Rhythm

by

John Terry Moore
 

CHAPTER 36

Andrew had been to Singapore a few times, like most Australian travellers.  His fondest memories were the food; pleasantly reinforced by Stephen’s prowess with Nyonya food back in Australia.  He sniffed the mildew-laden warm air of the airport; he was sure Stephen, locally born and bred never noticed such things, but it reminded him of all the exotica that was Asia.  His last trip here had been with Amanda; she hated all Asian people and her attitude simply caused their hosts in hotels, restaurants and airlines to respond in the same way.  So it was mutual hatred, except the Singaporeans were too well mannered to have their feelings on display.  Through Stephen’s contacts, Andrew had immersed himself in the local culture on every visit, understanding the proportion and mix of racial groups that were all part of modern Singapore.  But this visit was different, of course!  His first time in Singapore as Stephen’s partner.  He sighed with pleasure as he watched him chatting away good naturedly in Mandarin; everyone knew him and even in Singapore the body language illustrated best how much people liked him! 

A current model black Mercedes Benz swept into the space allocated to them and the driver, an Indian, jumped out and enthusiastically pumped his hand.  Andrew shepherded the girls inside and was introduced to him.  “Andy this is Arvind.  He’s originally from Kolkata; his family threw him out because he refused to marry the girl they picked out for him.” 

“Because I am gay, sir,” he grinned.  “Like the boss!  I study at university and I drive for the family.  But I apologise sir,” he said, “I am very rude to talk about myself.  We knew the boss had a partner, but I never realised it would be someone as beautiful as you!  Welcome to Singapore!” 

“Why thank you Arvind,” Andrew grinned, “you are very kind, you make me blush with embarrassment!” 

Stephen laughed.  “Never heard so much shit in all my life!” 

“Dad,” snapped Lizzie, all indignant with her ‘nice young lady’ hat on, “Language!”  Arvind’s eyes danced merrily, and Andrew realised the undercurrent of loyalty that Stephen enjoyed, firstly by openly creating opportunities for people with diversity issues years ahead of public opinion, but then reinforcing those decisions with a management style that stood alongside of employees instead of over them.  He watched the several kilometres of gardens in the late afternoon light, as the big car whispered along.  Bougainvillea in all colours lined the highway as they had done so for many years.  Immaculately maintained in pristine condition, it was a fitting welcome to the little nation; the economic miracle that continued to happen.  They pulled into a compound in Katong.  A quiet residential area formerly dominated by Straits Chinese; Stephen’s family had been in the area for generations.  An older Peranakan villa, it had originally stood overlooking the sea but reclamation works over the years had added several new streets between it and the waterfront.  It was surprisingly modest from the outside, but once inside the compound, the size of the land alone, (Singapore’s most valuable commodity) spoke of the family’s comfortable lifestyle. 

Linda met them under the portico at the front door as the big car slid to a stop.  Her Eurasian features were still quite beautiful.  Andrew was always amused that Claire had her facial features and Elizabeth had her figure!  The girls now had some relationship with their grandmother after years of being ignored when Stephen’s father was alive.  Andrew saw the natural reserve there and knew it would take some time for him to be completely part of the inner family circle.  ‘If ever,’ he thought.  He had met Linda on several occasions over the years, and all of those meetings were cordial and polite, but contained little warmth.  He knew that very quality was what Elizabeth and Claire needed most; and he realised he and Stephen probably over-compensated in that regard.  ‘Too much love never hurt anyone,’ he reflected, ‘but not enough is terrible’, as he stepped out of the car with his hand extended to greet Stephen’s mother.  To his surprise, she opened her arms and hugged him.  “Thank you,” she said, “for looking after them so well.  You are just like Sin and Harry, you and my son are good people, I hope you will be very happy.” 

