They watched the breaking news; Four Molotov cocktails had been thrown towards the Sira dancing club. No injuries or damage were reported in the incident and one of the bottles had caught fire in the building's backyard. Two unidentified youths who had arrived at the scene had organized/controlled the evacuation of the crowd, saw to that all were safe, neutralized the terrorists and disappeared. The Jerusalem District Fire Services was crediting the two for saving many lives and asking them to come forwards. They were heroes who should be recognized.
Ari (their neighbor and IDF team leader) was interviewed and Eyal noticed he had MP's bandana in his hand.
Eyal breathed a sigh of relief and said, "They're OK, love. That's MP's wrist bandana. I'm guessing Ari purposely held it during the interview for us to get that he has MP and Jonathan. I'll text your father and Victor not to pull out the cavalry that IDF will take care of them. I feel helpless, MP has my car. Had we needed to get to them in a covert manner, we were stuck!"
Eyal looked at Sharon, she was tinkering with her watch. He asked, "Our tracer?"
"Yes, not proud of myself… MP activated it and I slept through it all!"
Eyal winced, "Same here, wasn't even wearing my watch, not proud of myself! We need to get back into spy mode and forget our wear and pain."
Eyal notice Sharon was not well, she started to tremble and he rapidly got by her side. He whispered, "Let it out, do what you have to, but let it out."
Her back against the wall, she slid down slowly. At reaching the floor, she began to sob. Eyal let her be till she reached out for him.
"How can you live with such treats, thought I was prepared, but this … this. Eyal, I don't want to worry about our kids every time they go out."
"Promise we'll talk, but not now. You, we are not in a state to think clearly. Sharon, I love my country and I'd do anything for it, but you and our family are my first priorities. If you don't feel safe, all you have to do is ask and I will comply, never doubt that."
"I know and you're right, not the time to take such a decision. They are safe and from what we are hearing, did one hell of a job. I just want to hug them both… Eyal what would we have done had they…"
"Don't go there, torturing your mind with what could have been will not help in any way. MP will need your support, this is not a typical mission where we have intel, protocols and backups. You might not like what I'm going to say, but love, you need to get some control over your emotions. Know you can do it, saw you pull it off for me, your father and sister while in very dire situations."
Sharon just looked at Eyal. He gulped at the intensity of her stare as she said,
"First time it concerns one of my children, it's not the same … believe me!"
"I know love, I know. To this day, the hardest thing I had to do was leave Avi behind, for what I thought, permanently when he was five. It's a pain that runs deep…."
They heard a car pull in the driveway. Jonathan was carrying MP who seemed to have injuries on her hands and knees. Ari waved and signalled that he'd be back later. Sharon got the first aid kit as Jonathan laid MP on the couch. Eyal took control of MP's care. They rapidly disinfected and bandaged her injuries.
Eyal informed all, "Her injuries are superficial, no need for a doctor. The one that I'll watch closely is her hands. Mostly first-degree burns but some blistering. Apart from that, scrapes and bruises. MP, you'll feel the pain tomorrow … sorry, dear! I'll give you an antibiotic for your hands and prepare some pain killers for you to take when needed."
Jonathan asked, "What are you doing with so much meds?"
"I like to take care of myself. The Jacksons have trackers; I have a pharmacy! We all do what is needed to keep a low profile."
MP looked at her mother. Eyal notices and pulled Jonathan away from both.
"Jonathan, leave them some time alone. You feel like talking?"
"Yes, would appreciate getting it out before I forget important facts. Eyal, it all happened so fast, timeline at debriefing is going to be tough and Rivka is going to put me out to hang … as usual."
Eyal chuckled, "That's one thing I won't miss…. Rivka's debriefings."
"Seems you kept avoiding them, care to share?"
"Nope, she'll kill me if I do. Let's say there were always mitigating circumstances."
"Not what I heard; dad always said you were Rivka's favorite and got free passes."
Eyal chuckled, "Ah … the pot calling the kettle black. You should know your father was right there next to me, most of the time!"
Eyal got Jonathan a beer and guided him towards the garden. He picked up Haya on the way. Nothing better than puppy love to de-dramatize a situation.
He handed the puppy to Jonathan and sat in front of him.
"Your father is on his way, best we wait for him. From what we got on TV, you and MP pulled off one hell of a job!"
"Eyal, I don't deserve any kudos. MP noticed the motorcycles and had a feeling something was not right. Never saw a girl change so fast. Eyal, she's one hell of a spy! Ordered me to get the people out and went about neutralizing three powerful bikes."
Victor came in and hugged his son.
"Damn, don't ever do that to me again! You just quit active field duty. What in the hell happened?"
Eyal summarized what Jonathan had just told him and both men let him finished.
"Dad, MP dare one of them and he took the bait. She got her answers and they knew they had just been made. She rapidly threw her knife at the driver of the first bike. I shot the man when he lunged at her. MP ordered me to take control of the crowd as she took the bike and rammed the other two with it. They only had time to throw four bottles (Molotov cocktails) before she neutralized them. At that time some were starting to panic. I had to rapidly come up with a plan. Spotted a couple of guys I know work for Mossad. They helped me make the crowd believe it was simply a drill. Dad, MP threw herself at those bikers, she could have gotten herself killed!"
Eyal shook his head and said through his teeth's, "Like mother, like daughter."
Jonathan continued, "The third rider was strapped with enough explosive material to blow up the whole block. I'm guessing their plan was for the first two bikes to get the crowd in panic mode with Molotov cocktails and the third (the suicide bomber) would have finished the job. Had MP not simultaneously rammed those two bikes, we'd be lone gone; all 100 or so of us!"
Eyal and Victor looked at each other. The Sira Club is known as one of Jerusalem's most avant-garde and eclectic underground clubs. The bar has several rooms including an arcade with a small dancefloor. With a panic-stricken crowd and that many rooms, it was a safe guess not many would have gotten out. They were beginning to realize how close they had come to losing both!
Sharon and MP joined them. Eyal had to laugh; MP was sitting in his wheelchair.
Sharon went to Jonathan and hugged him.
She whispered, "So glad you're OK."
"Thanks to MP; she's the one who saved the day."
Ari, who was coming in, added, "You both saved the day and more than 100 young Israelis! Many people owe their lives to your wits and rapid actions. Will not jeopardize your covert status, but Sharon, Eyal, Victor, wants you to know those two are heroes in my book! MP had a hunch on the bikes and Jonathan had the brilliant idea to control the crowd with the promise of three bills of 200 shekels for who would arrive first at three checkpoints on Sari Street (opposite direction of the action) the 'bomb simulation' team had put in place. That got them all thinking it was an exercise and they headed out to the street to try and grab the bills! Three Mossad tech opps were waiting with each 200 shekel bills, as promised! Don't think any of them realized it was a real bomb threat, hell some of them were smiling when we got there! That commotion cleared the way for this young man to ID and neutralize (permanently) a fourth accomplish who was in the crowd and also strapped with explosives. Their back-up plan; those basta_ds usually have one!"
Victor and Eyal looked at Jonathan, Victor spoke, "You omitted that part in your version of the story."
Shyly, Jonathan said, "I was getting there…"
Victor added, "I bet ... you're really are a Lavin … in so many ways. Nevertheless, I'm proud of both of you.
Ari and MP both asked, "A Lavin…?"
Victor put his head down and Eyal shot him a questioning glance. He knew Victor would not make this kind of rookie mistake. The man had purposely dropped Jonathan's newly found origins.
Returning Eyal's glare adding a dare, he explained to MP and Ari that Ruth, Lyse's mother and Jonathan's grandmother, had probably used a private sperm donation from Abraham seniors (Eyal's grandfather) since her husband was sterile. She gave birth to a baby girl – Lyse (Jonathan's mother and Eyal aunt). That makes Jonathan, Eyal's cousin. We have DNA proof of it all."
MP looked at her mother in panic, Sharon laughed, "Dear, you and Jonathan are not blood related. He's Eyal cousin … but Eyal is not your father! You two dating is permitted!"
She turned towards Victor and asked, "If you're talking that means Uncle En got the necessary proofs?"
Victor answered, "Yes, hospital records existed, Ruth had cleverly hidden them but not enough for a Mossad officer not to uncover. It turns out Jonathan's grandfather, Nissim (Ruth's husband) knew of the procedure but Ruth, Abraham senior and Saray Lavin made him swear never to talk about it. Enos and I met with Nissim and I … well let's say it didn't take me long to realize he knew the truth. He was relieved that it was finally out in the open. I asked Jonathan to talk to him about going public with the truth and he agreed."
Eyal asked, but he knew the answer, "Why push it Victor?"
"Eyal … you of all people should know that Mossad wanted it to come out. I couldn't risk being blackmailed with such a secret. I was tasked with getting it out in the open … or else."
Jonathan added, "I'm proud to be part of the Lavin family. Just hope it will go both ways."
Eyal said, "It will, don't worry. Why don't we take our house-warming to make some sort of coming out? Jonathan, Victor, what do you say?"
Victor let Jonathan answer, "No problem. I would prefer to announce it to Ima and Gabi in private. Would that be OK, Eyal?"
Eyal understood, "Fine with me, but be prepared to be considered as a son and not a nephew! Ima is going to dot on you… Gabi and I are a little too old and she misses being a dotting mother!"
Jonathan answered, "Great…. That's what I miss the most…."
