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- Herausgeber: Clink Street Publishing
- Kategorie: Abenteuer, Thriller, Horror
- Sprache: Englisch
The Decision is the third volume in the Ian Caxton Thriller series. A worrying letter from a dead colleague, a Gainsborough painting downgraded by the experts, a new partnership opportunity, an unexpected statement from his boss and his wife's announcement of her new ambitions. These are just some of the new challenges we see Ian Caxton having to grapple with in this latest instalment. What will Ian choose to do? What will the consequences be? Will he make a huge life-changing decision? In Antigua, Oscar joins up with a new business colleague, but soon discovers a world of fraud, deception and murder. Penny experiences unforeseen changes to her life and Viktor is informed of an amazing surprise. Another page-turning tale of adventure, intrigue, greed and risk, where millions of pounds routinely change hands. Welcome to the exciting and mysterious happenings that continue to occur in the art world!
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Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2022
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The Decision
Robert Cort
To Fiona, Philip and all the team responsible for the fascinating television series, ‘Fake or Fortune?’. The programme inspired me to write the Ian Caxton thriller series.
Contents
Chapter 1
It was 9.50am when a member of the ‘Harbour Heights’ reception team telephoned the Penthouse apartment. Ian answered the call. The receptionist asked if Julian could come straight up to the apartment. Ian was confused as he knew it had been agreed that he and his wife would meet Julian in reception at 10am. Nevertheless, Ian assumed Julian must have a good reason for changing the arrangements, so he asked the receptionist to send him up.
Five minutes later Julian pressed the doorbell. Ian opened the door. Julian was not dressed in his usual smart chauffeur attire but in casual clothes. He was unshaven, shaking and had a very white complexion.
Ian was surprised with Julian’s appearance. “Julian are you alright? You look in shock. Come in and sit down. What’s the matter? Emma! Can you bring a glass of water!?”
Ian helped Julian to the nearest sofa and suggested he sit down.
Emma, Ian’s wife, arrived with a glass of water and handed it to Julian. She looked at Ian and asked, “What’s the matter?”
Ian shrugged his shoulders and waited for Julian to speak.
Julian took two small sips of the water and then looked up into both their faces. Tears had appeared in both of his eyes and now they were slowly trickling down his cheek.
“It’s Andrei. He’s dead!!”
“What!!” exclaimed Ian. “When!? How did he die!?”
Julian put the glass down on the small table in front of him. He lowered his head, covered his face with his hands and said, “I don’t know!”
Ian looked across to Emma, who was also shocked and wide eyed. He then sat down next to Julian and put his arm on Julian’s shoulder. “I’m so sorry. You don’t know what happened?”
“He died on the cruise,” explained Julian, still with his head in his hands. “Just two days after Sydney. I don’t know how he died… or what happened.”
Ian leaned back on the sofa and glanced up at Emma. She looked back with a confused expression on her face.
Ian leaned forward again to Julian’s side and asked, “What do we do now? What can I do to help?”
“Sergei telephoned me. He knows what Andrei’s wishes were.”
“Oh. Maybe I need to speak to him.”
“Andrei was more than an employer. He was… I know this will sound ridiculous, but he was like a father to me.”
“He was a very special person,” said Ian, with genuine feeling. The reality of the situation was now beginning to hit him. He forced back his own tears and looked up to Emma for help.
Emma quickly read the situation. “Come on, Julian, I’ll make you breakfast. Ian can telephone Sergei.”
Julian picked up his glass of water and followed Emma into the kitchen area. Ian meanwhile stood up and walked into the dining area to collect his mobile phone. He wiped both of his eyes. From his contact list, he selected Sergei’s home telephone number. After five rings Sergei answered the call.
“Hello, Sergei. It’s Ian Caxton. We are in Monaco. Julian is with us and he’s just told us about Andrei.”
“Hello, Ian. I telephoned your home number earlier but just got the answerphone.”
“Sergei, what can I do to help? Julian says Andrei gave you his instructions.”
“I’ve just been talking to the cruise company and they say that the cruise ship has got to dock at Brisbane. The police have been informed and they need to establish the cause of death.”
“Right,” said Ian. He was not sure how to proceed, or what to say.
“There will probably be a post mortem,” continued Sergei. “The cruise company representative said that Andrei died in his sleep, possibly from a heart attack.”
“I see. Do you want me to go to Australia?”
“No, no. That won’t be necessary. The police and Andrei’s travel insurers, they’re already both on the scene. I think we should wait until we hear from them first.”
“Okay, but, is there anything I can do in the meantime? We are due back in the UK in three days’ time, but I could see if we can get an earlier flight.”
