Chapter Seven
America
Nigel left home just two days after his fight with his brother and he didn't speak to him at all during that time; he did, however, telephone Amanda, who was, as always, very happy to hear from him.
"Oh hi Pooh Bear" she said, excitedly "are you calling to say that you've got the job at the British Museum!?"
"No….because I didn't get it!" he said, sounding rather upset
"Oh….Pooh….what a shame...well….well it's their loss…..because you'd have been brilliant."
"Look Amanda…I need to talk to you."
"OK…..I expect you need a bit of cheering up."
"Yes I do….but I want to ask you something."
"Right Pooh Bear….ask away" she said, noticing Nigel seemed a bit off.
"Amanda…do you remember when I visited Jacob Irons?"
"Yes….of course I do…I missed you" she said, hoping then that Nigel hadn't discovered what she'd done while he was there.
"Well….Preston told me that while I was there…well…..you and he had a brilliant date….and….and that he thinks you're such a good kisser!"
"What!...That's a lie Pooh!….I never went on a date with him! Never!" she said, wondering what else Preston had said.
"I know you didn't" Nigel said, going on to tell her some of the other things that Preston had told him about 'his date'.
"Oh Pooh I'm so sorry….but…but that's not all entirely true either" Amanda said, before Nigel had a chance to finish.
"It's alright…..Preston confessed he'd made up most of it….and he told me you didn't know what you were saying and….and I believe that…..but look…regardless of whether or not you meant to tell him about the job….or the interview…telling him has completely messed up my plans for the future" he said, believing that she should've known better than to get drunk with Preston; although he decided not to actually say it.
"Pooh….I feel terrible about what I did….I'm so sorry I spoiled things for you and ruined our friendship" she said, feeling quite wretched "but I'm glad…at least…that you realise it wasn't deliberate…..because I'd never hurt you."
"I'll um…get over it Amanda" he said, not feeling quite able to use her pet name "but….but there's just one thing I really have to ask you…and there's really only one way to say it….did you know anything about that horse blanket that Preston put in the drawing room?"
"Horse blanket?…..No Pooh….but um….I'm not really sure what you mean….why would he put a horse blanket in there?"
"Well you see…..it was a used one…so it was covered in horse hair…..that's why I had such a bad allergic reaction before and after the interview."
"Oh my God Nigel….No!...I swear I didn't know anything about it….how could he have done such a horrible thing!" she said, remembering how unwell Nigel was when they spoke after the interview, but feeling slightly niggled that he'd thought she might have had something to do with it!
"I don't know...but he did…..look….because of that…..and because of lots of other things…..I simply have to get away from the house….I just can't bear to be around Preston anymore…I need a clean break….I don't know what I'm going to do…..but I hope that one day I'll be able to put this all behind me…please don't hate me...I just have to go" he said, his heart racing as he thought about what might be ahead of him "bye Amanda."
"Oh um OK….um bye Nigel….have a good life…you deserve to be happy" she said, putting the phone down and feeling quite numb.
Nigel's head was in a complete turmoil, but at least, he thought, Amanda didn't make it more difficult by trying to stop him leaving.
After Amanda had put the phone down, however, she kept thinking about her relationship with Nigel and realised that she really did love him and truly didn't want him to leave. Having slept on it though, she knew she just had to call him to stop him making, what she believed, would be the biggest mistake of his life! Sadly, even though she called him by 8.30 in the morning, he'd already left and nobody seemed to know where he'd gone.
Nigel had actually moved back to Oxford, with Uncle George and Aunty Alice, who'd promised not tell anyone he was there. He'd arranged to stay with them for a month, as he'd hoped, by then, he'd have pulled himself together and found a job. The fact was, even though Nigel believed Preston would still pay his allowance into the bank, each month, he knew that wouldn't be enough to pay the rent on a decent flat, so it was vital he got a job if he wanted to move on with his life!
Having explained to Uncle George what had happened at home, George felt so sorry for Nigel and was absolutely furious with Preston! Of course, Nigel begged him not to contact his brother, or anyone else for that matter, as doing so could tip them off as to his whereabouts. Naturally, George had promised to keep his location a secret and he, therefore, calmed himself down; although he still wished he could tell Preston exactly what he thought of him!
On the second day that Nigel was in Oxford, George saw him reading the job sections of several newspapers, yet for some reason he seemed to be going over the same pages, time and time again, although he didn't appear to be shortlisting anything.
"Son" George said, realising that Nigel believed he'd never find a job that he really wanted "one of these days a position will come along and you'll know….without a doubt….that it's the job for you….the problem with you young man….is that you have the knowledge of a fifty year old….the body of a twenty year old and the face of a baby!...You're also very over qualified for the usual jobs that young graduates get offered…..what you need is a job that will challenge you and where you'll continue to learn….one where your employer really needs you and appreciates the knowledge that you possess in that amazing brain of yours…one day…son….you'll have that dream job….I'm sure of it!"
