to sleep. Directing me to one of the beds. I recognised my father straight away. He was asleep. Pulling a chair near the bed, I sat there and looked at him. It was seven years ago when I last saw him. He looked a lot older now.

"My shift finishes in an hour. I'll come back then," the doctor whispered.

Nodding my head to say yes. Not leaving my eyes from my father.

Taking his hand, I started stroking it. Feeling how fragile it had become. My mind drifting away.

*****

Back to that fatal night.

Tony dived into the water. With me following him. It was dark. I don't know how long I was in the water. When I opened my eyes, over me were two paramedics with an oxygen mask over my face. I see on my right, Tony being carried out of the water. His arms were hanging to the side lifeless. I reach out to him, but the paramedics are holding me back. In the background, I hear a voice, before everything goes dark again.

"He killed my brother. That bastard killed my brother," Mario screamed.

*****

He squeezed my hand. Looking up my father was awake. He smiled at me. Then his smile disappeared.

"You have to go, Michael, you have to go back to Paphos."

"I'm not going anywhere, dad. I'm going to stay with you here." The doctor was back. "I have to go now, dad. I will see you tomorrow." Getting up, I kissed my father on the forehead before leaving.

Walking in silence with the doctor, she took me to the hospital canteen. Everything was closed, but you could get hot beverages from the vending machine. Punching some numbers on the panel, she then broke the silence.

"What would you like to drink?"

"Coffee, please."

With our beverages, we sat at one of the tables. Opposite each other. I kept on staring at the doctor. Trying to recognise her. But also admiring her beauty.

"Maths and English. We were in the same class. I sat at the desk in front of you," she said

"But your hair was darker. Also, you wore glasses." She smiled at me for remembering. That fatal night at the beach. She was there as well. She went with some girls in another car.

"What happened that night after we left. You guys stayed longer. Next day we heard about Tony's death." Sitting there, she looked at me, waiting to tell her my side of the story. Surely she heard Mario's story.

"After everyone left, we had to stay. Tony's brother decided to go for a swim. Tony went after him. I jumped in to help. My best friend ended up losing his life. Mario and Lucas said that I went into the water and Tony came after me. Who was Mr Savvas going to believe his son or me? Lucas also stuck with Mario's story."

She looked at me sceptically. "Where have you been all these years?"

Taking a deep breath, I answered, "Hiding."

Leaning back and giving me a funny look, she said. "Hiding from who?"

"I was kept in Paralimni Hospital that night for observation. Next day my father came to pick me up. Took me to get my car. Waiting for me there, was Mr Savvas. Before I could say anything, one of the police officers from Avgorou grabbed me, while Mr Savvas beat me. He took off his belt and whipped me, while I was held down. My father was helpless. He couldn't help me, as he was held by two other officers, while he watched." I sat there staring at my coffee, remembering the terror in my father's eyes when that monster beat me. "Some of his employees were there. With metal bars, they smashed up my car. As he left, he said to his men. 'I'll finish him off back at the village. No one kills my boy and gets away with it'."

"Oh, my God, I didn't know. None of us knew."

"My father helped me into my car. He wanted to drive me to Paphos. But I insisted on going alone. Giving me all the money, he had on him. I started my journey to the other side of the island. Only with God's help, I made it. For seven years I have been living in Kathikas." I smiled at her. "Some people will pay a lot of money for information like that, Helen."

Smiling back, she said, "you remembered my name." Looking up at the wall, Helen checked the time. "It's gone past midnight. I better get going."

I walked her to her car. Thanking her for letting me see my father. As she drove off, I thought to myself. "That is the kind of woman. I would like to get to know."

When I got back to the Jeep, Charlie was stretched out in the back sleeping. Once I started the engine, he jumped up, looking around him. With a big yawn, he got comfortable and went back to sleep.

"Great company you are." lifting his head up, he looked at me for a few seconds then went back to sleep.

I drove to the outskirts of Larnaca, on the road to Dhekelia. Stopping at some hotel apartments and booked a room for the night. Asked the night receptionist about their pet policy. He said, "pets not allowed." Slipping a twenty across the counter, all of a sudden, the rules changed.

Having a quick shower, I slipped into bed. Charlie was already asleep. Making light snoring sounds. With the lights out, I lay there watching the ceiling. Wondering if I should have gone back to Paphos after I saw my father. But this mess had to be cleared for once and for all. Turning over, I tried to get some sleep.

"Tomorrow is going to be a long day," I said to myself.

Chapter 3

It was six in the morning when Charlie woke me up. Slipping into a pair of shorts, I went for my early morning jog. Charlie, running next to me as I jogged along the beach. Finishing our half-hour run, with a sprint back to the apartment. Preparing some dried dog food with peanut butter for Charlie before jumping into the shower. After having some fruits for breakfast, myself, we were ready to go.

Turning the ignition key to fire up the engine, I looked at Charlie next to me. "Let's do this buddy," I said. Pressing my foot down on the accelerator the Jeep's tyres span on the gravelled parking lot, before leaving a loud screech as I drove onto the road tarmac.

It was nine when I reached Avgorou. Driving into the village, it was like a ghost town. Then again it was Sunday morning. Everyone was probably still sleeping. I wasn't going to hide in the shadows. I wanted people to see me, to put the word out, to say, "Michael is back".

Rolling into the village centre, where the coffee shops are situated. On the left was the communist coffee shop, the Progressive Party of Working People. Opposite the conservative, the democratic party, coffee shop. Like it was seven years ago, nothing had changed. At both coffee shops, seated outside groups of men in their hunting clothes. All eyes directed at me.

Parking the Jeep on the left-hand side of the road, I sat there for a couple of minutes. I left the motor running while I got out. Marching into the communist shop, straight to the counter.

"Hi, Takis." It was one of my father's childhood friends.

At first, he didn't recognise me. Looking closer, a few seconds later he smiled at me. "Good to see you, Michael."

"Excuse me is that your car." The voice came from behind me. I recognised the voice at once.

Turning around, in front of me was the officer that held me down while Savvas beat me, so many years ago. "You didn't recognise it, officer?" The shock on his face, you would have thought he just saw a ghost.

Turning back to Takis, I smiled. "I will see you later."

"My regards to your father!" Takis called out as I left the shop.

Eyes still glued to me when I got back into the Jeep. Putting the Jeep in gear, I drove off. My next destination was the cemetery. My mother's burial spot was blooming with flowers. Placing the pink roses, beside her tombstone, I stayed for a while before I left to visit an old friend's burial site. Tony's gravestone stood out from the others. It was in a family plot. With my hand on the stone, I said, "I miss you, my friend." Charlie was sitting next to me, looking up at me as I spoke.

"You have no right to touch my brother's tombstone." Take your filthy dog and leave now!"

Standing there was Mario, an angry young man. He hadn't changed in looks. Older, but he had that posture like his father. Maybe it was the suit. Next to him his sidekick, Lucas. Older but still looked like a lost boy. Probably still controlled by Mario, like a puppet on a string.

"I see the words gone around quickly," I said while staring into his eyes.

Mario stepped forward, making his fists into balls, ready to attack me. Lucas by his side was waiting for instructions. Charlie at once stepped between us growling at the aggressors. We stood there looking at each other, in the tranquillity of the cemetery. Suddenly voices were coming from the direction of the main gate. Sunday church service had finished, people were coming to visit their loved ones who had passed away.

I broke the silence between us. "Come on Charlie. let's go." Walking past both of them, as if they did not exist.

"That's right, just run away like you always do. Coward!" Mario called out.

In the distance, I detected my aunt, Androulla at my mother's grave plot. She was watering the flowers with the hose pipe, while my uncle Sotiris was removing any excess weeds that had grown. Getting nearer, my uncle noticed me first. Looking up towards my aunt, he gestured towards me with his eyes. I was not more than two meters away from my aunt when she turned to look.

With a stern look on her face, she said, "I was wondering who brought the roses." The harsh look changed into a smile. "Come here, young man." Embracing me, she hugged me, not letting me go. When she eventually did, she held my arms while she stood back and gazed at me. "You're not the young teenager I remember."

My uncle welcomed me with the same gesture as my aunt. I helped my uncle with what he was doing. Both of them firing questions at me. What was I doing all this time? How long will I stay? My aunt explained to me about my father's situation. That he will need to change the way he lives now. Once we finished, they insisted on going around their house for lunch before I went to my parent's house.

Stopping at the entrance of the house, brought back memories. Being careful not to clip the rear wheel arch on the gate as I entered the driveway. Once it was clear, I parked the Jeep under the canvas shade, something my uncle must have put up, while I was gone.

My uncle was already seated on the veranda, rolling up some tobacco. "You remembered to be careful when you drove into the driveway!" he called out.

My aunt appeared from the garden with a bowl of figs. "Sit down Michael, make yourself at home."

We both sat down enjoying some figs while we chatted. Charlie was running around getting to know the environment. When I see him go up to one of the fruit trees, he starts smelling the stem. "Charlie!" I call out. At once he turns away from the tree.

"You have him well trained," my aunt says leaning back to look into the house from the kitchen door. "Where is that girl? Always locked in her room! Can I borrow Charlie for a moment, Michael?" my aunt said with a grin on her face.

"Charlie over here now!" Leaping onto the veranda, he sat there waiting for the next order.

"Come on Charlie, come with me," my aunt said softly to the dog.

