Consequential Tempest

By John Mudzyn

While on spring break in Mexico, Jeff and Elliott are caught off guard when they receive a text from their son Juan’s friend saying Juan is in trouble and may harm himself. They quickly arrange for Juan to join them in Puerto Vallarta, where they learn the reason their son is troubled. This revelation takes them on a journey into uncharted territory, encompassing their entire family.

In the process of helping Juan, Jeff begins having flashbacks and a dream about something in his past. The closer they get to solving Juan’s dilemma, the more realistic Jeff’s dreams become. His demeanor changes, taking a toll on both his marriage and family.

Jeff and Elliott embark on a mission to understand the meaning of Jeff’s dream, and in the process, discover a sinister family secret involving Jeff’s parents. Traveling to Washington D.C., Jeff and Elliott believe they have found the evidence they need to help Jeff heal, but several texts from an unknown person leads the men to Las Vegas. While there, Jeff realizes something about his family that changes his life forever.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Archway Publishing
• Release date: Oct 14, 2021
• ISBN: 9781665710718

John Mudzyn

John Mudzyn, born and raised in Northeastern Ohio, proudly served in the United States Navy for six years. After being honorably discharged, he began a 23 -year career in the automobile sales industry. Pursuing a desire to discover other employment opportunities, he started a 15- year second career in the retail sector, working for a major retail corporation. After retirement, he became involved in politics, becoming the senior team member for an Arizona State Senate campaign. He is also the author of The First Day of School, a tender yet poignant prelude to Consequential Tempest. As a proud member of the LGBTQ community, John uses his words and voice as a vehicle to promote equality and pride throughout the community. John has made his home for the past 20 years in Phoenix, Arizona.

Book preview

MEXICAN

VACATION

1

SPRING BREAK

Rubbing last night’s sleep from his eyes, Elliott quietly opened the balcony door while grasping the view of the crystal blue ocean. Puerto Vallarta was slowly waking up to a sun-drenched late winter morning. This beautiful city had become his and Jeff’s preferred vacation destination. Jeff was on semester break from teaching; therefore, the next two weeks would be just for them. They were looking forward to enjoying the Mexican culture, eating great food, and of course, partying with a few great friends, who all seem to migrate to this serene paradise every year for a late winter break. He drifted in thought as he fixated on a cruise ship that looked majestic against the distant city background as it was slowly sailing over the crystal aquamarine water of the bay. He wondered where the vessel was coming from and if this was its final destination. Elliott could almost feel the anticipation that the passengers were feeling as they were getting ready to depart the ship and spend their day exploring the city.

Shaking Elliott from his thoughts was a loud voice coming from a balcony two doors away. Good morning Elliott. How are you on this beautiful Thursday morning? It looks like it is going to be a perfect day for the beach. You guys arrived extremely late last night.

Looking toward the other balcony, Elliott answered back, Good morning Linda. It is great to see you again. Yes. We were late, leaving Los Angeles yesterday. I had a client whose case kept me in court all day. We were lucky to get our tickets changed at the last minute and caught the last flight of the day.

As Linda attempted to answer him back, he suddenly remembered that Jeff was still sleeping. Interrupting, he quietly and politely asked her to keep her voice down. He did not want their talking to wake up Jeff, or for that matter, anyone else in the condo complex that was still sleeping. Linda and her husband, a retired building contractor from Toronto, spend a great deal of their time in Puerto Vallarta. They purchased their condo the same year Elliott and Jeff bought theirs.

They had become good friends over the past four years. Linda was loud and outgoing and always wanted to know everything about everybody. She lowered her voice, asking, Jeff still sleeping? Elliott nodded yes, and Linda apologized for being loud. Talk to you later, Elliott. It looks like my aerobics class is getting warmed up down by the pool. Smiling, Elliott softly answered, See you later. We have to go to dinner later this week.

