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Alex responded, hesitantly, and with a bit of fear in his voice, “I’m here with your son.”

“That must be how you got in without an identification badge,” said the elder Michaels before turning to his son, “You know better than to bring someone in here without a badge.”

“You’ve never said a word before when it’s been one of my friends.”

“He’s your friend? Why on earth would you befriend him?” spat Mr. Michaels putting as much scorn into the word ‘him’ as possible.

“It wasn’t planned, you know, Father. Sometimes you just become friends with someone due to happenstance or serendipity. I met Alex, we hit it off, and we’re becoming friends. Just because you’ve had a bad experience with him, it doesn’t mean I will. Perhaps you should give him a fair chance.”

“I suppose, but still, this is quite unorthodox given our history with this boy.” The elder Michaels relented only somewhat, still not acknowledging Alex. “Well, we might as well have the tea.”

Gavin motioned for Alex to sit. They sat side by side on a small sofa, in front of the coffee table on which the tea service was set.

The tea was passed around and Mr. Michaels finally sat. “Right then. Mr. Maitland, I apologize for my initial reaction. I should have set my feelings aside until after tea was done. My outburst was inappropriate for the moment.”

Alex thought that was the most unusual semi-apology he had ever received. Even Gavin though it stretched British propriety too far. However, any sort of apology from his father was a rarity, so he supposed that was a good sign.

The tea was surprisingly enjoyable, much to the boys’ surprise. The topic of conversation was about how they first met and then it moved to the most common banalities concerning the weather, school, current cinema, and similar safe topics.

After tea was concluded, Mr. Michaels buzzed in Mavis, who entered, collected the tea service, and left shutting the door behind her.

“So, Gavin, since this obviously isn’t a social visit, to what do I owe this pleasure? And, since you didn’t come alone, how does it relate to Mr. Maitland?”

“As you know, Father, I’ve been wanting to go home for a visit and you and Mother have steadfastly refused, saying that I can’t go alone.”

“That’s correct. A young man of your age can get into all sorts of trouble whilst travelling, especially alone.”

 “Yes, that’s exactly what you’ve said. However, when I helped Alex after his bicycle accident, he told me that he was interested in returning to England, and I suggested he could come with me. That would eliminate your objection.” Gavin didn’t bother to point out two young men could get into twice as much trouble as one.

“Are you barking mad? That’s the most daft thing I’ve ever heard. I wouldn’t leave you alone with Mr. Maitland for more than a moment’s time.”

“But FATHER!” shouted Gavin, coming to Alex’s defence immediately.

Alex sat quietly for a moment, and then started to speak just as Derek Michaels spoke again. “Half a moment,” the elder Michaels said whilst waving his hand to indicate his need for silence. He was deep in thought. Mr, Michaels realized that no matter what happened, Alex would certainly try to and find this Nicky lad, and that would lead to Nicky’s father. And Nicky’s father was still a sought after prize in MI-5. His capture would certainly lead to a promotion if he could make that scheme work.

“Perhaps I’ve been too hasty. As much as I’d like to prohibit Gavin from being your friend, I don’t suppose I can pick his friends for him. If, and I am only saying if right now, I agree to this, can I rest assured you will remain together at all times?” asked the elder Michaels knowing full well they would agree without regard for the truth of the matter: it was the way of teenagers.

“Of course, father. I will abide by any reasonable restrictions.”

“Yes, I believe that’s entirely reasonable,” agreed Alex.

“Gavin, I will need to speak with your mother about this, as distasteful as that task will be for me. Give me a few days to screw up my stomach, and then I’ll call her.” His ex-wife was about the only thing that put fear into him. He tried to suppress an involuntary shudder.

He turned to Alex, “Mister Maitland, have you discussed this with your mother?”

“No sir. Not yet.”

“Ah, well, perhaps you would leave that to me, then? Would that suit you?”

“Of course, sir!” exclaimed Alex, knowing that it would be nearly impossible for him to get permission on his own. Suddenly, Alex had a sinking feeling when he realized funds were going to be an issue. He hadn’t much money saved up. He’d have to figure that out, and quickly.

“Right. I will call your mother at home before the day is out. If she gives permission, I shall call my ex-wife and try to work that bit out. I am not sure of the timing, but you’ll have to be back before school starts again. I will not have Gavin missing school for this folly.”

Derek Michael’s mind was working quickly. He had a plan: a good plan. Everything was going to fall into place. “Go on, then. You lot should go do something while I make arrangements.”

Alex and Gavin got up and left. As soon as they were back at the car, Alex spoke. “Not to start on a negative note, but his change of attitude was awfully sudden wasn’t it?”

“You’re telling me. I’ve never seen anything like it. I think, perhaps, he wants me to go away for a while and this is his big chance. Besides, he’s never rational when it comes to me. What father is when it comes to his kid?”

“Whatever it was, the fact he changed his mind and at the end appeared to be supportive of the trip makes me happy. I hope he can work it out with my mom. If he does, I’ll ask at my job to see if I can work more hours. If I can, I’ll work full-time so I can save up faster. I’d ask my dad, but I might as well ask your dad: neither one’s likely to help with that in this lifetime.”

“You want to do something or head back?” asked Gavin.

“Well, we could eat lunch. There’s some great places in the city.”