The fact was, a few weeks before Nigel moved back in with the Ballys', George had been in touch with Professor Sydney Fox, of Trinity College; which is a college on the East Coast of America, near Boston. He'd telephoned her on a personal matter, as he'd known her for years, having originally met her when she was just a student.
During their conversation, however, Sydney had asked George, who she always referred to as Bally, if he knew of anyone qualified who might like to become her teaching assistant. She explained that she'd recently had terrible problems with her TA's, as they'd either been next to useless, or they were only good at certain things. She went on to say, however, that what she really needed was a talented all-rounder to help her in the Ancient Studies Department "I'm actually thinking that an Englishman might be more suitable than an American right now" she said, believing that if anyone would know of a good candidate, then Bally would "I think you English guys are more focused on the job…. and you're not all trying to be a big shots."
"Oh well that's interesting Sydney because actually….I do know a young man who'd be perfect for that position" George said, obviously thinking of Nigel "he's actually quite brilliant…..and he definitely won't act like a big shot!"
"Hey that's great Bally….I knew you'd know someone…the thing is I'm not sure if the assistant I have right now is going to be any good….he seems OK…at the moment…..but he definitely doesn't like having a female boss!...So would you keep that guy in mind please Bally…..just in case I need him at short notice?"
"Of course I will Sydney….no problem….bye….and um….I hope to speak to you again very soon."
George didn't say anything about that particular job to Nigel, as he didn't want to build up his hopes, just in case the job didn't materialise. However, a couple of days before Nigel was supposed to leave the Bally's, George received another call from Professor Fox.
"Hi Bally….it's Sydney….how are you?" she said, sounding a little rushed.
"Sydney!...How lovely to hear from you again….I'm very well….what about you?"
"Fine thanks…well….except I have to look for another teaching assistant. That last one I told you about was quite good….but he got scared off when I took him on a relic hunt!...He was terrified of just about everything and when we got back home he left without so much as a day's notice!...Shame really, he was amazing in the office and classroom…..anyway….I guess that gives you a clue as to why I'm calling you."
"Well….yes…..you must be ringing to find out more about the young man I told you about….his name's Nigel Bailey."
Although George had known Sydney for a long time, he'd only briefly mentioned, a few years before, that he and Alice were looking after a student who was too young to live on campus. However, because he believed that Nigel really needed to do something that was completely out of his comfort zone, he decided not to mention that in case she thought he was still too young.
"Nigel's an extremely clever young man Sydney….I think he'd be perfect for the job….he's certainly well qualified if you'd like to meet him?"
"I would….but actually….I won't be able to interview him myself…do you think you could arrange for him to meet Professor Maggs….at Cambridge University? He could interview him for me and then….depending how the interview goes…I could speak to the professor about him over the phone."
"Good idea Sydney."
"Yeah….then if Professor Maggs believes that Nigel's suitable for the position….and Nigel actually wants it…..then I'll have my other assistant….Claudia….make the travel arrangements for him to fly over here…..do you think that would be alright?"
"That'll be no problem at all…but….of course….I'll have to speak to Nigel first….he's never actually mentioned he'd like to go to America…or work as a teaching assistant….but I think it would be a fantastic opportunity for him. Sydney…I can guarantee that once you meet him….you'll like him….so if he's interested….and I certainly hope he is…..I'll speak to Professor Maggs and arrange the interview" George said, feeling quite excited.
"Thanks Bally…I'd appreciate that…..speak to you soon….bye."
George could hardly wait to tell Nigel about the position as he desperately hoped it would be the young man's dream job. Once he'd told him, he was overjoyed as Nigel definitely wanted the job, not only because it was so far away and would mean Preston was unlikely to find him; but because it would take his mind off Amanda. Furthermore, he instantly realised that this position would help him on his way to becoming a Professor of Ancient Civilisations! Of course, he knew he had a lot more work to do before that could happen, but he believed this job would be a brilliant start!
Nigel didn't actually think the job would be that challenging, but the idea of passing on his knowledge to students, really excited him.
Of course, as he was so knowledgeable about history, ancient cities and languages, he felt that he'd be confident enough to stand in front of a class and teach.
He'd actually felt the same way about public speaking. The fact was, even though he was very shy, everyone, except Preston, thought he was rather good at that, as long as he knew the subject really well.
Amazingly, starting at the age of seven, Nigel took part in the All Schools Public Speaking Competition; which was held every year in Bath. He took fourth, third and second places over a three year period, although he had to really push himself to take part, as he was always up against Preston, who was a teenager at the time. His brother, of course, came first on two occasions and second once, but he never gave Nigel any encouragement. However, their parents and Nigel's school teachers did, which helped give him confidence to do it, in the first place, and gave him confidence now.
George quickly arranged the interview and even drove Nigel to Cambridge himself; to give him moral support. Nigel did extremely well, and impressed Professor Maggs with his knowledge and enthusiasm. The only thing that worried the professor was that he might be too young to work for Sydney Fox, who expected her assistants to be able to deal with some very adult situations.