"You have to be firm with him." I interrupted. "Go, Charlie," I said with a stronger tone in my voice. Immediately he followed her into the house. A few minutes later a piercing scream came from inside, making my uncle and me jump, out of our seats.

"Oh my God, where did you find him, mum." Charlie is running out of the premises, not far behind him a fourteen-year-old teenager, making a big fuss over the dog. Looking for a stick to throw so that Charlie can retreat it.

"Come and say hello to your cousin Maria!" uncle Sotiris called out.

"Hello, Michael," a shy teenager answered back while looking at the ground.

"Hello, Angel. Charlie needs to go for a walk. Fancy taking him?" At once she looked up, nodding her head. "yes!" she yelled. Pulling her smartphone, from her jean pocket. Calling her friends, telling them about the dog. Disappearing with Charlie, once her best friend from next door appeared. Both teenage girls were making a commotion over the dog.

My uncle fired up the BBQ. More members of the family came around. Everyone with enthusiasm for seeing me. Welcoming me back home, with open arms. Lunch was rich like I always remembered it. My aunt did not sit down for a moment. By four in the afternoon, everyone had left. My uncle, aunt and me were at the front of the house on the lounge chairs, enjoying our frappe. Maria is sitting on the stairs leading to the veranda, stroking Charlie's ears while he lay his head on her lap.

"I haven't seen George, how is he? Is he still doing his national service?" I ask. George is their oldest. He was twenty years old. I was not sure if he had finished yet. My uncle looked at my aunt like he was telling her to answer this question. Either of them had to say anything. Maria responded to my inquiry.

While playing with Charlie, she said. "Owe George finished the army six months ago. Since he purchased that car, we hardly see him." With sadness in her voice, Maria continued, "he is always arguing with mum and dad. He never used to be like that. Now he's always shouting at me." Wiping her eyes, Maria got up and went inside.

"I'll get the spare room ready. You can stay here tonight," my aunt said, trying to change the subject.

I wanted to ask them about George, but they seemed upset about it. "I will be going to my parent's house." Taking her hand, I stroked it. Smiling at me, she got up to get the keys to the house.

It was a five-minute drive there. Parking the Wrangler outside the house, my aunt stopping just behind me. Getting out of her car, she marched up the pathway to the front door. I stood at the front gate, staring at the house. It hadn't changed. There was wear from the seven years I was gone, but it was well maintained.

"Are you going to come inside or stand there gawking!" she called.

Walking from one room to the other, inspecting everything around me. Nothing had changed. It was the same as I remembered it. Standing at the entrance of my bedroom, I scanned the room. Everything in its place, like I left it seven years ago. I felt a tear run down my cheek. Rushing to the bathroom, I quickly locked the door. Turning on the water, I washed my face, trying to compose myself.

My aunt was in the kitchen standing by the kettle, waiting for the water to boil. Two mugs were sitting on the kitchen counter. Hearing my footsteps, she turned around.

"I tried to keep the place as clean as possible. Coming at least twice a week to do your father's laundry and housework. He wasn't the same after you left." Her hand on the kettle's handle, once the switch popped up. She commenced pouring the hot liquid into the mugs.

Rubbing her back, I said in a soft voice, "You did more than enough, to help my father." Sitting her down at the kitchen table, I continued to prepare the two beverages. That is when the doorbell rang.

She went to see who it was. There was the sound of female chatting in the foyer. I didn't take any notice, as I thought it was one of the neighbours and had come to say hello to my aunt.

My aunt entered the kitchen with a smirk on her face. "You have a visitor in the hall." Gesturing her hand for the guest to come into the kitchen. Entering the kitchen, it was Helen. The doctor from the hospital.

"Hi, sorry for intruding. I was visiting a friend in Avgorou. She told me where you lived. I'm sorry, you're probably busy. It's best I leave." She turned to leave.

I just stood there. Now, this lady was lovely in a doctor's white robe. In a short sleeve flared dress, she was beautiful. I just stood there speechless. Thank god my aunt Androula was here.

As my aunt grasped her arm, she turned her around to face me. "Michael, I need to go. I have three hungry mouths to feed," my aunt said. Giving me a quick wink, she was gone in a flash. I was left standing there, did not know what to say.

"Hi," I said while gawking at her.

"Hi, is there anything wrong, why are you looking at me like that?" she said with a bewildered look on her face.

"No, it's just a surprise to see you. I have a spare coffee if you would like to join me. Since my aunt was in a hurry to leave." Holding up one of the mugs, I handed it over to her.

We sat at the table and talked for a while. Telling me, about the time she was at university in Greece. When the subject of relationships came up, I said to her, "It's Charlie and me." Pointing to Charlie, who was sitting there watching us. "What about you? There must be someone, a lovely lady like you."

Smiling at me, she replied, "the right one has not turned up yet."

I gave her a tour of the house. While Charlie followed us, walking between us. We sat for a while in the living room looking through the photo albums. Finding old pictures when we were at school. Coming across a picture of Tony and me, arms across each other's shoulder. Looking at the camera, laughing. At that moment I froze, my eyes going moist. Turning away, not to be seen like that by Helen.

Grasping my chin, she turned my head to face her. "Hey, it's good to let your emotions out." With her finger, she gently wiped the tear away from my cheek. I wanted to lean forward and kiss her, but I didn't know how she would react.

Checking the time on her watch, she got up. "It's past seven. I need to go."

We walked to her car, Charlie by my side all the way. Leaning down, she stroked Charlie's head. "You look after him, Charlie," she said to the dog. As she stood up, our faces were inches away from each other. Putting my hand out for a handshake, she ignored it. Instead, she leaned forward, kissing me on the cheek. "I'm working tomorrow. I'll see you soon." Getting in her car, I watched her drive away.

"That didn't take you long." It was my aunt Androula, standing behind me.

"We are just friends," I replied.

"Sure, just friends. Come on let's go to the hospital and see your dad."

Following my aunt, I turned to look behind me at the road, where Helen drove off, smiling.

Chapter 4

Next day, I spent the morning doing some odd jobs around the house. Rampaging through my things, a lot of memories came back, happy and sad. It was midday when my aunt came around, finding me in the garden taking care of the fruit trees. Living on a farm for seven years, you learn to enjoy the tranquillity.

"I see you have become handy with a hoe." My aunt called out from the veranda.

"The trees needed some watering from this heat," I called back.
Putting her hand up to block the sun from blinding her. "It's more than watering you've done. Come on get changed we'll go and see your dad."

When we got to the hospital yesterday, we didn't get the chance to talk to him as he was asleep. The nurse on duty told us that he was in deep thought all day.

When we got to the hospital, he was sitting up having some jelly with ice cream. When he saw us walk into the ward his face lit up. He wouldn't stop talking. He wanted to know everything I did when I was away. He sat there listening closely. You could see on his face how proud he was of my achievements. When the doctor made her round, that is Helen. He wanted to introduce me to her. No one said anything until Helen had left the ward, then dear aunty spilt the beans.

"Oh, don't worry dear brother, they already know each other," aunty said as quickly as possible. Just in case someone else told him first.

"We are just friends." I attacked back.

"It didn't look like that last night. The way she kissed you," she said at the same time fixing the pillow for dad to be more comfortable.

Pulling himself up to sit straighter, he said to me, "That didn't take you long."

"I said the same thing, Costa," my aunt said while simpering at me.

The next few weeks went by quickly. I visited my father twice a day. We would sit and converse for hours. The years that we lost. We were making up for now. The doctors told us, it would be more likely that he will spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair. It didn't put him down. He was happy I was there, and I was well.

Helen and I were getting closer, getting to know each other better. I saw her on a daily basis at the hospital. Being together when we had the chance after she finished work. On her day off we drove to Paphos, to check on my vineyards. Everyone loved her in Stelio's family.

Life was good. It was almost a month since I went to Avgorou. I hadn't seen Savvas in that time. I saw his son Mario on a few occasions. He tried to provoke me every time. But I just turned and walked away, ignoring him. My concern was my father. For him to get better and come home. Until one Friday night.

I had a long day at the hospital. My father was going to be released to come home on Monday. We spent all morning seeing his doctors, to give him the go-ahead for Monday. I had dinner at Helen's before coming back to the village. It was almost midnight when I got home.

Jumping in the shower, I stood there letting the cooling water run over me. Suddenly the doorbell rang. Charlie started barking outside the bathroom door, as the doorbell kept ringing. Wrapping a towel around my waist, I rushed to the door to see who it was. Standing there was uncle Sotiris with a teenager. I hadn't seen my cousin George, for the entire month I was here,, and I was sure this wasn't him.

"Uncle, everything ok?"

"This is George's best friend, Peter. He came to tell me George is at the bar and he's drunk. Mario and some others are trying to make him drive them to Ayia Napa. I don't know what to do Michael. He won't listen." My uncle was shaking with worry.

"Go home, leave it to me," I said to my uncle. Turning to the teenager, I ordered him. "Peter go to the bar, try and stall him for me."

"OK." Running to get into his car.

Throwing on a pair of jeans and a T-shirt, I ran out the house, pulling the door shut behind me. Slamming my foot on the accelerator, I was outside the bar within minutes. Bringing the Wrangler to a halt, Causing a white cloud from the tyre skid.