“Some? There are hundreds of great places to eat in the city.”

“Asshole,” said Alex smiling, “You knew what I meant.”

“Yeah. I knew.”

Alex looked at Gavin for a moment before replying, his face becoming serious. “I’m glad I met you, Gavin. Even if this trip falls through, I’m glad. I don’t have many friends.”

“I know. I pointed that out if you remember.”

A hurt look briefly passed over Alex’s face, “I do remember. But let’s not talk about it. I’m just glad I’ve found someone who is willing to be my friend.”

“Even though I’m using you to get what I want? The trip, I mean.”

“Yeah, especially because of that. You know, we’re using each other. But it’s not like we’re hiding it. We both get something we want. Besides, if we end up friends, then I’m glad.”

“Friends are good. I like you too, Alex.”

“Like? In what way?”

“Like as in like. Friends. Why? Am I confusing you?”

“Not really,” lied Alex.

“Good. Don’t over-analyze. Often things are exactly what they appear to be. Anyway, where do you want to eat?”

“What about the Tonga Room?” suggested Alex.

“They don’t do lunch, but that was a good call,” enthused Gavin.

“Damn. I’d say Tadich’s Grill but we’re not dressed properly. And Prego’s way the fuck out of the way.”

“Yeah, you’re probably right on both counts. I’d suggest Trader Vic’s but it’s a bit pricey.”

“How about the Stinking Rose over on Columbus Street?” asked Alex.

“That’s a good choice. It’s just so damned touristy, though. But let’s go there anyway because the food’s always awesome.”

Without much trouble, they found parking on one of the back streets, and soon were walking up to the restaurant. Since it was still early, there wasn’t a queue and they were seated without having to wait.

All natives knew the food in the North Beach area was some of the best, and though a tourist haven because of its worldwide fame, it never disappointed – the Stinking Rose was no exception. Soon menus were in hand. After studying his menu for some time, Alex ordered a simple garlic and butter fettuccine. Gavin decided upon garlic infused lasagne. The meal began with a garlic bread platter, which was delicious, and they devoured it rapidly. They both commented on the garlic beverages on the menu, but neither was brave enough to try any of them.

Soon their food arrived and they began chowing down on some of the city’s finest garlic-laden food. The waiter was attentive but not intrusive. After he inquired if they wanted to try a dessert and they declined, he said he would return with the check.

The check came and Gavin grabbed it before Alex could, saying “This is on me.”

“No. That’s not right. Let’s at least split it.”

“No. I said I’m paying. I hate when other people pay. I’ve got more money than I need. Let me spend some of it on you.”

“Whatever you say, moneybags,” said Alex, an unreadable look on his face.

“Shit. I’m sorry, Alex. That’s not how I meant it to come out. I get a stipend every week because I’m the son of a senior diplomat. They pay for my car, gas, clothes, even school. There’s just not much I can spend my own money on. I wasn’t trying to sound like a spoiled brat.”

“Okay. If it makes you happy,” conceded Alex, somewhat mollified.

Gavin signalled the waiter and handed him the bill and some money, telling him to keep the change. The waiter smiled, thanked them, and remarked what a cute couple they made. Neither boy said anything in response to the comment, because in this city it was a common error. They walked out the door and onto the sidewalk. They decided to walk around a bit, taking in the sights while burning off their meal. Another beautiful day in the Bay Area was always welcome.

They decided it would be best if they headed back before traffic became impossible, so they walked to Gavin’s Jaguar only to find a parking ticket on the window. Gavin snatched it off, clearly peeved.

Alex was disturbed, seeing Gavin upset. Alex felt a certain responsibility; Gavin wouldn’t even be here if it wasn’t for him. Hoping he might mollify Gavin, he said, “It’s just a parking ticket. If you want I’ll pay it to make up for you paying for lunch.”

“It’s not that. The sign says there’s a four-hour limit, and we’ve been here only three. I hate the meter maids in this city. They write tickets without any regard for reality.”

“Do diplomats have to pay tickets?”

“I’m not a diplomat. The car is a registered diplomatic vehicle, and as such we don’t have to pay them. Nobody can make us. However, most responsible countries pay fines in the country where they’re assigned. We pay our own fines, too. Our government insists. So this comes out of my pocket because I can assure you the parents won’t pay for this.”

Gavin started the car, and pulled onto the street. His mood was unreasonably bad over something as simple as a traffic ticket.

“What gives, Gavin?”

“I’m just mad about the ticket.”

“Nobody’s that mad over a ticket.”

“Well then you don’t know me very well.”

“I guess you’re right.”

After that, the mood lightened. The ride home was spent with idle chatter about school, the possibility of the trip, and what they would be doing tomorrow. They didn’t reach a decision on the last count other than to agree to call each other in the morning.

Gavin dropped Alex off with a smile, “I’ll talk to you tomorrow sometime, Alex.”

“Great. I look forward to it,” said Alex before Gavin sped off to meet some of his other friends and share the news about his upcoming potential trip.

Alex walked into the house and found his mother waiting for him. “I received a rather interesting phone call today,” she said by way of a rather abrupt greeting.

“Really?” asked Alex, feigning surprise, though he guessed who it was that had called.

“Really. I must say I am rather put out. Do you have something you want to tell me?”