Victor and Eyal nodded and put their arms on Jonathan's shoulder, Eyal said,
"Don't worry kiddo, Ima will be there for you if and when needed."
Victor spoke, "OK matter settled. Let's get back to the avoided terrorist threat. You deserve front page news but I'd prefer you to keep your covert status. One never knows when one could need it. Plus, it's IDF's turf, Mossad prefers not publicizing its presence."
MP spoke, "Victor, I don't want or need any recognition. We took out four bad asses, that's what matters."
They all heard, "Seems when in Israel a death wish runs in the Jackson family; like mother, like daughter! The difference is; my granddaughter is still standing … well so to speak!"
It was Ima and Robert. He went directly to MP and hugged her, Ima did the same then turned towards Jonathan and ruffled his hair.
Jonathan asked, "Chief Jackson, you're the one who spread the word. How?"
Robert teased, "Lucky guest? I'm no more Chief, by the way!"
Victor responded, "Lucky guest … my eye; you knew before Mossad or IDF did. I'd also like to know how!"
Sharon and MP looked at Robert and he OK them to speak. They shook their wrists and said, "Standard Jackson family tracking. We never leave home without it!"
Robert showed Victor his watch, took MP's wrist and said,
"Pairing her knife with a skin-deep sensor in her wrist triggered a signal on my watch. It told me who was in danger and where (GPS coordinates). It's non-invasive, only the holder knows their trigger and made of organic material that dissolves after use (non-traceable after one use). All my close family have them. It's what saved Eyal's life in the DMW mission, we were rapidly able to trace his exact location. They are not reliable enough for wide spread use but they've served us Jackson well … many times!"
Victor asked, "Only you have a receiver?"
"No, they come with a receiver. It's short range, but Sharon and Eyal should have gotten the message…. Seems they were otherwise occupied or were not wearing their watches."
Eyal and Sharon both winced as Victor and Robert sternly looked at them.
Eyal whispered, "Message taken and understood. It won't happen again."
Sharon seconded that.
Victor asked Robert, "Can you set up a father and son with that technology. This is a personal demand, prefer it be kept between us."
Robert smiled and answered, "I have an impressive inventory, that should not be a problem."
Victor turned towards MP and Jonathan,
"Jonathan, MP, I didn't have the choice to report this. I'm guessing you'll get a recommendation of some sort from Mossad and MI-6 and an invite to stay on active duty. Brace yourselves…. We can be persistent!"
Jonathan looked at MP, "We're OK, it's all in a day's work for people like us!"
Eyal took over, "Not so fast, what you witness and acted upon is a bit more than your usual brush pass or dead drop. Every time an officer draws his weapon, it is mandated that he receives counseling. it's not discussable!"
MP challenged, "I'm not Mossad…"
Robert rapidly added, "Mossad offered, MI-6 accepted. MP, it's mandated be it Mossad, CIA or MI-6. Young lady, you will comply."
Sharon knew that it was heading for a standoff between her daughter and Robert. She needed to find an out.
She ventured, "Victor, why not ask Gabi?"
"He specializes in long-term cases; every day counseling is not his duties at Mossad's."
Eyal specified, "He'll adapt and it's my call. It's a good compromise since they both seem to be against getting help from normal channels. Plus, he's family."
Victor replied, "Robert, what's your take?"
Robert smiled, "I'm retired remember!"
"Damn, stick in the mud MI-6…! What's your opinion, then!"
"I trust Gabi. I'll run it through Chief Young. Don't see it being a problem."
Victor added, "Just got an answer a positive answer from Mossad, but Eyal or I must conduct the debriefing. Eyal, IDF just ID the man Jonathan took down. Rivka relayed it to me. Take a look!"
Eyal looked at the incoming message and swore. Turning towards Jonathan and showing him his phone, he said, "Did you know who you were dealing with?"
Jonathan pinched his lips and answered, "Yes … recognized him in the crowd and concluded he was a fourth member. Told myself that if I was wrong, it would be one less on the most wanted list!"
Ari looked at Eyal's phone and said, "Hell, you gunned down # two on the Interpol most wanted list!"
Sharon and MP outed, "Way to go Jonathan!"
Ari added,
"I can see my neighbors are back and in outstanding form! I'll be going, guessing the shit is going to hit the fan at headquarters with that news and for us being upstaged by a junior Mossad agent! Mossad must be on cloud nine for getting one on IDF's watch! Sharon, Eyal, for tonight's homecoming, please don't get out the fireworks…. With your luck, Al Qaeda will think it's their cue to launch an air strike!"
Victor and Eyal teased Ari for a bit then both drew a straw for who would debrief Jonathan and MP. Eyal won … well lost!
"Great, just what I needed! By the way, MP, where is my car?"
"In the IDF crime scene zone and probably stuck there for some time, sorry!"
Ari, as he was going out, specified, "Don't worry, I'll make sure the news of the car of a known Mossad Officer being on the crime scene is erased from the intel. One of my men will have it in your driveway by tomorrow morning, no questions asked. All implicated at IDF know the drill; meaning that the identity of spies needs to be protected. Victor, I trust my team."
Robert threw Eyal his key's, "Here, take mine. Ima wanted to help Sharon for your housewarming and she also volunteered my help. Darling, I'm not cooking!"
Eyal closed his eyes, "Oupppssss, knew there was something I was forgetting. Do not worry for the party tonight; got a catheter to prepare food and house for a reception of 50 guests. They will be here after lunch. Don't want any of you working today. And love, before you strangle me; that catheter's family is from Vancouver and he knows how to prepare a Poutine. He even promised some cheese curds with a light brown gravy directly from Québec City. Seems he had a Canadian friend, who's also a chef, flying in today so he ordered some special ingredients. Seems a poutine is not a poutine without Canadian squeaky cheese curds! Kismet is doing all in its power to make me eat that dreadful dish again! So you will have your 'Poutine'."
Robert laughed, "Poutine, ate that once, for tonight I'll pass! Mister Man-of-the-world-wine-and-dine, how did she get you to agree to add that to the menu? Lavin, you're so screwed!"
Laughing at Robert's antics, Eyal went about letting Gabi in.
A nervous Gabi asked, "Eyal, got a call from Rivka and she said to get my tail here pronto. You OK?"
"Yes. Do you know of the latest terrorist attack?"
"Yes, heard it as I was coming over. If it wasn't for two …."
Gabi looked at the two youths and shook his head.
Turning towards Eyal, "The two unidentified heroes; MP and Jonathan?"
Eyal nodded and said, "Yes. They did good work. Mossad and MI-6 would like for you to handle the mandated debriefing when there is lost of life at an officer hands."
"Why me, not my specialty and not sure it's my calling!"
Victor took over, "Don't worry, your 'calling' will not change. This is a special case. We don't want their identity known even in the ranks of both our agencies. For all; IDF was and is in charge. The chatter of the presence of 'two heroes' will, in the next hours, disappear and summed up as an urban legend. The less we implicate third parties the best so Gabi your name was suggested and Mossad and MI-6 accepted. I wouldn't recommend you refusing. It goes without saying that the people present will also need to forget what was said here."
Victor slowly looked at all and they got the message. Sharon felt a shiver go up her spine at the intensity of the man's stare. Victor, like Eyal, was truly a dyed-in-the-wool Mossad.
Gabi knew not to argue and asked, "Could it be possible for me to be read in as for the protocols of such debriefings. Would not want to err, especially with these two. I will not, whatever the orders, play with the minds of people."
Victor's expression smoothened as he said, "It's already arranged. You meet with Dr. Blowitz this afternoon. Gabi, your security … will need to be upgraded for this task. You can consider it permanent and there's a pay hike attached to such an upgrade."
Gabi rolled his eyes, "Meaning my work load with also be 'upgraded'. I can see Mossad doesn't miss an opportunity!"
Victor laughed as he gave Gabi a small piece of paper.
Gabi looked at it then at Victor as he said, "I'll shut up now!"
Some time later, Eyal whispered, "Gabi, if you want out of this 'pay raise' I can speak to Rivka. That raise has a price; you'll be forwarded cases where our National security will be pending. You up to the stress it will bring?"
"Yes. Eyal, I couldn't care less about 'National security.' I'd never break a patient-doctor confidentiality whatever my security clearances are. My patients will always come first. If I am given hard core cases and help them, that will be my pay…. But got to admit the pay hike is hefty!"
"You earned it! Another matter that has to stay between us for a bit because I haven't had time to read in Sharon: I'll be your new boss, could that be a problem?"
"What?"
"This last mission (DMW) made me realize my family prefer I stay alive. Rivka offered me an acceptable compromise between field work, Dark Control responsibilities and a suit's job at Mossad. It's an eight-person team that will second Victor and provide counsel/assistance for officers in the field. It will also be our role to evaluate officers who were hurt mentally or physically in the field. I might be called upon to do some field work on occasions. The 'boss' won't be present on a permanent basis, since I'm the owner of Dark Control and will be country hoping between Great-Britain and Israel. Rivka accepted those conditions. I need to build an autonomous team that has enough experience to work without me constantly breathing down their necks. You and Uncle En were the first ones I asked for, that is if you accept. That you are family is not a problem with Mossad, if it's OK with you. Don't need your answer…
"I gladly accept. I've been asking for such a team since I've joined the Mossad's medical personnel. As it is, we all report to Rivka and/or Victor. How many times have I argued that a field officer should be pulled out only to look around and see that he's back in the field! I came to realize that I could yell my little head off but the suits (Victor and Rivka included) always went by protocol: an officer with a problem must be put back on the horse so to say – ready or not! I'm only a voice but with a team put in place to offer counsel, it is no more only a single voice. Something might give and lives could be saved."