Hoping that he would not wake up Jeff, he quietly put on a pair of running shorts and a yellow tank top. As he was tying his new Nikes, Jeff peaked his head from under the sheets. Good morning, sexy. Are you going out for your morning run?

Good morning, Jeff. Yup, I am going out for a run on the beach. It is a beautiful morning; besides, I did not sleep well last night, that is why I am up early. While I am out, I am going to get some coffee. We need to hit the market today or tomorrow. By the way, Linda says good morning.

Yea, I heard her, Jeff said as he rolled his eyes. Elliott reached over the bed and kissed his husband on the forehead, whispering, I know she can be nosy, but remember she does watch our condo when we aren’t here. Pulling the sheet back over his head, Jeff sheepishly said, Go get the coffee. I hate it when you are always right. Love you!

Before he was out the door, Elliott mentioned that Juan sent him a text last night.

You were already sound asleep. Juan is arriving here tomorrow. He wrote that he doesn’t want to go to Florida with his friends on spring break.

Jeff curiously asked, Is Noah coming with him? He didn’t say. All he said was that he needs to talk to us. That’s cool, Jeff answered. We have not seen him since Christmas. It will be great to spend some family time together, just the three of us, I hope.

Soon after Elliott was out the door, Jeff walked out onto the balcony, careful not to alert Linda. As he gazed out at the shimmering ocean, his thoughts turned to Juan, finding it hard to believe how fast the time had flown. It had been over four years since he and Elliott adopted the shy homeless kid who had since grown into a handsome first-year college student.

Juan was only 14 when they met him on the night of their first wedding anniversary. He was a lost, lonely kid who was searching for parental love that had evaded him his entire life, the same as Jeff did as he was growing up. Juan’s father had thrown him out of the house after discovering him in bed with another boy.

Elliott and Jeff understood what Juan was going through. They had to endure so much hate and bigotry when they were young teenagers. Looking back, Jeff and Elliott knew they made the right decision. In no time at all, they became the rock of stability that Juan needed and craved. For the first time in his young life, Juan had loving, caring parents, while Jeff and Elliott discovered their own need to share their love and life experiences with this lost child. In no time at all, they meshed into a loving family.

Jeff’s phone rang, shaking him from his thoughts. Hi, Papa! How is Mexico? I just woke up, Juan. We arrived late last night. Elliott told me that you are coming here tomorrow. Can’t wait to see you! Papa. I want to let you know that my plane gets in at 1:30. I should be at the condo by 3.

Juan, is something wrong? I can tell by your voice that something is bothering you. Hesitating before he answered, Juan quickly said, No, Papa, everything is good. I hope you don’t mind me coming down there for spring break?

Of course not, Juan. Why would you even say that? You know we miss you and can’t wait to see you. Jeff wished him a safe flight, adding, We will go to El-Bueno Gusto for dinner tomorrow night. I know it’s your favorite. With a tone of caution, Juan replied, Can’t wait to see my two dads. I love both of you. See you tomorrow.

Back from his excursion to the market, Elliott kissed Jeff and handed him one of two coffee cups he purchased. Jeff mentioned, Juan called. He will be here by three tomorrow. Elliott asked, Did he say if he is coming alone? No, Elliott, he didn’t, and I didn’t want to ask. It appeared to me that something is bothering Juan, and he wants to discuss it with us. I asked him if everything was alright. He said yes, but for some reason, I have my doubts.

Elliott gave Jeff a swat on his ass, It’s probably just teenage college stuff. You know he has been hinting around that he wants a car. I was hoping that he would ask his friend, Noah, to join him, the same as last Christmas when he brought Noah to our home. Oh well, hurry up and take a shower. I am starving. All we ate last night was the food on the plane. Smiling, Jeff said, Me too, I’m hungry. Give me 30 minutes. I’ll be ready. With that, Jeff disappeared into the bathroom.

Elliott laughed to himself, knowing Jeff would never be ready in 30 minutes. He took out his laptop and began going over his latest emails. While prioritizing which ones needed an immediate reply, a new email arrived from his mother. He smiled as he read the message from Peg.

