V'n V @ The Radisson BLU Royal, Golden Lane, Dublin, Ireland

During our stay at the Radisson BLU Royal Dublin (see review) we also had dinner at the V'n V. It was included in our overnight rate.

The restaurant was a bit set off from the rest of the open plan lobby. It
had very high ceilings and interesting chandeliers. They were shaped like huge artistic globes.

The V' n V was as modern as the rest of the hotel. The cuisine reflected it too.

We were greeted warmly and brought to our table. We could choose any seat at the floor to ceiling windows. We overlooked the street and another bustling restaurant the "Buenos Aires Grill".

Soon the menu and wine card arrived. We could choose a three course meal and had to pay only for the drinks and any side dishes.

We chose orange juice and two glasses of rose wine. Tap water was provided for free.

As starter we had the beetroot and cheese salad and the nettle soup, followed by salmon with tapenade and potatoes for both of us and a side salad, consisting of tomatoes and mixed green leaves.

Our dessert was an orange and grapefruit gratin and cafe au lait parfait with dates in a cinnamon sauce.

It was all very delicious, fresh and healthy.

The waiting staff was busy with a large group and a few other couples, but they were always there when we needed them.

We would return anytime to the hotel and the restaurant, plus we enjoyed here our breakfast the next morning, which was outstanding too. Highly recommended.

©2014

Radisson BLU Zurich Airport, Switzerland

After our stay at the Park Hyatt Zurich (see review) we spent a night at the Radisson BLU Zurich Airport.

The hotel is directly connected to the airport. The way was very well signed out and the hotel is easy to find.

The hotel has a large atrium with a huge wine tower near the elevators. On the same level were the reception, the Angel's Wine Bar & Restaurant and Filini's.

There is also a small business center at one corner of the lobby.

On the Mezzanine Level were meeting rooms and the fitness center.

Check in was quick and friendly.

Our Business Class Room, which included free WIFI, breakfast, all non-alcoholic drinks and snacks from the mini bar, was located on the higher floor. The internet was fast. The mini bar was stocked with juices, water, soft drinks, different types of nuts and beer. The savings were great, because the prices started from 6 CHF (ca. 4.95 Euro or ca. 6.80 USD) and since we took the juices and nuts, we would have paid at least 20 CHF (ca. 126.40 Euro / ca. 22.65 USD).

We had views over the runway, which we enjoyed.

The room was medium sized, modern and design driven. The colors were mostly red, blue, black and grey.

There was a chair and coffee table, a writing desk, a collage about Switzerland (I liked especially Kaethi, the cow), a large TV, Nespresso machine, a wardrobe, 24 hour room service and a choice of magazines, including the Nespresso Magazine.

To my surprise the channel selection was the same as at the Park Hyatt. A good thing, because it gave access to regional and British channels as well as CNN, Bloomberg and much more.

The furniture was stylish and comfortable at the same time.

The bathroom was medium sized with a shower/bathtub combination, a sink and toilet.

The amenities were a mix of Anne Semonine (bath salts and soap) and That Works! (Shower gel, body lotion, shampoo and conditioner).

Unfortunately the bath tub wasn't that comfortable. It was a bit too short and too narrow.

I also managed to flood the bath room floor when using the hand held shower. There is no rainfall shower. I've learned a lesson here. When we stay again, I'm going to make sure the shower head is adjusted to my height and won't remove it from its cradle. That should avoid spillage and flooding.

That said the water pressure was always good and the temperature stable.

Earlier I mentioned the wine tower. There is something special about it. When a guest requests a wine bottle a "Wine Angel" (During our night two ladies dressed in lace) will collect it for you - no matter at what height.

The Wine Angels have been trained at Circe de Soleil and perform three shows a day (19.00 hours, 21.00 hours and 23.00 hours). We recommend to come a bit earlier if you want to see it, because it's only a short performance and lasts about two minutes. It was interesting, though, and the ladies are attractive.

We didn't have dinner at one of the hotel's restaurants. This time around we wanted to try the food court at the airport, because there was an Asian section.

We had requested a wakeup call and we received one automated and one personal call within a minute or so from each other.

Breakfast was at Filini's.

A Vespa with gourmet food was parked beside the entrance of the restaurant. It was a nice touch and gave an indication that Filini's is an Italian restaurant.

Filini's was busy. A lot of the customers were regulars, because the staff knew them and their preferences already. The majority of guests were business men.

The dining room was light filled and overlooked the airport. The staff was attentive and fast.

There breakfast was served buffet style and there was also an egg station, where a chef made eggs to order.

The buffet was large and offered a wide variety, for example two types of sausages, fried rice, cold cuts, fruits, fruit salad, yogurt, cheese and much more.

