Sorry about the wait, time tends to fly by when your are busy.
Ted's story and whether Ricardo can believe him or not.
Chapter 8
Ricardo realised he needed to take control of this phone call and situation as the twins suddenly and simultaneously sat on the sofa they'd been standing in front of as shock took it's toll. His own shock was going, theirs would stay and probably cloud their thinking and from the identical grins on their faces he guessed neither was going to pass out any second, which was good. He also needed to make sure this wasn't some prank or con by a so called friend or stranger or, something underhand he couldn't quite put his finger on at the moment. After all, the whole thing was way too wild to be real. And yet, the impossible earlier had turned out to be true/ real. So, why not this as well.
Automatically switching to full detective mode he quickly and silently ticked boxes about the caller so far. He'd not detected any hint of American in the man's accent, it had been a stronger purer version of the twins. Hadn't sounded false or staged as the man reacted to being told the twins were here, nor had his reaction. So he could be British and a brother. With no visual hints to shout out to him the man was definitely a fake he could only go by what his police instinct/gut feeling was telling him. And that was the whole thing was weird/improbable but, again true. It was also telling him to be on his guard, the man could be the black sheep of the family and was out to get the twins for being forgotten/left behind all these years.
And new ideas/questions screamed at him not the least was why hadn't the truth come out earlier with a brother left behind. Was there a dark twist to the tale and why was it all coming out now, today this afternoon. It wasn't the anniversary of the crash or the twins' birthday both dates were months away. So it was an ordinary day. They hadn't checked the day's papers for the three towns as they looked into the past they had no reason to. But if the mistake about the twins had suddenly surfaced there yesterday or even today they would have heard first thing. News like that travelled fast usually with lawyers and reporters hot on its heels or pushing it along or officials trying to cover their backsides with reasons why it happened.
The caller said he was from the UK so it could be from just him. He'd found scraps of information old phone numbers and like Gabi found answer machines so messages were going to be picked up later. Or because it had happened years ago he'd decided to leave the three official towns alone go down the adopted family route first or just had those numbers. Had found adopted parents deceased and got a mixture of new people and answering machines till he'd got to this one and found his pot of gold. Those stepping stones felt possible and right and that meant they were dealing with a run of unrelated coincidences.
His police mind rebelled at that, in his line of work he usually found coincidences muddied the water or were put there to muddy the water. And that unnamed niggle he couldn't put his finger on surfaced. That, the leader of the con or whatever it might not be the caller. It could be the Doc (a wolf in sheep's clothing) and the so called brother on the end of the phone was part of the plan to … well muddy the water. Throw him or anyone else off the scent of whatever was really going to go down. And he was witnessing evil twin vs. good twin for whatever reason and that was why it was all happening today and now…
Silently letting out a breath Ricardo immediately started to counter that rather nasty thought with what he knew/felt so far. The shock of finding out about the other twin felt real and this whole new family of twin and in-laws sent out good and honest vibes, Hank especially. Also, Gabi had turned up by herself not with a fleet of arresting officers in tow, her pleasure at seeing this new twin was genuine. So no red flags had been raised about Doc and family on the immediate police trace. He knew it was too early for that check to be in depth but it would have confirmed they'd come from the State of Kansas etc. Also he couldn't deny that both twins reactions just now had been instantaneous and genuine. He'd not seen a flicker of glee or late or even leading reaction from Doc. So knowing his Ben was the honest guideline he was using, dare he say it … they were and still were identical in their reactions to all of this. So this call and caller was a real surprise to them all.
Having done that he decided to let those thoughts lie in background till the red flags really flew and that included whether the man was a brother and not a conman in his own right. He would run with it being all a 'happy' coincidence, though he doubted happy was really the right word. There was going to be the full range of emotions as these stories merged. And wondered how the Hell was he going to confirm this new man's identity when he was on the phone and in a different country. He didn't have the modern gizmos or staff at the station to help him out, and didn't want to disconnect this call either. Though if they couldn't get it back it would tell them it was a fake early on, but even so the emotional fallout from that wouldn't be pretty. So, all he could really do was to listen and be here for everyone and confirm things later, and decided on his next step.
Without making a fuss he got out his own phone and dialled the long number he'd scribbled down before yelling at the man not to hang up. And got the engaged tone. He knew that ticked one box … Well sort of. Because really, he had no way of knowing if it was the right number and the right man was actually at the other end of the engaged tone. It could all be a damn coincidence and the person at the end of the line had nothing to do with this situation. He didn't know world phone codes off by heart so it might not even be in the UK, which meant in all honesty the only thing he'd just proved was it was a phone number and someone some where was using it.