Andrew felt his mouth would never close; in his own mind, this relaxed attitude was the last thing he had expected.  The girls dutifully kissed their grandmother in turn; it was obvious they felt it a duty rather than the loving greeting they gave himself and Stephen several times each day.  Andrew thought he understood where the attitude sprang from; the kids and their grandmother had not only lived apart for so long, their late grandfather had ignored the normal interpersonal relationships that made up a family group.  So there had been no opportunity for bonding with their grandmother.  Different thing if they had been boys, he thought, but still quite the opposite of the typical Chinese family group.  And very sad, because Stephen was an only child, and therefore, the girls were Linda’s only grand children.  But he couldn’t force the kids to like their grandmother; ----- Linda would have to earn their respect and attention, he decided.  That night, before bed, he talked to Stephen, whose eyes lit up at the prospect of what he planned to do for the ten days they were in Singapore.  “If you can achieve that,” he smiled, “you’re a miracle worker.  But it’s so obvious, isn’t it?  A legacy from my late father, we’re all strangers in the one family.” 

Stephen was showered, dressed and had left home by 6.00am.  He placed a freshly brewed coffee on the side table and kissed him goodbye.  “Don’t forget, we’re having dinner with Uncle Sin and Uncle Harry tonight?”  Andrew nodded, rewarding him with a sloppy kiss.  Rather than try to sleep further he decided to do some research on the Internet.  He knew already that the children had seen precious little of Singapore’s sights over the years, so to further their education, he made a list of the things he thought would appeal to them.  The girls were already showering, and he laid out some nice clothes for them.  “Why do we have to wear these clothes?” whined Elizabeth, “we only have old clothes here because Grandmother just sends us to play in the garden.” 

“Well,” Andrew began, “you both like animals don’t you?” 

“Yes!” shrieked Claire, and Elizabeth nodded. 

“Have you ever seen Singapore Zoo?” 

“No,” they chorused. 

“Would you like to go?”  The response was enthusiastic; but it would only occur if they were calm, well behaved and ate a good breakfast.  Within minutes they were at the table, the smiling maid serving them an English breakfast.  Elizabeth looked at Andrew and decided discretion was the better part of valour and ate it all.  Claire, as usual, didn’t need any coaxing!  He chatted quietly with Linda over more coffee, and they seemed to establish a deeper connection.  He told her how both he and Stephen, without seeking to blame anyone, had both experienced a difficult life until quite recently.  She agreed with a sorrowful nod of her head.  Andrew held her hand, and told her how it was the children that finally bound them together.  How the hardest part of his recent life had been the period where he required medical help and counselling to move on with his life.  How it took him several months to calm down and refocus.  That he had been terrified he would lose Stephen and the girls.  And how Stephen had been so patient with him, and when they had made the decision to move in together, how harmonious it had been.  “You have no disagreement yet?” she laughed. 

“None at all.  But there is one thing we will need your help to achieve.”  She looked at Andrew with a look of wonder.  No one had ever asked her advice or even her participation before in any area!  She had been expected to be a good Chinese wife in the old tradition; even converting to Buddhism from her father’s Christian faith.  She ran the home, was an adornment on social occasions, and gave him an heir.  After Stephen was born, she was told that it was impossible for her to conceive again, so her husband had taken a mistress to spite her.  Albert wanted to be sure Stephen would continue the family line and give him grandsons.  Linda was warned that excessive attention to her son would see her on the street.  Albert had been convinced that his elder brother liked men because of their own mother’s protective nature and he insisted Stephen have male role models around him who would not tolerate homosexuality.  In fact, unbeknown to her husband, Sin and Harry had helped raise Stephen behind Albert’s back.  And consequently there was a trust between them that Albert could never achieve with his son. 

Intuition told her that she could trust Andrew.  Already, she and Stephen seemed to be closer, and as Andrew spelled out what he wanted of her, she understood.  That the world had moved on, the person who had made her adult life a misery couldn’t harm her anymore, and no one would punish her because she demonstrated love for her family!  And now her son’s partner was asking her to be a proper part of their family.  Where her husband had rejected the little girls because he selfishly wanted a grandson, she now found herself wanting to be a mother and grandmother, wondering if there was any maternal instinct remaining after sublimating it all these years.  It was Andrew who reassured her, telling her of their plans for their visit, trying to show the girls the sights of Singapore, and perhaps some of their heritage.  “So you’ll be our guide, Linda.  Who better than you to show us around?  Don’t try too hard, just be their friend and they’ll soon let you know when you’ve passed the test!”  She looked apprehensive and Andrew took her hand and squeezed it.  “It’ll be all right, just be yourself and have a good time.  All you have to do is show us Singapore through your eyes as a local, OK?” 