It was tasty too. He liked the chocolate milk very much, while my favorite was the marble cake.

Check out approached too fast. It was done fast and with a smile. The only amount to pay was the city tax.

We have enjoyed our stay very much, including the views, the comfort and contemporary design of the room and the overall hotel.

We are going to stay here again before a flight.




©2014

Park Hyatt Zurich, Switzerland

When we learned that Hyatt was devaluating their loyalty program Gold Passport we decided to burn our points at the Park Hyatt Zurich for two nights, where we wanted to stay for a longer time, and the hotel was one of the properties which had been devalued since, from 22.000 points a night to 30.000 points a night needed.

We arrived at Zurich Airport with Swiss, which was a great experience. We had more leg room, comfortable seats, a Mediterranean Quiche and chocolate, which was delicious, and in flight entertainment (Mr. Bean and other child friendly programs).

We took the train to Zurich Main Train Station and paid ca. 44 CHF (ca. 36.15 Euro or ca. 50.20 USD) for two 1st class return tickets. From there we had the choice of public transport or taxi. We were looking for a more comfortable and hassle free way, so we took a taxi. It should cost under 20 CHF (ca. 16.45 Euro or ca. 22.82 USD). The journey took around 10 minutes.

At the hotel we were welcomed by the door man and accompanied to reception.

Check in was done quickly, and we were brought to the room by the receptionist. He explained the room features. Our suitcase arrived shortly afterwards.

Our room was large and filled with natural day light. The color scheme was gold, brown and beige.

There was a large king sized bed, a chair with ottoman, coffee table and a writing desk with two chairs.

The headboard was interesting, a canvas with a print of some kind of fruit, maybe olives.

The large flat screen TV provided international channels like Bloomberg, CNN and CNBC, some regional and to our surprise UK channels.

Internet access was free, fast and reliable. We also received a fruit plate, which we liked, because it included an apple, a pear, grapes and a plum.

There were different magazines as well, including the Hyatt and one from the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world, based in Zurich.

Another unusual feature was the "grass". It was part artwork and also part of the night light.

Our room overlooked an apartment building and we could spot the Sheraton Neues Schloss to one corner.

There was also a cupboard and wardrobe, Nespresso Coffee Machine with complimentary capsules and a minibar.

Having a sweet tooth we took the Gottfrieder praline filled wafer. It was very good and cost 7 CHF (ca. 5.80 Euro or 8 USD).

The rest of the mini bar was more or less what one would expect and started from 8 CHF (ca. 6.60 Euro or 9.10 USD).

Free water was also every day provided.

The bath room was large and had a shutter, which could be opened to the room. The bath tub and shower were set up like a Japanese wet room. There was also a large sink, a plant, a TV in the mirror - the remote control didn't work too well, for example going down channels was not possible - and toilet, which could be sealed off with a door. The amenities were by Laura Tonatto. We love the products, knowing them already from our stays at the Park Hyatt Milan. This one was slightly different than the one in Milan and even bath salt and mouth wash was included.

We used the 24 hour room service for our breakfasts and dinners. One time we had the healthy breakfast, the other time a la carte.

The healthy breakfast included Green Tea, a smoothie, a juice of our choice, scrambled eggs with sundried tomatoes, radishes and peppers with guacamole, cream cheese, plain yogurt, jams and fruit bread rolls. One of us has a raisin allergy. Checking with room service confirmed the rolls were made with them, but the Hyatt was flexible in this and one set of the breakfast came with other rolls.

Both breakfasts were excellent. We loved the high quality, tastiness and how appetizing and colorful the meals looked.

Cost for the healthy breakfast was for two 95 CHF (ca. 78 Euro or ca. 107.75 USD) including tip, the a la carte was 110 CHF (ca. 95.40 Euro or ca. 130.45 USD).

Having informed ourselves before the travel we knew that there was a specific cuisine available, developed by a nutritionist, either at The Lounge or through in room dining. Besides The Lounge there are also the fine dining restaurant Parkhuus, Onyx Bar and Cafe Z. The cuisine is divided into three groups Beauty, Brain or Mood food.

Items were available individual or as two or three course meals. We had always a three course and it was not only healthy, but also very tasty and allowed us to eat things we hadn't tried before like Perch Pike or Canadian Bison. Whenever possible the ingredients are sourced locally, so the pike and trout for example came from Lake Zurich.

Our favorites were the veal carpaccio, the trout and vegetable lasagne (this dish has a twist), the bison steak and of course the not so sweet desserts, Lingonberry Cheesecake with grape salad and chocolate mousse with blueberry ice cream.