He knew too that she wasn't just looking for an ordinary assistant, she wanted someone special; someone she could train to be a relic hunter, as well as assist her in the classroom. Professor Maggs was well aware of some of the tasks that Nigel would be expected to perform on a hunt, although not wishing to scare him off, he kept that information to himself; indicating only that some travel would be involved. He did, of course, explain his college duties in full, which Nigel was quite happy about.
Professor Maggs thought really hard about Nigel, and eventually convinced himself that he was far too brilliant and knowledgeable to pass up, even if he was only twenty, rather shy and looked so innocent. The professor believed as well, after talking to Professor Bally, that it was just what the young man needed, if he intended to become a Professor of Ancient Civilisations one day.
"So Nigel…..what do you think?...Does the job appeal to you?" Professor Maggs asked, realising that Nigel had never really done anything that you could classify as 'adventurous' before.
"It sounds like a nice little teaching job Sir….and they must have a fantastic library at that college!"
"Yes….um…your right Nigel…they do" Professor Maggs said as he smiled at him.
Regardless of how naive Nigel was, he still realised that there must be a little more to the position than had been explained to him; particularly as Professor Maggs kept mentioning how strong and adventurous Professor Fox was and that she travelled a lot. He believed, therefore, that either something was being withheld from him, or he'd end up doing all of the work while Professor Fox was away on her, so called, travels!
Although Professor Maggs had mentioned that he'd be expected to do some travelling as well, Nigel believed that he meant he'd have to attend conferences and the like. However, Nigel considered that no matter what the job demanded, he'd be able to deal with it, as he was prepared to work very hard.
When Professor Maggs told Sydney about Nigel, he deliberately omitted to tell her how young and inexperienced he was in the ways of the world. He believed, however, that once she realised the huge amount of knowledge Nigel possessed in respect of ancient history etc, she wouldn't care about his youthfulness; nor that he wasn't big, tough and streetwise.
After the interview Nigel began to wonder what some of his friends, at Oxford, might think of him becoming a teaching assistant, in America; particularly Tony Kenwallada! He imagined that Tony, and everyone else, would consider the job was beneath him, bearing in mind his level of intelligence. However, he personally felt it was a good idea to do something like this, until he was a bit older, and so did Professor Bally. Of course, Nigel didn't actually plan on telling many people about it anyway, if it was offered to him; just in case it got back to Preston! He just knew that one day he wanted to be a Professor of Ancient Civilisations and that this particular position would help him achieve that.
When the position was actually offered to him he was very excited as, by then, he'd realised what a wonderful opportunity this would give him to do his Masters; particularly as he believed the job wouldn't be that challenging. He, therefore, discussed this with Professor Fox and the Dean of the college who, having been faxed his CV, promised he'd be given time to study and attend lectures; as well as work as Sydney's TA. The fact was, they really didn't want to run the risk of losing this genius to another university by refusing this small request!
About six weeks later, having extended his visit with the Ballys', Nigel was booked on a flight across the Atlantic. He was looking forward to starting his first job and living in a different country, although, having spoken to Professor Maggs again he was even more convinced that something was being kept from him!
Nigel arrived at Heathrow Airport early for his flight to Boston. He'd been given a first class ticket and was excited and nervous, all at the same time. He'd only ever flown on short flights to Europe before; however, this flight would be around seven hours. He'd, therefore, brought three books with him, to ensure that he didn't get bored, although he thought he might even watch the movie, to help pass the time; or sleep. He'd put some ear plugs and eye mask in his small carry-on bag, just in case he decided to rest, as he'd found them useful in the past.
He was shown to his seat by a rather pretty stewardess, who smiled at him and took his coat. However, when all the first class passengers had boarded, the same young lady came around with some Champagne; although when she reached Nigel, she hesitated.
"I'll just have a small glass please" Nigel said, looking up at the stewardess.
"I'm um….sorry Sir…but you have to be eighteen….or over…to have alcohol" she said very quietly, so as not to embarrass him.
"Um…I'll be twenty one in few weeks' time" he replied; blushing bright red.
"Oh! Goodness!...You don't look it!" she said, pouring out the Champaign and handing it to him on a tray "are you travelling alone?"
"Yes…I'm going to America to work as a teaching assistant" he said, thinking she'll realise he's an adult if he mentions that.
"That's great….um….what school will you be teaching at?"
"Trinity College…it's um…..near Boston….I'm going to work in the Ancient Studies Department…I start in about a week" he said smiling at the pretty young lady.
"Hey.…I know Trinity College….my sister studied there…..but she lives in Australia now" she said, suddenly noticing that the head stewardess was looking a little annoyed, as she was paying too much attention to Nigel! "Oh um….I'd better go now Sir."