She wrote that she and Jake walked the beach for several hours yesterday. She always looked forward to watching his Jack Russell terrier, Jake, whenever they traveled. She also mentioned that Darlene, Heather, and Candace planned to drive down from Los Angeles this morning to do some shopping in San Diego. Peg continued her email by explaining to her son that Juan had called her a few days earlier. He seemed preoccupied with something on his mind. She felt he wanted to talk about something important, so she advised him to go to Mexico and spend spring break with his Papa and Papi.

After reading Peg’s email, Elliott started reminiscing how his mom always knew when something was bothering him. He remembered all the talks he would have with her in their kitchen back in Ohio and how Peg would allow him to open up and talk only when he was ready. Now it was his and Jeff’s turn to permit Juan the same respect and opportunity.

He also began reminiscing about how he and Darlene met in high school drama class and how that meeting propelled them into a lifelong friendship. She and Heather were fortunate to find each other and fall in love soon after high school. They have been together ever since. He smiled, thinking about how by chance, the girls met Candace the same night he and Jeff met Juan.

Both children were in the custody of the social worker working with him and Jeff to find a child they could adopt. It seemed that the stars aligned in perfect order that night, which led them to adopt Juan and the girls to adopt Candace.

Juan and Candace were now students at Arizona State University. The two of them had developed a close spiritual bond. They even call each other cuz.

Elliott responded to his mom’s email, writing that Juan had decided to join them in Mexico, and thanked her for the advice she gave to his son.

Finishing his shower and getting dressed, Jeff joined Elliott on the balcony. Hugging his husband, he said, You look deep in thought. Elliott showed him the email from Peg.

Elliott, your mom always has a way of knowing when someone needs to talk. I have always loved that about her. We don’t know if there is a problem, so when Juan gets here, we need to give him space. He needs to decide for himself if and when he is ready to tell us whatever it is. So, don’t pressure him.

Elliott agreed. Remember when he first came to us and how shy and reluctant he was to open up? We gave him the space he needed, and it worked out. Let us take this one day at a time. Maybe it is nothing at all, and he wants to spend time with us. I can’t wait to see him!

Jeff smiled at Elliott for agreeing. Ever since they were married, the only arguments they seemed to have centered around raising Juan. Elliott wanted Juan to work hard for anything he wanted, just like he and his sister Becky had to. They had to work in their parents’ pizza shop on weekends and during school vacations. On the other hand, Jeff wanted to shower Juan with anything he wanted. After a few arguments, they both made concessions, allowing Juan to be happy and know he is loved.

Let’s go, Jeff yelled. I’m hungry!

The sun was already intensely shining down as Jeff and Elliott maneuvered down the cobblestone streets lined with uneven sidewalks and steps with no synchronized depth or height. Arriving at a quaint outdoor café, they notice two friends who were already well into their breakfast.

Hey, Jeff and Elliott, great to see you two again. When did you arrive? Late last night. Elliott kept the judge and jury in court for most of the day and into the evening. With a voice of confidence, Elliott shot back, I did, and I won the case!

After ordering their breakfast and eating, Jeff expressed, I am sorry you didn’t sleep well last night. I did not notice. I fell asleep right after we kissed goodnight and as soon as my head hit the pillow. What was keeping you awake?

Elliott motioned to the server for more coffee before he answered. I don’t know. I think it was Juan’s text. All kinds of things went through my mind after I read it. I am so damned afraid that he has grown up and doesn’t need us anymore.

Jeff put down his coffee cup, stood up, and hugged Elliott. I know how you feel. I also think about that at times. He is a good kid, and he needs us and loves us. He will be here tomorrow, and we will sort it all out then. Now, let’s not jump to conclusions.

Hey, Jeff, when we finish breakfast, we should take a walk along the Malaki. We can see if anything has changed since last year. Jeff agreed, That is a great idea, Elliott! We can then head over to the market and stock up on some supplies we need for the condo. After all, we have a first-year college student arriving tomorrow. You know how much he loves to eat.