The lighting in the bar was low, making it difficult to spot anyone. Scanning the tables for George or Peter. I located Peter, next to him a young man. It was George, I recognised him at once. He looked the same as I remembered him. I sat at the bar, looking at my cousin from the reflection on the large mirror opposite me. At that moment the main door to the bar opened. Four guys walked in, sitting a few tables away from my cousin. That is when I notice Mario and Lucas, along with two others. "Eight of them against one, odds not too good," I whispered.

The barman was a big man. He walked over to me, wiping the bar in front of me. "What can I get you." His voice was deep. It matched his massive body.

"Give me a shot of your best whisky."

"Any particular brand?"

"What would your choice be?"

Pulling out two whisky glasses from under the counter. The barman poured two doubles. "How long has it been since you had a drink?" the barman asked.

"Seven years."

Nodding his head, he picked up one of the whisky glasses while I took the other. "To our health," he said. We both tapped our drinks, at the same time tossing back the spirit.

"Nice place you got here." I complimented the barman.

"It needs a facelift. A fresh coat of paint and new furniture. Also, I need to get rid of some customers from coming here." His eyes on the four guys who walked in after me. They were sitting there with their shoes on the table.

My cousin got up, spinning the car key ring on his finger. At the same time, Mario and two of his henchmen got up.

"How much do I owe you, my friend."

"The drinks on me. You might need this to help you out." Showing me a baseball bat, he was holding behind the bar out of view from others.

Shaking my head, refusing the weapon. "No, then it would be too easy."

Something I forgot to mention. After I recovered from my injuries, uncle Stelios showed me a few moves to defend myself. Jimmy and I would practice on each other. Other than giving each other a few bruises, we never needed to protect ourselves from anyone.

George was walking towards me. Swinging the stall around, I snatched the car keys from his hand. "You won't be needing these tonight George," I said, my eyes glued to what was behind him. Mario's two goons were progressing towards me.

"Give me my keys back you fucking coward!" He spat at me, his face inches from mine.

I was more interested in what was happening behind him. Shifting him away with my left hand, pulling George behind me. Bringing my right fist across one of the goon's cheeks, breaking his nose at the same time. With the second one charging at me, moving to the side, he missed me. I pushed him with my shoulder, sending him crashing into some tables. With no hesitation, the other four got up to help their comrades. It didn't take them long to back off. Standing next to me was the barman, both his fists wrapped around the baseball bat handle. In a batting position facing the aggressors.

"You're pretty fast for a big guy," I said. Both my eyes still on the four goons.

"I thought you might need some help. Also, I needed some exercise," the barman replied, ready to swing at anyone or anything that came towards him.

Mario stood there, his eyes red, full of anger. With a shift of his hand, he ordered his men to leave. Walking out last, he turned, with hatred in his voice he said, "It's not over."

"You ok?" I asked George, who was standing next to me. Looking at the floor, from embarrassment.

"I'll be ok," he replied in a whisper. His friend Peter rushing to his side.

This guy next to you, he is your friend. Not those assholes! I yelled at him. "Come here." I grabbed him, hugging him. "It's good to see you, little cousin."

The barman filled up the whisky glass with another double, this time I remembered the brand from the shape of the bottle. 'Jack Daniel's'.

"What's your name, my friend?" the barman asked.

"Michael."

"My name is Big Joe like it says in the shop window." True to his words, his name was written across the window. Same font as the bottle of whisky sitting on the counter.

Looking at the damage I caused, from pushing the thug onto the tables, I turned to Joe "I want to pay for the damages I caused?" Putting my hand in my pocket, withdrawing my wallet.

"As I said earlier, the furniture needs changing. The place needed a little action, don't worry about it." Taking the whisky glass, he tossed back the drink.

"Thanks, Joe" Turning to my cousin, I said, "Ready to go."

Still looking at the ground, he nodded his head.

We drove to Ayia Napa, having a long talk on the way. I explained to him that his parents were worried about him. To talk to them, that they loved him. He listened, bowing his head in approval.

Parking the Wrangler besides the beach, I said to him, "let's go for a walk." Accompanying me along the beach, I stopped at a part of the beach where the golden sand sparkled from the five-star hotel's lights. Looking up, I stared at the building. "Seven years ago, my best friend drowned on this part of the beach. He tried to save his drunk brother from drowning. The same person that got you drunk tonight."

"Mario said it was you that Tony tried to save and drowned."

"That is Mario's story. Which his puppet on a string, Lucas confirmed." Turning, I commenced walking back to the Jeep, George trying to keep up.

It was after two in the morning when we got back. With a sigh of relief, both of George's parents embraced him in a hug. At the same time thanking me. He apologised to both of them, promising them, that he will change. Aunt Androulla kissed him on the forehead, releasing him she turned to me.

"Thank you, Michael." Embracing me, she then kissed me as well.

Looking at me this time, George said, "thank you for stopping me from doing something stupid. Also, I want to say sorry for calling you a coward."

"Anytime you want to talk. My door is open for you," I said to George, giving him a light punch on the shoulder.

"Maybe you could teach me some of those sleek moves you did tonight." George laughed.

Chapter 5

Looking out of the kitchen window, Charlie was lying on the grass, all four legs spread out. It was eight in the morning, and the temperature was already 30 Celsius.

I was waiting for Helen to come down, we arranged to clean the house. Get it ready, when dad comes home on Monday. While emptying the dishwasher, the doorbell rang. Charlie was at the front door before I had the chance to turn around. Barking at whoever was outside, running circles in front of the entrance.

It was my aunt with George and Maria. Maria rushed to Charlie, rubbing his head. While the dog rolled over waiting for a rub on his stomach. George with a bag full of cleaning material, he dropped it on the kitchen table. My aunt opened one of the kitchen units, finding a pair of rubber gloves. With Helen arriving ten minutes later. By midday the house was spotless. While the ladies relaxed on the veranda, George and I washed our cars. While Maria bathed Charlie, using the hosepipe.

Maria and her mum got into a little dispute. "I don't want you getting too attached to the dog. When he leaves, you'll be upset," she told Maria.

"Get her a puppy!" I called out.

"Don't you start putting ideas into her head!" my aunt answered back. She stood on the veranda with both her hands on her hips.

"Yes, mum, can I have a puppy?" Maria started dancing around.

"Oh, God give me patience!" aunt Androulla called out. She marched into the house, gesturing Helen. "Let's make ourselves some coffee, Helen." George and I, laughing our hearts out.

By four we were on the road to see my father. Helen and I in the Wrangler and George with his mum and sister in his Beamer. Stopping at a fast-food to get dad a Doner Kebab. Maria was still debating with her mum about getting a puppy. We settled the discussion, by me promising that I would buy her the pet, but Maria would have full responsibility for it.

We spent a few hours with my father. He was recovering well. We took him to the hospital garden. Where he had his kebab, with a Keo beer, a friend of his smuggled into the hospital. Surprising all of us, as he never drinks. "Jesus, it's only a beer," he said with a smirk on his face.

It was just after nine when we left. All of us shuttered. Driving back to the village, we were both quiet in the car. While changing gear, Helen put her hand on top of mine. I looked over, smiling at her.

"I am so exhausted to drive back to Larnaca," Helen said. She sounded sleepy.

"Why don't you stay at my place tonight?"

"Are you sure." All of a sudden, her voice sounded brighter. Turning up the volume on the radio, she started singing the lyrics to a familiar song by Lana Del Rey.

A couple of miles before entering the village. Checking my rear-view mirror a car was approaching me at high speed. Once the vehicle was a few metres from my bumper, the driver commenced flicking his beam lights and furiously pressing the horn.

Slowing down to make way, for the driver to overtake. He continued to stay behind me, driving very close. Hooting his horn until I entered the residential area of the village. With the streets lights, I could see what car it was. It was a blue Audi A6. The vehicle the police use when they are undercover.

Slowing down, I pulled over. The Audi without hesitation stopped in front of me, blocking most of the road. Two officers climbed out of the car. From the driver's side, it was an officer I knew very well. The other officer was young. I didn't know him. He must have been new in the force.

"What happened Michael you weren't speeding?" Helen asked, with a worried tone in her voice.

"No, but I have a rough idea, why he stopped me." Gesturing with my head towards the older officer, I explained to Helen.

"When I told you, I was held down by an officer while Mr Savvas whipped me. That is him, officer Petrou."

In a slow walk, the officer in charge commenced making his way to the Wrangler. The younger officer following his mentor.

"Is there anything wrong Officer?" I asked him.

"Yes, there is. The police have been looking for you all day."

"I was home until four in the afternoon. I believe you know my address. Wouldn't that be the first place you would look for someone? Where they live." I was trying to be as sarcastic as possible, without overstepping the boundaries.

He was fuming. In an aggressive tone, he yelled, "I will need you to come with me to the station. I'm charging you with grievous bodily harm to two gentlemen. Last night in Big Joe's bar."

I froze, I was speechless for a moment. "Ok, officer I'll follow you to the station." Firing the engine and putting the Jeep in gear.

His hand went to his side, ready to pull out his weapon. "The car stays here; you're coming with us." He stood there waiting for my response.

Turning off the ignition, I turned to Helen, "Go to my aunt's house and find George." Then I whispered to her, what I wanted George to do.

Once I was out of the car, Officer Petrou took out his handcuffs. He was ready to use them on me. "Do you want me to come quietly or do you want to call back-up," I angrily said. Hooking the cuffs back on his belt, I accompanied him to the Audi.