"Gabi, don't kid yourself, there will be time where we will not agree, are you sure?"
"Yes! Got to admit, Rivka is one smart cookie. Victor has all of what is needed to be a good Deputy Director; he has no empathy whatsoever, but the man is open to changes. Those changes need to happen if our agency is to 'play well' with others. You, Eyal, will be able to implement changes and Victor's image of a cold and dark leader will stay on. You've studied how other agencies work, have friends in those rival agencies and are respected by them and your colleagues. Victor is feared. Each man is suited for the job that was handed to him. Rivka is putting in place her little army to bring the Mossad into the 21st century!"
"Welcome aboard, little brother. Your first task is to debrief Jonathan and MP."
"Do we report to Victor?"
"We work closely with Victor but I report to Rivka. My team reports exclusively to me. That was an important part of the deal."
"Smart, smart Rivka! Many very talented and senior people, sorry know he's your friend, just can't stand Victor's ways and some want out. Mossad couldn't afford to lose them."
Eyal chuckled, "You are the right man for this job! Yes, but I'm not Victor's proxy. Our role will be to help and fight for our people in the field. I want them to know they will be supported and if needed helped in their tasks. It won't be easy; we'll have timber to bring down before the field is clear."
"You can count on me. Now I need to meet up with Dr. Blowitz. How are Jonathan and MP? The news said four terrorists were dead, did they…."
"Yes and for both it's their first kill. Get them talking, they need to get it out. They'll put up a brave front and say that they've been trained for this but don't let them kid you. I've been there, they are not OK training or not!"
"Do you have an idea of how I can justify the killing of another human being, bad as he may be."
"In my book, no killing can ever be justified. But comes a time where we can be faced with a choice; them or us (and/or other innocent victims). Here's advice on how to go about it, up to you to use it or not: Make sure they understand that today they stepped into senior spy territory and did one hell of a job. Killing a target is a rare occurrence, some spies can go their whole career without using a gun. Hell, CIA junior spies are not even armed! I want those two to realize that what they did is serious business, way above their pay grade, did one hell of a job and it's normal to have questions and doubts. Especially don't want them thinking that they are simply 'killers on demand'."
"Thanks for the advice, I can see you've been there. I'm first a psychologist, not a spy. The advice you just gave me will give me insight on how those two feel; that's the difference between you and Victor. He would have told me to do my job that I was the psychologist not him! Eyal, I want you to know I was one of those ready to quit … spoke to Rivka. In a way, I might be responsible for you having to accept this job … sorry."
Eyal grinned, "You were a big part of it… But do not worry, it's what needed to happen. I could never accept Victor's position. He's the right man for the task at hand, don't doubt that Gabi. Mossad needs a strong and in control leader. Look at Robert, he and Victor are made of the same cloth. Gabi, they are a rare but needed breed."
"Still, I'm prefer working with you."
"I'll remind you of those words at our first confrontation…. It will come!"
"I know and I'm looking forward to it! Now, I need to brief up for the job at hand. You have the good doctor's coordinate and when he'll be expecting me?"
"She's at headquarters and she's expecting you at your earliest convenience! I'll be handling their official debriefing; I prefer you give them 24 hours for what they did to sink in. No use playing with their mind when they didn't have time to let their conscience talk to them."
"All the better! Will give me time to learn the standard protocol from Dr. Blowitz. Already like how you work brother!"
Gabi, on another matter; get a hold of Ima and meet with Jonathan. He has news I prefer you know before talking to him and MP."
Gabi shot Eyal an interrogative glance but knew he wouldn't get more.
Entering the living room, he hooked Ima and joined Jonathan. Jonathan gave Sharon a subtle glance and she led the trio to Eyal's office.
Ima spoke first, "Jonathan, hope this is not bad news. Are you and MP really OK?"
"Ima, don't worry, MP and I are fine. This is not bad news ... well I hope it isn't. How can I explain this…"?
Gabi chuckled, "From the start, son!"
Jonathan seized the occasion, "Not son, it should be 'cousin'!"
Ima and Gabi both asked, "What?"
Jonathan explained how his grandfather was infertile and that Abraham senior had donated his sperm for Ruth to have a daughter - Lyse (Jonathan's mother).
"I have some Lavin DNA!"
Gabi and Ima were stunned and could only stare at Jonathan as he said,
"That bad?"
Ima shook her head, "No, no, dear boy. You are more than welcome. It's unbelievable but soooooooo Saray and Abraham senior! How many times, when I was babysitting you, that I'd tell you how much you were like Eyal! All those years, I was right. You, nephew, are due some heavy TLC. I have some catching up to do."
Jonathan chuckled and let out a breath of relief, "It must be true. Dad also said I often reminded him of Eyal so much that he sometimes felt the urge to punch me!"
Ima spoke, "I can't believe Enos kept that secret all those years. How did he manage it? He's such a caring person."
Gabi explained, "Ima, that's why; he's a caring person. He didn't know it was a sperm donation, can you imagine what went through his mind – rape, force sex, etc. All the people involved were dead, except Nissim (Ruth's father and Jonathan's grandfather) plus Lyse and Jonathan were happy. Enos could never confront Nissim for not being Lyse's biological father. Keeping it under wrap did not hurt anyone, Enos laid it to rest, so to say."
Ima added, "But Jonathan missed out in so many family matters. Don't worry, son, you'll get your fair share of love, caring and even discipline … because if you are anything like a teenager Eyal, you're going to need my guidance on many occasions!"
Jonathan laughed, "I'll welcome anything you'll throw my way! Must admit discovering I'm part of the Lavin family made it a bit easier to deal with my mother's passing. My parents' close family is pretty much non-existing. I'm glad to add aunts, uncles and cousins to my family tree!"
Gabi added, "You need some guidance or a shoulder, we are all here for you, cousin! Don't ever hesitate. Ima will spread the word out to all, get ready for a warm welcome."
Ima motherly hugged Jonathan as he was fighting back the tears. "I will make sure the family knows it just got bigger. Jonathan, as Gabi said, you need a shoulder or a hug, I'll always be there for you."
Eyal interrupted and found the trio all teary eyes. Laughing, he said, "See you've been adopted…"
Ima stated, "Not adopted, he a full fledge family member and I intent on making it known to all. I finally have a young one that is eager to be dotted on!"
Eyal laughed, "What did I say, Jonathan! She's in mother-mode, brace yourself!"
Jonathan whispered, "It's just what the doctor ordered, Eyal! I'll welcome some motherly love and advice. You don't know how much you've loss till it is taken away. I just got a second chance and I'm going to take it!"
"Jonathan hate to break up your first family reunion, but we need to get ourselves to Mossad headquarters."
"I'll be right with you Eyal."
As they were getting in the car, Eyal noticed MP's and Jonathan's long faces, he spoke,
"Look, I don't like this more than you do, but it's mandated. Be glad it's not Rivka… Do you remember her debriefings, Jonathan?"
"Yes … one word comes to mind … painful. Hate having to relive it but glad it's you, Eyal. It will probably be my last so can't complain."
Eyal smiled and said, "You can always dream….!"
He continued, "Have a proposition: This family needs a second car. If you guys can choke out the time line of your story fast enough, we might have time to go look at cars. MP, you up to going car shopping?"
By her eyes Eyal knew he was in the running for step-father of the year.
As they entered Mossad's headquarters, Rivka was waiting for them. She congratulated both and gave MP a message from MI-6.
Rivka asked Eyal, "Victor is not with you?"
"No, we drew for who would debrief and he won!"
"Eyal, you're not his sidekick but head of a special support team … We discussed this yesterday, you both report to me. This was his job to do, you're not yet in 'service'."
MP head shot up, "What?"
Eyal closed his eyes, Rivka realized her error and rapidly left while whispering for Eyal only 'sorry'.
Eyal spoke, "MP, please understand your news trumped mine this morning. I didn't have time to tell your mother about this offer from Mossad, give me a break here!"
Smiling she said, "That's going to cost you; I get to choose the make of our car."
"Deal. Now let's get this debrief over with! I have most of it, we only need to add a time-line and names."
Jonathan added, "Eyal, the guys that helped me will need to be reimbursed their 200 shekels. It was their personal money."
"Jonathan, your father saw to it. They got more than what they gave away, believe me. You won't be hearing of it because it's now a classified matter, but they were fully reimbursed. Guys, remember, we are going to look at cars … not buy."
Two hours later they were signing a contract for a white A-Class hatchback range; CLA-Class 4-door coupe, Mercedes, compact SUVs GLA. MP despite her hurt hands and knees wanted to drive it home. Eyal, sitting behind MP was trying to relax before facing Sharon. Buying her daughter, a car without talking it out beforehand and having accepted a new position at the Mossad … again without her knowledge … was going to sting a bit!
As they came in, Sharon was waiting for them. Looking sideways at Eyal, she said,
"Eyal, you're a Parent … not Santa!"
Eyal answered, "I'm Jewish… I don't do Santa!"
MP interrupted, "Mom, mom, it's in my name. My first car… I love it, it has everything I dreamed of."