We paid including drinks and tip between 155 CHF and 165 CHF (ca. 127.25 Euro and ca. 135.45 Euro or ca. 175.80 USD and ca. 187.15 USD)

The hotel also has a spa, the hotel is very good located, just a few blocks from the lake and the Bahnhofstrasse or Old Town.

The Park Hyatt is also famous for their Art Concept. The hotel has a large collection of modern art pieces. They call it classic modern. Some of the artists on display are Sol LeWitt, Heinz Mack and many others.

All the staff encountered was very friendly, but also efficient and knowledgeable. It was nice to have contact with the same people, for example room service was mostly delivered by the same person and the gentleman, who checked us in, took one of our calls and was also there at check out.

Even if the overnight rate is steep, we believe strongly it would be worth paying for.

The comfort of the room is great, the food outstanding and the employees do everything possible to make your stay a memorable one. Should we be in Zurich and not looking for a different experience, we are going to stay again.

©2014

Kidnapped

This one is to clear up any confusion caused by "Fragments".

"Why me?" I was asking in despair. I've never hurt a fly and found myself suddenly kidnapped. I was very short before my due date, which made things not easier. I found an answer to my question, when I was forced by my kidnappers to speak to a total stranger on the phone. The kidnappers believed the stranger, who was called Fin, was my husband. A mistake. My real husband is a soldier and was at the time on tour in Afghanistan. Fin confirmed it was a case of mistaken identity. The kidnappers' target had been Fin's wife, who was also pregnant and Latina like me. I was of course scared. For the child's sake I tried to stay calm. Fin promised me to try and get me released as soon as possible. I hoped the police was arriving soon. It took more than two weeks and the cavalry arriving wasn't the police, but mercenaries or so I thought.

There were four guys, who were guarding me twenty four hours a day. Two were okay - they took care their partners in crime didn't get out of hand - but the other two I was worried about. One of them liked to rough handle me and pushing me around a bit when I had to go to toilet, which was often due to the baby squeezing my bladder. The other stared at me, when he thought I wasn't watching. He never dared to touch me, but alone the looks sent a shiver down my spine. There was also their boss Damien, who came sometimes to visit. He was self-assured and from what I understood Fin, to whom I've spoken a second time, was going to organize something for Damien. Since I had seen my hostage takers faces I was sure they would kill me as soon as Fin had done their bidding. What if I couldn't rely on Fin and he hadn't contacted the police or would not do the job Damien had asked him to do? What if the baby was arriving earlier than thought? I started to get insane with worry. Besides I was bored like hell. There was nothing to do. My body ached in every position due to my huge tummy. At least the unborn was active. A good sign I thought. My hostage takers also fed me regularly. They weren't prepared for a pregnant woman. They brought take aways. The portions were too large and too few. In the last trimester I had started eating five or six small portions instead of three square meals a day, because I couldn't eat so much in one go. The Chinese food caused me heartburn. Since the kidnappers weren't Latin American origin, they didn't consider to bring me something Mexican, which I really craved.