At the police station, Officer Petrou disappeared in one of the offices. The Officer who was with him in the car took a statement. While giving him a description of what happened, there was a loud noise caused by the door slamming open. It was Mr Savvas. He marched up to me, stopping inches away from me before speaking.

"What did you do to my men you little bastard? They went to have a drink after a hard day's work, and you attacked them," he spat at me.

I hadn't seen Mr Savvas since I came back. I feared when this moment would come. But all I saw in front of me was a man. Yes, he had money and power, but at the end of the day, he was just a man. Seven years ago, I would have said nothing. Would have most probably apologised, but not now.

"Is that what they told you?" I answered back.

"There were enough witnesses that saw you when you attacked them," Officer Petrou yelled out as he came out of his office.

At that moment Big Joe walked into the station followed by George and Helen. When he got nearer, I smiled. Seeing the videotape, in his hand. When he noticed Mr Savvas, you could tell there was tension between the two men.

"You can record on a digital video you know. It's much sharper," I joked with Joe.

"Still does the same job," he answered back. Smiling at me, as he handed me the videotape.

We all watched the video from the moment I walked into the bar until the moment Mario left. No one said a word. I broke the silence. "Can I go now, officer. It has been a long day. I would like to go home."

Mr Savvas and Officer Petrou steamed out of the station, mumbling to each other. Big Joe was standing there in victory, as he watched them walk out.

"What was all that about, Big Man?" I asked as I looked up at him.

"He thinks he can control everyone and everything that happens. Well, this battle he lost. That man has been trying to close my bar ever since I opened it," he said with anger in his voice. Still looking at the entrance of the station after they had gone.

"Maybe you intimidate him with your size. You are big and scary Joe." I smiled at him.

Curling his lip and smiling, he turned to me. "Maybe I do. You owe me a drink for this one my friend."

"That I do." Putting out my hand for a handshake with the new friend I made.

After saying our farewells with Big Joe and George. Helen and I started making our way back to my parent's house. On the drive there, we didn't talk much. Once we were there, Helen asked me if she could take a shower. Showing her where everything was in the bathroom, telling her she can get dressed in my bedroom when she finished. Going to the guest room, I prepared the bed with some fresh sheets. I could hear Helen humming to a love song that was playing on the radio, while we were driving back to the village. I even started humming it as well, as it was one of those tunes you can't get out of your head. I don't know if it was that or I was panic-stricken.

I was in the kitchen, opening and closing the cupboards as if I was looking for something I misplaced. All nerves, that's what I was. I had never been this alone with a woman before. Rampaging in one of the draws, the sound of bare feet on the ceramic tiles caught my attention.

"I didn't have anything to wear. So, I borrowed one of your shirts. I hope you don't mind?" Helen asked in an innocent voice.

She stood there in the doorway. Her hair slightly tilted to the side, she was drying the ends with a hand towel. Wearing one of my shirts, three of the buttons undone on the top. Revealing part of her chest, but not too much. Enough for the mind to wonder. Looking down, the bottom of the outfit was scarcely covering her thighs.

"It's, it's, it's ok," I stuttered, as I tried to speak. My eyes glued to Helen. Once she entered the kitchen, she sat down at the kitchen table. Continuing to dry her hair, while smiling at me.

"I pre, prepared the bed in the spare room for you," I stuttered again, something I had never done before. That is to stutter.

Rushing past her, I went straight to the bathroom. Rending my clothes off, I went straight under the shower. Letting the cold water run on my erect manhood. Standing there with both my hands holding myself up on the wall, while the water sprinkled over me. Feeling a gentle touch on my back, as Helen drew lines on my back. Feeling my scars which covered most of my back. Turning around, I was facing her. She was so close I could feel her breathing on me. Tears were running down her cheeks.

"What kind of a monster would do something like that. Do you feel any discomfort when I touch you there?" Helen asked with concern.

"No, I am ok."

Wiping her cheeks with my thump, I leaned forward kissing her passionately on the lips. Slowly unbuttoning the now soaking wet shirt, she was wearing. Our tongues tangled together like our bodies, getting to know each other inch by inch. We made love under the running water. Eventually, Helen did not get the chance to sleep in the spare room. We spent most of the night making intense love in my bedroom.
Chapter 6

Lying there on my side, I watched the woman I have got to know in this short time. Thinking about how much I loved her. Did she feel the same way about me? Pushing the strand of hair away from her face, I gave her a light kiss on her lips. Her lip curled up at the ends into a smile, as she curled up into my arms. She slowly opened her eyes.

"I have a confession to make," she whispered in my ear.

With a lump in my throat, I said, "what?"

Putting her mouth to my ear, she whispered, "I love you." Wrapping her arms around me, I did the same. Kissing each other passionately, while we curled up together.

Suddenly the doorbell rang, which we both ignored. A moment later it started ringing again. This time continuously, the chime going into a loop of the same sound.

"Ok, ok I'm coming." Jumping out of bed, I slipped on a pair of shorts. Rushing out of the bedroom, pulling the door behind me to close. Opening the front door, in front of me was auntie Androulla, next to her Maria with a dog strap in her hand, on the other end of the belt was Charlie, sitting there looking up at me. Charlie stayed around their house last night. As a trial for Maria, to see if she can look after a dog.

"Good morning. You're up nice and early today." I cheerfully said.

"Good morning, or should I say good afternoon. Since it is nearly midday," my aunt sarcastically said with her eyebrow curled up. Walking into the hallway, straight to the kitchen. "Where's Helen? Her car is outside," my aunt said while looking around.

While filling up the kettle, I smiled. "Helen's gone to get something from the bedroom."

"Is that why the bedroom door is closed?" she quickly answered back. Coming closer to me, she whispers in my ear. "I like her a lot. Your dad was asking about you two as well." Slapping me on the bum, she called out, "Come on Maria, let's go, your cousin is busy!"

Helen and I spent Sunday afternoon together. We did some gardening, as she did not have much knowledge about landscaping. I explained to her, some basics about fruit trees. How to get rid of weeds around the stem the quickest and effective way. It was late in the afternoon when we finished. Sitting on the veranda with our frappe, relishing the work we did together.

"Not bad, not bad at all. You are terrific in the garden. You have to stand back to see the difference after you finish," Helen praised. Coming over to my side, she put her arm around my shoulder. As we both sat back, admiring the sunset.

Late in the evening, after stopping at Helen's flat to get some clothes, we visited my father. He seemed unsettled for some reason. I asked him if everything was ok. But he just said that he was worried that the doctor would not let him leave after the weekend. Helen assured him when she spoke to the professor. He reassured her that my father would go home on Monday. But I knew, something else was eating away at my father. I didn't want to agitate him anymore, so I left it at that. We stayed with him until late, leaving after ten in the evening.

Before going, we passed by the reception to speak with the nurse who was on duty. I let Helen do all the talking as she knew the employees at the hospital.

Checking the nurse's name tag before she spoke to her. "Hello Penny, you must be new here? You probably don't know me," Helen said.

Quickly pushing back, the chair, she got up. "I am sorry Doctor Kosta, I did not recognise you," the nurse said with fear in her voice.

"It's ok Penny. I just wanted to ask you if Mr Michaelides had any visitors today?"

"When I came on my shift at midday, there was a gentleman who visited him."

"What did he look like Penny," I asked.

"He was the same age, like your father. Slightly shorter than you. He was wearing a suit. That is what drew my attention. Who wears a suit in this weather?" the nurse replied.

"Thank you, Penny. Have a good evening," Helen said. Putting her hand through my arm, we started walking towards the exit in silence until we were outside.

Once the sliding doors closed behind me, I said, "You know who came to visit my dad today. That is why he was unsettled. It was Savvas." Walking across the car park, taking long strides. Helen could barely keep up with me. "Let's see what he has to say to me when he sees me on his doorstep!" I angrily yelled out.

Grabbing my arm, Helen pulled me back. "You're angry, let's go home, and we'll visit him together in the morning," Helen calmly said.

All night I was restless, falling asleep in the early hours of the morning. When I woke up, it was as if I had just closed my eyes. While making breakfast, I was all nerves. Helen tried to calm me down, with not much success. By ten in the morning, I had a call from my aunt. Telling me, that she is on her way to the hospital. I said to her to go ahead and that we will meet her there.

Jumping in the Wrangler with Helen, I drove straight to Savvas mansion. Around the property, stood an eight-foot wall. The only entrance from the road, a black metal security gate. Standing in the middle of the gate, two suits with their hands crossed across there chest. One of them spoke into a handsfree unit he had on his blazer, on seen the Wrangler approach the gate. Stopping the Jeep not more than a meter in front of them, I unhooked my seatbelt to get out.

Helen grabbed my arm before I could open the door. "You're just going to talk to him, no shouting or threatening."

I nodded at her. "Sit in the driver's seat and keep the engine running," I told her while I winked at her.

Marching up to the two suits, stopping inches away from them. They didn't twitch. Just stood there, with no expression on their face. "I want to see your boss?" I asked like I was ordering them.

At the same time, they both took a step forward. "Our boss doesn't want to see you," handsfree said in an aggressive voice.

"Look I am not leaving until I see Mr Savvas. We can do this the easy way or the hard way!" I answered back with the same aggressive tone in my voice.

"What are you going to do, force yourself passed us! Ha ha ha ha! " The other one yelled while they both started laughing.