“I’m sure there are people that you, or Julian, know who need to be informed. Both in Monaco and France. Maybe you could do that for me, please. We can discuss the matter again when you have returned home.”
“I’ll do that, Sergei. I’ll telephone you when we are back in the UK.” Both men said their goodbyes and Ian wandered into the kitchen area where Emma had prepared a cup of tea and some toast for Julian.
“Sergei says there is little we can do at the moment other than inform local friends in Monaco and France.”
Julian put down his cup of tea and looked up to Ian. “Andrei only had a few local friends. Lady friends mainly… like Marie. He was often away on business, so he didn’t have a large circle of friends. He really didn’t trust many people.”
“We have Marie’s telephone number, but do you know the others?”
“Yes. I can contact them… and I’ll also speak to Marie.”
“You must let us help you, Julian.”
“It will be better coming from me. I know these people… and they know me.” Julian stood up and looked from Emma to Ian. “I must go… and get on. Thank you for the breakfast. I also need to speak to Andrei’s legal people.” Julian walked towards the door.
“Are you sure you’re okay?” asked Emma. She really didn’t think that he should be leaving at that moment.
Julian opened the door and looked back. “No, not really… I’ve just lost my best friend.” He exited the apartment and slowly closed the door behind him.
Ian and Emma looked at each other. After a few seconds Emma said, “I hope he’ll be alright.” She picked up the teacup and plate that Julian had used and placed them next to the sink.
“It’s a shock for all of us. I think he’ll be okay though.” Ian looked down at his mobile phone, it was still in his hand. He wondered why Sergei had not tried to contact him via his mobile number.
Three days later Ian and Emma were back in the UK. Emma’s plans for a romantic few days away in Monaco had evaporated after Julian’s devastating two words – ‘Andrei’s dead’. During the rest of the Monaco break, Ian was largely very quiet and preoccupied with his thoughts about Andrei. He also spent some of his time sending and receiving emails.
When they arrived back at their home, Emma telephoned her mother-in-law. She wanted to check to see how Robert was. Everything there was fine and everybody appeared to be happy. At least somebody had a good time, she thought. However, she was looking forward to collecting Robert the following day.
The next morning Ian was up early and just about to leave to go to his office, when he called to Emma, “I’ll try and see Sergei after work this evening. You and Robert have your dinner and I will eat something when I get home.” He picked up his laptop bag and headed towards the front door.
“Okay,” called Emma. She came down the stairs and gave Ian a kiss.
Ian then left their home and walked towards the railway station. There was a light shower in the air, although Ian didn’t really notice it. During his 15 minute walk he couldn’t get Andrei out of his mind. His thoughts kept swinging from memories of his dealings with his friend to concerns about his own future. He wondered what more surprises he was going to find out over the coming weeks and months? Hopefully, Sergei would soon have some of these answers.
When Ian arrived at his office he telephoned Sergei. They briefly exchanged pleasantries and Sergei agreed to a meeting, later that evening, at 7 o’clock.
It was just after 7pm when Ian pressed the front door bell of the Kuznetsov family home. He stood back and, once again, surveyed the street and noted the opulence of the surrounding Eaton Square properties. The whole area exuded wealth and mystery, he thought, and not for the first time, Ian felt as though he was, what was it… trespassing?
About 30 seconds later the door was opened by Sergei. He gave Ian a big smile and invited him in. The two men shook hands and Sergei pointed to his study, inviting Ian to enter.
The two men sat down and Ian began to speak. “Thank you for seeing me, Sergei. I’m still in shock with Andrei’s death. Have you received any more news from Australia?”
“The cruise ship people are still officially saying the post mortem results are likely to state that Andrei died of heart failure. Natural causes. The insurers are arranging for Andrei’s body to be transferred to Scotland.”
“Scotland!” exclaimed Ian, in surprise. “Why Scotland?”
Sergei pulled a file of papers out of his desk drawer. “A few weeks ago I met with Andrei at the Savoy hotel for lunch. He had just returned from Scotland. He gave me all these legal papers and his instructions in the event of his death. Amongst the instructions, Andrei said that he wanted to be cremated and his ashes to be scattered in the grounds at Baltoun Castle. I have spoken with the Laird and he confirms that he already knew of Andrei’s wishes and had also agreed to his request during his last visit to the castle.”
“Wow. So, did Andrei think he was going to die soon? What other surprises are there?”
“He was certainly not a well man when we met the last time at the Savoy. He was also in a very serious mood. Not like him at all! He also thought one of his enemies was now looking for him. However, he didn’t elaborate any further.”
Ian wondered how many more surprises were going to be revealed.
Sergei continued. “The paperwork confirming full and final transfer of the Monaco apartment to you is in the hands of Andrei’s legal people. The rest of Andrei’s assets are to be distributed as per his will.”