Silently sighing and hating his mind for that one, he disconnected and quickly sent Gabi a very brief text about the phone call putting in Ben's number as well and asked for text or phone call back as soon as possible. As he sent it he couldn't help his slight smile wondering if it would believed at the station and if a SWAT team with Dr Estrada in tow would turn up because they thought he'd finally flipped ….
oxoxo
In the meantime Meg, Maria and Hank silently found seats all feeling that mixture of amazement, dread and excitement, and were keeping an eye on the twins, while knowing their plans to go their separate ways had just flown out the window. Sara and Joan had their hands' full dealing with the two boys who were fidgety even with large towels round them. Hearing their father's exclamations made them worse because they feared for their teddies, who were tucked in a box on the raised area. And despite reassurances from the aunts that teddies were safe, little arms and legs had difficulty in going into the right holes in the t-shirts and shorts so tears were very close as well. They became slightly calmer once they were clothed and reunited with their bears and were sat on the raised area on their aunts' laps. As for the aunts, well they were silently hoping the boys would really settle down so they wouldn't have to hear about this mind boggling situation second hand, and later…. That would never do.
oxoxoxo
The brief 'silence' was broken by the soft pure British accented "I'm back ... I think," coming from the phone speaker, which was followed by a soft chuckle before the man got his mind back under control and added with happy disbelief in his voice. "Can't believe that after all these years, I've been so lucky to find you both so quickly." There was a sigh and then his voice dropped to soft heartfelt sadness as he added. "We …You should never have been separated for all those years … I mourned all your deaths and missed you all…"
As the man broke off again everyone in the room could feel his sadness and could feel pain for the twins who sat silently waiting. Their grins had now turned to serious sad expressions as realisation and shock settled … they'd both forgotten their brother existed … and that fact could have been the unsettling whispers they'd both felt earlier as they'd looked at their treasure boxes and felt there had been something still missing…..
From experience regarding shock and memories in other people in the past Ricardo realised the twins were reacting instinctively rather than remembering the brother and childhood events. That they more vulnerable to the whole thing because of this morning's meeting. Also he needed the calmness of a conversation rather than a police lead interrogation to get information, so aiming for brotherly detective he softened his tone and butted into the poignant silence saying. "Edward, I need to confirm this not a hoax call. To know where you are and you are in fact their brother. We have no record that one existed in fact we've very little information to go on. So, whatever you tell us will need to be confirmed by an independent authority tomorrow or in a few days time, which means we will need to get in touch with you again."
With the significance of the word teddy twisting in his mind he paused for a brief moment, then letting the detective tone recede even more added. "From what I've been finding out today its possible that on the day of the train crash you somehow got transferred in their young minds into the knitted teddy bears they were given as comforters. One by his rescuers and the other by a hospital nurse. And then onto the small furry ones their new adopted parents gave them before going to their new homes. They both seem to have a soft spot for both types of bears ever since, and their sons are very attached to their own."
From the phone there came a gleeful chuckle and then a real full gentle laugh before a soft breathy guilty "Sorry." Then after another breath and in a tone of voice that confirmed to the listeners he had to be one of the family there came a gentle heartfelt. "God, I wish this was live two-way television and I could see you both. Even better, instant flight over there so I could be with you two now, today. Do this face to face so there wouldn't be any doubt who I am. So we wouldn't need to be separated anymore."
There was a slight pause for another breath or gathering in emotions because his voice came back with a more serious tone as he carried on. "Detective, the phone number is real and can be checked by your usual methods no doubt."
Then gently returning to 'that' family tone he explained. "I was always Ted or Teddy to them and our parents never Edward. Was the older brother who got and gave hugs, with and without our parents around. Would wipe up the tears, though there weren't too many of those, usually it was giggles rather than arguments, and they used to consol or help each other first anyway. We were a close family and those two could knock you over with their little hugs especially if they came together and you had no prior warning ... Coming home from school was fun..."
There was a short pause again then there came a gentle but strong. "I can understand why they connected me with the teddy bears, it wasn't just my name. Mum had knitted all previous ones, she'd tried tiny dogs once but they'd been ignored and the old tatty bears had to be retrieved till new ones were knitted. So from then on cuddle toys were bear shaped, any colour or colours and in identical pairs. As I was coming up to my eighth and they were going to be four while we were in America mum and dad decided to have an early birthdays/leaving party rolled into one. The twins gave me two little cars and I gave them their first furry bears, small ones and identical of course. Those bears were unwrapped in seconds, loved in one and all to their identical squeals of 'Teddy!'… Mum and Dad had to rescue me from their joint hug of thanks afterwards.