More than two weeks had passed. Damien had arrived to discuss some issues with the other guys. They were looking up in surprise, when a truck approached. Damien sent one of his henchmen to the front door to check the situation out. It was the one who liked to stare at me. The situation was tense. Everything went haywire. When the guy opened the door, pistol at the ready, he was shot. At the same time we were attacked from all angles. Three men entered via the roof, one of the two windows and the back door. They all had machine guns and mowed my kidnappers down. I screamed in shock.
To my dismay Damien dived behind me and before I could react had me in an iron grip and a loaded gun pressed to my temple. He tried to escape through the back door. I was of course frightened, but also thought I couldn't stand being a hostage any longer. Seeing my chance I stomped heartily on his foot. Damien cried out and released me. I jumped out of the way clumsily. Machine guns trained on the ring leader, but he escaped unharmed through the back. I thought my nightmare was finally over, but suddenly I felt something wet dripping down my legs. At first I thought I had peed into my panties, when the attack started. Pain settled in nearly immediately. I realized I was in labor and wanted to cry. There was nobody to support me. At home in Wyoming I had chosen my neighbor to be my birthing partner and close friend, since I knew my husband wasn't going to be at the birth. "Elizabeth, are you alright?" A female in a courier uniform asked in Spanish. "Yes... No." I replied. She was tall and had black hair, olive skin and brown eyes. It seemed she was married, because she was wearing a gold ring on the left ring finger. Her name was Nicola. "I... My labor has started." "We'll better get you checked out at a hospital. Antonio, can you call round which hospital is nearest? I think Fin mentioned something like the Mercy and Baptist and maybe the South Miami Hospital." Nicola's calmness and Antonio's quick nod, re-assured and soothed me. Another wave of contractions hit me. I groaned with the pain. "Take a deep breath. Yes, that's good." Nicola guided me through the contraction. Antonio in the meantime called the hospitals. He looked exotic. Antonio was not that tall, in his mid-thirties and had light brown hair, almond shaped black eyes and caramel colored skin. He paced impatiently up and down, while waiting for the different hospitals replies. The Baptist was willing to take me. It was the furthest away. We drove there. The midwife was very good, but told us it was too early, so I wasn't admitted. Grey, who was driving and another person, who had helped free me, said he would bring us to the house of his friend. He was African American and very inconspicuous. We went to Miami Beach. Finally I met Fin. To my surprise he wasn't Hispanic. He was taller than Nicola, light ash blond and had blue grey eyes. Based on the Spanish Nicola and the others spoke I thought they were Colombian Americans. Antonio had a slightly different lilt and Fin's accent was there, but difficult to place. Antonio updated Fin what had happened. To my amazement Fin's eyes turned blue, when he heard Damien had escaped, then suddenly grey. I hadn't seen that in any other person so far. To my surprise Fin also apologized, admitting it was his fault I had been kidnapped. He looked contrite and said he was also sorry that the stress of being a hostage and the shoot-out had caused the premature labor. I absolved him. The baby might would have been born earlier than planned anyway. I only hoped she was healthy. Nicola promised to stay with me during the birth. She told me she had one small son herself. While Antonio regaled me with growing up in Ibiza - that explained his accent -, Fin took Grey aside. Antonio stared at them. There were some tensions, which I didn't have an explanation for. Nicola noticed I was following the men. She rolled her eyes and simply said: "Male and their blood lust." She shut up, when Antonio shot her a poisonous glare. I assumed it had something to do with Damien escaping. I didn't want to know too much. The guys asked me if I wanted to go to the police. There were some more tensions. Sensing they would prefer if the police could be kept out, I decided I owed them and wouldn't press the matter with law enforcement. They were visibly relieved.

To take off my mind from the pain, I decided on a name for my daughter.
I knew I was expecting a girl. My husband and I hadn't been able to agree on what to call her. Being grateful I considered naming her after Fin, but his full name was Coldham Fintan and that was unsuitable. I also didn't consider Grey, so I choose Nicola Antonia Barreintos after rolling the names around my tongue.

Finally the contractions were only a few minutes apart and we went back to the hospital. I got an epidural, because I felt wasn't going to be able to cope with the strength of the contractions. Finally I held my daughter in hands. From the time when the waters broke till the last push 9 hours had passed. Nickie was red and wrinkled, but for me she was the most beautiful baby ever. I thought Nickie looked a bit like her father. Thank goodness my daughter didn't suffer any negative effects from being born too early. We could leave the hospital a day later.

The kidnapping marked me. I had flash backs and nightmares for a long time. My trust in strangers was gone. For a while I saw hostage takers around each corner or behind every bush. If I wouldn't have had Nickie I would have buried myself at home and been a reclusive. She forced me to go out and encounter people every day. Slowly I returned to my old self.

My husband didn't notice the changes. He was either on tour or too concerned with himself and getting used to Nickie.

Every year on Nickie's birthday a gift arrived for her anonymous. I guessed they were from Fin.

I never saw him or any of my rescuers again beside Nicola, who stayed in contact.

©2014

Radisson Royal, Golden Lane, Dublin, Ireland

Normally before a flight from Dublin we stay at the Hilton Dublin Airport or the Holiday Inn Express. This time around our flight to Zurich didn't leave very early, so we were more flexible and decided after long discussions to take the Radisson BLU Royal Hotel, Golden Lane in the city center. We booked a rate that included dinner and breakfast.

The hotel is better located than thought. It is ideal when coming from the airport by Airlink. Get off at College Green/Dame Street stop, walk along Dame Street and turn left into South George Street, follow it until you come to Dunne’s Stores Head Quarters and 747 Travel opposite, turn right. This is Golden Lane. The hotel is a few more minutes away on the right hand side. Walking from the stop to the hotel takes approximately 10 minutes.

St. Patrick's Cathedral is also only about 5 minutes away.

The building is very modern. Originally we thought that the whole house belongs to the Radisson, but only the ground floor and one half of it are in fact the hotel. The other half contains offices.

We were impressed  by the contemporary and airy lobby. The reception was located to the left and check in is done at individual pots. The receptionist was friendly and quick.

During our stay the hotel was very busy with two weddings and a few business meetings. We spotted all two brides.