“I see. Do you know when the funeral will be?”
“Not yet. The Australian police are being very coy about when they will give permission for the body to be released. The insurers will then make all the necessary arrangements for his body to be transferred to the UK.”
“Why would the Australian police do that? Surely they would be keen to release Andrei’s body as soon as possible.”
“I know. I’m wondering if there is more to Andrei’s death than the cruise ship company wants, or is willing, to say. I’m waiting for a telephone call from the insurers, we may know more then.”
After Ian left his meeting with Sergei, he slowly wandered along the streets and back towards Victoria underground station. His mind was spinning. He was certainly feeling somewhat guilty. He wondered if Andrei believed that he had really taken full advantage of ‘the opportunity’ he had opened up for him whilst he was alive. Now that he was going to fully inherit the Monaco apartment, and the 10 year annuity that Andrei had also set aside to help with the apartment’s financial upkeep, he wondered if he really deserved it all.
Ian knew, however, that his main concern was with Emma and Robert. He could not afford to put their livelihoods at stake. Andrei, after all, was a bachelor with very few responsibilities. He could afford to take all the risks he’d taken. Even so, Ian still pondered and worried, that there must be something he could do to clear his conscience and prove that Andrei’s belief in him was not completely misguided.
Later that evening, Ian explained all the details of his meeting with Sergei to Emma.
When he’d finished, she said, “It’s all a bit strange. Surely if the Australian police are happy that Andrei died of natural causes, then why are they not releasing the body?”
“My only guess is that they think it wasn’t due to natural causes! Sergei has only spoken to the cruise company and, for public relations reasons, they probably don’t want to say anything else… at least, not until the full details of the post mortem have been issued.”
“I see. So what are you going to do now?”
“I’m not sure. I don’t know if there is anything I can do. I need to speak to Andrei’s legal people about the apartment, but I would prefer to wait until the situation in Australia has resolved itself first. I don’t want to appear grasping or uncaring.”
Emma suddenly had a startled look on her face. “You don’t think Andrei was murdered do you?”
“To be honest, it wouldn’t surprise me. Andrei did have a number of enemies.”
“I do hope not, Ian. Let’s just pray it was natural causes.” Emma suddenly felt quite afraid.
“Mmm, I agree. However, we are just speculating. We need to wait for the Australian police to complete their work,” replied Ian. However, in his own mind he was still wondering if indeed the death was the result of murder, and if so, would there be any potential repercussions for him and his family?
It was a week later when Ian received the telephone call that he had been dreading.
Chapter 2
Ian was in his office when his telephone rang. Penny, his PA, was currently out of the office delivering some pictures, so Ian answered the call himself.
“Mr Caxton?” asked the authoritative male voice, with a distinctive Australian accent.
“Yes,” replied Ian, hesitantly. “Who’s calling?”
“My name is Detective Constable Steven Ponting. I’m with the Brisbane police authorities. I was wondering if I could speak to you about your relationship with the late Mr Andrei Petrov?”
Ian rose from his seat behind his desk, and as he began to reply to the policeman he walked across the room to close his connecting door to the outer office. He then resumed sitting at his desk.
Over the next twenty minutes Ian explained that he and Andrei had enjoyed a successful business relationship centred around Andrei’s activities of buying and selling art and paintings. He went on to answer a number of the detective’s follow up questions and explained exactly his whereabouts around the time of Andrei’s death.
Finally Ian asked his own obvious question. “I thought that Andrei died of natural causes. From your questions it sounds as though this might not be the case?”
“No, Mr Caxton, it is not. Our medical investigations proved conclusively that Mr Petrov was murdered. He was poisoned. Have you ever heard of the nerve gas, ‘Novichok’?”
Ian immediately felt the blood drain from his face. His breathing became quicker and he also felt his heart rate beginning to rise. “Oh my god! Are you sure!?” was all he could reply.
“Oh yes, Mr Caxton, we are very sure. Mr Petrov involuntarily inhaled the gas during his sleep on the cruise ship. We are certain Mr Petrov was the victim of a deliberate act of murder!”
“I see,” replied Ian, still deeply shocked. “Have you any idea who murdered him?”
“At this stage, we are still following our normal enquiries.”
“Yes, of course,” responded Ian.
“Thank you for your time, Mr Caxton. We probably won’t need to speak to you again.”
“Thank you,” said Ian. “I hope I was of some help.” He put the receiver back on its base and just stared out of the window. His mind seemed to be spinning in all directions. After about ten minutes had elapsed he heard a tap on the connecting door.
“Come in,” he shouted, and then tried to refocus his mind back to the present.
The connecting door slowly opened. “Hello, Ian.” It was Penny. “Is everything okay? Your door is not usually closed.”