The sidewalk along the ocean was already getting crowded with tourists ready to search for bargains and souvenirs that the local merchants eagerly displayed along the path. Elliott remarked, I bet some of these tourists came off that cruise ship I watched from our balcony as it entered the harbor this morning.

Jeff stopped walking for a moment, smiled, and commented, I love watching all these people. Most of them are young and gay. They have no problem walking hand in hand and just being themselves. Wouldn’t that have been great if we could have done the same when we were their age? It makes me happy watching them.

Elliott agreed while putting his arm around Jeff as they continued their journey. Wow! Could you imagine what would have happened to us if we walked into high school with our arms around each other? Laughing, Jeff shot back. Thinking about it now, I am sorry we didn’t do that. Still smiling, he continued, Yea, but that kiss at the prom we gave each other turned the whole school upside down."

Elliott, since you brought up Noah earlier, I want to ask you something. Do you think that Juan and Noah are dating? When they were at our house for Christmas, Noah seemed quiet and guarded. I tried talking to him, but he was reluctant to open up. They both looked happy together, and I have to admit that they appeared to me as if they were more than just friends.

Elliott added, I feel the same about Noah. I presumed he is gay, but perhaps he is not. Noah certainly did not seem to have a problem with us, and I am sure Juan has come out to him. Remember how happy he was when we asked him to stand next to Juan in the pictures Darlene took of us in front of the Christmas tree?

Jeff, we do not need to ask Juan too many questions. Remember how my mom used to tell us that whatever we were going through was for you and me to figure out by ourselves? As far as we know, they might not even be friends anymore. Juan has not talked much about him since Christmas. The more I think about it, Juan has been distant and evasive about almost everything since he got back to college after Christmas break. That is why I find it strange that suddenly he wants to come here to be with us.

You’re right, Elliott. Every time I called him in the last couple of months, he seemed bothered that I was calling. He never had much to say. That is not like him. I will take your lead on this, but it will not be easy to keep quiet. Come on; we need to exchange money at the bank for pesos and go shopping for groceries. Then we can take a taxi back home.

The taxi pulled up to their condo, and the driver helped them carry their bags of groceries to the door. Elliott, do you have the key? No, I thought you had yours! Damn, what are we going to do? Elliott was laughing while Jeff was starting to get angry. I don’t think this is funny, Elliott.

Laughing even harder, Elliott managed to say, I have an idea, but I don’t think you’re going to like it. Why don’t you knock on Linda’s door? Remember, we gave her a key to watch the place when we are not here. I think you should be the one to ask her since you were the one who closed the door this morning without checking if you had the key.

Damn it, Elliott, you know I hate talking to her. Now she is going to want to talk for an hour. All right, I will ask her, but you are going to entertain her. Let’s get this over with!

Walking over to Linda’s door, Jeff rolled his eyes at Elliott before ringing the doorbell. Jeff, it’s great to see you, Linda shouted as she hugged him. You were still sleeping this morning when I spoke to Elliott. How have you been?

Great, Linda. I was sleeping this morning until you and Elliott started talking. Nonetheless, it is good to see you. Hey, we locked ourselves out this morning. Can you please let us in with your key?

Retrieving her ring of keys, Linda also came back with a bottle of wine. We need to have a glass or two and get caught up. It has been quite a while since you were here. I have a million things to ask you guys.

Jeff gave Elliott a look that could kill while Elliott was grinning from ear to ear. Sure, Linda, come on in, and have a seat. Jeff and I will get you all caught up. Great, you guys, put your groceries away while I pour the wine. Why don’t we sit out on your balcony?

Elliott kissed Jeff and whispered, Remember, we are on vacation. Just relax; she means well. I’m telling you, Elliott, if she pisses me off, I’ll get up and walk away.