"You see my girlfriend tends to shake when she gets nervous. If you come any closer to me, that clutch could slip from under her foot." Looking behind me, at Helen, I nodded my head. Suddenly there was the deafening sound of the Wrangler's diesel engine. "Now gentlemen, you don't want to be caught between the Jeep's grille gate and those gates." Pointing towards the car and then the gates, behind them.

After speaking in his earpiece again. A few moments later the gate commenced opening. Suits stepped to one side, making way for us to drive up to the house. The narrow road towards the house was gravelled. The large all-terrain General Grabber tyres flung the gravel inside the metal wheel arch, causing an ear-splitting sound.

At the end of the driveway, I forced my foot on the brake, causing the vehicle to skid before stopping a couple of feet away from the steps leading to the front door.

Jumping out of the Jeep, I marched up to the porch. With my hand formed into a fist, I start knocking on the front door with my knuckles. Behind me, I can hear Helen's heels on the steps. Grabbing my arm, she pulls me a step back.

"Keep calm," she calmly says, while rubbing my shoulder.

The door opens, a senior woman stands at the entrance gazing at me. Her eyes moist, her lips trembling. It took me a moment to acknowledge who she was. It was Mrs Katerina, my best friend Tony's mother. Dressed in black, like all Orthodox dress when they have a loss. You wear dark clothes for a year, to mourn that person you have lost. It has been seven years, and she was still wearing black. A woman that was proud of her appearances looked twenty years older since that fatal day seven years ago. For that moment, my anger had drained from my body.

"Hello, Michael," her voice was hollow, no feeling in her tone.

Gesturing us inside, closing the door behind us. Leading us to a large room, an oak office desk at the end, in front of it two double couches facing each other. In one corner a Drink counter, behind it the wall covered with rows of books. The other corner of the room, a glass cabinet. Many small objects inside, which I recognised at once. Items that belonged to Tony, some trophies he won, watch, sunglasses etc. Savvas had built a shrine of his son's things.

"He'll be with you soon, Michael," Mrs Katerina said. Leaving the room, at once.

Before I could say anything, the door closed behind her. What do I tell her, "I'm sorry for what happened to Tony." I couldn't look her in the eye, not alone say something. Walking closer to the cabinet, Helen next to me like my shadow, to where my best friend's treasures were. Putting my hand on the glass cabinet, trying to remember good memories we had together.

"What do you want Michael?"

The voice snapped me out of my thoughts. It was Savvas, entering the room, close behind him another one of his henchmen. I stared at him with a look of daggers as he strolled over to the oak desk, picking up a leather holder.

"Why did you go and see my father yesterday?" I spat out.

Opening the holder, he took out a fountain pen and commenced to write. "I'm going to get to the point. I'm not going to beat around the bush Michael. I want you out of Avgorou," he calmly replied, finishing off by removing a cheque from the holder and holding it out. "The amount I have written on this cheque, you can start a new life anywhere you want." Giving the piece of paper to the henchman to hand it over to me.

The bodyguard walked over, like a bodybuilder, whose biceps are too big for his head. With his arms out to the side and slightly forward. He pushed the cheque into my chest, with force. "Take it!" he yelled out in a deep muscular voice. Pushing the paper into my rib cage harder this time, causing enough pain to make me step back. "If you don't take it, I am going to ram it down your throat!" he screamed. Bringing his hand up to my face, with the cheque crunched up in his fist. Shifting quickly to the right, avoiding the force of his fist. I grabbed his wrist, twisting it hard, forcing him to drop to his knees. He wasn't aggressive anymore. He was busy nursing the pain on his hand.

Going up to Savvas, with Helen's hand tight in my hand, I calmly said to him. "I've got news for you. I'm not going anywhere. It will take a lot more than your money and muscle to make me leave." Leaving him standing there speechless, while Helen and I made our way out.

Rushing towards us, in the foyer, it was the two suits from the gate. Stopping in front of us, with their fists ready for action. I moved Helen behind me, at the same time taking a defensive position.

"Someone bring some ice for this idiot!" Savvas yelled. Both suits ran passed us, disappearing into the room.

"Let's get out of here, Angel," I said to Helen while smiling at her.

We were both quiet, as we drove out of the village. Once we were on the motorway towards the hospital, Helen broke the silence.

"How did you do that to his wrist? You have to show me. You never know when you might need to defend yourself."

The next half-hour I explained to Helen, the different moves you can do to defend yourself. Something which is difficult to do while driving.

Chapter 7

I can't remember when was the last time I had seen my father so happy. When we got home, his eyes watered up. Seeing the house cleaned up and freshly painted. Rolling the wheelchair to the garden porch, he sat there with his hand over his mouth. Helen was standing on his left while I was on his right side, my palm on his shoulder. Bringing his hand up to his arm, he squeezed my hand.

"Thank you, son," he said, while his tears flooded his cheeks.

We sat at the kitchen table, Helen going through a plan my new love and I had put together. It was a design of the house, with ideas in which we had. How to modify the building for my father's needs. He looked at the layout, while we explained to him. Looking up at us with admiration, whenever we took the turn in explaining to him something.

It was late in the afternoon when I decided to fire up the BBQ. By the time it took me to light up the charcoal, the house was full of family and friends who had come to welcome dad back home.

Uncle Sotiris took over the BBQ. "Go and attend to your guests and your father. Let someone else do this, who knows how to make the perfect pork chops." Taking the tongs, he shoved me over. Everyone came, bringing food with them. If not food it was wine or beers. It was after midnight when everyone left. I was helping Helen, and my aunt put away the last of the plates when dad came into the kitchen.

Reaching for a picture of my mother, he has on the kitchen counter. He takes it and puts the photo frame to his chest. "We should do this more often. There hasn't been much happiness in this house for years." All three of us stopped what we were doing to comfort my father.

Once everyone was gone, I was helping dad to bed. The nurses at the hospital trained me on some basics of caring for someone who has disabilities. Eventually, dad would look after himself. Until he builds up strength on his upper-body, someone needs to be here. Before leaving the room, I lifted him up slightly to take his medicine.

Helen called out, "have you seen my overnight bag babes?"

Twitching his eyebrows, my father said, "Babes, that sounds interesting."

Rolling my eyes, I answered back to Helen, "It's in the wardrobe. There wasn't anything in it when I put it there."

"Oh, I need it for my things. I better make a move. I have to be at work by eight."

I looked at my father before telling Helen. I wanted his approval, before asking Helen to stay for the night. I knew he wouldn't mind. It was the respect of asking first. "It's passed one at night young lady. You're not going anywhere!" my father called out.

I woke up to find Helen was not next to me. Stretching my arms, I felt like turning and going back to sleep, but I needed to check on dad. Grasping my watch from the side cabinet, it showed nine in the morning. Giving it a few shakes before putting it on my wrist. A habit I have. The watch was a gift from my father for my sixteenth birthday. "Give it a few shakes before you put it on, an automatic watch sometimes needs to wind up if it's been sitting a while", he explained to me.

Dad was out on the veranda, enjoying his coffee. By his side Charlie lying there, not a care in the world. "Good morning dad."

"Good morning son."

"Helen must have got up early and gone to work. I'm going to make myself an omelette. You fancy one as well dad?" I cheerfully said, while filling up the coffee jug with water.

"I'm okay Michael. Helen and I had breakfast before she left. She was up before me, prepared everything. Even helped me out of bed. I like her son, reminds me of your mum," he told me while wheeling his wheelchair into the kitchen. Charlie, strolling behind him.

"I like her too dad."

*****

Two months had passed since dad had left the hospital. It was a long road for him, to adapt to his new way of life. He would try to do something on his own, without success. Getting frustrated, he would give up on life. Helen and I would be by his side. Encouraging him every day, pushing the boundaries to his abilities. Taking that extra step, to his goal.

He began to work out on his upper body. Every morning, when I finished my morning run, we would work out together. Supporting him, pushing him to his next objective.

We had builders and carpenters in the house. Had to bring contractors from Larnaca. Everyone was busy in the village. "We have too much work, too busy to take on any new projects", that is what they would say. Big Joe and I with a sledgehammer each, would do the hard labour work. The building crew did the rest. Installing wheelchair ramps and a newly fitted kitchen.

Every time I stepped out of the house. I would encounter hostility from people I had known most of my life. In the supermarket, at the petrol station, everywhere. Wherever I turned, men and women would look the other way. As long as there was peace, I was happy.

Dad had been in the house for almost two months. The only outdoor activity he had seen was in the back garden. It was late in the evening, Helen was working the night shift. Dad and I had just finished our meal, after washing up everything. He wanted to see some of his friends at the coffee shop. Have a chat with his friend Takis about the hunting season they had this year.

"It's late dad, and I'm tired. Maybe tomorrow." It was an excuse. I didn't want to take dad out, just in case, people treated him the way they approached me.

"Come on Michael. we can do with some fresh air." Rolling his wheelchair to his bedroom to get ready.

Bringing the Wrangler to a halt outside Takis' coffee shop. I could sense everyone's eyes pointed towards the Jeep. I was hoping dad did not notice anything. Lifting him out of the car seat, I placed him in his wheelchair. Grasping the wheelchair handles, I commenced pushing the wheelchair towards the coffee shop. "It's ok son. I'll take it from here." Once I let go of the handles, he wheeled himself as fast as he could. Like a child rushing into a candy store.

Entering the premises, dad went straight to the counter to say hello to his friend Takis. The proprietor on seeing my father, at once rushed over to greet him.

"My good friend, welcome back home," Takis said to dad, at the same time taking his hand to give him a firm handshake. "Hey, everyone look who's back our good friend Costas!" He called out.

There was sudden silence. Everyone looked over for a few seconds then went back to what they were doing. Takis took the handles of the wheelchair, and he pushed it next to one of the tables nearby. "Let me make you two Greek coffees guys," Takis said to us, smiling at me and nodding his head. I sat opposite dad, waiting to see his reaction.

"Hi Jack, how is the water pump you had problems with, did you fix it?" dad asked one of the farmers he knew sitting on the table next to ours.

"It's ok," the man answered, then turned his back to us.

Dad looked towards the Mayor at another table who was with three others, playing cards. "Peter, they have done a good job with the roads. Almost all the potholes are gone." I could see the frustration on dad's face.

"Costa he has to go. Your son has to leave the village. Go back to where he was for seven years. He's causing us too many problems being here," the Mayor answered back.

Dad just stared at the man. He had the saddest look on his face I had ever seen. With his head down he started wheeling himself out of the shop, towards the car. Getting up, I followed him to the car. Helping him into the Jeep, not exchanging a single word. Putting the wheelchair in the back, I decided to go back to the coffee shop.

Walking straight up to Takis, who was preoccupied with making some beverages. "Taki, I'm sorry we have to go. Dad wasn't feeling very well." He was speechless; he didn't have anything to say.

Turning around, I looked around me. Everyone was acting as if nothing happened. Walking up to the table we were seated, I just stood there. Like I was ready to give a speech. No one would turn to look at me. Turning my hand into a fist, I raised it and brought it crashing down onto the table. Causing a deafening sound, making everyone jump, getting their attention. I was shaking with anger, all I wanted to do at that moment was to pick up that table and smash it into a million pieces. But I didn't, taking a deep breath I turned to leave.

After two steps I turned. With anger in my voice, I said, "I am twenty-five years old. Until today I was so proud to be from Avgorou. But at this moment I am ashamed to say where I am from." Walking up to Jack, the man, my father asked about the water pump. "How many times did my father help you out? I remember when I was young. You needed help economically when you couldn't put food on the table for your family. Who gave you money? That was the best you could do. 'It's ok.' two words." Walking towards the Mayor as I carried on speaking. "He wanted so much to come here tonight. To see his fellow villagers, his friends and talk about how you did with the hunting season." I reached the Mayor's table. Standing over him, I looked down at him. He was holding his hand of cards like a hand fan. Grabbing them from his hand, I threw them in the middle of the table. Exposing to the other players the cards he had. "How much is he paying you? He seems to be paying everyone else." I waited for a response, but he didn't open his mouth to say anything. "Just as I thought. No comment." Turning to Takis, I apologised before turning to walk out.
Walking out of the shop, I heard Takis behind me. "Come on everyone I'm closing the shop early tonight." There was an objection by everyone. "Which part did you not understand? Everyone out, I'm closing!" He yelled out. That brought a smile to my face. I guess, to speak from the heart is better than smashing tables into a million pieces.

Dad was quiet in the car, as I drove to Joe's Bar. Once parked outside the bar, he refused to get out of the car. He just wanted to go home. A few minutes later, Joe appeared at the entrance. Walking around to the passenger side, opening the car door. "I was wondering when you were going to come and have a drink." As he reached to help my father out of the jeep, he said to me, "Are you going to get the wheelchair or just sit there and gawk."

Entering Joe's bar, the place was buzzing with life. Joe helped dad at one of the tables. At once Joe brought a bottle of his favourite brand with three glasses. Dad asked if he could have a Keo beer, as he was on medication. Joe looked at him for a moment. "You come to my place for the first time, and you're not going to have a JD with me." Then he smiled. "No problem Costa a Keo beer it is." Rushing to the bar, he was back with dad's request a moment later.

"Pretty busy tonight, what is it free drinks night?" I asked Joe.

"No, since that night when you kicked the shit out of those goons. It was a wake-up call for me. I banned them from coming here. Since then it's like this, every evening." At that moment Mario and Lucas walked into the bar. On seeing me, they turned and walked out.

"What about the two that walked in and out straight away?" I asked.

"They are an exception. They've been warned. With the first sign of trouble, they will not be welcome here." Raising his glass, we cheered. Both of us tossing back our drinks. With the bottle in his hand, Joe said, "one more?"

"Go on, one more for the road," I answered back.

Chapter 8

There was the sound of intense banging coming from behind my bedroom door. As I slowly climbed out of bed, I found much difficulty keeping my balance. I thought my head was going to split in half. Just about getting my shorts on, I rushed out of my bedroom straight into the bathroom. The smell of my urine was so intense as I urinated into the toilet. "Is that what it smells like in the morning after having a couple of drinks the night before," was my thought. Letting the cold water run in the wash basin, I initiated to throw water onto my face. Seeing it wasn't helping much, I decided to put my head under the tap.

Once I made it to the kitchen, I discovered where the noise was coming from. There Joe was with a hammer in his hand, putting up some picture hooks. "Jesus Christ, couldn't you wait till everyone got up then start hammering. And what is that wearisome smell, I want to be sick," I called out.

Joe stopped what he was doing, turned to my father who was turning some bacon over in the frying pan. "Costa, hasn't your son ever got drunk?" he asked my father, with a smirk on his face.

"I guess no," my father replied.

"Michael, you want one or two eggs with your bacon," my father invited me, holding a piece of bacon over the pan, as I watched the oil drip from the slice of meat.

"I will stick with a cup of coffee for now." Grabbing a mug, I poured myself a hot beverage. "How comes you came round so early Joe?" I asked.

My father replied, "Early, it's almost midday son."

Snapping my head towards the oven clock, it showed ten minutes before twelve. "shit!" I yelled out. Disappearing into the bathroom, to have a quick shower. Appearing a few minutes later, nice and fresh. No one would have thought I was drinking the previous night. Apart from a headache, I was ready to go. "I have to pick up Helen, I promised her I would go shopping with her today," I explained as I drunk my semi-cold coffee I left on the counter earlier.

Rushing towards the front door, I hear my father shout out, "She's got you on the hook. Now she's drawing you out," my father called out, as they both commenced to laugh. "Ha Ha Ha."

With the roof down on the Wrangler, I floored the accelerator. I drove to Larnaca as fast as possible, trying not to break any driving laws. Reaching my destination, Helen was standing at the entrance of her apartment. She was holding her mobile with one hand, while the other was furiously tapping on the screen. Bringing the vehicle to a standstill, just next to her. Looking up from her device, she was not too happy to see me.

"I have been trying to text you all morning, why don't you reply to your messages?" she yelled at me.

Panicking, I tried to fish my mobile out of my jeans. Managing to retrieve the small device, it slipped out of my hand landing in the gap between the centre console and the driver's seat. Searching for it as I mumbled to Helen, "Sorry, I am not used to all this messenger and Facebook." Struggling to pull it back up with two fingers, not to drop it. Once the thing was in my hand, I pressed the power button. The screen remained black. Looking up at Helen, not knowing what to say.

The angry, beautiful face in front of me was struggling not to smile or even laugh. Climbing into the passenger seat, she leaned towards me kissing me on the lips. With a smile, she said, "come on let's go, for your punishment we are going to go to Nicosia, shopping.

"Sorry, Helen, I overslept."

"Is that why I can still smell the alcohol on your breath. A night out with the boys last night?" she replied, not in a possessive tone.

Exiting the slip road, onto the motorway I pushed the Jeep to the maximum speed I was allowed. Smiling to myself as I thought as each day goes by, I am falling in love more and more with this beautiful person sitting next to me.

Once we were in Nicosia, Helen directed me to The Mall in the city centre. For two hours it was from one shop to the other. Helen was trying a variety of outfits. When a man goes shopping, it's one or two shops, and he's finished. With a woman, it's another story. If I had one of those gizmos that count steps, I am sure I did ten thousand steps. I didn't mind. I loved spending time with her. By the time we finished, I was walking towards the car park with at least half a dozen bags in each hand.

"Are you sure you've finished? We can put the bags in the car and go back," I jokingly said to Helen.

Slapping me lightly on the shoulder, Helen replied, "It isn't every day a girl comes shopping to Nicosia.

It was late afternoon. We headed for the old city of Nicosia. The sun was disappearing behind the beautiful old building that stood in the old town for more than two-hundred years. Finding a small traditional restaurant, we sat to have something to eat.

Choosing a variety of mezes from the menu, we enjoyed each one, as we commented to each other about each dish. That was good comments as the food was terrific. Finishing off with a coffee, we both sat there looking into each other's eyes. Our free hand stretched out across the table, our fingers interlocked together.

When we eventually asked for the bill. The owner of the restaurant brought it over himself. Looking over the check, I noticed a mistake.

"I'm sorry sir, but it seems that you have made a mistake? You should have charged us more," I said to the middle-aged man, standing in front of me, smiling.

"It isn't every day that we see love blossom like you two. You reminded my wife and me when we met thirty years ago." Looking behind him, his wife was watching from the counter.

Taking some notes out of my wallet, I placed them on top of the bill. "Thank you, the food was incredible, including the service."