Even though, at the back of his mind, he still had feelings for Amanda, he couldn't help but wonder if the lovely stewardess had a boyfriend. However, he was far too shy to ask, so he simply settled down with one of his books as the flight took off.
Nigel had only been reading for about ten minutes when he noticed that the passenger sat next to him, who was a very large man, was staring at him rather strangely. It made him feel quite uncomfortable and he so wished he'd stop. Realising, of course, he could do nothing about it; he tried to ignore him by continuing to read. However, just as he was about to start a new chapter, he felt a strong hand squeeze his thigh! Nigel pulled away sharply and looked at the man causing images of his perverted boarding school teacher, Clive Green, to flash through his mind! Nigel wasn't sure what to do, but then a few minutes later, the man did it again. This time Nigel leapt to his feet and rushed towards the washroom to get away from him.
On the way there he bumped into the young stewardess again, who immediately realised something was wrong.
"Are you OK?"
"Um….I…I"
"You look pale….you know if you're suffering with airsickness...I can get you something for it."
"Oh….um….no….I'm fine….I just had to get away from that man sitting next to me…..he keeps touching me!" Nigel said, as he blushed scarlet.
"Touching you….you mean…..inappropriately?"
"Well….yes…but he only squeezed my thigh….nothing else."
"I'm sorry about that…..look…let me find you another seat" she said, noticing Nigel looked relieved.
"Oh thank you….but um…..I don't want to make a fuss…although I don't think I could stand another six hours of him mauling me!" he said, shivering at the very idea.
She looked at him and thought to herself; I wouldn't mind mauling you myself!
"You can sit right there" she said, pointing to a seat three rows behind his previous one "I'll go and get your things for you….unfortunately…that creep's a billionaire and he's often on my flights…he always seems to cause problems with young boys….oh…by the way….my name's Sherry…..um Harvey."
"Oh um…nice to meet you Sherry….I'm um…..Nigel….Nigel Bailey….thanks very much for helping me" he said, smiling as he watched her walk to his old seat and grab his books and other bits and pieces that had fallen onto the floor when he jumped up.
After that the flight went much better, as Sherry looked after him particularly well; obviously because she really fancied him and noticed he was shy, sweet and rather handsome. Because of that, however, she convinced herself that he must have lots of British girlfriends and that she really should leave him alone.
About forty minutes before they landed, however, Sherry and Nigel had a further chat and he mentioned where he'd be living for the next month "apparently….the apartment that the Dean's rented for me is within walking distance of the college" he said, getting more excited as he realised he'd be there very shortly.
"Hey….Nigel I think I know where your apartment is…it's really close to where I live….so if you like….I could give you a lift there and make sure you have everything you need for your first night in America" she said; forgetting what she'd thought about him earlier and hoping he'd say yes!
"Oh gosh….what a coincidence...um…thank you….of course…I'll um….give you some money for the petrol….I mean gas" he said, looking really happy.
"There's no need for that…as I said…I live really close to your apartment…and the college….so I'm going there anyway."
"Thanks…..I really appreciate it" Nigel replied thinking, how kind she was to do that for him; especially when they'd only just met.
"OK then" she said, with a twinkle in her eye, just as the pilot announced they were about to land "as soon as we're on the ground Nigel….I'll collect my car from the employee's car park….and meet you by the Avis Car Hire booth….it'll take you a while to get through Passport Control….but after that I'll have you at your apartment in no time"
When they arrived at his apartment building, Nigel was very surprised to see how grand it was; especially the actual entrance. The front door was particularly beautiful, being made of brightly coloured glass, much like you'd see in a church. Nigel could see, as he peered through a large window, to the left of the door, that there was a doorman sat in the hallway, who looked decidedly bored.
"Um…hello Sir…um" Nigel said, speaking through the intercom on the wall.
"Yes…may I help you young man" the doorman asked, looking suspiciously at him through the window.
"My name's…um…Nigel Bailey….I believe Trinity College has rented an apartment for me here….number 20 they said it was."
"Ah…yes Mr Bailey" he said, staring at Nigel with a surprised look on his face "I was actually expecting someone a little older….the administrator at Trinity said you were going to work for Sydney Fox….her assistants are usually about twenty five to thirty."
"Oh" Nigel said, hoping the professor wouldn't think he was too young when he actually got to meet her!
"Who's that with you Mr Bailey?"
"Oh….this is my friend Miss Harvey…..I met her on the plane…..she's um….going to help me settle in" Nigel said, hoping that wouldn't be a problem.
"Oh…I see….you've found a friend already…that's good" the doorman said, thinking I bet she wants to settle him in…lucky boy!
Nigel could tell that the doorman was actually a very kind man, who was very conscientious and extremely careful about whom he'd permit to enter the building. However, having noticed Sherry's uniform, he realised she represented no threat to the safety of the residents and he opened the door.
"My name's Fred Hart…Mr Bailey….come in…now….if you find you need something done when you get into your apartment….just press the button marked 'Fred'….you'll see it on the wall…..I'll try to help if I can" he said, handing Nigel some keys.