That call just now might have been in adults voices and sounded to you as one, to me it was them, that day and those memories came flooding back to me. I could see them opening those presents, knew that flattening hug was coming. ... Could see them welcoming me home from school … Those bears and twins were inseparable. … the twins were inseparable.
Don't know the details of that traumatic day but I understand about shock, injuries and being so young. … Also deep down they might even have thought I was going to come and find them … hug them and make things better … But I didn't … I couldn't … I thought they'd died … till today …So that little ray of hope died …" And stopped unable to go on.
"It's all right." immediately came across the room in stereo. And was filled with reassuring gentleness that came from the hearts and deep whispers blossoming rather than clear cut childhood memories in the twins.
There was a huge sigh from the phone and then a breath's pause before a gentle. "That's one thing that's never changed." another pause for breath and then Ted asked in a shaky but more normal tone. "How long have they been together Detective?"
Hearing and understanding Ted's emotional turmoil Ricardo couldn't blame him wanting someone else to speak so some balance could be got back… for all of them. That reassuring verbal hug just sent across the room and down the phone to the man was amazing. Seeing and hearing the togetherness of the twins was mind boggling. They'd not glanced at each other through out, they were both looking at the phone on the table as if trying somehow to get down it or bring the caller to them and had spoken in unison… as one from their hearts.
Knowing the dangers of getting too involved Ricardo knew he had somehow to act as a barrier for these two who were connected to this third one even if actual memories weren't there. And hoped all three wouldn't go catatonic or ballistic on him as this story unfolded and joined with the one they'd learnt about earlier.
The word 'Fate' crossed his mind and that time was the connection. That their stories needed to be told to each other now rather than waiting for confirmation of the truth. They had waited long enough. And he knew he needed to give more information to get more back, so reverting back to brotherly detective tone answered the question. "Hours actually, having come across each other late morning, and its now mid afternoon our time. They didn't know about each other before hand so its all been quite a shock for all concerned. We've been checking things out and it's been a very strange learning curve for us all. Both are married, with wives expecting daughters in six months time and have sons around three and a half, not on the same day but in the same month. And now, you've turned up out of blue."
There was a gentle disbelieving. "Good grief!" And then a chuckle and then "Well, they always acted as one when together so I guess there shouldn't be any surprise their families should be similar even though they were States apart." There was another pause and doing a verbal check through his thoughts Ted added. "So, one travelled from the State of Kansas to Sunset Beach without knowing about the other and ending up together, and that's why I got the answer machine when I phoned the address Kansas earlier." Unable to stop it he chuckled again and then added softly with a heartfelt sigh. "Fate must be laughing for once."
Trying to ignore that last sentence Ricardo gently reinforced his need for information by asking. "And you?"
Changing gear Ted gave a cough and a sigh as he got his mind onto present day things and then said. "I'm married to Janice and we have a son who is eight and a daughter who is six. Just been made redundant as the garage I managed was bought out and then closed. I sent off a CV via email this morning so I can send that to you and I'll add at the end the twins' birth date and place as well so you can check the details. If you've never had those details it should be easy for you to contact Family Records Centre in London tomorrow when they open. That's where the certificates for birth's, marriages and deaths are kept. I'll leave you to find the exact address and phone number as your independent way of checking.
I'm not lying, you'll find mine and our parents there as well. I need yours or one of my brothers' email addresses so I can send this information to you now and you can look at it now. As I said I'm out of work but this is not a plea to get money or anything else, I just wanted to find out what happened to them now I know they are alive."
Ricardo looked at the twins who now radiated bright eyed wonder and excitement though in fact were both sitting amazingly still and calm as they nodded yes to the idea of email addresses. He then quickly glanced at Hank with a silent plea for help.
Through his delight and wonder at it all Hank nodded he would. And moved remembering how the detective dealt with Ben's computer earlier. As well as thanking the stars he'd taken up messing about with computers as a hobby on his retirement.