We enjoyed the chandelier and carpet, because it looked unusual. Interpreting the shape of the design the lightning could be snakes and the carpet a map.

The restaurant V' n V and the Sure Bar were located on the same level.

There were a small business center and meeting rooms on the first floor.

Our room was on the fifth floor overlooking apartments, St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christchurch.

We had a standard room and were happy about the generous size and the beautiful contemporary design. The colors were mostly brown, grey, white and black.

The King bed was comfortable as were the stylish chairs and writing desk.

The coffee table was multifunctional and could be used as another seating space - it was covered in leather - or as an ottoman for the chair.

There were two other marble topped tables and a large flat screen TV. The choice of TV channels was the only disappointment. There were only regional channels available. There wasn't even BBC World, which was the least I expected and Sky News isn't exactly our favorite. Officially there should have been RT, but unfortunately when choosing the channel it showed a black screen and nothing else, no matter when tuning in. Overall, there could be a better line-up of international TV channels here.

There was also a luggage rack and a wardrobe.

24 hour in room dining, coffee/tea making facilities and a mini bar were also available. The prices for the minibar were interesting, ranging between 1.59 Euro to 7.62 Euro (ca. 2.20 USD to 10.60 USD). There were the usual suspects like Coca Cola and Deep River Rock water. We liked the Butler's chocolate bar with Irish Cream filling. We can happily report it was very tasty.

The in room dining is suitable for Coeliac and vegetarians. For some dishes half portions were also an option. Prices were good appetizers started at 6.50 Euro (ca. 9 USD), sandwiches from 12 Euro (ca. 16.65 USD), mains from 12 Euro (ca. 16.65 USD) and desserts from 8.50 Euro (ca. 11.80 USD). Since we had dinner already arranged at the restaurant we didn't use in room dining.

Anyone in need of laundry can avail of that too. The laundry of a shirt costs for example 8 Euro (ca. 11.10 USD).

The bathroom was medium in size. The bath tub and shower were separate. There was a sink with enough storage space for our cosmetics. The amenities were a mix of Anne Semonine and a soap by This Works! Radisson's contract with Anne Semonine is expiring, so This Works! is replacing it. We know This Works! from another hotel. We liked it, so we weren't too surprised (having heard about the exchange) or had any issues with the new amenities. On the other side we are a bit sad to see Anne Semonine go, since we equally liked the quality, smell and effectiveness of the products.

The shower was great with a large rain shower head. The water pressure was strong and the temperature stable.

When placing our wake up call the member of staff offered to order a taxi for us as well. We refused, since we planned to take the Airlink to the airport.

At the V' n V restaurant our reservation was acknowledged and we were offered a choice of tables at the large windows.

Declan Dunne is the Executive Chef. The menu reflected the contemporary ambience of the hotel. Most of the ingredients are sourced locally.

We chose a glass of rose wine and an orange juice. Tap water was offered for free.

Our starters were a beetroot and cheese salad and nettle soup. Both were delicious and unusual.

As main course we both had the salmon and a side salad. The dish was rich, but light at the same time. It was tasteful and the presentation was well done. The salad was made with mixed leaves and tomatoes.

As dessert I had Cafe au lait parfait with dates and cinnamon sauce. It was finger licking good. My fiancé had the Orange and grapefruit Gratin, which was deemed also very tasty.

The staff was very busy with four other couples and a large group. Still the service didn't suffer. One of the three waiters was always on hand when we needed them.

There was also an open kitchen, and I enjoyed watching the chefs.

The meal was delightful, healthy and satisfying. Since a three course were included in our rate we only had to pay for our drinks and the side dish. We paid 25 Euro (ca. 34.65 USD) including tip.

After a good night’s rest and a punctual wake up call we made our way to breakfast.

The buffet was large, fresh and appetizing. There was a wide choice of cold cuts, smoked salmon, smoothies, yogurts, Bircher Berner Muesli, fresh fruits and fruit salad, bread and much more. Another guest wanted to have an omelette. The request was fulfilled with a smile.

Our favorites were the Bircher Berner Muesli and the berry smoothie.

Check out was pleasant and quick.

Would we recommend the Radisson Royal, Golden Lane? Definitely. The reasons?

The Staff is very friendly and attentive.

The dinner and breakfast were excellent.

The lead in room is large, design driven, but comfortable and detailed, like small cushions in different colors or a painting that looks like a photograph.

It's quirky and creative.

The location is great. On the one side far enough from the hustle and bustle; on the other side near enough to reach all major attractions in Dublin by foot.