Eyal calmed MP's exuberance. Winking at her, he asked to leave him some time alone with Sharon.
She whispered to him, "Sorry…"
Another wink as he said, "I'll live… I hope! Go, try out your new toy and leave me deal with your mom."
Alone with Sharon, he turned towards her and said, "Think we need to talk?"
She turned him around and said, "Yes, garden … now, Mr. Lavin!"
In the garden, he pulled her a chair and gave her a kiss, she didn't pull back or hit him. 'OK, I'll live, now where do I start!'
Sharon solved his dilemma by stating, "E, since we've been together, you and MP always had a special relationship. I know you're proud of how MP and Jonathan handled themselves, but buying her a luxury car … we should have talked about this."
"You're right. I had told MP that after the debrief, we'd stop at a friend to look at cars. Figured they'd both needed a pick-me-upper after what they. Love, you've got to admit; we need a second car. People in our line of work cannot be stuck as we were this morning. Didn't plan on buying one … only look. Sharon, I saw her eyes light up, my friend offered me a good deal and…. I caved. What she lived through was in my country, I felt somewhat responsible. I know she's not my daughter and I should have gotten your OK first…"
"Stopping you; in no way are you responsible for what happened. As for the car; I'm not mad and I probably would have done the same. You are right on all counts; the situation we were in this morning is not something I'm proud of! Robert and Victor will surely sermon us for not being on top of things; we dropped the ball! That say, what I want you to realize is that we should have talked about it – I was only a phone call away! Also it doesn't sit well with me that it's such a luxurious model. A Hyundai, Toyota or Honda would have suited her fine. I love the new 2016 Porsche Cayenne, but that doesn't mean I'm going to go buy one because on of the kids did a good deed! MP is kiddo # 1 but we have two more and a third coming, who are going to expect the same treatment. Eyal, I don't have your budget and … well … it's not the way…"
Eyal winced, "Got you loud and clear. Didn't think of the message I was sending and the consequences. Sorry, sibling rivalry was never a concern of mine. When I wanted or needed something; I served myself. Don't worry, I'm a fast learner!"
Noticing he was rubbing his thigh, Sharon pushed his wheelchair to him. He rapidly sat in it and pulled her to him as he whispered in her neck,
"Thanks for not staging a yelling match."
She returned his kisses and teased, "Eyal, I do not yell, not my style. But I don't give second chances. You buy MP a home, you're dead… I have my ways … you'll be gone … no forensic evidences!"
Eyal gulped as he also teased, "I could ask Hanna to give you lessons on how to yell it out. No second chances … kill me now and get it over with!"
"OK, it will be three strikes and you're dead, deal?"
"Deal."
MP had covertly walked him, she spoke, "Mom, sorry for interrupting. Please don't be mad at Eyal. Buying the car was my fault. I knew he was feeling responsible for what happened and I played on it a bit."
Eyal turned towards MP then Sharon, "Sharon, did you know?"
Sharon smiled, "Had doubts, was trying to find a way to bring it up without hurting your feelings. But I'm happy she did before I had a chance. By doing so, she avoided herself a very serious 'mother-daughter' talk. It would have been painful … she's all out of free passes!"
MP handed Eyal her keys. He didn't quite know what to do with them. Breathing out loudly he said,
"MP, this was not a mission. In real life, when you sign your name on a bottom line, it's a done deal and cannot be easily revoked. That car is paid for and legally yours. Girl, we are trained to play people and if good at it, can pretty much get what we want from an unsuspecting target. I'm not one to follow rules, but there is one I rarely transgress; I don't play a loved one. The price is too high."
Marie-Pier had tears in her eyes as Eyal handed her back the keys. She said,
"A big error in judgment on my part. My conscience was realizing the consequences of what I had done while driving home. What would you say of a plan to try and make it right? Heard Nathan saying he loved his job at Dark Control, but the paper work was getting to him. I'm offering my help in getting him up to date with case files, training him on how I work at it and if there are translations that need to be done, I'm volunteering. Know I won't be able to pay 100% of the car but hope I can get back 100% of your trust. I cherish the special relationship we have, would not want to lose it. Eyal, I'm also a fast learner!"
Looking at her with a questioning glance, he asked, "For how long were you eavesdropping?"
"Didn't even get out of the driveway. The guilt got the best of me. Didn't want to interrupt you guys talking it out. It was not my place to meddle! Don't worry, what was said between you both will stay with you both. You guys are cute when you 'talk it out'!"
Eyal looked at Sharon, "Did you sense she was listening in?"
Sharon shot him an annoyed glance, "No!"
"Damn, don't know what is happening with our skills but seems we are in need of a couple of sessions of 're-training 101'. Are we losing it? Today is not my day; not proud of myself!"
"I'm right up there with you! MP care to explain how you went about playing two senior spies?"
Daughter shot mom 'I'm proud of myself' glance.
"Nothing special, came in from the back and got Haya moving for you two to assume it was her roaming about. Knew Eyal needed to talk to you so decided to stay invisible till the time was right. He still has a secret to come clean with..."
Eyal closed his eyes and pointed her finger at MP, "I'll deal with that young lady. Again, why didn't we hear you walk in? Haya I sensed, you I didn't."
MP shyly smiled and continued, "Noise is simply airborne vibrations. What we perceive as noise traveling "through" a wall or other object is actually sound waves causing the wall to vibrate. This 'vibrating wall' making the air on its other side vibrate. Regardless of how it travels, noise reaches its final destination— the ears—as airborne sound. That's what ears are, vibration receivers. Once you understand this, meaning that noise travels primarily through air, the best way to block it is to put something in its path. When in the field, my first recon is to create a true quiet zone. I did this the first time I entered this home. Know where to place myself so natural elements will block noise vibrations and moved some stuff to make it easier. Some layer the land or make an on-foot recon, I build myself a safe-anti-vibration-zone … a bit like a safe house."
Eyal looked at Sharon as he whistled, "Young lady, think you just gave me motives to try and woo you to the Mossad's ranks!"
Sharon chuckled while saying, "Why don't we compromise and she shares some of her 'savoir-faire' with Dark Control. MP, I'm also impressed! You sure you don't want to stay in the ranks of MI-6?"
Eyal pulled Sharon to him, "Look who's wooing now! Love, you're right; Dark Control could learn from her 'safe-zone' theory. MP, that's not your basic training, where did you get such knowledge?"
"Have an asset who's an audio engineer for the Cirque du Soleil, Sony music and staged a version of the Phantom of the opera. I noticed he could easily sneak up on me. I asked how, he gave me his price to train me and I accepted … voilà!"
Eyal bit his lips at seeing Sharon's face when her daughter admitted, in not so many words, having used sex to close a deal.
He dared, "Ah … it was that kind of deal … always very instructive!"
Sharon refocused, "Instructive rimes with destructive: Mr. Lavin, try your hand at that 'kind of deal' and I'll make sure you get the proper 'retraining'!"
"Don't fret, those days are way behind me, love…. I now have other ways to pay for services rendered! OK, enough for spy training 101, let's get back to the matter at hand: MP I accept you 'payment' offer."
"Eyal, I'd like to know what 'our' status, please be honest."
"MP, I'm disappointed but that won't change how I feel about you. I accept your offer to make it up. Call Nathan and arrange it. I'm sure he'll welcome you … arms wide open. I know I am! Young lady, want you to know that your days will be full, I plan on seeing to it! To seal a back to normal deal, I'd like for you to enroll in a crash course; Signature Law: What Signing a Contract Means."
"Eyal, I just got out of school, didn't intent on taking summer courses. Isn't me working for Dark Control enough?"
"MP, it's a package deal, you take it or leave it. Signature law is as important as your 'noise safe-place theory'."
"OK, you have any idea where I could enroll?"
'I'll arrange it; Hebrew, French or English."
"Hebrew, I need the practice."
Eyal gave her a hug and whispered, "Don't worry, you're still my special one!"
MP returned his hug, kissed her mother and was off.
As she was out of earshot, Eyal said, "Can't believe I let myself be played twice by a junior!"
"Eyal, she didn't handle/play the spy, she played the father figure … and that my dear is what kids do! Learn from it because they will do it again. Kids are worse than targets because they know what buttons to push."
"Funny, had an asset broken my trust in that way, not sure he would have gotten out unharmed; MP can't even be mad at her. I'm more impressed at her honesty and must admit spy abilities. Sharon, MI-6 is losing big on not trying to woe her back."
"MI-6 will not lose her and they know it – they are cutting her free for her to come back to them. As for not being mad at her; that's what being a parent or step-parent is. Kids will make you proud, laugh, cry, drive you up the wall, disappoint you, but you can't stop loving them whatever they throw at you. I'm a strong believer that the sacrifices, beliefs, and values parents implant in their children help determine the person they grow up to be. You, Mr. Lavin, just won my heart all over again with your handling of the situation. I'm also proud of my daughter for coming forward with her action. Wish she hadn't done it from the start…"
With a sly smile, Eyal added, "Don't worry, I intent on making her realize that her car won't come cheap. Nathan is the best to organize an op or land a contract, but he's the worst I've seen with paperwork. She has her work cut out for herself. If she can teach Nathan how to document contracts and missions, hell, I'll buy her another car!"
Looking sternly at him, she said, 'Over my dead body!"
Kissing her forehead, he laughed while saying, "Kidding."