While Hank was getting up Ricardo was still in two minds about this move, it could be what the man needed to do mischief, he was still the 'unknown quantity' to them. And from a recent police conference he knew nasty things could be attached to emails, things that could grab information from the computer and or wipe out all the information on it, immediately or sometime in the future with the owner sometimes non the wiser. He knew Ben's laptop wasn't his main one here or at The Deep, but couldn't be sure about Doc's. So knowing this third brother could hear him and it would alert Hank as well he said to the twins. "We don't how safe this email is going to be. So we want a computer free of personal information and I'll be taking it straight to the police station to be checked over by our experts as soon as we are done here."
Seeing the twins' nods of agreement Ricardo thought he picked up the very slight extra nod or fidget from Doc just before Ben said. "Use mine I've cleared it of everything but the basic programmes and the internet connection because Andrew was going to do something that sounded rather drastic to it tomorrow. We can argue the toss later as to who checks it out. You'd better use that new second email address we thought of yesterday as I don't want to close my main one."
Still trying to workout whether it was a twitch, the damn twin link again or just commonsense that Doc stayed silent as Ben offered his machine Ricardo accepted the information and said. "Okay." then called out Ben's email address slowly, visualizing the third brother making a note of it. Then ran through it again after seeing Ben's nod that it was right and then asked. "Were they always both called Ben?"
There was a chuckle from the phone speakers that went with the smiles from others in the room as they realised personal curiosity had finally caught up with the detective. And then the soft firm comment back to him. "Thank you for trusting me, I realise its not easy for you. The answer is no they weren't. Give me a moment to type in the boys details on that CV. The computer is next to the phone so it should only take a moment or two."
The tension rose slightly in the room as the moment passed and then there was a "Right. Janice is sending it now and it's marked Twins from the UK, it will of course give you a traceable address back to me. The boys were christened Benjamin and Derek but they need not have bothered because they only ever answered to Ben and that was before they could speak … were still wide eyed and at the crying and cooing stage actually."
Ricardo couldn't help his sigh and "You're joking." as he also got up to move over so he could see the information when it came through. Knowing Hank would open it up for him and check it as well… be his back up as he had been earlier.
Hearing the reaction Ted chuckled and admitted. "No I'm not detective. And I never called them anything but Ben. The family story was the expectant baby would be Benjamin Derek Evans as one Derek in the family was enough. But as two babies popped out in the back of the ambulance they split the names and christened them as soon as they got to the hospital in case they didn't survive very long. They were both small apparently and stayed on the edge of survival for awhile then made it with flying colours. Mum always reckoned they knew instinctively Derek was Dad's name and Benjamin was their very own name and as they were identical twins both claimed it, and it was immediately shortened to Ben. It was said you could call or coo Derek till the cows came home and you got nowhere. Call or coo Ben and you got a reaction and it didn't matter if they were both together or were in separate rooms.
As you can guess telling off or praising them was interesting as they foiled every attempt to make one different from the other. They were inseparable and both had that dark wide eyed innocence that could quell any temper if their mischief had gone a stray or an accident happed twice over. I see that look in my own children so I know where it comes from and guess I had it as Mum and Dad were never really cross with me either. The full name of Benjamin was used to wake up the straggler or in pure frustration at a situation, laughingly or in anger. As they both hated Benny with passion it was Ben for both.
Sometimes they could be just one child, one would be in our cushion den behind the sofa and the other playing with whoever was around and not necessarily in the same room, then they'd swap places. But, you wouldn't know it happened unless you saw the silent change over by the den because the other one would take over as though he'd been playing all along. Other times the one taking time out would just appear and they'd both join in. They never did it to tease us but would often do it when visitors came and would only come out as twins if they felt at ease around them or as soon as they had gone. Thinking about it I wonder if they were trying to be like the rest of us … single people. Other times you'd think there were four of them not two, all arms and legs as they rushed around, pure mischief, laughing and giggling and great fun to be with especially when Sally and George were around."
Ricardo had been silently ticking off the common traits he'd seen in Simon and hadn't missed Maria and Meg rising smiles at their husbands, no doubt trying to visualize them as kids rather than the silent, reserved but gentle men he knew one definitely was. And was brought to a screeching stop by those two names and tone they were said in and butted in very sharply. "Who were they?" feeling the nasty shock was coming now considering what they'd assumed earlier about those two names.
"Ah!" came over the phone and the sudden sharpness in the tone in it told everyone Ted's thoughts had just jumped from happy mood to another which was confirmed as he carried on a moment later. "I'm angry at them because I don't know why they did what they did. But I do love them deeply. They brought me up and gave me love and kindness and let me go my own way when I needed to. They also love my kids and are great role models for them. They used to live nearby but moved just over a month ago. Now because of what I've learnt so far I'm thinking very dark thoughts about them. They don't know what I've done or found out yet."