©2014

The Real Andreas Lucarini

Augustus Shelton was having lunch with his mother Audrey. They were African Americans and looked similar with the same cinnamon colored skin and facial features. Audrey frowned disapproving, when Augustus' telephone was ringing. She took a sip from her iced tea. Audrey wore a Vien Te outfit, she found during her trip to Vancouver. The white trousers, blazer and top accentuated her darker skin.
Her son had dressed up for the occasion, too. Instead of the usual t-shirt and shorts, he wore a dark brown cord trouser and a yellow polo shirt.
Augustus cleaned his mouth and hands with a napkin. He was eating sliders, while his mother had a hash with fish and ham.
"Hello?" He said. "Oh, hi Fin." He ignored Audrey rolling her eyes. Augustus knew Audrey didn't like he took the call. Sharing a meal and taking a call were incompatible for her. She listened in anyway. "Yes, sure I can come. No problem. I'm busy at the moment, but maybe next week. How is she?... Glad to hear it. Okay, just give me a sec and I'll write down the address." When Augustus was finished Audrey asked who this had been. "An old friend of mine. He has problems with his laptop and asked me to take care of it." "Can't he go somewhere else?" Augustus' friend couldn't. He was a master burglar - one of the best in fact, so he couldn't let just anyone repair his laptop. "Since Fin had a few bad experiences with others, he only trusts me." The lie came easy across Augustus' lips. Augustus had a few secrets. His mother didn't know he was gay or that he was a criminal. Augustus was a hacker. "When he is such a dear friend, why doesn't he come to you instead. You have enough on your plate!" "Fin's wife is 7 months pregnant. He doesn't want to leave her alone." It made Audrey shut up. She only wished her husband would have been so considerate, when they were expecting their children. Audrey sighed. Well, it were different times then.

Fin had told Augustus he was working incognito at a company called M&M Designs in Miami, his home town, under the name of Andreas Lucarini and Augustus should come to this place. Augustus went to the company and asked for Fin. "Mr. Lucarini is coming down in a moment," The receptionist advised, "please take a seat." Augustus didn't believe his eyes. The man emerging from the elevator was about six foot tall, had red hair and green eyes. It wasn't his friend Fin, who was 2 inches taller, light ash blond and blue grey eyed. "Mr. Shelton, I'm pleased to meet you. How can I help you?" Augustus was speechless for a moment. "Ahem, Fin sent me. He told me you have issues with your computer?!" "Not that I'm aware of." "Maybe he meant your security? I can check it out..." Augustus liked what he saw. Andreas seemed a nice guy. Augustus normally had a slow burning temper, but he would have to have a serious talk with Fin. He felt a bit stupid in front of Andreas. "Why not?" Andreas agreed easily and put an arm around Augustus' shoulders. Augustus didn't mind one bit. Andreas smelled good - freshly shaved, a citrus note was lingering on his skin and there was a manly scent at the same time.
Augustus spent some time updating the firewalls and advised Andreas about passwords. One thing led to another and before Augustus knew he invited Andreas for a drink. After a short hesitation Andreas agreed. Augustus was wondering if Andreas was gay too. Did Andreas think Augustus was attractive? Augustus couldn't imagine it. Three years earlier his boyfriend had left him for someone more sexy. It stung and Augustus - naturally more inclined to be introvert - hadn't looked for a new partner since then. The only thing to do was to wait how the date with Andreas went.

In the meantime he visited Fin to tell him off, which didn't work out exactly as Augustus had planned. Instead of being contrite Fin teased Augustus and answered his questions by answering with a counter question. It took Augustus a while to work out Fin had arranged the meeting in the hope Andreas and Augustus liked each other. Fin's wife Frieda had been the one, who thought they would be a good match. Fin also told him he had had to fend off Andreas' advances and make it clear to Andreas he wasn't gay. Augustus had a hearty laugh, imagining his friend's reaction to being touched. He knew Fin liked that only from women he was after or people Fin had been befriended with longer. Since Andreas was Fin's brother Mike's friend and he had met him only a couple of times due to Mike's wedding, where Fin was the best man and Andreas one of the grooms men, Fin wouldn't have liked Andreas' hits on him.

When Andreas and Augustus met at the bar, they realized they had the same music taste and spent hours discussing R. Kelly and 50 Cents. They exchanged phone numbers when they went separate ways.


Andreas went home happy after a longer time. He had been dating a few guys over the last year and developed a crush on Fin. Andreas could have sworn Fin was gay. To his embarrassment and disappointment he had found out Mike's brother was straight. No matter how gentle Fin had let Andreas down he hurt.  Now that Andreas knew Augustus he was looking on the bright side. Maybe his bad spell was over and there was somebody out there to love him.


