The Third Son: A Family Novel

By Dan FitzGerald

THE THIRD SON, a family novel, features Lieutenant Barry Kernahans promise to care for Sarah, the 6-year-old daughter of his commanding officer, Charlie Abercrombie, who is killed in a night raid in Afghanistan. Wounded in the same raid and discharged as a hero, 23-year-old Barry goes to Abercrombies home in Raleigh, N.C. to check his options as Abercrombies beneficiary, only to find the situation complicated and frustrating.
Middle son in a family of five children, Barry left home in Queens, New York at the age of 18 to enlist in the Army. Due to service in Japan and Afghanistan he has not been home since enlisting. Now, he must live in Raleigh, find a nanny to care for Sarah, and marry in haste to adopt the young girl.
Aware he knows nothing about women, and because his proposed bride is targeted by an obsessed killer, Barry asks each member of his Bayside family for their advice before he takes action. Everyones perspective is different. The final choice is his alone.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: May 19, 2014
• ISBN: 9781491898819

Dan FitzGerald

Dan FitzGerald is a business executive who acquired a journalism degree plus an MBA in New York before moving to Raleigh, North Carolina. He writes fiction, paints oil portraits and plays duplicate bridge, at which he has earned the designation of Silver Life Master.

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© 2014 Dan FitzGerald. All rights reserved.

Cover picture credit:

Rs-nourse; Coat of arms of Sir Gerard FitzGerald, 8th Earl of Kildare, KG ; http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Coat_of_arms_of_Sir_Gerard_FitzGerald,_8th_Earl_of_Kildare,_KG.png

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse    05/15/2014

ISBN: 978-1-4918-9882-6 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4918-9881-9 (e)

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

This novel is dedicated with affection to my brother, Jerry and my sister, Betty.

Chapter 1

Barry Kernahan grew up in a big old house in Queens, New York with his parents, two older sisters and two brothers. Brother Kevin was ten years his senior and brother John, two years younger. Sheila and Beth were both older than Barry, who was 18 years old and about to graduate from High School with respectable grades. Four hours after dinner Barry lay on his back in a second floor bedroom, listening while his parents talked downstairs.

I’m sorry to tell you, Marie, his father said, we can afford to educate one but not both of our last two kids. I’m afraid we have to make some kind of a decision, and then tell the boys.

What do you have in mind? his mother asked.

One goes to college and one doesn’t. It’s that simple. I haven’t decided what we’ll do, but we have no choice.

Barry rolled over on the bed and thought about what he’d heard. If he went to college and John didn’t, John would never overcome the handicap. John was pleasant, cheerful and a follower. When someone told him what to do, he did it. He had no initiative whatsoever.

Barry knew he was more competitive than John and better able to adapt to change. He knew he could find a way to get himself a college education, and he didn’t want his parents forced to choose between their younger boys.

On the Monday after his high school graduation Barry cleaned his room, left a brief note for his parents and enlisted in the U.S. Army. When The Army sent him to Fort Dix, New Jersey for basic training no one in his family knew where he was.

You’re a big guy, the military processor smiled at the sandy-haired young man standing before him. How tall are you?

Six foot three, maybe a fraction more. Weight?

205.

While the Army moved Barry through a sixteen week training cycle he played softball in his spare time with corporal Kenny Rome, an assignment clerk who became his friend. At the cycle’s end Kenny visited Barry.

You’re allowed a week’s pass to go home now, Kenny began. If you do, when you return you’ll be sent on a two year tour to rural Korea. It’s the pits, believe me, but there’s a better option available if you want to take it.

Oh?

If you’re willing to leave first thing in the morning I can get you assigned to Tokyo, Japan. Life in that city is alive and interesting. In my opinion it’s a choice between the best post in the Far East and the worst, but it’s your decision. Tell me now.

Tokyo it is, Barry said. I’ll write my family. I’m sure they’ll understand.

The Tokyo posting was easy to take. Two weeks after arrival Barry began receiving mail from his family. It was the letter from his father that had the most impact.

"Barry, your letter tells us you’ll be in Tokyo for the next two years. If so, begin by making a plan for the rest of your life and then try to make it happen. Two years seems long now, but it will go quickly. If you waste this opportunity you’ll regret it later. Based on my experience, here’s what I suggest.

First, see if you can take language courses while in Tokyo. Japanese might help, with a chance for daily practice. Maybe something unusual would have more appeal, something like Arabic which could be useful if the Middle East continues to boil. In addition, find the nearest American church and ask the pastor to introduce you to any dedicated volunteers. They may seem strange at first, but these are generous people. You want to study them and be with them at every opportunity. Put your good mind to work, Barry. Make the best of your time in Tokyo. Sincerely, Dad."