There was a sigh and then a slightly lighter tone as he carried on. "On the brighter side because they moved I found my little brothers again. The lady who bought their house popped in and gave me a box her husband had found in the attic hoping I could pass it onto them. Would have done but it collapsed when I picked it up to put it in the car and I found a photo copy of an the article about the train crash in America. It started to ring bells so I looked through the rest and found the sketchy information that eventually lead to you two." The anger and lighter tone disappeared and was replaced with disbelief mixed with his need to know, be reassured as he added. "I hope you had the good childhoods you both deserved."
"We did thank you and have loving families now. Glad they loved you." came the identical stereo reply making the other who'd seen it quietly laugh because the twins looked at each other as if suddenly realising what they'd done … thought and spoke as one … and smiled at each other before looking expectantly back at the phone. Both needing to have their own confirmation from their brother..
Hearing their gentle tones and caught up in his emotions Ted admitted softly. "They did and they couldn't have any children of their own so I was special to them." then there was a gentle sigh and a heartfelt. "I can't stay here. … Not now I know they are over there."
There was a soft loving female comment. "I know. It's all right we will go."
Wanting to put a lid on what was becoming a very charged emotional situation Ricardo said softly but very firmly "Sally and George."
Hearing 'that' official tone in those words Ted sighed and then answered formerly. "They are Sally and George Evans, older brother of Derek Evans by about a year. Naturally memories are distant about that day, but some things are clear. We were in the middle of moving house as in the removal men taking things out and everyone worried about keys and time.
I remember clearly the phone bell echoing down the hall and then my already disrupted world falling apart as they told me I'd lost my family and they would look after me from now on. They couldn't stop what we were doing so we grieved as we drove away, thinking about it now I wonder how Uncle George managed that drive. He'd just lost a loved brother and family and gained a traumatised eight year old child. All I remember is emptiness and tears then the chaos of unpacking in new house in a new area and all the entailed. And learning that life went on regardless. I became Edward overnight because Ted and Teddy were too painful … my choice not theirs but they understood it. And they stayed uncle and aunt because they didn't want to take the place of my parents. When we talked about my family it was always the good times and we remembered birthdays rather than the crash and their deaths."
With childhood memories being woken up again he felt the need to explain and air them so carried on. "The gifts I had from that party, which included a teddy bear from my parents though played with till they fell apart were treasured and I put them in a box so I wouldn't lose them. Still have then tucked away in a cupboard. I must admit as I coped with my new life sometimes I had dark thoughts, wished I'd been in the crash so we could have all been together. Other times it helped me that George was so like Dad and he was family so we could talk through memories and he understood my moods. I also knew I was better off than a new friend at school who'd been adopted by strangers so couldn't swap stories. I suppose because they were family I didn't feel I was betraying my family by loving them and eventually being happy. I believed as you two were in heaven keeping mum and dad company it was alright that I was here keeping Sally and George company.
I loved them trusted them and now suddenly I find out they have lied all these years… They knew you two were alive. And never told me. Never got you back…"
Hearing the anger and hurt building up Ricardo butted in gently. "They might have realised there was a chance they couldn't get them back and it was better that you and they didn't know about each other. We won't know the whole story till all sides tell it.
The twins have only found out part of it today from notes because both sets of adopted parents have passed away. You said you were in the middle of moving and the phone rang the hospital had a phone number and first names Sally and George in the front of a book found with Ben from here. He was found unconscious close to your parents who'd died before rescuers found them. That was the call you heard and it was cut off before all the relevant information could be exchanged from both sides and we don't know how clear it was. We can see how misunderstandings arose and I'm not going to go into that at the moment but it was decided independently that both Bens should immediately be adopted and your parents' ashes stay in the third town. …"
With anger coming through all his other emotions Ted cut in snapping out. "They had the article they should have told me the twins were alive! I'm going to drive over there tomorrow …"
"Ted!" Ricardo broke in sharply to bring the angry rush to a halt, he didn't want the man's anger to break up the family before they had a chance of being together again and then carried on in a more official tone. "From what you said earlier it sounds as though Sally and George really loved you and your family. If they didn't have that call back number, the name of the hospital, town or State in America they would have been stuck. Its quite common not to give the number till last you did it in your phone call. It would have been a difficult message to give and there would have been chaos going on around them and the same for your aunt and uncle. We are a huge country, with lots of small towns. I seriously doubt any English papers would have carried the story so unless they had your parents travel plans it would have been difficult for them. They didn't have computers and the internet we have today don't forget."