“Yes…yes, thanks, Penny. Just a private call and I knew you were not in the outer office,” replied Ian. He took a deep breath. “Everything okay with you?”
“Yes, fine. I delivered those two watercolours back to Graingers. They were happy with the valuations and will probably go for the auction option. We should find out in a few days.”
“Thanks.” Ian rose from his seat and walked towards where Penny was standing in the doorway. “I think I’m going to get some fresh air. It’s a bit stuffy in here with the door closed.” Ian passed by Penny. Both briefly smiled at each other and then Ian exited the outer office into the corridor.
From where she was standing, Penny looked around Ian’s office. Satisfied that nothing seemed to be amiss, she pushed the connecting door back to its usually wide open position and walked back to her own desk.
When Ian returned he felt a little calmer, but was still worried about the Australian policeman’s information. After a few minutes he opened up his computer and googled the word ‘Novichok’. He was surprised that there were so many entries! However, he selected a website at random and began to read:
‘Novichok’ is a class of chemicals, developed in Russia. Translated from Russian, it means “newcomer”. Nerve agents, like this poison, are designed to attach to the spaces between nerves and muscles in the human body and thus overwhelm essential bodily functions. Enough of this chemical can easily stop a victim’s breathing or heart, leading to a very quick and horrible death.’
Ian closed down his computer, leaned back in his chair and wondered how on earth he was going to explain all this to Emma! He also felt a little nauseous.
The opportunity to tell Emma came later that evening after Ian had put Robert to bed and Emma had put their dinners on the table. Between mouthfuls of his food, Ian explained most of the details of the telephone call he had received from the Australian police detective. He’d decided, however, not to mention the word Novichok, but just referred to ‘a poison’.
Emma had listened to Ian’s detailed explanation without interruption, but once he had finished she asked, “Do the police have any idea who was responsible, and why he was poisoned?”
Ian ate the last forkful of food and then laid his cutlery on his plate. “If they do, they didn’t tell me. I think it was probably someone finally catching up with him from his past. Repaying a grievance, maybe. I know Andrei was always concerned about the Russian mafia! If that was the case, then it is very unlikely the police will be able to capture him… or her!”
“Yes, poison is often a woman’s weapon,” replied Emma.
“There were over 3000 passengers on the ship, not to mention all the crew. I’m sure the police will continue to investigate, but it’s almost impossible to identify the culprit… unless, of course, someone comes forward with some useful information. My guess is that the murderer is a professional, so it’s most unlikely he, or she, will ever be discovered.”
Thirty minutes later, both Ian and Emma headed upstairs to get ready for bed.
As Emma sat at her dressing table, she was worried and wondered if, as a result of Andrei’s murder, there might be any potential repercussions against Ian, her or, even, Robert! Why in God’s name, she cursed to herself, had Ian ever got involved with Andrei in the first place!
It was two weeks later that Sergei emailed Ian to say the Australian authorities had finally agreed that Andrei’s body was no longer required and would be released. The police investigation to find the murderer had achieved very little and nobody had been arrested. Witnesses had come forward to say that Andrei had been seen in the company of two different women whilst he was on the ship. One of the women was identified and questioned, but she was quickly dismissed as a possible suspect and the second woman had seemingly just ‘disappeared’!
Ian replied to Sergei’s email and thanked him for the information. He also asked if a date had yet been finalised for the funeral.
A day later Sergei replied stating that Andrei had left definite instructions. He had said that he didn’t want a formal funeral, but was happy for his ‘friends’ to attend the scattering of his ashes. The scattering of the ashes would take place on the 24th November at Baltoun Castle.
A day later Ian received another email, this time from Richard Forsyth, the Laird of Baltoun. The email read:
Hello Ian,
I hope you are well and you are enjoying the ‘pleasure’ of fatherhood!
It’s with much sadness that I am writing to you. As you are probably aware, Andrei’s ashes are to be scattered at Baltoun Castle on the 24th November. You, and your wife, would be very welcome to come and stay with us if it is your intention to attend this sad event. Andrei spoke about you often.
On his last visit, he told me how special he felt Baltoun Castle was to him and he sought my permission, that, when he died, his ashes would be scattered here in the grounds. I had no hesitation in agreeing to his request. After all, his investments in the estate have been a godsend and it is the minimum I can do for him. He will always be in our hearts. Moira, has particularly found the whole business very distressing. She and Andrei both enjoyed their little chats in Russian. Such a nice man.
Please let me know if you will be attending and how long you would like to stay with us.
Best Wishes,
Richard.