During their second date Andreas asked Augustus to call him Andy, like most friends did. They were having a meal at a good Italian restaurant and realized they had more in common. Augustus and Andy preferred pasta over pizza and loved pana cotta. They talked about their past, their families and their friends. "I have an older sister and an older brother." Augustus told Andy. "I'm an only child." "Oh, do your parents know you're gay?" "Yes, they do. My mother took it cool. I was very surprised. You know she's from Greece and my father's Italian American - third generation -, so the two come from quite macho backgrounds and I thought they would disown me, when I came out. My father took a little bit longer to come around. What about you?" "My Dad and my siblings know I'm gay, but not my mother. She is very conservative and even though she should be enlightened as a psychologist she believes there is a cure for it." "Oh no!" Augustus found it somehow funny. Audrey's practice offered therapy for real mental problems, but also for homosexuals. The purpose of the sessions with gays was to make them straight. The success of the therapy was doubtful to Augustus. He was what he was and wouldn't want to change. His father and siblings had been supportive. Andy agreed with Augustus on all two points - not to upset his mother and that there wasn't any cure. Augustus looked up from his plate and asked: "If there was really a therapy that was working, would you want to be straight?" "Hm, difficult question, but thinking about it, no. Like you said I am what I am." 
Their dinner was a success.

Augustus stayed a few days longer, but had to return to Tampa. Andy and he spent every free minute together before Augustus had to leave. Andrew missed Augustus nearly immediately.
Augustus felt the same, but he was insecure, so he didn't make contact. Andy didn't want to seem too clingy or pushy. After a week or so he couldn't wait any longer and called. "Can I visit you this weekend?" "Of course, Andy. I'd love to spend time with you." Augustus kept his apartment tidy, but thought a clean-up couldn't hurt. He wanted to leave a good impression. He also bought condoms in different varieties, because he didn't know what Andy liked - just in case. Andy had booked a hotel. He wanted to give Augustus enough space.
They met on Friday evening at Andy's hotel bar. They had a cocktail before letting their hair down at a night club. It was late when Andy returned to his room. He was a bit tipsy, but he was happy. The alcohol had relaxed them both. They kissed for the first time. Andy thought he could still taste the rum on Augustus' tongue. Augustus was a good kisser. It let Andy wonder what making love with Augustus was like. Andy hummed to himself. He felt Augustus was someone special and they shouldn't rush things. Well, Augustus and he were meeting for lunch at Augustus' favorite Greek restaurant. Something to look forward to.
Augustus was attracted to Andy and had enjoyed kissing him. He admitted freely he was falling in love with Andy. It was early days of course and he wasn't sure if Andy was in love with him too. When it was time to say good night in front of Andy's hotel, there was an awkward pause. Andy seemed to have been thinking about inviting Andy up to his room, but for some reason he hadn't done so. Augustus was glad. They had separated with a kiss and a hug. He didn't want to do something hasty. He wasn't open for one night stands and wanted a serious relationship with Andy. Depending on how their relationship continued, Augustus contemplated to move to Miami.
While Andy hadn't any problems falling asleep, Augustus couldn't. When they met up at the restaurant Andy saw immediately Augustus had a rough night. Andy felt a rush of worry flood through him. It was important to catch enough sleep. Augustus felt a bit shy and cringed, when Andy hugged him. Andy was hurt and thought Augustus wasn't interested in him. "Is everything okay?" He asked. "Have I done something wrong?" "Oh, no, I'm just... I'm feeling a bit shy. Don't ask me why." Augustus said, shrugging. "Okay, that's no problem, darling." Augustus blushed a bit. He suggested they go inside and have lunch. The atmosphere was good and the clientele mixed. Andy could understand why Augustus loved it. The restaurant looked like a Greek taverna and offered authentic cuisine. Andy should have known due to his heritage. They shared, dolmades, a grill platter with chicken and pork souvlaki, lamb chops and Greek salad. The portions were huge and satisfying. Augustus and Andy talked some more about their jobs. Augustus wasn't completely honest. It was too early to share his secret.
They talked about their hobbies. Augustus loved windsurfing, snorkelling and scuba diving. Andy wasn't that much into water sports, but liked snorkelling, so they agreed the next day they would do just that. Augustus knew a romantic spot, where not too many people were and the beach was white and sandy. Besides enjoying the sea, they also made out a bit. Andy's skin was smooth and bronzed. Augustus was more muscular and had a darker teint.
When it was time for Andy to leave, both were sad.

From then on Andy and Augustus spent each weekend either in Miami or in Tampa for the next eight months. It culminated with them going on a one week holiday in Samoa, when they finally agreed that Augustus should move to Miami.