Ted's butt in was softer less angry. "There's lists of names and phone numbers with lines through them, a couple looks like a train company and one circled with Mum and Dad's names with the words 'ashes'. Then some other numbers and notes about the adopted parents and the words 'Both survived thank goodness, but we are too late now. Looks like good homes at least.' They could've rung and explained who they were at least."
Ricardo calmly counted it. "It wouldn't have been a quick easy job, I don't know the law but I reckon they would have had at least on court case, possibly four and that would have meant money and time. And no guarantee they would win and get both boys back. If they lost and the Judge or adopted parents might refuse further contact with your aunt and uncle and it would have been like losing them again, but with the pain of you knowing they were just out of reach. Whatever decision they made would cause pain and perhaps they knew they didn't have enough money to even start thinking about trying so believed it was kinder to leave things alone. They might even have thought about contacting them when you were all older but then as the years past the emotional tangle and the possibility of rejection by all of you was too much for them to face and so they left it. It could not have been an easy decision for them to make and live with. It needs discussion not confrontation Ted for all your sakes."
"Did they wait long for their adopted parents."
Accepting the change Ricardo answered immediately. "No and they both have their copies of that book. Both couples were involved in the rescue and as they were in different towns miles apart and a State line between them they never met each other. Nor did they hang around once the boys were well enough to travel. The boys responded to each couple immediately that was one of the reasons it all went ahead so quickly. But twins also grieved for their parents and shut down on their old life completely till today."
And then went back to what he needed to say. "When I go back to my station I'm going to see if I can contact your local station in the morning and get an officer to collect the box and accompany you when you see your Aunt and Uncle. It's not because I think any laws might have been broken its because I believe a third party with a connexion to my department might help keep things calm and private. You need to think of your children when dealing with this as well." He sighed and stepped across 'that' line by adding. "If I can't find someone from your local department to do it I'll see if I can come over and do it."
How could he not do it, he might have been listening and talking to an adult but he'd heard those whispers of a little eight year old who'd lost his parents and now just as suddenly felt betrayed by the couple he'd trust and loved all these years. And desperately needed someone he could trust and bring him home. As for this end, there were two little boys in the guise of adults wanting their big brother reassured and back in the fold knowing their parents were and always would be out of reach. Knew that all three had transferred consciously or unconsciously trust to him to make sure this whole family was reunited again and the truth told. And why not … he was after all an officer of the law, who people turned to when in trouble and had been with them through all this so far…
Those thoughts didn't stop him noticing the twins' identical expressions and from his past knowledge of one, things were silently and independently being plotted, and it didn't take a fool to know they'd be thinking along the same lines. Also bearing in mind one definitely was a multimillionaire with some contacts and the other could be and by the sounds of things had a very large and no doubt influential adopted family in another State to tap into. A midnight flit from the UK to here or an evening one from here to there and back again. Or finances for a plane for the family to come here were definitely on the cards as soon as his back was turned no doubt.
Not wanting any of that from either side he glared at the twins and added quickly and in a very firm tone. "Ted. If, after you and your wife have discussed and slept on the idea of coming over here to live, and, you both decide it's the right thing to do.Your children will need to be told the whole story slowly and carefully so they can feel as though they are part of that decision and get used to the idea. It will be a big step for all of you and theywill want to keep in touch with their friends and your Aunt and Uncle, they will not want to shut down on their past. Neither will you once the dust has settled. Check your emails in the morning for details of what is happening and be ready to hand over that box etc to an officer and then see your Aunt and Uncle if they are free. No phone calls before hand just a 'can I come and see you', it shouldn't be done over the phone Ted."
Gathering his emotions back into some sort of normality especially hearing his family being used again Ted accepted the detective's tone and said. "Okay. Not going any where till tomorrow I get that. And there won't be a midnight flight to you either, couldn't move that fast anyway. Nor from the twins to here and back again if that's what they were silently thinking."
Hearing two quiet sighs over the phone Ted couldn't help a smile guessing the twins knew they were busted, either by the detective's tone or glare he couldn't actually see but knew had to be there. And in a slightly lighter tone spoke his thoughts to the man he was coming to like and trust. "You're right, money could have been a problem they weren't rich and we lived in rather cramped rented accommodation for many years afterwards. There was no sudden financial gain just a growing boy to feed, clothe and love. That couldn't have been easy for them especially as they knew they couldn't have children so were arranging their lives to cater for that and then ended up with one overnight. I guess they might have realised what the other couples would have felt as well, especially as twins would have been with their new parents … as you say more pain all round.