So, guys, what’s new in Los Angeles? How is your law office doing, Elliott? Well, Linda, I’m busier than I ever expected. I have hired two full-time attorneys, and if the business continues to grow, I may need to hire another. Last month my office handled a case that I never imagined I would see. We litigated divorce for a gay couple. The LGBTQ community pushed and fought all those years to have the right to marry. I do not think anyone ever thought about the consequences marriage would present. So, you see, we are not that much different than the straight world. You know, Heather works for me as my office manager.

I didn’t know that, Elliott. How are Heather and Darlene doing? Are they planning to come down here to join you this year? It would be great to see them again!

No, Linda, we did invite them, but Darlene is still mourning her mother’s death. This last year Kathy suffered so damn much. Darlene quit her job at the post office to take care of her mom. She is still processing and grieving. Thank God Heather and Candace were there to help her. I don’t think she would have made it without them.

That is so true, Linda, Jeff replied as he joined them on the balcony. Candace grew up and matured during Kathy’s illness. She is an outstanding young lady. I do not think you would recognize her now. We are so proud of her. She has joined an LGBTQ group at ASU. She and Juan are determined to use their experiences of coming out to help other students to find their acceptance.

Remember, Linda. We told you that they were thrown out of their homes and into the streets by their homophobic parents. They have witnessed hate firsthand. I get sick when I think of all the possibilities of where they could have ended up if we hadn’t taken them in.

Linda’s face turned a bit red. You’re right. I forgot about all of that. Will you guys please tell the girls hello from me when you talk to them? Elliott smiled, We sure will.

Jeff, I understand your high school football team had another successful year. Fantastic job! Still not tired of teaching high school kids? Nope, Linda, I love it more and more every year. Pouring herself another glass, Linda began pressing Jeff with more questions. Jeff. Hey, do you ever miss the broadcasting business and being a celebrity on national TV?

Sensing that Linda had too much wine and was getting bolder in her questions, Jeff shot back, Hell no, been there, done that, never want to do it again!

Continuing her fact-finding, Linda crossed the line with her next question. Jeff, I saw on the news the other day that your father is planning on running for another Senate term next year. What do you think about that? Have you and your parents patched up your relationship?

No, Linda, that will never happen! I don’t give a fuck about them or anything they do! My father can go straight to hell as far as I am concerned. I am through talking about my parents! I am going outside for a walk by myself. I will see you later. Thanks for the wine, Linda.

A soon as Jeff was out the door, Linda questioned Elliott, Did I say something to offend him? Linda, I have told you before that conversations about Jeff’s family are off-limits. It is an extremely complicated story, so please respect him. His parents never showed him any affection or love. They treated him as a political pawn. So please, Linda, do not bring up his parents anymore. Every time someone does, I must deal with the aftermath!

Yes, Elliott, you can count on me. My husband tells me all the time that I have a big mouth. Perhaps he is right. I’ll catch up with you guys later and apologize to Jeff.

Jeff sent Elliott a text. I’m sitting on the beach. Come down and join me. Elliott responded with a smiley face emoji and, I’ll be right down.

The beach was beginning to get crowded, with thousands of tourists soaking up the warm Mexican sun as Elliott searched for Jeff. Finally, after several minutes he spotted him sitting on a beach chair sipping on a bottle of Pacifico beer. Elliott knew in an instant that Jeff was still pissed at Linda. He only drinks beer when he is upset.

Quietly, he came up from behind and hugged and kissed Jeff on his neck. Hey, sexy. Why is a good-looking man like you sitting alone? Want some company? Turning slowly around, Jeff sternly told Elliott, I hope you realize that I am still angry at Linda. She asks too many questions about stuff that is none of her God damned business. We should move. I do not want to catch her talking to Juan when he gets here. God only knows what she would ask him!

