The Peacock 1503

"It's just as well, then, Sable. Don't worry. I only just remember that conversation that I had with Mom more than thirty years ago. Funny, how selective the memory can be. and I have always had trouble with memory." "I'm interested in hearing about your father", says Francois. "You say he's remarried?" "We haven't been in touch in a while. I think he's wanting me to write him, though it has been a couple of years, and I really do owe him a letter. "snail mail." says Carl. "He refuses to use email. he isn't quite a dinosaur, has a computer and a smartphone, but he prefers all communications the old fashioned way." "He has a new family?" say I. "two little girls. I have pictures of them and his second wife. Lovely people. Esther actually did send me an email last week asking how I am." "It sounds like you like them", says Carl. "Very much. Dad and I have always been close." My phone is ringing. George. "Where the fuck are you", he says almost shouting. "We're going to be a little while yet. Please give our apologies to Chelsea and her stepmom, this could take at least another hour." "So, you're not going to tell you that Adam has seduced all of you with his questionable magic?" "This seems pretty important for him." "Important. don't believe that overripe pretty boy's horseshit." "George. " And I am trying to measure my words carefully. "I well not have this kind of slander." "And who died and made you God?" He sounds like he's been drinking. "I am the leader of this community and it is my house you are staying it." "Do you mean to pull rank with me?" "Yes. George, are you people drinking alcohol right now." "We discovered your daddy's secret liquor supply." And yes, now I remember, in a particular hall closet he never went into, where I hid away all his booze in a clandestine compartment when he said he was ready to quit drinking. I forgot completely about it. And only now is it occurring to me that jason, at forty-six, has a couple of young children for half-sisters. What would this say about their father.....