After all her objections were dealt with, and she couldn’t protest further, it was organised.  Arvind was despatched back from the office with the car and they set off for the Singapore Zoo.  Linda started to enjoy herself.  The banter between Andrew and the children was funny and infectious.  She made her first mistake by referring to him as their ‘Uncle Andrew’ as extended Chinese family members are known.  “No,” said Lizzie firmly.  “It’s daddy-mum!  Then Claire explained why, and Linda laughed at their logic.  They explored the zoo, taking the trams between exhibits.  They had an elephant ride, a ride in a horse and carriage and several ice creams.  Linda watched in astonishment as Andrew shared his knowledge with the girls.  If he didn’t know, he asked her, and suddenly they discovered their grandmother was an expert on tropical butterflies!  She told them about her own childhood when her father was a collector and identified many of the species as they walked through the ‘Fragile Forest’ exhibit.  Then there was the orang-utan walk; and she explained the theory of the ‘missing link’ to them.  Andrew smiled at them and let them talk.  What a cool grandma she was proving to be!  He phoned Arvind and he was ready; Andrew could see even Lizzie tiring and Claire was nearly asleep on his shoulder. 

As soon as they were home he put them to bed for an hour or so, and as they had been trained, they were asleep in seconds!  Two hours later when Stephen arrived home, they were showered again, in fresh clothes and ready to see Uncle Sin and Uncle Harry.  Stephen had seldom seen his mother so animated, and he understood why!  “It’s not there yet, but I think everyone is a bit happier,” Andrew smiled.  “After the first ten minutes I couldn’t get a word in!  Did you know your mother is an expert on tropical butterflies?”  Stephen shook his head in wonder.  “Your grandfather was a collector, and she helped him catalogue his collection.  And she’s an ace on the primates and their link with man.”  Stephen’s eyes began to fill.  “I missed all of this too,” he said.  “I had no idea.” 

*****

The heavy door swung open and it was Uncle Sin.  A dainty little man in a formal linen Mandarin shirt with three-quarter sleeves, in navy-blue.  He kissed Linda, and then the girls.  ‘Yes!’ Andrew thought, they already liked Uncle Sin!  But it was Uncle Harry, appearing in the doorway in similar clothing, who had the girls’ attention, offering them some little morsels before the meal.  Because he was the cook!  There was a warmth with Uncle Sin and Uncle Harry that set them apart.  They were both delightful, Andrew decided.  It was Uncle Sin who raised his glass and invited a toast to him.  “Welcome to the family, Andrew,” he smiled, “it is long overdue.” 

“But it has happened at last,” said Harry, beaming at Stephen and Andrew.  “Oh, we have a real family now, it is so exciting for us.”  They dined on roast beef English-style, and with an amazing sweet to follow, their version of a wine trifle.  They sat around in the big lounge area afterward, sipping more Chinese tea and relaxing.  Claire crawled on to Andrew’s lap, Lizzie found Stephen’s knee, and it was obviously time to leave.  As they waited for the car, Uncle Sin asked Andrew if he could spare time for lunch later in the week.  That it would be a good idea for him to have an overview of the family business. 

“Oh thank you Uncle,” Stephen said.  “I was planning to do just that, but as you know there are a few things that are occupying my time at the moment.” 

*****

Sentosa Island was on the agenda the next day, and they began early.  Theme parks are hard work at any time; Linda and Andrew were exhausted but the girls were unstoppable.  But after an early dinner, they were in bed and soundly asleep in seconds.  Stephen arrived home late; they waited dinner for him and he seemed to relax.  ‘There’s something not quite right,’ Andrew thought to himself, ‘perhaps Singapore reminds him of his unhappy childhood.  Maybe this part of him exerts itself when he’s in Singapore but he returns to normal back home in Australia.’  Still, Stephen responded quickly to the idea of a massage before bed which degenerated into a steamy sexual encounter, and they drifted off to sleep in each other’s arms.  ‘Well that part’s certainly working OK,’ he thought, and like the girls, he fell into a deep sleep. 