Hand in hand we walked back to the car. It was a long day, and it will be a lengthy drive back to Avgorou. Driving past the restaurant, the young waitress waved at us as we drove past.

"How much did they charge us at the restaurant?" Helen asked.

"About thirty euros, maybe thirty-five."

"You left a lot more than that."

"It isn't every day you have a meal like that."

Putting her hand on top of mine, when I reached to change gear. She left it there until we got back to the village.

Pulling into the driveway, the headlights from the Jeep shone on Joe's car. He must have stayed with my father, keeping him company until I returned. But it was Saturday evening. He should be at the bar. "Something is wrong," was my first thought. Entering the house, they were both sitting down at the kitchen table. With the expression, they had on their face I knew something was wrong. Tightening the grip on Helen's hand, I waited for them to speak.

"Sit down son, I need to talk to you." my father gesturing me to sit down opposite him. Joe got up, facing away from us. He looked out of the window while rubbing his neck.

"It's your cousin, George. He had a car accident."

"Is he ok?"

"He's in the operating theatre as we speak son. It happened about two hours ago."

Helen and I drove straight to Famagusta General Hospital. Joe stayed with dad until we return. Rushing into the Accident and Emergency waiting room, I saw My aunt, uncle and Maria, sitting there in deep thought. Walking up to my aunt, who was sitting in the middle. I took her hand in comfort. Maria was hugging me from the left, while my uncle, just sat there staring in space.

Uncle Sotiris and I went outside, as he wanted to have a cigarette. He told me what he knew. There weren't any eyewitnesses, but the police assumed that he was driving too fast and lost control of the car. He rolled the BMW in some fields between Avgorou and Ormidia.

"They told us, he was lucky that he had his seatbelt on," my uncle mumbled before he commenced to cry. I let him compose himself before we went back inside. Helen was trying to get as much information as she could about George's health from fellow doctors and nurses. Not being able to get any more information than what we knew. We all waited patiently. More close relatives, came when they heard the news. It was an hour later when the doctor who operated on George, came out to speak to us.

"I did, what I could to stop the bleeding. But George took a hard knock to his head and is in a coma from the swelling." Putting his hands together, making a praying gesture. "With the help of God, when the swelling goes down he will come out of the coma." Hearing this news, my aunt collapsed.

It was a dark time for our family, especially for George's family. My aunt would be by his side every day. Going home, late in the evening. After school, Maria would come to our house. Doing her homework and spending some time with us. Then her mum would pick her up in the evening to take her home. My uncle or I would take over to be with George, by his side during the night. Leaving after one in the morning. Helen pulled a few strings. Arranging for George to be in a room by himself. When I was with him, I would read to him, checking after each page. If there was any movement, looking for the slightest response.

It was mid-November. Three weeks had passed since the accident there was no change in George's condition. The swelling had gone down, but there was no change. George lay there like a vegetable, lifeless.

During this time, I did some investigating. Driving up and down, where George crashed. Looking around for any clues, that may have caused the accident. What piqued my interest, is how did George roll the car on a straight road. Also, where his tyres skidded off the road, there was another set of tyre marks overlapping his, from a wider tyre.

I decided to go and check his car. The mechanic recognised me at once. He welcomed me with a hand gesture. Apologising to me, for the night that I took my father to Takis' coffee shop. Accepting his apology, with another hand gesture. Continuing with the reason I was there, I made a quick analysis of the Beamer, asking him what his opinion was about the accident. His thought was the same as mine, how did George manage to roll the vehicle on a straight stretch of road. It's not as if one of the tyres punctured while driving. Looking at the tyres, all four of them were like new. I didn't mention to him, about the other tyre marks. I asked him, not to tell anyone about my visit, he answered back, 'my lips are sealed.' Making a closing zip gesture across his lips, with his thumb and index finger.

It was a few days later. I had just come back from Paphos, after spending the day at Uncle Stelios vineyard. Some wine manufacturers were attending the annual wine tasting. He asked me if I could be there as well. After what he did for me, how could I refuse?

Stelios was negotiating with the CEO of the wine company in his office for an hour. Jimmy and I were outside, waiting in suspense for the result. Even the employees of the vineyard were on edge. If this deal went through, they were guaranteed employment for the next five years. Plus, a lump sum bonus for everyone.

The door opened, Stelios gestured the CEO out of his office. Both of them with a blank expression on their face. He walked the visitor to his car, where the driver opened the door for the CEO. Everyone watched the Mercedes drive off in silence until it disappeared into the distance.

"Well what happened, dad. Did we get the contract?" Jimmy asked in hesitation, everyone's eyes glued on Stelios.

With that blank expression on his face, he said, "well boys to get the figures we needed, I had to add Michael's harvest as well." With a smile, he looked over at me, for approval.

It took a while to digest, but once I did. My scream of joy, I am sure could be heard in the village, which was two miles away. Embracing Stelios and Jimmy as we rejoiced. Wishing my father and Helen were here to celebrate together. I stayed a while longer, before commencing my long journey back to Avgorou.

Here I am at nine on a Saturday evening, sitting outside with dad and Helen. Telling them the excellent news regards the winery contract. I could see my father sat up in proudness, Helen embracing me in a hug. Suddenly my mobile starts buzzing, making a rattling sound on the plastic table surface. Looking at the screen, it said, 'Androulla.' My aunt was calling. "I promised her that I would stay with George tonight until one," I said with a tiredness sound in my voice.

"Don't worry. I am off tomorrow. I'll come with you and keep you company." Helen offered.

Picking up the mobile, I pressed the answer icon on the screen then put the device to my ear.

"Hey, aunty. I just got back. Going to have a quick shower and I'll be there."

"He's awake Michael; he's awake." There was a long pause before she spoke again. "He asked for you, Michael. He wants to see you."

Pressing the power button to end the call, I grabbed my car keys. I screamed, "he's come out of the coma!" Before rushing out of the house, I turned to Dad and Helen.

"Go! We'll be right behind you." Helen called out.

I drove to the hospital as fast as I could. Lucky for me, it was late in the evening, and there wasn't much activity on the roads. Bringing the Jeep to a standstill, outside the hospital entrance. Hurrying to George's room on the second floor. Avoiding to wait for the lift, taking the emergency stairs, two steps at a time. Reaching George's hospital room, the door would usually be closed, but it was open tonight. Stopping at the entrance, I looked inside. There he was, sitting up, still in a daze. Standing to his left was his family. On seeing me, they smiled.

On his other side, the nurse was preparing a drip on his arm. Once she finished and turned to see me standing there, she frowned her eyebrows. "The doctor said no visitors until tomorrow. Everyone will have to leave," she ordered.

"Two minutes nurse?" I asked politely, smiling, trying to win her over.

Curling her lip, she replied, "one minute, you have one minute." The sound of her heels clicking on the ceramic floor as she leaves the room.

Going to George's side, I give him a light punch on the shoulder, just touching his gown. "I see your awake Mad Max."

Gesturing his head with a nod, to say yes. "I guess, I made a right mess of my car." He was too weak. You could just about hear his voice.

"You sure did buddy. Don't worry we'll fix it up again." I smiled.

He mumbled something, which I didn't hear. Moving closer, putting my ear close to his mouth. "Mario forced me off the road," he whispered into my ear. Turning to look at him, he nodded his head. I turned and looked at my aunt and Maria. Both had shocked looks on their faces. On the other hand, my uncle was angry. But not as mad as I was.

As I walked out of the room, my aunt called, "What are you going to do Michael?"

"I'm going to finish this for once and for all!" I yelled out.

Chapter 9

It was almost morning. There wasn't a place I hadn't looked for Mario. For all I know he has left the area. My smartphone commenced ringing again. When I left the hospital last night, it didn't take long for Helen to call. Since then there have been at least two dozen calls from her. Disregarding the device again, I tried to focus on the road. Something that was difficult to do after a sleepless night.

I was back in the centre of the village, parked outside Takis' coffee shop. Fellow villagers were gathering, having a quick coffee before they get into there pickups to go hunting, something the male community do on a Sunday all over Cyprus.

Climbing out of the Jeep, I stretched my arms and legs out, twisting my body from left to right. It took a few seconds for the blood to circulate my body, making the pins and needles feeling go away. Entering Takis' shop, at once there was silence from everyone. The mayor was standing there staring at me. His Wembley break-action shotgun over his arm, with the barrel open. Removing two shells from his cartridge holster, he loaded the weapon. Closing the barrel by forcing the cylinder up, he held the gun ready to fire.

"How much is he paying you to stop me?" I furiously said to him.

Pointing the gun behind me, he said. "If you have come with the intention to harm anyone from this village, you have to answer to this."

Turning, behind me was one of Savvas' bodyguards. He stood there with a chain half wrapped around his hand, ready to use it. Behind him half-dozen men with a variety of weapons. When I looked back at the Mayor, everyone had their guns ready, pointing at the intruders.

"You will find him at his father's farm. Now get out of here, and end this never-ending story," he told me in a dynamic voice. I walked out of the shop towards my vehicle. Savvas' men turned to follow me, but the Mayor convinced them that it was for their best interest to stay. With over thirty guns pointing at them, they had no choice.

I came to the crossroad, exiting the village. If I go left, it will lead me to Savvas' farm, where Mario is presumably hiding. To my right, takes me to Larnaca, away from all this mayhem. Checking my rear-view mirror, I could see a car in the distance. It was Helen. I spotted a small figure jump out of her car and start running towards me.