"Oh um…thank you Sir….um Mr Hart"
"Fred…please."
"Yes…um…Fred….thank you" Nigel said looking around the beautiful hallway "I'll um….just go and get my suitcases out of the car."
"Oh let me give you a hand" Fred said, immediately following Nigel outside. Fred had no problem at all lifting Nigel's very large suitcase out of the back of the car, nor with carrying it through the hallway and into the lift. Obviously, he realised, as soon as he saw the size of the case, that the young man wouldn't be able to lift it, and that he was simply too shy to ask for help!
Nigel and Sherry did, however, manage to carry the smaller pieces of matching luggage, which they placed in the lift, right next to the large suitcase. The doors of the lift closed quite quickly, when Fred pressed button number 3, and they were on the third floor, where apartment 20 was, in no time.
"Um thank you so much Fred….I really appreciate your help….I'd have never managed to carry that lot up the front steps on my own….and um…I may have to take you up on your offer of assistance again….um…depending on what my apartment's like" Nigel said, feeling quite relaxed in Fred's presence.
"Well that'll be fine Nigel….but your apartment's right here….have a look" Fred said, as he opened the door, realising then that Nigel wasn't expecting too much.
Nigel was pleasantly surprised to see that the apartment was beautifully decorated, had lovely modern furniture and a fabulous kitchen. He immediately checked the kitchen cupboards to see if any provisions had been left for him, as the Dean had said he'd arrange it. Much to Nigel's relief, he soon found some bread, eggs, cereal, coffee, tea, milk and bottled water; along with some canned vegetables and soup. There were also three frozen dinners in the freezer, which he'd only need to put in the microwave for a few minutes; although he not actually asked for them.
"Wow this is all so nice Fred…I'm amazed….but um….I can see the button with your name on it if I need anything" Nigel said, taking out some money from his wallet and offering Fred a tip.
"Oh no…that won't be necessary young man…..you just be a good tenant….that's all I want….now you have I nice evening" he said, instantly leaving the apartment to give the young couple some privacy.
By the time Nigel and Sherry had finished looking around it was 7.00 p.m. and it was getting dark.
"So Nigel…are you hungry?" Sherry asked, believing he must be starving by now "do you want to go over the road to Dino's Restaurant?...I don't want you to be forced to eat a TV dinner on your first night in America!"
"I've never had one….are they that bad?"
"Oh…..they're OK…in an emergency….but I'd rather have the real thing!" she said; dragging him through the door.
Nigel was amazed at the size of the portions they served in this restaurant; because they were huge! He only managed to eat half of his dinner; although Sherry ate all of hers and even picked up a few of his fries. She ordered a bottle of wine to go with the meal and drank a couple of glasses, although Nigel only had one; just to help him feel a little less inhibited. He still didn't drink very often and would almost always get tipsy if he drank more than two glasses. In that condition he sometimes couldn't remember where he'd been, or what he'd done, which always worried him.
Nigel, being a gentleman, paid for the dinner, as he wanted to show Sherry that he really appreciated her driving him to his apartment. However, even though she didn't expect him to pay, she accepted, but immediately said "but I'm paying next time!"
Nigel was rather pleased to hear that, as it implied that there was going to be a next time! He hoped too that being in her company would help him get over Amanda, as he'd knew that was going to be difficult for him.
They got back to Nigel's apartment at around 9.30 p.m. and immediately switched on the TV. However, being unable to find anything interesting, having gone through so many channels, they just sat and chatted.
"I'm sorry Nigel….but I'm going to have to go now" Sherry said, at 11 p.m. feeling quite surprised that he'd not made a move on her "I've been up for well over 24 hours and I need my beauty sleep."
"Oh um…OK….I hope I'll see you again…um…soon" he said, feeling a little disappointed, as he was enjoying chatting to her about Oxford University and what her job was like, as well. However, he soon felt a little happier as, before she left, they exchanged telephone numbers.
After she'd gone he looked around his apartment and felt so thrilled to be there. It was such a nice place, although it was completely different in style to his home, in London.
It was only after making some Coco, and sitting down again, that he realised he was actually tired as well. It had been quite an amazing day for him, especially as he'd never been on his own before. He felt so proud of himself, as he'd actually made it all the way to America, moved into his apartment and found a lovely friend; without anyone being there to guide him. With that in mind he found his toiletries, showered, cleaned his teeth and went to bed, thinking he was the luckiest man in the world!
The next morning he got up early and felt exceptionally bright and cheerful. He made his bed and, having cooked his own breakfast, he was pleased to discover that his eggs tasted great! He then dragged his large case into the bedroom and started to unpack and put things away. Of course, his Nanny, or one of the house maids, would have done all that for him, at home, but he knew he was totally capable of doing it himself. Obviously though, his morning activities would have surprised Preston, but the fact was, Uncle George and Aunty Alice had taught him quite a few things while he lived with them, but even more so just before he left for America.