Augustus struggled. He thought he had to clear up two things. One had to do with his mother. He was fed up with denying being gay or in a relationship with Andy. The other one Augustus feared much more. He wanted to come clean and tell Andy he was a hacker. He was nervous how his lover would react. Augustus prayed Andy wouldn't leave him.
Andy noticed something was wrong with Augustus immediately when his boyfriend arrived. Augustus' skin had taken on a greyish color.
Augustus didn't beat long around the bush and came straight to the point. He managed eye contact, but would have preferred to look anywhere else. He didn't want to be hurt by what he was going to see. Andy looked confused, then hurt and dismayed. "That's definitely a bomb shell, Augustus. I have to think about what you told me. Please leave now." Augustus stomach lurched. Andy hated him and was never ever going to talk to him. Augustus' eyes filled with tears. He couldn't bear the thought of having to go without Andy's company, interesting talks, never feeling Andy's touch or kisses. He was going to miss the sex too.
Andy felt a bit betrayed and was shocked. He had never thought his sensitive boyfriend would do something illegal.

Augustus was heartbroken and withdrew completely from his other friends. He avoided especially contact with Fin and Frieda, who reminded him of meeting Andy in the first place.
Augustus gave up hope when he didn't hear from Andy for a month. He didn't move to Miami and worked hard, so he didn't have to think about the split up.

Andy needed three months. Even so Augustus was a criminal, Andy missed him and their conversations. Making love had been always sensual, so Augustus was the ideal partner.
Having overcome his initial disappointment, Andy realized Augustus' job was something his boyfriend couldn't talk freely about and it must have cost Augustus a lot of courage to come clean. In the end Andy could overlook what Augustus did for a living and that he hadn't told the truth from the beginning.

Augustus went to open the door. He was expecting a pizza delivery and stunned to see Andy. He didn't know what to say. "Can I come in?" Andy asked. Augustus nodded, still too shocked. "Augustus, I love you. I'm sorry I wasn't in contact for ages, but I had to make up my mind what I wanted and it's a relationship with you. Would you be still willing to move to Miami?" Augustus was with a few steps in front of Andy and gave him a crushing hug. Andy was even more surprised Augustus cried. Andy kissed away Augustus' tears. "Is that a yes?" He asked gentle. Augustus nodded. They stared each other for a moment into the eyes before starting a very passionate kiss.
They catched up and Augustus wanted to introduce Andy to his family. "Are you sure you want to tell your mother too?" Andy was concerned. He didn't want to cause a rift. "I have enough of hiding. If she is going to hate me, be it so."

Augustus told his mother that he would bring his significant other to the upcoming Thanksgiving Day Dinner. Audrey was very pleased. She couldn't wait to meet her future daughter in law. It had taken long enough. Augustus' older siblings had settled down. Not that Audrey very much approved of Chastity working in the blue movie industry...

The big day arrived. Augustus had warned his Dad, brother Michael and Chastity what was going to happen. They felt for him and prepared for the worst.

When Augustus introduced Andy Audrey thought her youngest son was joking. To her dismay she realized he was deadly serious. Having good Southern manners Audrey was polite and engaging throughout the dinner. Her smile was faked, though, and she asked Augustus for a word after coffee was served.   
Audrey's eyes were daggers when she confronted Augustus. When he confirmed he was gay and not interested in her treatment she said harsh: "I don't love you! Get out and never come back!" Augustus shrugged. Of course it hurt, but he had expected as much. His father and siblings stayed in contact no matter what Audrey's opinion was.

Six years later Blake Shelton broached the subject of Augustus and Andy. Normally he avoided discussing them with his wife. "Honey, we always wanted grandchildren..." "Is Mette pregnant?" Audrey was delighted. Mette was Michael's wife. Blake shook his head. Chastity was too old by now for children, so it left only adoption in Audrey's mind and she was right with the latter, but not that Chastity and her husband Giovanni were considering adopting. "Augustus and Andy have adopted a Philippine boy. He's nearly one and a half. They bring him home in the next few days. I'd like to see him growing up, but obviously I can't if you stay stubborn and won't accept Augustus is gay." At first Audrey was dead against even thinking about Augustus and his lover. When she heard Chastity gushing about the little boy she started to get curious and in the end she couldn't keep away from her grandson, so she decided to forget about her prejudices. Augustus had kept the channels open and sent Christmas Cards and birth day presents to his mother. He welcomed her and accepted Audrey's apology. Sometimes Audrey had to bite hard on her lips to avoid criticising Augustus and Andy's lifestyle, but she came round, when she saw how happy they were and how loving and tight knit the little family was.

©2014