It seemed only minutes later and Stephen was bending over him with his coffee and kissing him goodbye.  With his tongue running around inside his mouth!  He reached up, trying to delay his departure and his hand was placed on the growing mound in front of Stephen’s twill pants.  “I just have to go, Andy; I just have to be there for the 7.30 meeting.”  He leaned over him and made his passionate farewells again, winked lewdly at him, and left the room.  The door opened briefly; “Leave your phone on today, OK?”  Before he had a chance to answer he had gone, the door closed quietly behind him. 

*****

They were all tired, and commonsense dictated they have a quiet day.  Elizabeth and Claire had slept in, allowing Andrew and Linda to enjoy breakfast together.  She asked about his business at home, and began to understand the frequent telephone calls on his Telemailer.  “But how can you run a business every day and look after Stephen and the girls as well as you do?” she enquired.  “Delegation, Linda,” he laughed.  “I have two wonderful people running the business; all I’m doing at the moment is supplying some creative influence about three half-days a week.  So I think I might sell it to them, plus the house and office so they can employ me!”  He smiled at Linda, who was trying to join all the dots together.  “I would have an agreement where they make a monthly combined payment, and that would go straight into our monthly operating account.” 

“You don’t have your own money anymore, Andrew?” 

“No, we’ve simplified everything with one main account, and both of us are signatories in case we should have an accident.  The girls must be protected at all costs and we‘re determined that nothing can interfere with their education or upbringing, even if we’re not around for some reason.  That’s why it’s really important to build a network of family and friends around the girls, both here and in Australia.”  Linda looked at him incredulously; this young man was prepared to give his living away, just to care for her son and grand children!  “One family, one business career; that’s what we decided,” Andrew continued.  “It’s simply a matter of priority.  The girls’ upbringing is our main focus in life, naturally.  They had such a difficult time as babies we never wanted them to feel anything but loved and secure.  Stephen was quite prepared to have me continue with my business full-time, but we decided against it.  I have no family, Linda,” Andrew admitted.  “Only one brother and his wife, and we’re not all that close anyway.  And I certainly wouldn’t feel confident leaving the girls with them.” 

He went on to tell her about their mates from university who were loving and reliable, but their own their partnership wasn’t yet public knowledge, even though it had been hinted at by Lance and Angelo!  They were interrupted by the girls who noisily made their way to the table for breakfast.  They embraced their grandmother without being coerced to do so, and Andrew grinned at her.  Linda suddenly felt empowered.  “I understand what you are trying to achieve now,” she said, “and I agree that it is so important.  I have an idea which may help.”  She made a phone call; Andrew was puzzled because Linda, speaking in Mandarin, was being very firm.  He heard the girls’ names being mentioned, then his own, and finally Stephen’s name.  She re-entered the room.  “We have a luncheon appointment,” she smiled grimly.  “Angela Chin, Annette’s mother.  All of us.  She hasn’t seen the children since the funeral.”  “What, me as well?” Andrew squeaked. 

“Of course.  They are naturally aware about you two, but they have no idea what a beautiful man you are Andrew!  And they’re about to find out because I’m going to tell them!” 

*****

The Chin apartment was in the same building as Chin Constructions head office.  Following Angela Chin’s instructions, they went to a private elevator in the foyer, walked in and were whisked heavenward; so quickly the girls complained about the popping in their ears.  As they stepped out on the forty-third floor, Angela Chin was there waiting for them; a regal presence in a severe-looking beige business suit, complete with a string of pearls that Andrew guessed were worth more than their house back in Australia.  “Mrs Chin,” Andrew said, holding out his hand, “I remember you.  Some years ago, now, and a sad occasion.” 

“Yes,” she smiled, taking in the handsome man before her, and motioning for them to move inside.  She looked at Elizabeth and Claire with amazement, but made no comment.  Without being asked, the girls kissed her and sat on a sofa in an alcove near the window, looking out over the harbour.  Linda was full of information and prattled on in Mandarin, busily bringing her up to date!  About him!  Suddenly, a thought hit him and he reached for his Telemailer.  He had completely forgotten to discuss this visit with Stephen.  He excused himself, running outside to the vestibule, pressing the speed dialler as he went.  ‘Please, please answer,’ he thought, and next moment the familiar voice said, “Hey good-looking.” 