Having unpacked, he was very pleased to find there was plenty of room for all of his clothes, most of which were by designers such as Armani, Calvin Klein and Hugo Boss. The fact was, he'd always worn designer clothes, except for when he was at Oxford, as the Ballys' allowed him to be slightly more casual to blend in with the other students. That particular matter was kept a secret from Preston because, when he became Nigel's guardian, he always insisted that his little brother wore clothes that he'd purchased from Harrods. In that regard Preston believed that dressing Nigel so smartly would impress their parent's friends and show them that he was bringing Nigel up as a gentleman!
Nigel laughed when he found some silk underwear that Aunty Alice had bought him, from an ordinary shop, in Oxford, as although he really liked them, and they were comfortable, they were completely covered with strawberries!
Wrapped in some of his other underwear, to protect them during the flight, were some framed photographs of his parents and Nanny Wright. There were a couple of photos with Preston in them too which, regardless of how he felt about his brother, he placed by the side of his bed.
The one thing he simply couldn't leave behind in England was his little polar bear, as he'd had it all his life and even though it was a gift from Preston, he still loved it. He had such fond memories of playing with it on his parent's bed and cuddling up to it, over the years; he simply had to have it with him in America too; although he didn't plan on telling anyone about it!
The only other thing he'd brought with him, to remind him of home, was his little Union Jack flag, which he intended to keep on his desk at Trinity.
At about 10 a.m. he suddenly realised he hadn't called Nanny Wright; which made him feel quite guilty as he'd promised he would as soon as he'd landed!
"Hi Nana" he said, having picked up the phone, realising it was already 3 p.m. over there "I hope you're OK…I've arrived safely and everything's fine…sorry I didn't ring before now."
"Oh sweetheart….that's OK….but thank goodness you're alright…..I was so worried about you on that long flight….you sound cheerful enough though."
"I am Nana…I am."
"Sweetheart….Preston keeps asking me where you are…..he's really concerned about you…..I've even found him sitting in your room looking really depressed…he's feeling so guilty about what he did to you"
"Oh…well um….he should do!"
"Obviously…I won't tell him where you are until you're ready…but um….I've told him you're safe and that he mustn't fret…..and I said you'd contact him in your own good time" she said, hoping Nigel didn't mind and that it wouldn't be too long before he'd do that, as she was now worrying about Preston's state of mind.
"Thanks Nana….I appreciate that….I really can't deal with him at the minute though….I…I've just got too much on my mind…..I'm afraid that if he'd have answered the phone when I rang just now….I'd have hung up….I still have to settle into my new job and get things sorted out in my flat…um…or should I say apartment."
"Yes sweetheart….I know."
"Oh…by the way Nana….the apartment's really nice….I'm only actually supposed to have it for a month….but I'm going to ask if I can keep it a bit longer….it'll probably take me ages to find another place...even the doorman….who lives downstairs…is really nice…..I feel very safe with him there" he said, realising just how important it was to let her know he was in good hands.
Nigel then gave her his new telephone number and reminded her that there was a five hour time difference between England and the east coast of America.
"There's an answer phone at this apartment Nana….so you can leave me a message any time you like….but um….I'll be getting a mobile phone as well soon…..they um….call them cell phones here….so you'll be able to contact me no matter where I am…. um….you will be alright…won't you Nana?"
"Yes darling I'll be fine….but I'm already missing your handsome little face…..oh sweetheart…Preston's just come in….he looks really miserable….so I'll say goodbye…I love you…bye bye."
"I love you too Nana, bye."
He put the phone down and couldn't help but wish his Nana lived with him instead of his brother. He also began to wonder if Preston was genuinely suffering because he felt guilty about the past; although he wasn't going to let that influence his decision to keep his whereabouts a secret!
A few hours later, just as he was about to go and check out the neighbourhood, the doorbell rang. He was surprised as he wasn't expecting anyone. However, he walked over to the intercom "who….who is it?"
"Hi Nigel….it's Sherry….can I come up?"
"Oh Sherry….of course you can!" he said, feeling quite thrilled that she'd come back. He immediately pressed the button to let her into the building and left his apartment door open so that she could come straight in.
About a minute later, much to his surprise, she walked in wearing a very sexy figure hugging pair of designer jeans and a lovely pink top! He thought she looked like a model and smiled at her shyly "Oh um….c…come in Sherry….lovely to see you again…um would you some tea or coffee?" he asked, trying not to stare.
"Oh no thank you…..I've brought us some wine" she replied, smiling at him sexily, as she handed him both bottles with the price still on them.
"Oh….how um….thoughtful of you…..would you mind opening a bottle?….I'm not very good at that" he said, not wanting her to know he'd never actually opened one before and thinking that he was going to get terribly drunk. However, he thought it would be rude to refuse, especially as it was obvious she'd bought the wine for them to enjoy together.