He couldn't help his gentle sigh as continued to voice his thoughts. "We lost our own parents but made three other sets happy and were loved in the process. I think our birth parents might have understood their reasons, but finding it out like this hurts. And I do understand I shouldn't let my children see that hurt, but I will explain it if asked. George is an investor and a solicitor so although he might not have known American law in detail he would understood the difficulties and Sally is an accountant both have their own practices so money isn't a problem now. In fact they are working on retiring soon hence the new house and there was talk of a long holiday sometime this year but not where. Perhaps as I'm out of job they might have thought about broaching the past, who knows." He then gave their addresses and phone numbers home and firms knowing Ricardo would check them out … needed the background information and felt whispers of frustration at doing this from a distance…..
As he wrote the information down one question now itched to be asked so as soon as he was ready Ricardo said. "Why weren't you with your family on this trip?" and hoped he'd not opened a bad can of worms, having got the man thinking straight again. Or found the hole in the man's story that would bring things to a nasty climax.
Ted couldn't help his gentle laugh and then back in his normal tone explained. "Trip is a very good word to use Ricardo, because that's exactly what I did the morning after the party and broke my leg. We were staying with Sally and George and I'd been through that doorway out into the garden many many of times before. But it got me that time and I was told later I blacked out as well, I know I screamed and it hurt. We were meant to fly out the next day but of course I couldn't go and they couldn't postpone the trip. The only thing that helped me was the promise Mum and Dad made that was Sally and George would fly out with me when my leg was healed enough for me to travel easily and they never broke a promise so I knew I would go. But unfortunately that was a promise they never managed to keep …
Needing to turn away from those memories he changed the subject saying. "George wanted me to follow in his footsteps and be a solicitor but was willing to let me find my own way and follow Dad's hobby of tinkering with cars and make it into a good career till this hiccup.
Our birth Mum was a nurse and Dad was an investor buying and selling businesses, stocks and shares and had decided it was the right time to find his fortune across the water. I think its in our blood because when I said I wanted to use some savings to deal in stock and shares George said I was just like Dad but I wasn't to forget you could lose it in a blink of an eye. So it aught to be money I didn't mind losing and I've always borne that in mind. From one answer machine I know a twin is a doctor but don't know of what and from the call before I got you they said Ben was a businessman. So now I've got you both what do you two do exactly."
Without looking at his twin Ben said immediately. "Own a nightclub and café as well as other investments."
And immediately he finished his twin added. "General practice and emergency mainly children, as well as investments but like you I'm resting at the moment." so it sound as though only one said it.
Ted laughed then commented. "I like the way you put that that last bit. So you came for job then."
"Not in Sunset but that's another story." Doc added then stayed silent.
Ted chuckled and said. "I can hear a slight difference in your accents as well as our birth one so I know you both spoke just now thought it sounded like one. Between the three of us it sounds as though we've picked up our parents love regarding work and hobbies."
And sure they'd would want to know added. "They both loved tinkering with cars it's how they met apparently. It was late autumn and on a country road, Sandra's car had given up the ghost and she was in her greasy overalls with the bonnet up trying to find out if she could coach some life into it so they could make it to the nearest town. Mobile phones hadn't been invented and there wasn't a phone box or emergency phones either. Not too many cars passing but Derek did and he pulled over and offered assistance just as a cloudburst happened. Not wanting to huddle in one car with a stranger till it cleared up they both divided for a rundown cottage in who's drive they were parked in. Apparently Derek managed to pick up the hamper he always packed in the car on a trip out into the country and so they had flasks of tea and sandwiches in the covered porch way till the storm passed. As you can imagine they talked and to cut a long story short he towed her car to a nearby garage and she sat beside him because he had a proper tow bar rather than a piece of rope. They never looked back, love at first sight, he bought that cottage and let it out as a holiday home with their wedding anniversary blocked off for them. They sold everything for the trip to America."
Then he bubbled with positive excitement saying. "We've got up to date passports and as Janice works in a local travel company she can find out what else we need and book the flights. Kids can come out of school and travel, we've got savings and investments the house can be sold without…"
"Hold on!" Ricardo butted in sharply knowing things were running way too fast again.