The sound of an engine caught my ear. Coming from Savvas' farm, when I looked, a car was speeding towards me. Putting the Jeep into first gear, I floored the accelerator. The vehicle was getting closer. Before the revs went too high, I threw the gear into second. The gap between us was getting closer. It was a land rover. One of the old models, built like a tank. That's when I knew, my Wrangler did not have a chance, in a collision. Pushing my foot down, I changed to third gear. Gripping the steering wheel tight, I felt my nails dig into my palms. I was doing over fifty miles per hour. Turning the steering wheel slightly before impact, there was a deafening crashing sound. Checking to see behind me, with my side-mirror. The mirror was hanging, dangling all smashed up. Slamming my foot on the brake peddle, the Wrangler skidded along the tarmac, stopping a distance, causing a white cloud from the tyres.
Jumping out of the Jeep, I looked to see what happened to the other vehicle. I detected it at once, about one-hundred metres away. The land rover was on its side. Climbing out of the back, an angry Mario. Cursing and kicking at the vehicle.

"You are going to pay for that you bastard!" The voice came from behind me.

Turning around as fast as I could, not more than ten metres away was Lucas. He was struggling to load a shell into the barrel of a shotgun. At once I sprinted towards him. A couple of metres from him, the gun was ready, and the barrel raised at me. No way I was going to make it. Suddenly something leapt from the side. Knocking the weapon away as it fired into the air. It was Charlie. He jumped onto Lucas.

With Lucas lying on his back, protecting his face. Charlie is standing over him. His front paws are pushing down on Lucas' chest. The dog is barking at him, sliver dribbling onto his face.

"Charlie!" I called out. The dog instantly came to my side.

Lucas slowly got up his eyes glued on Charlie. I walked over to where the gun was lying. Picking up the weapon, I pointed it at Lucas as I walked towards him. His eyes moved from Charlie to me. "Why did you do it, Lucas? Why did you lie for Mario? I asked. I waited for a few seconds for an answer. I didn't get one. Turning the gun around, with the wooden hand of the shotgun I smashed Lucas across the face, Knocking him over. Pulling the weapon back ready to strike him again.

"Michael stop!" Helen screamed running towards the scene.

Staring into Lucas' eyes, I could see the fear in them. I looked over at Charlie, standing there like an arrow. Pointing towards Lucas, ready for the order to attack. Turning back to Lucas, I calmly said, "Either you say the truth or I'll let the dog finish you."

"Michael please, you're taking it too far!" Helen called out.

"He bribed me to lie. Mario bribed me; he gave me money to lie. It was his fault that his brother drowned. Tony went after Mario, to get him out of the water. When only Mario appeared, you rushed into the sea to get Tony. You searched and searched for him. I rushed to the hotel to ask for help. Mario was too wasted to do anything. By the time I got back with the hotel staff, you were laying on the beach half-concious. When they had pulled Tony out of the sea, he was dead. The paramedics tried to revive him, but it was too late." Dropping his head to his chest in shame, he commenced crying. "I am sorry for what happened to you. You are not to blame for any of this. You tried to save your friend!" he called out as I started making my way towards Helen.

"Shut up, you stupid asshole!" Mario screamed out at Lucas, as he approached him. Helen and I ignored him, as we climbed into the Wrangler. Charlie was jumping into the back of the Jeep. Mario carried on blubbering, "You can't prove anything, do you hear me. You threatened him, made him say what he said."

Tapping the gadget which Jimmy installed on the dashboard, I turned to Helen. "Let's get out of here before I do something to shut him up," I violently said.

"Is my dad at home?" I asked Helen.

"He was with Joe; they were driving around looking for you."

"Text Joe, tell him to meet us at Takis' shop."

When I reached our destination, it seemed more people had gathered. Nowhere to park the Jeep, I saw a wide enough gap between two cars. Driving onto the pavement, parking a few metres away from the cafe. "Now we wait for the law. It won't be long till they turn up. We can finish this once and for all." Taking Helen's hand in mine, I squeezed it.

Joe appeared, pushing dad towards us. My father is driving the wheelchair pushing the handrims forcing the chair to go faster. A sigh of relief on his face on seeing us. At once he spotted the broken side mirror. "You was in an accident, what happened are you ok? Is Helen ok?" He was trembling, frightened that something occurred to us.

"We are both ok," I reassured him.

The sound of sirens could be heard, in the distance. A few moments later, two police patrol cars appeared, between them a black Bentley. Once they came to a halt, the sirens stopped, the blue lights still spinning. Climbing out of the Bentley, a furious Savvas. Waiting for a moment for officer Petrou to appear next to him, before he commenced to march towards us. Closely followed behind by Katerina his wife, Mario and Lucas.

"You little piece of shit, since the day you came back. All we have had is trouble! Today was the final straw, trying to kill my other son!" Savvas screamed while waving his fist in the air.

When he was close enough, he raised his hand, bringing it down towards my face. Grabbing his fist as it was in mid-air, I held it there. "I didn't kill anyone!" I spat back. Rushing at me from behind Savvas, it was Mario. In his hand a butterfly knife. Flipping the knife open, as he was getting closer. Pushing Savvas to the side, I manoeuvred towards Mario. With the blade inches away from me, with a swift move, but hard blow to his wrist I knocked the weapon out of his hand. My other hand grasped his T-shirt, flicking him over my body while I still held onto him. My right fist, like a jackhammer, came down on his face, at least half a dozen times.

I felt a hand on my shoulder, turning I am sure for a split second I saw Tony, but it wasn't. It was Mrs Katerina. "Please, he is all I have left." Those few words at that moment drained the anger from me. Grabbing me from either side, two officers dragged me off, Mario.

They were hauling me towards the patrol cars. "Wait I have proof!" I screamed. At that moment Joe intervened. Blocking their path, by standing between us and the patrol car.

"What proof?" Savvas called out. Pushing his way towards us, through the gathering crowd. Until he was in front of me, staring straight into my eyes. "What evidence do you have?"

"Let me get it from my car?" I said while trying to release myself from the officers' grips. With a nod from Office Petrou, they released me at once. Followed closely by everyone concerned, I walked to my Jeep. Opening the car door, I reached to open the glove compartment. At once Officer Petrou pulled me back. Putting my hands up, I turned to one of the officers and said, "There is a tablet in there if you disconnect it and give it to me?"

Putting the device on the bonnet, I scrolled through the menu until I found a video clip and pressed play. Savvas and his wife in front of the device, their eyes glued on the ten-inch screen. There was silence as everyone watched from behind them. Helen stood next to me, holding my hand tight.

In full high-definition, the encounter I had with Mario and Lucas an hour ago. All filmed with the dashboard cam Jimmy had installed before I came to Avgorou. Mario driving towards me with the Landrover. Coming straight at me, on my side of the road, before he crashed. With Lucas confessing to what happened the fatal night, Tony died. Savvas and Katerina turned to look at each other before they turned to look at me. With his head down, Savvas began to make his way back to the Bentley, his wife close behind.

It didn't take long for the crowd that had gathered to disperse. Leaving us standing there. My father pushed himself next to me. Looking up, he said, "I am proud of you son, for clearing your name."

Smiling back at my father, I replied. "Let's go home; it has been a long night. We can all do with some shut-eye."

Epilogue

Three months later

It's our engagement party. Yes, Helen and I have decided we want to spend the rest of our lives together. Hand in hand we are going around thanking our guests for coming to our engagement.

Standing on the veranda, we watch Maria showing off her new puppy to her friends, while Charlie strolls behind her. All the kids are making a fuss over the two dogs.

Coming towards us is Joe and George. They are arguing, who is going to christen the first child we have.

"You was best man. That means I christen their first child!" George screams at Joe.

Joe fires back, "Best man christens the first child."

The maid of honour appears from nowhere. "Not if it's a girl gentleman!" Putting a stop to the argument, with her words and beauty.

We notice; everyone has gone silent. Looking around, we spot Mr Savvas with his wife approach my father. Exchanging words with him. Turning towards us, they start making their way towards me. My father stops the wheelchair, while Savvas and Katerina continue to walk towards me, they both stand there with no words to say. I hadn't seen Savvas' family for three months, the bitterness I had for them hadn't gone away.

"I can't remember inviting you!" I spat at him. "Maybe you've come to blame me for something else your crazy son has done?" Helen at once pulled down on my sleeve to make me stop.

With his head down he spoke, "I haven't come to cause trouble. I have come to ask for forgiveness." Looking up at me, he continued, "You will not see Mario for a while, as he has gone abroad. When he comes back, we hope he is half the man you have become."

I just stood there in shock, speechless. I looked at him for a while, before I spoke. "Thank you for coming. Tony would have liked this." They both embraced me, with tears in their eyes.

With a glass of champagne in hand, Helen and I stand in front of our guests as I start my speech, "I would like to thank everyone for coming tonight. To spend this extraordinary day, with us. Thank you, mum and dad, for giving me life and always being there for me. My mother may not be here in person, but I know her spirit is. I would like to thank Stelios and his family for being there for me when I needed them. Thank you to all my relatives for supporting me." Turning to Helen, I say to her, "Angel it's just you and me, we have the whole world to discover."

Staring into my eyes, she answers back, "Only the two of us? What about?" She then looks down at her stomach and smiles at me.

The End