Elliott, signing the tab for his beer and another for Jeff, spoke up with a forceful voice that Jeff had not heard in quite a long time. First of all, Jeff, I have already spoken to Linda, and she gave me her word that she will be much more respectful of your wishes. Secondly, Juan is in college, and he can decide for himself if he wants to talk with her. That is not our decision. The last thing I have to say about this subject is that I will not let Linda dictate our vacation mood.

I do not give a damn if you want to sell our condo and buy one further away from her. But Jeff, keep in mind, that will not change a damn thing. I am sure you understand that there will always be a Linda somewhere asking about your family no matter where we are. That is the baggage we have because of who your father is and what your last name is. I’m heading back to the condo; you stay here on the beach and pout like a little kid if that’s what you need to get over this shit!

Jeff yelled, Wait, don’t leave. I realize you are right, and I overreacted. I do not expect anyone to understand. I am grateful that you do. I have been dealing with this shit my entire life, and sometimes it hits me wrong. I guess I just need to accept that this is a part of me, and it will always be there. Let’s finish our beers before we go back. Oh, by the way, Elliott, I love you.

I love you too, Jeff. Please remember that I have also been dealing with your family’s crap for most of my life. Remember that summer when we were in high school, and I fell into that creek at the bottom of that ravine? We told each other when that happened that whatever happens going forward, we will handle it together. Well, I am still here, babe, even after all the fucking shit your father threw at us. Do not forget that. Come on; we need to get cleaned up and head out to dinner.

Opening the shower door, Elliott leaned in and asked Jeff, Where do you want to have dinner tonight? Grabbing a washcloth to wipe the soap from his eyes, Jeff suggested, Why don’t we just walk around later and find a nice place. I promised Juan, when he called this morning, that we would go to El-Bueno-Gusto tomorrow night, so let us not do Mexican tonight. Jeff pulled Elliott into the shower. You looked so damn sexy yelling at me on the beach. I wanted us to do it right there on the sand. Pushing Jeff against the shower wall, Elliott whispered, Well, let us pretend this is the beach. If you look down, you will notice that the tide is rising!!

Puerta Vallarta at night is a magnificent experience with streets crowded, full of vacationers and locals, everyone enjoying the warm nights and local culture. There are countless restaurants of every type of cuisine from all around the globe.

Deciding on where to eat dinner is not always an easy decision. On any given street, there is a cornucopia of tempting delicacies from fresh seafood and authentic Mexican. Perhaps Italian or Chinese, hamburgers or pizza. Sit down in a formal setting or sidewalk cafés. The choices are endless.

After walking around for about 30 minutes, Elliott suggested a place famous for its burgers and salads. Hey Jeff, how about we try this place? I was talking to one of our neighbors this morning; No, not Linda! He highly recommended it. Let us get our name in before the line gets any longer.

Dinner was great, Elliott. Tomorrow night we will do Mexican if Juan wants to. On the way home, I would like to stop at Blondies for a drink. We can sit and watch all the cute boys walk by!

Walking hand in hand while trying to maneuver the narrow-crowded sidewalk, Elliott suggested that he needs to call Darlene when they get home. I think I should call her tonight. They should be back home from San Diego by now.

The bar did not appear to be very crowded. What do you want to drink, Jeff? Looking over the menu, Jeff settled on a margarita. No salt!. Jeff asked Elliott to order the drinks while he grabbed a table near the sidewalk.

Hey Jeff, please call the girls while I get the drinks. Use my phone.

Jeff attempted to call; however, there was no answer. He assumed that Darlene must be on the phone because the call went to voicemail. He left a message.

No sooner than Elliott sat down with the drinks, Jeff’s phone began ringing. Wow! Heather is calling me. Hey, girl. I just tried calling Darlene on Elliott’s phone. Elliott and I are enjoying a margarita. What’s up?

Candace was on Darlene’s phone when you called. She was talking to Juan. You know, when they start talking, it can go on forever. I understand that Juan is joining you guys for spring break. Yep, he is coming down tomorrow. We think he needs to talk to us about something.

Heather hesitated before she answered., then took a deep breath. