Poseidon's Ransom

Chapter Fifty

Jack and Bogdan got back from Vauxhall Cross a little before 6pm. Mathew’s driver had brought them back to East Monkton, this time without a police outrider, which upset the big Russian no end. The twins were delighted to have some time with their daddy and even more delighted to play with Daddy’s big happy-faced friend.

At seven o’clock Svetlana, their nanny, gathered up the girls for bed, but not before everyone had been kissed and several hugs for Uncle Bogdan had been given. Nicole caught the smiles between Svetlana and Bogdan when the big man wished her ‘Good night’ as well.

After the girls had gone up, the three of them went out to the patio. The external lights came on illuminating the garden, trees and small lake.

‘Is beautiful home here, boss,’ said Bogdan.

‘All Nikki’s work, my friend.’

‘Da, this I am sure.’

She kissed the big man on the cheek and said. ‘I’ll go and see how supper is doing.’

The two friends sat down, and Bogdan said, ‘You are lucky man, boss. You have beautiful wife, beautiful family, beautiful home.’

‘Yeah, buddy, I know.’

‘So why you do the shit we do, Jack?’

It was rare for the Russian to call him by his name. Jack looked across at his friend and said, ‘Why do you do it?’

‘It doesn’t not matter for me. I have no family like you. Only Grigory, my brother.’

‘But you still haven’t said why you do it, big man?’

‘I guess it is who I am. This is why.’

Jack reached over and patted the big Russian’s shoulder. ‘Me too buddy. Me too.’

Nicole came back with a tray of drinks and said, ‘What’s going on here? You boys look very serious?’

Jack got up, took the tray, then kissed her. ‘Just talking, darling. Just talking.’

‘Supper will be ready in half an hour.’

Jack passed her a large glass of white wine and then handed Bogdan his beer. He picked up his Coke and said, ‘To us. Nostrovia.’

The following morning breakfast was served on the patio. The girls were giving Svetlana a hard time over having to go to nursery, wishing to spend the day with Uncle Bogdan instead. Nicole’s stern intervention convinced them it was time for nursery. That, and the promise from Daddy of special treats when they got home. More cuddles for Uncle Bogdan were given, then the twins reluctantly disappeared inside, quickly followed by a slightly red faced and harassed, Svetlana.

Jack and Nicole both asked Bogdan to stay for a few more days, but the big man was adamant he was heading home. ‘You must be with family, boss. I go back to Moscow. Will see you again soon.’

Bogdan’s flight was due to depart at 3pm, Jack said they should be there for midday, and would drive him to the airport. Much to the big Russian’s delight, Nicole also insisted she came to see him off as well.

At the Departures Gate, Bogdan almost crushed Jack’s still tender ribs, with his bear-hug. A decidedly gentler embrace was given to Nicole.

‘Thank you for looking after him, Bogdan. Come back and see us very soon. Da?’

The big man’s face beamed. ‘Da, for sure I come back. I have nieces now. Da?’

She kissed his cheeks.

He turned to Jack and they shook hands. ‘Dasvidanya, boss.’

‘Dasvidanya, my friend. God bless.’

As the big Russian walked through the doors he turned, gave a huge smile, and flicked a casual salute.