"Sure…no problem she said" as she opened the first bottle and poured out two glasses. However, as the afternoon progressed, they finished both bottles and Nigel, of course, not being used to so much alcohol, couldn't stop giggling; although after a little while he suddenly felt sick.
Noticing then how unsteady he was on his feet, she took his arm and walked him to the bathroom, where she left him, hoping he'd be OK. Finding herself alone for the first time, she wandered through the door directly opposite the bathroom; which she discovered was Nigel's bedroom, where she decided to wait.
Once Nigel had thrown up and he was feeling a little better, he washed his face, cleaned his teeth and ran a comb through his hair. Thinking then he looked more presentable, he opened the door of the bathroom and couldn't help but notice, as he looked directly ahead, that Sherry was lying on his bed!
"Um….are you feeling tired Sherry?" he asked, innocently, as he stood at the door.
"No I'm not tired….I just thought you might like to come and have a cuddle with me" she said, with a seductive look on her face. Nigel turned bright red as he was, obviously a virgin, although he knew what she really meant.
"Um…..y…yes that would be nice" he said, kicking off his shoes and sitting at the end of the bed.
"Come here you gorgeous man" she said, as she dragged him up to the top of the bed, where he led down next to her. Thinking how handsome he looked, she pulled him into a tight embrace, kissed him hard on the lips and he kissed her back, quite passionately; which even surprised himself! He began to enjoy it, but he felt rather nervous too; for obvious reasons.
"Don't worry Nigel…..I've got some condoms" she said, in a matter of fact way, believing that's why he looked so tense.
Nigel was shocked! Amanda had never seriously acted this way with him, even though she wanted to, which was why he was still so innocent. Amanda knew that he wasn't mature enough, emotionally, to have sexual relationship, as his upbringing made him more reserved than most young men. She also knew how Professor and Mrs Bally felt about her and Nigel, and as much as she had a side to her that was slightly unscrupulous, she didn't want them to think badly of her. She'd, therefore, put her sexual feelings for Nigel to the back of her mind, realising that, one day, he'd be more mature and, of course, rich!
Sherry pulled Nigel closer and tugged at his shirt, which she unbuttoned and pulled backwards over his shoulders. She then undid the button and zip on his trousers and knelt on the bed, where she leaned back slightly and made seductive movements with her body. Nigel's eyes almost popped out of his head as he watched her!
"Aren't you going to undress me then Mr Sexy Pants?"
"Oh….oh…yes I…I'd like to" he said very nervously, as he undid the buttons on his cuffs and threw his shirt on the floor.
She laughed "come on then, tear them off!"
He couldn't bring himself to do that, of course, but he gently pulled her top over her head and saw her beautiful breasts protruding over the top of her bra. He got very excited and the next thing he knew, she'd pulled off her own jeans and panties and pushed him backwards!
As Nigel led on his back, she grabbed his trousers and underwear and pulled them off, leaving him completely naked! He was very embarrassed and tried to cover himself up by crossing his arms over his chest and keeping his legs together. However, what he mostly wanted to do was prevent her from seeing his badly scarred behind, caused by the beating he'd taken at school!
Although he knew that what they were doing was completely natural, he'd been brought up in a certain way and he, therefore, looked away as she removed her bra. It was then that reality struck him and he realised that, no matter how he'd been raised, he was going to make love to Sherry!
She'd guessed by this time that he was probably a virgin and she, therefore, put the condom on him, pulled a sheet over the top of them and coached him through his first time at love making. Sherry was a good and thoughtful teacher, as she was very experienced with men and made Nigel feel quite euphoric. She definitely appeared to be enjoying herself as well, which amazed him, as his inexperience with someone as pretty and skilled as Sherry, could have made this a complete disaster!
They made love three times over the space of the next six hours, as Sherry patiently taught him the wonders of love making. After the third time they both fell asleep in each other's arms and Nigel felt so content.
He'd had no idea it was going to be so amazing making love to a woman, but he was feeling a little guilty, as well, as he'd only been in America a couple of days and he was already getting drunk and having sex! He realised, of course, that if Nanny Wright, Uncle George or Aunty Alice could see him right then, they'd be very disappointed and angry with him and goodness only knows what Preston would have done!
Having chatted and cuddled with Nigel after they woke up, Sherry realised that Nigel was one of the sweetest and most sincere young men she'd ever met. However, just after she'd had that thought, a terrible feeling of guilt came over her, because there was something she should have told him, at least, before they made love for a second time.
Having gone home without revealing an important piece of information, she felt terrible about stealing his innocence. However, the fact was, when she started to make love to him, the first time, she was completely unaware that he was a virgin. The trouble was, once she'd gotten him into bed, and realised that, she selfishly ignored the fact that being with a sensitive person like him, without being upfront about her life, could have serious consequences!