And got the sharp retort from Ted. "You need proof I'm real what better way to do it. Come over for a holiday first if necessary. Janice is just loading and sending a copy of a photo of us through to you. Should be there in moment or two I'm sorry there isn't one of Mum and Dad in the computer to send you..."
Before Ted had finished Ben cut in. "We or I can finance him or give surety. There's Mick's garage on the edge of town …."
Seeing Doc nodding his agreement Ricardo glared at them and not wanting to lose this fight said firmly. "Stop it you two! No promises either side! Things need checking out and I'm taking this computer back with me so no contact afterwards!"
Seeing two very innocent looks back at him as he spoke everyone heard from the phone's speakers as he finished another chuckle and a soft sympathetic. "Guess they are still bundles of trouble … you might just as well give in now Ricardo."
Ricardo gave a snort of a laugh and shook knowing at least one twin would understand and said. "No way, not on this point Ted." and watched Hank close down the CV he'd been glancing at now and then. Knew he'd check it out later and waited for the new email to flash up, could feel excitement zip round the room.
It didn't take long and Hank immediately opened it and as the photo appeared Ricardo said with feeling. "Photo's come through. I'll get back to you if I survive the crush."
He really did wonder if he would as everyone was now moving towards him very quickly and that included Simon and Benjy. Well, he couldn't have expected the two new aunts to be left out and the boys looked bright eyed with excitement, they might not understand it but knew something was up. Studying as much as he could before the onslaught he felt his phone vibrate and though timing sucked he started to ease himself out from the jostling commenting crowd knowing he needed to take it privately.
Striding away from everyone especially the main phone that was still on speaker he checked the caller id and hoping she wasn't going to drop a bombshell quietly answered it saying. "Talk to me."
Hearing his tone Gabi gave a gentle loving laugh and said. "It was too weird to be a leg pull so we checked that phone tracker you asked to be installed after those silent phone calls to Ben recently and we've established the call is coming from Edward Evans's house. Keep him talking a little longer and you'll know its actually him you are talking to. Because of the time difference been leaving messages and emails so information will come back early tomorrow. But from other sources found out Mr Evans is married to Janice Clarkson and has two children eight and six. Wife works at a travel company and he's been made redundant recently and lived there for ten years or so. We've come across a Sally and George Evans. Also Evans is a common surname so you should be glad he's not living in Wales. That was a comment from the embassy offices in LA by the way."
Ricardo smiled at that remark and butted in. "You've done well, Sally and George Evans are Aunt and Uncle and he's Derek's older brother. I've got the twins' details on an email and they needed checking. I'll be bringing Ben's laptop back with me so could you ask Andrew if he could check it over for nasties, he was going to do something with the machine for Ben tomorrow anyway. Can you read me any addresses you've got so I can confirm this end, not got the email up but can remember them."
Gabi did and then when she finished Ricardo said with a sigh. "That's okay, we've got a photo of both families via email so that will be coming back with me and there's a couple possibly in their sixties so that must be Sally and George."
"Are the men like the twins."
"Very much so only George's has grey highlights and their wives are striking. Janice is a redhead and their children's hair has red highlights in the same way Simon has blonde. Boys take after dads and the daughter takes after mum so I'm guessing that will run true to form in the twins' families. Sally has brown with touches of grey and they didn't have any children just looked after Edward or Ted as he was known before the death of his parents. So we can agree that things are okay so far."
Gabi hearing the concern in his voice said. "Yes, guess you've had your work cut out keeping them there."
He gave a soft chuckle and sighed. "Oh Yeah. And the thought of having the whole lot over is mind boggling but good. I need to go the twins have just got hold of Doc's laptop and a computer disk of Ben's so I guessing they are going to sort out a couple photos to send back. And I need to speak to Ted." then suddenly remembering he added. "Before I go any news on the car. ."
"Yes but you'll find out later see you soon." and she rang off.
Reckoning it wasn't good news and puzzled by that comment Ricardo put his phone away and as he walked over to the main phone and passing the twins said. "One photo each and I'm closing the call as soon as they are opened the other end, certain people need rest if they are not going to get really cranky later."
The twins looked at him and nodded then went back to putting the photos they wanted to send on the disk, and Ricardo couldn't stop the feeling that he'd just been told twice over that he was the one getting cranky. …
Oxoxo
Hope you enjoyed it … and will have a good Christmas and New Year as I can't promise anything before they come.
Reviews and comments welcomed.