Ian looked at his calendar for the period around the 24th November. The 24th was a Monday so he decided he could travel up to Scotland on the Friday evening flight to Edinburgh and return back on the following Tuesday. However, he would still need to discuss this with Emma first before he formally replied to the Laird. He was reasonably sure that Emma would not want to attend. She still had mixed views over his relationship with Andrei and there would also be Robert to consider. As Ian’s parents spent most of November and December in the Algarve, the possibility of placing him in their care for a few days was not an option this time.
That evening, after dinner, Ian told Emma about the two emails he’d received from Sergei and Richard. He also suggested that he would like to attend the ‘scattering of the ashes’ on the 24th. Ian was pleased when Emma suggested he should take advantage of the Laird’s offer and stay for a long weekend. That way Ian could also see exactly what Andrei’s investments had produced. Emma also said that she hoped Ian would understand that it was not practical for her to go too, as there was Robert to consider.
So it was agreed. Ian was going to convey his answer to Richard’s email and book his two flights. He also wondered whether he should contact Sergei to find out what his plans were.
Chapter 3
The opening of the new ‘Taylor Fine Art Gallery’ had been a success. Bob Taylor had earlier travelled from Monaco and, with Ian’s help, they had signed off all the internal alterations and decorations. They had agreed which pictures were going to be displayed and had only tweaked Oscar’s suggestions for the final layout slightly. The Isaac Tobar pictures were taking centre stage. Both Ian and Emma had supported Bob on the opening evening and Oscar had emailed his best wishes from Antigua.
Bob had announced to both Ian and Oscar that he planned to manage the Gallery personally for the first two months. During that period he would advertise for, and appoint, a manager, who would be solely responsible for running the business after he had returned to Monaco. Ian had whispered to Bob that he might have just the right person in mind, but he would need to sound out that person first.
The pre-opening marketing of the gallery had gone well and after the first 48 hours of the gallery’s trading, six paintings were either ‘reserved’ or had been sold outright. Two of the Tobars had achieved a nice financial profit. Another two paintings had received offers via the new internet website. ‘A successful beginning’, was how Bob Taylor described the Gallery’s trading position to his wife when he telephoned her later that evening.
Three days after the opening of the gallery, Ian asked Penny what the current state of play was with Vic and his graduate training course. She told him that he would be finishing his course at the end of that month but he was still undecided about what he wanted to do next. He said that if he stayed with Sotheby’s, he would prefer to return and work in Ian’s department. However, he was also considering a fresh, new challenge, outside of Sotheby’s.
“Maybe I ought to have another chat with him,” was Ian’s response.
Penny set up a meeting for Ian with Viktor at ‘The Grapes’ for 6pm the following evening. The two men duly met and, after Ian had questioned Viktor about his thoughts for the future, he decided it was obvious from Viktor’s answers that he would probably benefit more, and could well excel, with a completely new challenge.
After buying two fresh pints of beer, Ian explained to Viktor about the new Taylor Fine Art Gallery and the opportunities it offered someone of his ability, ambition and enthusiasm. He suggested that Vic would be his own boss and would be solely responsible for driving the business forward in the UK. He continued to explain that the owner, Bob Taylor, was based in Monaco and most of his business was on the mainland of Europe. Therefore he would receive little interference.
This new career opportunity appealed to Viktor. He certainly could see how he might be able to drive the business forward. It would also give him the freedom to be able to develop his career without the perceived restrictions of being employed by Sotheby’s. After a few minutes’ thought, Viktor told Ian that he had made his decision. He would definitely apply for the Gallery manager’s vacancy. Besides, he thought, he had nothing to lose!
A week after advertising the manager’s vacancy at the gallery, Bob had received a number of applications. He selected four initially, but then reduced this number down to just two candidates to interview. He decided to keep the other two ‘in reserve’, just in case. When Bob had received Viktor’s application and CV, he noticed that Viktor was currently working for Sotheby’s. His profile seemed good and so he decided to interview him. He also made a mental note to speak to Ian if the interview went well.
Bob emailed both his preferred choices and stated that they were in consideration for the manager’s job. He then gave both candidates separate dates and times for their interviews.
As the 24th November gradually drew closer Ian decided to email Sergei to see what plans he and Boris had for attending the ‘scattering of the ashes’. However, he was quite astonished to receive the following reply:
Hello Ian,
I have made all the necessary arrangements with the undertakers in Edinburgh.
Andrei’s cremation was carried out in Brisbane and the insurers arranged for the transfer of the ashes to the undertakers in Edinburgh. The undertakers will transport the ashes to Baltoun Castle on the 23rd November, as per Andrei’s wishes.
Everyone knows Andrei was not a religious person so there was no need to involve anyone else. Both Boris and I will not be attending the formalities in Scotland as we have already paid our last respects, in our own personal way.