She knew that now they'd slept together Nigel would be thinking he was in love with her, as she recalled that's how she felt after her first time; when she was just eighteen. That guy, however, dumped her after only two days and it took her months to get over it. Unfortunately, she believed that once she revealed her secret to Nigel, that's what would happen to him!
She sat in her apartment thinking about how to tell him what she believed would devastate him, but realised too that putting it off would only make matters worse; especially if she was correct about how Nigel felt. After a further few agonising minutes, however, her conscience finally got the better of her and she picked up the phone; not feeling able to meet him face to face and watch him turn from happy to sad, right before her eyes.
"Hi Nigel" she said, feeling really shaky "it's me…Sherry."
"Sherry….sweetheart….are you missing me already?" he joked, feeling so happy to hear from her "I'm missing you."
"Um…me too….but um…Nigel….N….Nigel….I'm afraid I have to tell you something….and…..and I know you're going to hate me" she said, a lump coming into her throat.
"Oh God…..you're not dumping me are you Sherry!?...Please don't do that!" he said, his heart thumping inside his chest.
"Nigel it's…..it's not exactly that….it's just that….just….oh!...I wish I'd told you before…..I'm so sorry….but…but at the end of the week I'm emigrating to Australia….I'm really sorry….I didn't mean for things to happen this way….I really care about you….honestly….I do!" she said, choking back the tears.
"I can't believe it!...Sherry don't go….please!" he said, starting to tremble.
"Nigel, I had no idea it was your first time when I lured you into bed….I just fancied you so much…the thing is….none of my past boyfriends would've cared a jot about having a one night stand….and…and by the time I realised that you're different…it was too late…..I had no idea until after we'd made love….that leaving America would matter to you….honestly….I didn't…..please forgive me….I didn't mean to hurt you…..I think you're the nicest guy I've ever met and….and I wish things were different….I think you'll make someone a wonderful husband one day" she said feeling just dreadful.
"But why do you have to go Sherry…why!?" he said, obviously on the verge of tears.
"Because my mom and dad emigrated to Australia six months ago…..and my dad….who used to be so strong and healthy….got sick…so if anything happens to him….and I'm not there….my mom will have a nervous breakdown…she's absolutely devoted to him you see…..my sister's already there….but she's a trainee lawyer….so she doesn't have much free time to help….my dad worries all the time about mom being left on her own….but that's bad for him because he mustn't get stressed you see…look Nigel….I love them...and miss them so much….although I doubt you can imagine what that's like….but you will when you've been in America for a while….you'll miss your mom and dad too….and then you'll understand how I feel and why I have to go" she said, wondering why he hadn't said anything, as her eyes filled with tears.
"My…my mum and dad died when I was twelve Sherry….so I know what it's like to miss someone….I….I guess I understand….and um….I hope you have a good life in Australia….I really do."
"Thank you Nigel….honestly…I'm so sorry….I hope you have a good life too…..but please don't hate me...bye Nigel….bye."
"Bye" he said, feeling quite stunned.
Having put the phone down, just after she said 'please don't hate me' he believed he'd never be able to let another woman into his life again and actually wished, at that moment, that he'd never met her! Uncle George and Aunty Alice were right all along, he thought, as he went into the kitchen to get some water. He was angry, upset and totally shaken as he slumped down on a chair, crossed his arms over the top of the table, buried his face in them and cried his heart out.
After a while though he began to think about his past and realised then that he'd actually been leading a very privileged, yet sheltered, life; even if he did have an awfully rough time at boarding school. He'd come from a very wealthy family and had gone to one of the best universities in the world, for which he was truly grateful. He remembered how unhappy he was following the death of his parents and recalled that he'd believed, back then, that he'd never be happy again. However when he went to university, he felt truly loved by the Ballys and was very happy; apart from when Preston bullied him.
He then began to mull over the events of the last couple of days and tried to think logically. After about an hour he'd calmed down considerably and felt he was being rather silly. He knew what Sherry did wasn't done deliberately and she'd made him feel so alive and happy. She'd shown him how to be a man, instead of a boy and he realised then he should be thanking her, not wishing he'd never met her! He realised too that he'd be mad not to allow another girl into his life; especially as he wanted to have a family of his own, one day.
He started to cheer up a little and began thinking about Trinity College, where he was about to commence his first ever job. He wondered what the future would hold for a young man like him in a country that was so different from his own. His thoughts became more positive and he believed then that, eventually, everything would be fine; he just had to show Professor Fox what a good teacher he could be and move forward.
He thought again about Sherry and realised that he hadn't been wrong about her at all, she really was a very special girl, and the fact that she had to leave was just a one of those things that happens in life. He knew he'd never forget her, but at that moment, he just wished that his Nana was there to give him one of her special hugs.
PLEASE REVIEW – I would like to hear from you if you are enjoying the revised version of this story, even in 2017/2018 or later!
In the next chapter find out about Nigel's first meeting with Sydney Fox, his first Relic Hunts and why Sydney thought he'd lied on his CV to get the job!