Sharon cozied up next to him and asked, "With this last whirlwind, didn't have a chance to ask how your overnighter with Ari and Rivka went? Guessing that's what MP was talking about."
Eyal breathed in and said, "Yes. My meeting with Rivka went well. After Ari's 'house fire' seems something I said didn't go well with my boss. She tasked an officer to drill down on it and the guy didn't do his work properly. He presumed instead of inquiring. The evidence was pointing towards Ari, normal … that's how his dear 'wife' and Belenko had set it up but a simple call to yours truly would have cleared Ari. Rivka did what was expected of her. Point learned; debriefing should never be rushed. Conclusions; Ari will receive a recommendation instead of a blame, the agent will get was he deserves and IDF will have a written apology from me."
"A written excuse…?"
Chuckling, Eyal added, "Rivka's way of telling me she's still my boss. Didn't argue, she's right!"
"And Ari will get a recommendation? That will seem a strange move from Mossad. If it were me, I'd think cover up."
"No, the difference between a blame and a recommendation in the Mossad world is thinner than a sheet of paper. OK, situation dealt with. What did you drink today?"
Smiling at knowing not to ask why the meeting with Rivka took so long … she didn't need to know, Sharon answered,
"I drank plenty! E, Victor mentioned your grandmother's name was Saray. Pretty name."
Eyal smiled and said, "Noticed your eyes when it was mentioned. In Hebrew the meaning of the name is argumentative. It means 'my princess, my lady' in biblical Hebrew and 'contentious' in modern Hebrew. In the Torah, it's the name of the wife of Abraham before G_d changed it to Sarah. And that's not the best of it… 'Sharon' is a level fertile plain between Jaffa and Mount Carmel in Israel. In Hebrew Sharon derives from Sharai, a princess, from whence are derived Sarai and Sarah."
Sharon's face lit up, "Eyal are you telling me my name is 'related' to Sarai and Sarah! It's THE perfect name; Sarai, it will be if it's a girl. When Gabi and Hanna announced that they were going to name their baby Sarah, I was ... well … a bit mad, jealous and disappointed. It's the name I had wanted for a girl."
"Same here… But must admit; Sarai is a unique and exotic alternative. It opens the door to wonderful associations: My maternal grandmother's name was Sarah, Ima's middle name is Sarah, my sister Sarah was argumentative. Safta Sarai Lavin (my paternal grandmother) was a grand lady. Your name is connected to theirs and their strength and qualities I can see in you! Five ladies that will always be my princesses. If this little one is a girl, we shall name her Sarai … my sixth princess! Sharon, the number six is still alive and kicking! Plus, just realize there are a lot of 'S' in our name history."
Wincing he added, "Changing subjects; MP was right… I do have another 'secret' I need to come forwards with: My all-nighter with Rivka and Victor was not only about Ari. Darling, I want to grow old with all my princesses. When I was hospitalized in Washington, I talked about retiring from field work. This morning, I took the necessary steps to give me a fighting change of at least growing old: I won't be going in the field as a Master spy, be it for Dark Control, MI-6 or the Mossad. Rivka offered me a think-tank position. The DMW was officially my last, that's my promise to you! The Mandoline mission is still in our order book, but I'll be reporting to Rivka. Victor and I preferred it that way. Rivka will never admit it, but she was pretty proud of herself!"
Sharon's breathing was irregular and her lips were quivering, Eyal brought her to him and kissed her passionately while whispering,
"Don't cry, please! Hoped this would be 'happy' news to you!"
"Eyal, it is! In order to get married, we had to retire but…that didn't last long. Are you sure? You shouldn't take such a life-changing decision at this time. The memory of Belenko is fresh and your body is still recuperating. Leave yourself time. When we discussed in Washington, it seemed so far away..."
"No, it's decided and signed. Filled the necessary papers … I'm officially desk bound at Mossad as a part-time special team leader permitting me to manage Dark Control. I am not kidding myself; can't promise 100% out of the field, but it's a done deal contract wise. You, if desired, can be part of my team. It's up to you; field officer/agent, profiler or retiree. Sharon, my decision is final, it will not change if you decide to stay active."
"Eyal, can't say that I'm exactly where you are at but it will be a mix of retirement and profiler for your team. I want to be a present mom for this little one, field work and full-time motherhood don't mix. I was there for MP and Kevin and will give the same care to our child. Dave was an absent dad; his doctor career came first. You, I'm sure, will be a hands-on dad."
"Yes. I wasn't present for Avi, but this baby will have a father in all the sense of the word. Sharon, that's another reason why I accepted Rivka's offer; don't want you bringing up our child alone. Did it to Hanna and realize every day what a challenge bringing up a kid can be. Hanna did a fine job with my son, but I should have been more present."
She let herself fall onto him and wrapped herself up in his arms. Smiling he whispered as he pulled her against him, "Always ready!"
She hesitated, "I'm not …."
He rapidly positioned her so they'd be face to face, "Are you OK?"
Touched by his concern, she explained, "I'm OK, it's just that, well…"
He realized the woman in front of him was way beyond tire; not much sleep with a spiral of emotions don't mix well with pregnancy,
"Come, we both need some sleep."
As they settle in their bed, he circled his arms around her and sleep was fast to catch up to them.
After a couple of hours, they were awoken by a light knock. Eyal pulled the covers over him as Sharon answered. It was MP,
"Mom, didn't mean to disturb you, but it's past 11 and we are up to 27 guests tonight and that's not counting my brothers' party! Eyal, did the caterer tell you when he'd be here?"
Eyal sat up but had to rapidly pull the sheets on him, making MP and Sharon smile.
Realizing he had not been fast enough, he said, "You two like what you saw?"
MP answered, "Not what I saw, but what I got a glance of!" At that she whistled.
Eyal was lost for words as mother/daughter made a little 'we stumped him' dance!
He refocused and said, "The caterer's last message read that he'd be here after lunch. Talking about lunch, what would you like? I'm in a cooking mood!"
Sharon joyfully replied, "That's super, I'm not! Did I tell you how much I love you!"
Smiling he said, "No, not once today, I'm worried."
She gave him a well-deserved kiss. MP cleared her throat and added,
"Think I'll go down and wait for the party team to arrive! Eyal lipped, 'Thanks' as he waved her off.
When Sharon and Eyal finally came down, they saw Avi, Kevin, Ismael, MP and Jonathan busy helping the caterer and his team.
A man came to Eyal,
"Eyal, you have quite a family. On such a short notice, I had a handle on the food, chair, tables, decorations, but … well… I was short staffed. Came in, talked to Marie about my situation and she put your boys to work. She's something because she had them on their toes and helping out in a matter of seconds. I promised the boys a special black light and dance videos on that big screen of yours, no added cost. Hopes it's OK? (Eyal and Sharon nodded that it was.) Eyal, is your daughter single?"
Sharon laughed, "No, the tall guy, the most obedient one, is her present boyfriend."
"The good ones are always taken. Returning to business; Eyal glad to announce that you will have Québec's original Poutine! If this crow likes it, I might even put it on my 'exotic' menu. Ordered what was needed from my friend Roland, he'll be joining me later (with jet lag and my special orders). I read up on the Poutine phenomena; it's interesting. I took the liberty of offering the original poutine (Roland will prepare it Québec style), but there will be an Israeli version. Is that OK?"
Sharon reassured him, "More than OK. That's the thing with the Poutine; the basics are fries, cheese and gravy but anything can be added to it. Many Haute Cuisine chefs have tried their hands at Poutine! What are the ingredients in your Israeli version?"
"Can't tell, it's a secret. Eyal thanks for this opportunity. Summer business is slow; too hot, too much to do or vacations. The Poutine might give me a needed boost!"
"Or kill it! Poutine is Sharon's idea not mine. While in Québec, tasted it and … well let's say, I didn't plan on eating it again."
"Eyal, the Israeli version, promise you'll like."
Eyal realized he hadn't made proper presentations,
"Where are my manners? Sharon Welby, my wife/Gary Wilson – my friend.
Sharon asked, "Wilson?"
Chuckling, Gary explained, "My Canadian father is an international art dealer as Eyal. He met my mother in Israel, they got married, moved to Vancouver, Canada, had two kids and returned to Israel to semi-retire. The big kids followed … never liked the Canadian rain and cold."
"How did you meet Eyal?"
Gary looked at Eyal, he signalled that it was OK,
"Eyal dated my sister for some time. She foolishly decided that she didn't want to date a man in the same business as Dad; too much traveling and long absences. Well, she got her wish - she's stuck with a man that won't get out of his chair! My sister had a great guy in Eyal. Never seen someone as thoughtful, skilled in hand-to-hand and a quick thinker on his feet. Look would love to continue chatting but I have work to do!"
As he was leaving, Sharon whispered to Eyal, "Asset?"
"Yes and a good one! My cover as an art dealer was a slam-dunk because of the deals he acted as a go between his dad and me.
"Does he know you're Mossad?"
"Yes … can't have an asset without giving them that tidbit!"
"You're right; he's good! He made as if you were in the same profession as his father."
"Ahhhhh … for him my 'cover' is the real thing; He's under the impression that I 'help' the Mossad (sayanim) because of my job and travels. I left him with his conclusions. Often tried to wheel him in as a Mossad officer but he never wanted to cross that line. I came to respect his wishes. I'd get the art deals, he'd pass them on to his father, daddy would gladly complete the orders and voilà, I was in business!"