Barry respected his father’s intelligence. The man had been generous with his time, always available when Barry needed help. He possessed a unique ability to help his kids make the best of their personal preferences. He decided to blend his father’s suggestions with his own observations.

He enrolled in two language courses, Japanese and Arabic. Many soldiers were studying Japanese, which made it fun for everyone. Arabic was harder at first, but became easier as he learned more, helped by Donald Yasser, an American charity volunteer who grew up in Beirut. By organizing his limited free time Barry was occasionally able to join friends on social outings in central Tokyo, where he learned about Asahi beer. He couldn’t get enough of it. Monday mornings his head ached and he decided to leave Asahi alone. He did. Until the next time. It was not an unusual failing on an Army post, and didn’t affect his splendid performance ratings.

Less than two years later, Barry passed the Officer Candidate School test. His commanding officer congratulated him after checking available OCS openings. The next thing Barry knew he was on a plane to Camp Gordon, Georgia.

Barry’s arrival coincided with the activation of a reserve unit from Raleigh, North Carolina, whose officers were taking refresher courses. One of them, a curious, mature captain named Charlie Abercrombie watched Barry’s performance and attitude, and was favorably impressed.

I like that young man, the captain said. He’s big and seems to handle whatever they throw at him without breaking stride. I suspect he has leadership qualities, too. When Abercrombie learned of Barry’s language studies, especially Arabic, his decision was easy. I want him in my company," he stated to his commanding officer.

Captain Abercrombie got his wish. When his unit was ordered to Afghanistan Lieutenant Kernahan reported to him.

Prior to leaving, Barry sent brief notes to his family. He apologized once again for his absence from New York, informed them he was headed overseas and wished each of them well.

Barry served with Charlie Abercrombie for more than sixteen months. They took part in a number of raids, giving their men quality leadership and mourning those who died in action. Between battle assignments a friendship developed between the young lieutenant and the captain in his middle forties.

Abercrombie, a successful businessman, had been forced to sell his company when he was activated by the Reserves. He admired Barry for saving his money to pay for college and looking beyond his Army service.

During a break between raids Charlie confided to Barry he’d made a bad marriage, fathering a young daughter whose mother had divorced Charlie at her first opportunity and moved to California with a new husband. She had agreed that Charlie’s married sister Evelyn Maywood would have custody of the girl until Charlie returned to Raleigh.

When the Army renewed the Reserves’ Afghanistan assignment Charlie asked Barry to join him for a serious personal discussion. It began with a display of the picture Charlie carried everywhere.

As you know, Barry, this little beauty is my Sarah. She’s six years old. Each time we go on a raid I’m more and more concerned about her future. I need someone to look out for her in case I can’t. I’ve no family except for Evelyn, who has recently been widowed, which is why I’m asking you to give me your word you’ll take care of Sarah if something happens to me.

I’m flattered by your request, Captain. I hope we both make it home, of course. If I don’t, my savings go to my family back in Queens. If you don’t, I’ll take care of Sarah for you.

I have your word?

You do.

I’m pleased, Barry, the captain said. It’s why I’m designating you as my beneficiary. I’ve written my sister to tell her, and to express my confidence in you. I know you’ll do your best for Sarah.

Right.

Three months later on a night raid the company came under heavy fire. Charlie advanced with Barry at his side when, suddenly, the night sky lit up. They knew at once they’d been ambushed and had to fight their way out. When Charlie was hit by a burst of enemy fire Barry grabbed him, holding him at arm’s length while taking over control of the unit until the battle was almost over. At that point, something hit him in the side and he passed out.

Barry was comatose for several days before being taken to Walter Reed Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland. Three weeks later a uniformed general and a military aide arrived at his bedside.

I’m not sure what’s going on, sir, Barry told them. Last I recall I was holding Charlie Abercrombie and leading our company. Please tell me what happened.

All the survivors are alive because of your leadership, lieutenant, which is why I’m privileged to pin these medals on you.

Medals?

There are three, lieutenant. When you recover from your painful wounds they may help you get a good job in civilian life.

I’m out of the Army?

Afraid so, son. You may have nightmares and you’ll be sore for awhile, but eventually you’ll be as good as new. As far as the Army is concerned, you’ve done your part. It’s time for others to take your place.

Captain Abercrombie, sir?

The doctors tried, lieutenant. He would have had no chance at all if you hadn’t held onto him, but he didn’t survive.

He’s gone?

Yes.

Oh.