Whilst these arrangements do not necessarily follow the usual practice carried out in the UK, you have to remember that this is what Andrei had insisted on.
I hope you understand,
Sergei.
Well would you believe that! thought Ian. If they do not want to be involved, well so be it. I still want to say my own farewell… to my friend… and in MY own way!
On Friday the 21st November at 3pm, Ian was in a taxi heading towards London Heathrow airport for his flight to Edinburgh. At the same time Viktor Kuznetsov had just sat down in front of Bob Taylor at the Taylor Fine Art Gallery for his interview. An interview, which if successful, could dramatically alter the career path for this ambitious young man for many years to come!
Inside a small church in Monaco, Julian, Marie and a small number of Andrei’s former friends and acquaintances from Monaco, and the surrounding areas, were all gathered together to pay their own personal last respects to Andrei. The local priest gave a short prayer and then, one by one, each member of the congregation made a small speech about Andrei and how their lives had been touched and made much more enjoyable, because of his friendship. After they’d all exited from the church, there was not a dry eye amongst them.
Julian was especially sad and depressed. He had lost his father figure and best friend. No more emails or phone calls in the middle of the night. No more valuable paintings to collect, or deliver, in the Rolls Royce. Life had suddenly become quieter and certainly much duller. A decision, very soon, would have to be made.
When Julian returned back to his apartment he looked at the various provisional bookings he’d already made for Andrei. A number of them were paid for but would not now be used. These bookings were to places that Julian thought he would only ever go to… in his dreams! If he cancelled them then the refunded money would only go back into Andrei’s estate. Alternatively, he pondered on a possible different option. Finally, he made his decision. He would replace Andrei and finish Andrei’s trip himself! Yes, HE would complete the rest of Andrei’s five year travel plan!
When Ian arrived at Edinburgh airport, he spotted the familiar figure of Duncan, the Laird’s driver, waiting for him in the ‘Arrivals’ area.
“Welcome back to Scotland, sir,” were Duncan’s first words. He took charge of Ian’s bags and they headed for the exit.
“Thank you, Duncan. It’s just a pity that I’m back in such sad circumstances.”
“Aye, Mr Petrov, he’ll be sadly missed at Baltoun Castle, sir. His support, and friendship, was very special to the Laird.”
Duncan led Ian to where the Range Rover was parked and they both climbed aboard. The journey to the Castle was similar to how Ian remembered. It was pitch black and chilly outside. A heavy frost was forecast and Ian had a similar apprehension to the one he had on his first visit with Andrei. The big difference this time was that Andrei was not sitting at his side whispering that he did not understand a word Duncan had said! Ian smiled and looked out of the window. He occasionally spotted lights emitting from cottages or an isolated farmhouse, but otherwise, there were only brief glimpses of the countryside. That was when the moon temporarily re-appeared from behind light clouds to illuminate fields and trees as they passed by.
Duncan looked back through his rear view mirror. He too was feeling a strange, sad sensation. He too was missing the presence of Andrei and his little broken English jokes and smiles.
When the Range Rover drove into the inner courtyard of the castle, another familiar figure, that of Jenkins, the butler, appeared and he walked over towards the car. He opened the rear passenger door. “Welcome back to Baltoun Castle, Mr Caxton,” he announced. “The family have all been looking forward to your visit.”
After Ian had exited the car he thanked Duncan and smiled at Jenkins. “It’s lovely to be back again, Jenkins. I only wish it had been under happier circumstances.”
“The loss of Mr Petrov… yes, it is all so very sad.”
The two men walked towards the large oak double gates to the castle. Duncan followed carrying Ian’s bags. Jenkins pushed open the smaller door in one of the gates and they all entered the main entrance hallway. Duncan peeled away and took Ian’s bags up the stairs to one of the guest bedrooms, whilst Jenkins led Ian towards the library.
Ian looked around him. There was the familiar chill and the stone walls. All still decorated with swords and old battle fighting equipment. Again he smiled when he remembered Andrei’s initial comment that he couldn’t believe that people still lived in such cold old buildings.
When the two men arrived at the library Jenkins knocked and pushed the door wide open. He then announced, “Mr Caxton.”
Ian walked past Jenkins and into the room. He immediately noticed that the temperature was several degrees warmer in this room due to the roaring log fire. He spotted Richard and Moira as they both walked towards him.
“Hello, Ian, welcome. Sad business.” The Laird shook Ian’s hand and stepped back.
Moira approached Ian and they both kissed gently on the cheek. “We’ve all lost a good friend,” she said, trying to hold back a tear.
“Hello, both of you. Yes, Andrei was certainly a ‘one off’ and a true friend,” replied Ian. He always felt that he struggled in these sorts of circumstances to say the correct words.
“So how was your journey? We’ll be having supper shortly,” said Richard, walking over to a small table near the log fire. On the table was a decanter of whisky and four glasses.
“It was fine, thank you. It was also nice that Duncan was waiting for me again.”
Richard poured four glasses of whisky and handed one to Moira and then one to Ian. “Warm the cockles on a chilly night.”
“Thank you,” said Ian, but he was surprised to see Richard holding the remaining two glasses in either hand.
Richard put one of the glasses down on the table next to a large vase – a previous present from Andrei, Ian was told. Richard stepped back and raised his own glass in the air like a salute. “To a special absent friend.”
“A very special friend,” said Moira. She tried desperately to hold back a tear.
Ian quickly followed suit, raised his glass and said, “Na Zdorovie, my friend.”
All three sipped their whisky, but then the men watched as a tearful Moira put her glass down on the table and ran towards the library door.
Chapter 4
When Ian awoke the next morning he immediately noticed that the two leaded windows were covered with frost. He had slept well but had dreamt about meeting up with Andrei to value some paintings in Hong Kong. It was all so very surreal.
He leaned over to pick up his mobile phone from the bedside table. He’d remembered that on his last visit the broadband and wifi connection was very poor and spasmodic. This time there was a good signal! Part of Andrei’s investment? he wondered. He looked at his emails and noticed one from Bob Taylor. The message read:
I interviewed Viktor Kuznetsov yesterday for the manager’s job. I was very impressed. He says he’s currently working at Sotheby’s and I wondered if you knew him?
Ian smiled and started to write the following reply:
Yes I know Viktor. He worked in my department for a short period, as part of the Company’s graduate programme scheme. He is the person I was hinting at when I said I thought I had someone in mind for the role. I am pleased he interviewed well. He would be a good choice.
Ian.
Ian typed another two business emails and then a short one to Emma saying he had arrived safe and well. He also hoped she and Robert were fine. He finished off by mentioning that his bedroom windows were covered with frost and he was decidedly reluctant to get out of his nice, warm bed!
Ian did finally get out of bed. After visiting the bathroom he got dressed into several layers of warm clothing. He then went downstairs and entered the dining room, where breakfast was being served. Richard was sitting at the table, reading the morning newspaper, which he put down when he saw Ian walk into the room.
“Good morning. Did you sleep well?” asked Richard, as he folded the newspaper and laid it down on his side of the table.
“Yes, fine, thank you. I noticed we had quite a frost last night.”
“We’ve had quite a few lately. Par for the course up here this time of the year I’m afraid. This is not Surrey,” replied Richard, with a smile. “Help yourself to breakfast.”
“Thank you,” said Ian, and he walked over to the side table where there were a number of silver dome plate covers keeping the food warm. Ian lifted several covers, eventually selecting two kippers and some toast. He also poured himself a cup of tea. “Is Moira joining us?”
“No. She was up early and Duncan took her into Edinburgh. She will be back for dinner.”
Ian took his food and tea to the table and sat down opposite Richard. “So, what are the plans for today?”
“I thought you might be interested to see Andrei’s investments. His generosity has made a massive difference to the fortunes of the estate.”
“That sounds very interesting. Yes, I would like that very much. I suppose a lot has changed since I was last here.”
“Indeed. When you left I was convinced Andrei was just going to buy some of our paintings. He obviously had other ideas.”
“Yes, it was a total surprise to me too. I had no idea of his plans, but he did love the setting of the estate and told me that there was a lot of potential here.”
“Well, as a result of Andrei’s generosity, the estate is now more secure and on a much better financial footing. I am sure you will see a big difference.”
“I’m sure I will,” said Ian. He then concentrated on his kippers.
It was just before 10.30am when the two men met in the courtyard. Richard was going to drive Ian around the estate in Duncan’s absence.
When Ian saw the Range Rover parked in the courtyard, he was surprised as he thought Duncan would have used it to take Moira to Edinburgh.
“Come on,” said Richard, waving his hand at Ian. “Jump in. Moira and Duncan have gone off to Edinburgh in the Jag, so we’ve got this. It’s ideal for travelling around the estate, especially by the stream banks. It’s still quite wet in places down there. Not quite as practical as the Landrover, but certainly more comfortable.”
Ian smiled and climbed aboard. They headed out of the courtyard and onto the old drawbridge. Richard then steered the vehicle to the right and onto a track, crossing a large grass field. They headed towards a large wood. To his left, in the far distance, Ian could see a sizable herd of red deer grazing. Mmm, he thought, I don’t remember seeing this number of deer on my last visit.
“We’ll turn off shortly and I’ll then take you onto one of the new estate lanes,” said Richard, holding tightly onto the steering wheel as they bumped and crossed the field.