And the sister?"
"Ancient history, don't care to talk about it."
She lovingly caressed his face, "She hurt you?"
"Sharon, I'm here with you and happier than I could ever imagine. Lots of water passed under my bridge, but I survived. Don't dwell on my past, please."
"OK, nevertheless Gary is right; his sister pushed away a wonderful man…. her lost, my gain!"
Sharon was talking with Eyal as she noticed a couple of guitars and drums being brought in. Surprised, she asked,
"You hire a band? Eyal this is a simple house-warming! Caterer OK and I'm grateful but…"
"Didn't hire a band, well yes, but they are missing a lead singer. Thought you'd like to sing for our guests. This night is not only a house warming but a new beginning for us. They are a couple of surprises… You got the Poutine, makes me entitle to add some 'Lavins' to OUR house-warming."
He lifted her chin and they lovingly kissed.
Jonathan interrupted, "Hey, you two lovebirds, can you let go of each other for at least a minute! Jeeezzzz I thought the teenage years were bad, midlife years seem to be far worse. Eyal, MP told me you were in a cooking mood … but when I saw it was taking some time … and the boys were starving, went ahead and whipped us up some Mixed Jerusalem grills."
Sharon shot Jonathan a questioning look.
Eyal took over, "Darling, there are no bigger snobs than Israelis when it comes to food! A Mixed Jerusalem grill is simply a mix of chicken hearts and gizzards, together with other chicken and turkey red meat all seared on a hot griddle in a mix of spices like cumin and turmeric. It is served in a pita with hummus, hot sauce and pickles."
Sharon eyes lit up, "Did you say pickles, lead the way Jonathan!"
Sharon left with Jonathan … the pickles were calling!
Looking around, he spotted MP. He invited her to join him in his office.
"MP, need your help. I'd like to surprise your mother. Thought for sure I'd be in the doghouse for keeping a bit too many secrets from her. Plus, me going behind her back and buying a car was not one of my best moves. Happily, she didn't bite my head off. I would have… had the situation been reversed!"
"Eyal, mom is not like Hanna. Not badmouthing your ex, but Avi told me a bit of how it was with you two. You've got to stop imagining what Hanna would do and expect mom to react in the same way."
Eyal shook his head, bowed to MP and asked, "Am I that obvious?"
"Frankly, yes! Every time you do an oops, you tense up expecting the worse. Mom doesn't punish, hit or screech, but she usually gets the wanted message out. Believe me, I know. Must admit, it sometime hurts more her way! Eyal you need to stop expecting the worse. You two are so cute together, it's unnerving!"
"Cute! I'll work on my guilt reactions, promise! Still, I'd like to get her something special and want to run it past you. She mentioned a Porsche Cayenne…
"Eyal, are you out of your mind?"
"No. Would she like a Porsche Cayenne?"
MP shook her head, "It's your life. Why not! Mom always had a thing with Porsches. You are not the only one that appreciates nice things, but she's not the extravaganza type. The woman doesn't like surprises and makes sure the persons close to her know it. I don't remember Dad buying her a nice gift … come to think of it, don't remember her receiving a bigggggggg present ever. Eyal … go for it. If you can manage it … buy it for her. It's time she let herself be spoiled and pampered. I know of something that would make her day if, after thinking it thought, you come to the conclusion that the car is a bit too much. In a couple of days, in Québec, the 'Festival d'été' is opening. It's 300 shows – 10 stages – 11 days of music. You buy a passport for under 100$ and can go to all concerts. This year, Sting and Peter Gabriel are giving a concert and I'm sure mom would love to be there. I have the Festival's app on my phone: the lineup for the Bell Stage on the Plains of Abraham will include sets from Rammstein, Duran, Ice Cube, Rae Sremmurd, City and Color, Bryan Ferry, Fetty Wap, Brad Paisley, Sheryl Crow, Selena Gomez, the Lumineers, Alessia Cara, Bahari, Brandi Carlile, Coeur de pirate, Fred Pellerin, Gojira, Julien Clerc, Kaskade, and Neil Finn (Crowded House). Download this app, you'll see!"
Eyal looked at her in disbelief, "And you said it was less than 100$ Canadian for all concerts! What do they do, sing 1 song and get out?!"
"No, it's goes from 2 hours to longer, it's a real concert. I have very special memories of the Festival d'été! Eyal, the more I think of it, the more it's the perfect gift for her at this time. Two weeks in Québec would be a welcome break from your hectic life. Nothing ever happens in Québec. Dad use to say it's the only place where my accident prone mom could stay away from her dark side. You could also benefit from some R&R. If you are up to traveling and can get away for two weeks, she'd love that kind of gift. If you do decide to go, I want to be there when you announce it to her. Never seen my mom 'react' to a gift otherwise than a shy 'thank-you'. She's not the 'jump around I'm so happy' type, but like I said earlier, she always made it clear that she was not the 'gift' type. It would be nice to see how she reacts."
"It's a done deal" Eyal showed MP that while she was talking, he had bought six Festival d'été passports."
"Six?"
"You said you had found memories of that festival. I know for a fact, Jonathan loves music. Kevin told us that he missed his old home; Québec city and I'd like for Avi to see that Québec is not only a very cold place! We will be taking a family vacation, but the parents will have some much needed 'alone' time. I'll be asking Clara to join us."
MP just stared at Eyal, gulped and said,
"If Jonathan is just a quarter of what you are, I'm keeping him for the long run. Eyal you are the best, thanks for being … well for being you!"
She hugged him as Jonathan walked in, he didn't miss his chance and quipped,
"Hey, am I interrupting? Isn't she a bit young for you, Cousin Eyal… I'm now family but that doesn't mean I'm sharing my girl with you. Dad is bringing a date she's more your age; you should try your hands at her if you want 'a diversion'. Leave mine alone."
Eyal chuckled as he pushed MP in Jonathan outstretched arms. He asked as they were exiting the office, "Your father coming with a date?"
"Yes and we talked about her yesterday; Sandy Bednarz."
Eyal shot Jonathan an incredulous look then turned towards his wife, who was joining them.
"SHARON…?"
Sharon was fast to respond, "Promise Eyal, not my doing!"
Jonathan thought best to add, "I also … well, MP and I …. are also not responsible for this. What can I say, Victor is Victor! Eyal, they've been friends for some time. Don't think there was never anything romantic. Not Sandy's style to sleep with a married man but since mom died, she's been there for him."
Eyal nodded but seemed preoccupied by an arriving guess. He pulled Sharon near him and whispered in her ear,
"Two surprises for you in our guests; Ducky is back from London and Ziva/Tony are with him. They will be here tonight. Plus, another somebody from Washington is here; turn around."
As she did, she saw Annie Walker and Auggie Anderson walk in. Turning back towards Eyal, she said,
"How, when…"
"They just arrived, Nathan (Dark Control's head of Jerusalem's office, Eyal friend and ex-Mossad) picked them up at the airport."
Annie dropped Auggie, ran towards Eyal and frantically hugged him. The caterers stopped to look at the two. Rolling her eyes at them, Sharon joined Auggie and offered him her elbow. He quipped,
"Guess she's hugging her Israeli friend to death!"
"Yes, she is. What's your situation? Not that I'm prying, just don't want to make an oups…!"
"We're together. It's still touch and go, but we're good. How are you dealing with pregnancy? It's hot here, reminds me of Afghanistan!"
"I'm not dealing well with the heat. Eyal panicked at my fainting episodes and proposed we return to London."
"Remind me to give you some 'tricks,' the army thought us for dealing with heat. Now why don't we separate our two lovers, I want my bear hug!"
And that's just what he got. Eyal had been standing not far from him and at hearing his request, he gave the man what he wanted.
Eyal always admired Auggie. Being blind, he had his limits, but the man had a way of successfully working a problem that defied logic often getting him into trouble with CIA suits (Joan Campbell in particular). That Eyal could relate to!
Annie spoke, "Sharon, look at you, you're really pregnant!"
Sharon laughed, "Well, I hope so because if it's weight gain, I have a problem!"
Eyal put his arms around the trio, "Gang, we have less than 30 minutes before the guests start arriving. Why don't we take some time by the pool and get caught up in our news?"
"Lead the way." Annie cheerfully said as she caught his arm, leaving Auggie and Sharon behind.
Eyal turned to her and said, "Aren't you forgetting somebody?"
He pulled Auggie near Annie and placed Annie's elbow so Auggie could take it. Then he put his arm around Sharon waist. That was a gentle reminder to Annie that their relation had changed. The move didn't go unnoticed, Sharon winked at Eyal and he gave her a quick kiss.
It was easy for Annie to befriend people; she didn't over-think how to connect and saw the good before the bad. That's what had attracted Eyal to her. For him, making friends or assets was not a simple task and he admired her special gift. The girl did, however, have the annoying habit of forgetting about other people in her entourage and concentrated a bit too much on her target. At this time, it was Eyal.
They settle down and Eyal was the first to speak,
"Want you two to be the first to hear this…"
Annie interrupted, "You two are retiring from field duties! You had talked about it in Washington, but must admit I didn't believe you!"
Auggie shook his head and replied, "There she goes! Annie, it was their punchline not yours!"
Annie looked at all and whispered, "Sorry…."
Eyal hugged her as he said, "Enthusiasm will kill the cat … it's one of Ziva's twisted idioms but got to admit it's fitting!"