“Hey yourself,” he said, heart pumping away.  “Listen, I don’t know whether I’ve done something silly or not; if I have I’m sorry.  But your mum suggested we visit your ex in-laws because it extends the girls’ family structure here in Singapore, and suddenly I realised you guys are still in a business consortium together.”  There was a chuckle from the other end.  “You’re one smart honcho; fancy thinking of that!  No, the only reason I’ve not bothered is that both families were so embarrassed at the time, and then we sorta drifted apart.  They made no effort to contact us, and I’ve been just as disinterested.  But most importantly, I didn’t want to rub your nose in it with Annette’s family.” 

“No problem with me, I got on quite well with them at the time.” 

“It could actually help us,” Stephen went on, “because we’re still talking to them about a merger, with a view to eventually going public, and we need some good dialogue.” 

“So what you’re saying is, don’t tell them to get fucked at this stage?” 

“That’s exactly right, but don’t let ’em push you around either.” 

“Andy,” he said,

“Yes, mmm?” 

“I nearly stayed home this morning.” 

“I know.” 

“I’ll be home early tonight; a bit of you and me time for a change.  All right with you?” 

“You got me.” 

“I know, seeya.” 

He walked back into the room with a huge smile on his face, apologising for his absence.  Linda raised her eyebrows.  “And how is Stephen’s day?” 

“Oh it’s really good, he’ll be home early tonight.”  Linda unleashed a torrent of Mandarin on Angela. 

“What was that about, Linda?” 

“I’m sorry, we should speak in English.  I was just saying to Angela that it is lovely to see smiles again in our family, rather than tears.  I knew you had been speaking to Stephen, your smile gives you away!” 

Angela turned and spoke in faultless English.  “Yes I too am sorry that we use Mandarin when you are not familiar with the language. 

“Oh that’s OK Mrs Chin, thanks to their father, the children are very fluent so I only have to ask them!”  Angela threw her head back and actually laughed.  There was a lull in the conversation; one of those dreadful moments when one casts about wildly, desperately trying to find common ground.  The room was filled with guilt; that these two children had been ignored by grandparents on both sides simply because Chinese men wanted to save face!  It was Lizzie who had overheard and understood the conversation and who chose, for some reason to put everyone at ease.  ‘Perhaps it’s because they’re more relaxed with Linda,’ Andrew thought as she cleared her throat. 

There was no doubt their confidence had improved since he and Stephen had become a couple.  He was proud of both of them, but he recognised that Lizzie would always be the leader; she and Claire had it all worked out!  A seven-year-old who sometimes frightened him with her perception!  She looked to Andrew for permission to speak, and he nodded his head.  Nothing like kids to deal with the basics and tell it the way it is!  “We would like to call you Other-Gran if that is all right?” Lizzie said.  Angela smiled and nodded her agreement.  “It’s not your fault,” Lizzie said.  “Our mother was sick.  We can hardly remember her, except when she died.  We were in Australia and you were here.  Daddy-mum and dad look after us very well.  Claire and I would like to see you again, is that all right?” 

Angela and Linda were dabbing at their eyes when the lift door slid open outside and Edward Chin strode inside.  ‘A kindly looking man,’ Andrew thought as he stood, offering his hand, which was received warmly.  But it was obvious another child had joined the group, as Edward sat on the floor, talking excitedly with his grandchildren.  He told them about their cousins; there were five of them, two other girls and three boys.  He knew their height, their weight, their hobbies, the food they liked and the sports they played.  What they were good at and what they all wanted to be when they grew up!  Andrew realised he was sitting there, probably with his mouth open, thinking how fortunate it was he had found someone else in the family, who not only liked kids but was one himself.  There was Edward Chin, self-made billionaire, in his smart clothes, rolling around the floor with his grandchildren. 

Andrew caught his eye.  “I think you’re very different to Albert,” he said, hoping he didn’t upset Linda. 

“We all know Albert had a problem, many problems,” Edward replied, taking Linda’s hand.  “But Stephen doesn’t.  He is a wonderful young man who is maturing beautifully.  He has these remarkable little people, and he has you.  You have made Stephen strong, and together you raise these beautiful kids!  Between us we must fix this family, don’t you agree?”  Andrew nodded and smiled.  Claire fixed Angela in a hungry stare.  “Other-Gran,” she said sweetly, “have you got anything to eat?”