Ian nodded and pointed out of the window. “There seems to be more deer than I remember.”
“We have more than doubled the herd’s size. The extra venison has increased our turnover and the lodge guests report that they enjoy seeing the deer roaming so freely.”
Again Ian nodded.
“This lane coming up is one of the two new lanes we’ve had built. They both give access from the far end of the estate to the lodges, campsite and the luxury yurts. That’s where the new entrance is.”
“Wow,” said Ian.
Just before the wood Richard steered the Range Rover off the track and onto the tarmac lane. In the distance Ian spotted the first of the lodges.
As they drove closer Richard explained, “The original 12 lodges have all been modernised and a further six new ones have now been built. Occupancy through the first summer has been roughly 70%, and even now, we’ve still got five of them occupied. Not bad for our first year and bookings are already up again for next year!”
Richard pulled the car over to the frontage of one of the unoccupied lodges and both men got out.
Richard unlocked and opened the front door, but, before either entered they removed their wellingtons and then entered the hallway. Richard led the tour.
Ian was very impressed with the lodge’s interior design and furnishings. It had a modern kitchen and a separate useful utility room. A wood burning stove was located in the lounge and new wooden flooring had been laid throughout the ground floor area.
“Each lodge is fractionally different but, basically, they follow the same set up. Upstairs each bedroom has its own ensuite. Andrei was very pleased. On one of his visits he decided to stay in the lodge next door for two nights.”
“I can see why he would be pleased, they are very luxurious for a holiday lodge,” replied Ian. He was genuinely impressed.
After exiting the lodge the two men put their wellingtons back on and Richard led Ian around to the back. Here he pointed to the new footpath which led down to the stream where there were access points on the bank for trout fishing.
“This was Andrei’s favourite spot. He loved wandering down here, listening to the flow of the water and looking out for salmon and trout. He was not really an angler, but he did try it once. He liked to stop to chat with any of the anglers who were present. The very first time I brought him down here he saw his first ever kingfisher. Thereafter he always reported back when he’d seen any others.”
Ian smiled and wished he had been here when Andrei had revisited.
“Do you see that temporary white post near the bank?” Richard pointed to a white painted wooden stake a few metres away from one of the allocated angling stations. “I put that in there the other day. It is where Andrei wants his ashes scattered!”
“It’s a lovely, quiet and relaxing spot,” replied Ian. He was feeling a little emotional. He knew Andrei would have approved.
“I have his written instructions back in the office,” said Richard, mentioning this fact just in case Ian decided to query the request.
For the rest of the morning, and into the early afternoon, Ian was guided to the locations of all the other lodges and was driven along both the new lanes. He thought both lanes had been laid out well and didn’t detract too much from the woodland scene. Both lanes also gave easy access to and from the main road. Ian noticed that all vehicles entering the site now had to pass the new check-in cabin. Next to it was a small general store. Just after the check-in cabin there was a four acre field. Richard stopped here and told Ian that in the summer months this was the site for the luxury yurts and extra camping.
“It’s a lovely spot,” said Ian. He could see that the field was also partly hidden by a variety of mature trees.
“Yes,” responded Richard. “The field has good drainage. It’s a little higher than the surrounding land. When all the 10 yurts are erected they have a fully equipped kitchen and their own vehicle parking area close to the check-in cabin and shop.”
Richard then pointed across the field to a large single storey building. “That building is the permanent toilet and bathroom block. After customer feed-back, we are investigating the possibility of adding ensuite facilities to the yurts. There were ensuite bathrooms on the original plans, but we decided that it would be a little difficult to include because we take the yurts down and put them into storage in the winter. We might consider keeping them up through next winter. It really all depends on the demand.”
“It’s all very impressive. I’m sure Andrei would have been excited with the results.”
“Andrei visited us several times. On his last visit, he said he was very pleased with how his money had been spent. The new website and improvements to both broadband and wifi connections have been very successful too.”
“Yes, I noticed that this morning when I sent some emails. It’s certainly much better.”
“Our guests have praised us for the quality of the connection.”
“So are there any future plans?”
“Not major plans, no. But we’ll still have the ongoing maintenance costs. Andrei had promised a five year commitment. Said he was going to set up an annuity, but now, well I’m not sure what the position is with that.”
“Maybe he has made arrangements in his will. Have you heard from Sergei? He’s Andrei’s executor.”
“Not about the will, no.”
“Do you want me to speak to him?”
“Maybe when you get back to London. It would be a great help. It’s all a bit embarrassing for me to speak to him directly.”
“I’m sure something has been arranged,” replied Ian. At least he hoped so. He would hate for Richard and his family to have been put back into the problem position they found themselves in just 12 months ago.