Eyal continued, "Yes, it's official! As you know, this last mission left some physical but also mental scars. A mentor once told me I'd know when to quit and he was right. The time is now. I have all what I dreamed of in life, down to the dog! I don't want to screw it up. Going in the field with doubts, at my level, is a sure deathtrap."
Auggie asked, "When did it 'hit' you?"
"When I woke up in the hospital but only made it official early this morning. Announced it to my love no more than 15 minutes before you heard about it."
Annie added, "So Sharon is not..."
Sharon corrected, "Yes, I'm following suit. I pretty much decided when I learned that I was pregnant. I'm not getting any younger and want to be a present mother for this baby and the other three. Something I'm not doing well while on missions. Had a gentle reminder from my son…."
Eyal corrected, "We had a gentle reminder! Family will to be our priority from now on. Mossad is putting up a consulting team to assist Deputy Director Victor and I'm heading it. Sharon, when she's ready, will help with the profiling and protocols for missions."
Auggie's eyes lifted and zoomed in from where those last words were spoken, he asked,
"Sharon?! Isn't she a spy from a 'rival' agency?"
Eyal chuckled, "She's a loan … some missions will probably be kept from her. Don't foresee that as a problem, my love deals well with secrets. We have an understanding that we come out with secrets when needed. It served us well up until now and don't see it being a problem in the future. Sharon has Victor's and Rivka's confidence. That, in itself, is quite a win."
Annie whispered, "Wow, who would have thought. Was sure you'd stay in the field while Sharon took care of the home-front. Whatever, I'm so happy for you both! I marvel at how you two deal with the dreadful 'secrets' and that you are not at each other's throats for Eyal taking this important decision alone."
Eyal responded, "It's not always easy. We both have many secrets and I'm sure some could cause a tsunami rift between us. Getting them out when needed is the key. It puts the secret in perspective and gives it a purpose. As for the decision to call it quits, for me it was an individual one. I love Sharon, but me calling it quits from my way of life was not her call. She did the same and I'm OK with her handling of it. We discussed our decision when it was a done deal."
Annie asked, "Sharon, how can you accept secrets and hiding of the truth?"
"It's not always easy and I sometimes do ask questions but I usually stick to the agreement. You two are having problems with how to deal with your respective past, aren't you?"
"That obvious?" Auggie ventured.
Sharon answered, "Yes, it's been there from the start. Guys, going to be honest: If you can't get a handle on the fact that you live/lived a double life, call it quits before one of you gets hurt and ruins your friendship in the wakes!"
Annie practically whispered, "That's what Arthur and Joan said but how?"
Eyal took the question, "By accepting, no questions asked that you both did/will live an individual life parallel to your love life. No other way, sorry. You can't handle this … like Sharon said; quit while you're ahead (still friends)."
Annie quipped, "The important word is 'tell when needed', not 'camouflage till it bursts out."
Eyal intervened, "Annie stop. Did any of what Sharon and I just said sink in? If not, don't even bother trying; you two are doomed! Annie, you are walking into the Master spy ranks and Auggie's been there for some time. You two will have it harder than Sharon and I because you're not on the same time line. Annie; Auggie being blind means he needs a more structure relationship, act on it. Auggie; some secrets will have to come out, deal with it. There, I'm done, got it out! Relationships are not my cup of tea!"
Auggie's hand was searching for Eyal's shoulder. He found it and added,
"You two just lived thought one of the worst kinds of hurdle life can bring. Proud and impressed of how you navigated through it all. We'll work on ours, promise. The 'tell the secret when needed' I will seriously look into. Might seek out your help."
Eyal responded, "Any time my friend, any time."
Annie concluded, "If Belenko could see us now!"
Eyal added, "Belenko succeeded in turning many lives upside down."
Auggie rapidly replied, "But the scumbag didn't succeed in breaking us and that is what we need to focus on. We suffered, loss battles but won the war!"
Sharon replied, "Love the way you put it Auggie, I second that!"
Sharon and Eyal apologized, they needed to great their guests.
As they were out of earshot, Sharon asked, "Do you think they'll make it?"
Eyal answered, "If they don't change, not a chance!"
Sharon agreed. "Well, we tried."
All invitees had accepted the invitation: Eyal's close family, Sharon's two fathers, Enos/Martha, Rivka, Victor/Sandy, Nathan (Jerusalem) plus Jamie (London) Eyal's seconds in command at Dark Control, Ziva/Tony, Ari/Shina plus a couple of surprises; Boris (Nathan had secretly invited his ex. boss), Hank Lawson (Boris's doctor) and Andy (Sharon's brother) add some colleagues from Mossad, employees from Dark Control. With the boys' party – It was a full house!
At one point Eyal signalled to the band members to get ready. He borrowed Sharon from Andy and gently pushed her in front of the mike.
"Now, do your thing. Have fun, love!"
Sharon asked the crow if they were up to having some live music. Eyal could see she was in her element and very at ease for working a crowd. After 8 songs she called it quits. The crowd wanted one more and she gave in.
"It's been a long time since I've sung, sorry for the problems with my breathing. As you saw I prefer pop-rock but for this last song, I'd like to make it a slow duet. Eyal, would you join me?"
Eyal's eyes spelled panic. 'Love, this is your time, no need to share!"
But all had heard the invite, Victor and Boris pushed Eyal on stage. Sharon could see he was not a happy camper but she knew how to soften the image he was presenting.
She whispered for him only, "Love, it's a song you know by heart. Often heard you sing it in the shower. You have a lovely voice. I'll take the lead; you'll do just fine. Please … for me?"
"Can't very well back down. You have me cornered. How many times do I have to tell you; I'm not a singer."
"You aren't, I know, but with the right song and partner, you can do it. Please, this song means so much to me! If you choke or don't remember the words don't worry. We will be three singing this tune. I have a recording of it and the drummer is going to play it while we sing."
"OK, OK, take the lead… I'll join in! Hate you!"
"And I love you for hating me but still being my singing partner."
"For one song …."
"Promise!"
Sharon took his hand and made him sit on a bar-style stool. She knew being able to lean back on something would secure him. She had tested it with him at Christmas time.
Sharon addressed the crowd. Their guests seemed amused at Eyal visible annoyance with his beloved!
"This is an oldie but it's my friend so to speak. It followed me from teenage to adult life. My father Harold Welby sang it to me when I could only see bad things in my life, Robert took over when he adopted me, we sang it together at my sister's wedding plus I have a special recording of the song. It was that recording that helped me get through the death of a partner, friend who I later learned was Eyal's sister. Today, I want to close the circle and sing it with the love of my life. Family and friends I give you; A Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong."
Eyal breathed hard. Grabbing his hand, she hoped her self-assurance would be transferred to him. She also noticed Ima clapping loudly, her face lighting up and tears streaming down her cheeks.
'That song must have a special meaning for Ima. I need to ask her when I'm done here.'
The music and recorded version started. Sharon and Eyal joined in. The man who didn't think of himself as a singer was nailing it. Sharon even phased out to only do some back vocals. Eyal's performance had family and friends in awes.
See trees of green, red roses, too,
I see them bloom, for me and you
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world.
I see skies of blue, and clouds of white,
The bright blessed day, the dark sacred night
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world.
The colors of the rainbow, so pretty in the sky,
Are also on the faces of people going by.
I see friends shaking hands, sayin', "How do you do?"
They're really sayin', "I love you."
I hear babies cryin'. I watch them grow.
They'll learn much more than I'll ever know
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
He finished by circling his arms around Sharon, hugging her and repeating, 'What a wonderful world.'
They both shyly accepted the standing ovation.
Sharon whispered, "And you thought you weren't a singer."
Eyal answered, "That recording you have, where did you get it?"
"Funny you'd asked, I got here, in Jerusalem! When I had my accident, your Uncle played it for me when I became agitated and each time I'd calm down. Before I left, he gave me his tape. A couple of years ago I got it professionally remixed to better isolate that special voice. Don't know why but when I was in pain after the accident, I just listened to that voice and I felt a peaceful and appeasing sensation invade my body. I've used it in numerous dire situations. But not since being with you … that should tell you something!"
"Sharon, I know that voice. Come with me."
"What, where…?"
"Don't ask questions, we need to speak to Ima."
As they approached the buffet table, Eyal gently pulled his mother's elbow. Sharon was surprised to see she was crying.
"Ima, what's wrong?"
Then it hit her. The tape was given to her by Enos. She had asked who was the singer and Enos had said it was his brother…. His brother was Eyal's father.
She stuttered, "The song … it was your Abraham… Eyal's father?"
Ima answered, "Yes, how did you get that tape?"
Enos was next to them, "I gave it to her when I noticed Abraham's voice had a soothing effect on her. Never thought she'd keep it and use it to sing with one of Abraham's son! Eyal that was the best blast from the past I've witness of my living. You are your father's son! Please, I'd like to hear that song again but in a more private setting. Men don't cry when around people!"
Ima took Eyal's hand, "Son, I don't have the words to describe the feelings and memories I experienced at hearing you sing. When you sang at your Christmas reception I told you your voice reminded me of your father's. I stand corrected; it's the same! I'm with Enos, want you to promise me you'll sing that song again!"
Eyal pulled Sharon to him, "Do you realize what you just did?"
"Yes, you'll be signing at family gatherings!"
He teased her, "You're proud of yourself, aren't you!"
"Yes; for the result because you have a wonderful voice for a special type of songs; no; for not realizing that recording was of your father's. I should have connected the dots! They all say you have his voice, want to kick myself for not noticing."
"Sharon, they look at me and see my father. I have his stature and presence but sorry, not his voice. Listen to that tape carefully. You didn't pick it up because frankly I'm not a singer, he was. An aunt once told me I was a bass while my father was a baritone."
Sharon corrected, "The voice on the tape is definitely Bass, but yours is also. You and your dad sound like a sub-woofer speaker that a bass voice! It's in the vocal range where you defer. I'd say you have an octave below your father's. That makes your voice a lot harder to control, you need vocal warmups to be at your best. Bass singers are very much in demand in choirs and also in A Cappella groups did your…"
"He did both and was very much in demand. Sharon, do you have copies of that tape. I'd like for us to offer it to Ima. "
"It's already on Enos and Ima's phone."
"Thanks, they have that song in many recordings, it was his favorite, but that remixed version is remarkable. In those days digital recording didn't exist. It was the good old cassette recorder; it did not do him justice!"
"E, when did you know it was your father singing?"
"As it started. Sharon, I sing that song in the shower because I heard it pretty much every day as a child. Think it's the only song I know all the words."
"How could you hold it together? You gave a great performance!"
"My way of making him proud of me…. as Ima, memories were flowing. Brought me back to simpler and happy times, but for a first time I can honestly say that I would not trade my present with my past!"
As Ima, Sharon was wiping her tears.
Eyal cuddle her, "Hey, not the time to get all mushy … the Poutine is coming! Gary is preparing to announce his menu."
She hugged him back and added a kiss. He returned her kiss and pushed it up a notch.
Ducky elbowed him. "You two behave or get yourselves up to your room!"
Sharon teased Ducky, "Ducky, don't pull the puritan father figure on me! You should know, I'm not the obedient type."
Robert added, "How comes he gets a warning (carrot) and I get the stick!"
"Because you, Daddy #1, know me well; you annoy me on purpose. Ducky is not there yet and I'm giving him free passes. But do not worry … chasse le naturel et il revient au galop (my true colors will shine through)!"
Gary had planned a proper introduction to his meal. He made the band play the 'Oh Canada' and gave a detailed history of the dish. That got the guest talking. For the Israeli version Gary had added turkey schnitzel, black olives and za'atar (a Middle Eastern blend of thyme, salt, sumac and sesame seeds).
Eyal wasn't impressed, "Great, he adds Israeli fast food to Canadian fast food, a match made in culinary heaven!"
"Hey, sour puss … look around. Our guests are already on their second serving and Gary's employees are scrambling to get more!"
Her words were lost on Eyal, he was looking at Victor and Sandy. From his concerned expression and darkened eyes, Sharon concluded that he did not like what he was seeing.
"Love, do me a favor, occupy Sandy while I speak to Victor."
"Why?"
"Sharon, don't argue and do as you're told."
"She your ex … meaning no more of your concern. Victor isn't manhandling her. What's with you ... jealous?"
Eyal grabbed Sharon's arm and spoke to her sternly in Hebrew. His mother overheard and saw his move. The woman discreetly approached her son and put her hand on his neck. To the untrained eye, it was as if she was straightening her son's suit, blouse and tie. It didn't take long for Eyal to let go, the pain that was running down his arm was unbearable.
Ima whispered, "Eyal Lavin, never and I mean never lay a hand on Sharon. Don't know what's wrong but nothing she said or did deserves that kind of treatment."
Robert approached, he knew Ima had Eyal in a submission hold. He asked what was wrong. Sharon spoke, "Ima, dad, leave us, please?"
Ima shot Eyal a pair of eyes that sent shivers down Sharon's spine. The woman was more than mad.
Turning towards Eyal, Sharon barely recognized him.
"Eyal, what's wrong?"
"Come, we need to talk."
As he went to her, she backed up.
He winced at seeing she was afraid of his next move towards her, "Sharon, I lost it, never wanted to hurt you. Not proud of myself and Ima's tough love move struck a nerve and is still hurting as hell; both - physical and mind! Come with me, please? Promise, you'll understand. I'll join you in the kitchen. I need to make sure Sandy doesn't leave the premises."
Eyal went to talk to Nathan and joined Sharon in the kitchen. She didn't know what to think but her arm felt like it still had Eyal's hand around it. Never had Eyal laid a hand on her, something must really be wrong. He appeared, went to the freezer and took out the bag of frozen peas he'd often use on his knee. Pushing up Sharon's sleeve, he applied the cold bag on her arm.
"Damn, I'd kick myself!"
"Eyal, what's wrong?"
"I read lips, that's what's wrong! Sandy, by some miracle, is pregnant and Victor wants her to get rid of it."
"Oh, my God!"
"Please, leave g_d out of this conversation!"
"Eyal, what can we do?"
"Maybe what I asked of you earlier."
"Eyal, I'm sorry, but you should have given me something more to go on. We should get ourselves a pet phrase and at hearing that phrase … we do what the other is asking, no matter what."
"Good idea, but we don't have time for games. You're the extraction specialist … do your thing. I need to talk to Victor alone. We take 10-15 minutes, mingle then you get Sandy out of Victor's grips. I'll then tackle, my dear friend. Sharon, you might need to close this party alone, you OK with that?"
"Don't worry, I have your back."
He gently removed the makeshift ice pack and winced. "Damn, that's going to bruise. I'm sorry."
Sharon approached him and, in a flash, pinched his arm. He had to stop himself from screeching out.
Sharon said, "There! We're even and I got it out of my system. We'll compare our bruises tomorrow to see who has the most colors!"
Eyal had to laugh, "Ms. Welby, you have the most unconventional ways of dealing with a tense situation. Damn, I love you!"
At that Ima came in to join them. Eyal saw she was mad, but at the same time his mom seem devastated. Sharon pulled on Eyal's hand, "I got this, go!"
Eyal kissed his mother's head and darted out. Ima looked at Sharon and motherly rearranged the pea bag while saying, "He had, at least, the decency to threat you properly! Dear what happened out there?"
"Ima, this has to stay between us. I am going against my better judgment and will tell you the truth. Eyal read Victor's lips. Victor's date is pregnant and he wants her to have an abortion."
"Are you talking about Sandy Bednarz? Eyal dated her after he and Hanna broke up. She's a lovely girl inside and out. Sharon, he must have read wrong. Sandy can't be pregnant. She has this condition … wait it's…. can't remember the name but she has scar tissues on her uterus. Eyal knows about it."
Sharon said, "Asherman's syndrome?"
"That's it!"
"Well, if Eyal is wrong, he and Victor will have it out. Nevertheless, I need to get Sandy away from Victor. Care to help me spy mama? Ima, you still have it. What move did you pull on Eyal. Don't know that one, but it looks effective. When this party is finished, I want you to teach it to me!"
"Funny, it's the only paralyzing technique I remember! I lost it when I saw Eyal lift his hand on you…."
"Ima, I don't want to pry, but the way you reacted…. Abraham…. did he ever use force on you?"
"Never!"
"Bull…."
"Sharon, it was a different era and …. yes, it happened a couple of times in the beginning of our life together. His father (Eyal's grandfather) witness it once and don't know what he did, but Abraham never laid a hand on me again. Sharon, he was a loving husband but he saw things in the Israeli army that no human being should witness. All his life his eyes were sad … a tortured but gentle soul … a lot like Eyal's when he ended his family life with Hanna. I always dreaded Eyal had that mean streak in him. That boy had all the signs and his father's gentle soul and expressive eyes."
"Ima, I can assure you he doesn't, well he might but it's under control. Your son is going to need your forgiveness after this party is over. Ima, tell Eyal about his father. It's the only way he'll understand why you reacted as swiftly as you did. It might also help him understand where his reactions (temper) are coming from at times. The best way to stop such a cycle is to talk about it openly. Has Robert told you of his struggles?"
"He did, told him about Abraham. I can't destroy Eyal's image of his father. Abraham did as Eyal did to you, he squeezed my arm. Didn't hit or slap, didn't even speak roughly to me. It happened not more than three/four times and we were married 20 beautiful years. Having known beforehand, I would have married him over and over. He was a wonderful husband. What pushed Eyal?"
"He has the strongest loyalty to his family and friends than I've ever seen in a man. He'd die to protect his love ones. Just have to think of our last mission to see that I'm right (Ima closed her eyes in pain). Tonight, I didn't catch that he was on protective duty for Sandy and he lost it. Remember when my sister had her breakdown and I wanted to speak to her at all costs. I pulled a fast one on Eyal and Robert to go about my plan. You were the one that cornered me and explained how me wanting to help my sister at any cost could do her more harm than good…"
"Yes, it was a crazy stunt…. (She stopped) I get it… What Eyal did is still wrong, but as I helped you, I owe my own son the same understanding. Will find a way to tell him about his father and why I reacted the way I did. Now…. what is your plan to 'extract' Sandy?"
"Well, spy Ima, you have an idea?"
Ima face changed from concern to 'once a spy, always a spy'. Sharon silently laughed.
"Long time I haven't thought as a spy."
"If you stick with Robert, don't worry, you will again. For now, I need your help. You have an idea on how to extract Sandy without a Master spy, head of Mossad, realizing he's being played?"
To be continued