Barry watched quietly as the general pinned the medals on the front of his hospital gown. Both men saluted, and left the room.

Barry’s head cleared quickly. His back ached but the pain was bearable. He asked for his personal effects, which included a copy of Charlie Abercrombie’s beneficiary designation. He was surprised to learn he would receive hundreds of thousands of dollars, a stunning bequest, and realized he had to earn it. During the weeks of rehab at Walter Reed he decided the first step would be a meeting with Charlie’s sister, Evelyn.

He wrote her, describing what had happened and informing her he would contact her as soon as he could get to Raleigh. When he prepared to leave rehab, he called.

Oh, I’m pleased you’re coming, Barry, she said. I have a problem concerning Sarah, one I’ll explain when you get here.

Barry left Maryland on a warm day in late August. On arriving in Raleigh he rented a small sedan before reserving a room at a downtown hotel. Early the next morning he drove to Evelyn’s home, a massive brick building with a three car garage. He didn’t learn until later the property was a secluded estate with an in-ground pool behind it. He parked the sedan and rang the bell.

Evelyn, a slender. attractive woman with greying hair, greeted him warmly and presented him to Sarah, who was standing beside her. The little girl was as pretty in person as in the picture her father carried everywhere. She wore a backpack and held a lunchbox. There were quick, friendly introductions at the door.

It’s time for Sarah to leave for day camp, Evelyn explained. In fact, here comes her bus.

Sarah smiled at the adults before she trotted off. Barry followed Evelyn inside, admiring her graceful walk as she moved ahead of him to a leather armchair. She turned and pointed to a similar seat.

Time to get acquainted, Barry, she said. I’d like to know more about you.

He looked around the room. and sat facing her. Evelyn’s furniture was tasteful and expensive but the paint on the walls had faded. It was obvious little maintenance had been done in recent years.

I grew up in the Bayside area of New York City, Barry said. I joined the Army in Manhattan and was sent to the Far East. After returning to Georgia I became an officer and joined Charlie’s unit in Afghanistan. We were together on the raid where he died. I was wounded in the same raid, and shipped back to Walter Reed Hospital in Maryland to recover. I’m out of the Army now. After several weeks of rehab I’ve almost rebuilt my body. The Army people tell me when I regain my lost weight I’ll be as good as new.

An unexpected back spasm erased his smile. He turned in the seat, and it disappeared.

As you know, I promised Charlie I would look after Sarah. He left me a lot of money, and my intention is to keep my word and take care of her as best I can. What else can I tell you?

How old are you, Barry?

As of two weeks ago I’m twenty three, plus a few months. Occupation?

Haven’t decided yet. I’m hoping to go to college and earn a business degree.

Are you married, or in the midst of a relationship?

Neither.

Oh, Evelyn groaned, obviously disappointed. Did I say the wrong thing? Barry asked.

I’ll tell you why I reacted that way in a moment. I want you to know Charlie wrote and told me that even though you grew up in New York he praised you to the skies. He said you’re one of the good guys, she said, then paused.

I’ve plenty of room in this house, Barry, she continued. If you’d like to stay here until you organize your life you’re more than welcome."

That’s a generous offer, he replied, and I’m pleased to accept.

Now, let me explain where I’m at, Evelyn said. I’ll begin with the fact I’m 42 years old. When Charlie’s wife Yvette filed for divorce my husband, Henry, and I, became Sarah’s legal guardians. A few months ago Henry died, and I’ve been caring for the child myself while I cope with depression. Not long ago I experienced chest pains and my doctor isn’t sure what caused them. He tells me I may live another month, or 20 years or more. The real problem is—what happens to Sarah if I should die?

I’m listening.

In this state anyone over the age of 18 can adopt anyone, but if I die you could face serious problems trying to adopt Sarah. Social workers here frown on unmarried men adopting young girls. The agencies will battle you any way they can. Even if you win your battles you may be unable to take Sarah out of North Carolina for another ten years, which means you can forget about living in New York.

Barry realized Evelyn had studied the subject carefully. Keep in mind, Barry, she added, in case of a fight Sarah’s mother would be notified. She’s in California now, but she might decide to come back and stake a claim to Sarah.

Can she do that?

She can and she might. I had several sessions with her before she left Carolina for California. I haven’t heard from her in some time, but it’s a good idea to leave well enough alone.

I understand, Barry said. He looked down at the pattern of the fine oriental rug under his shoes. His mind raced. He said nothing for several minutes while the room remained quiet. Finally, Evelyn broke the silence.

Well? she said. Any ideas?

"I’ve reviewed our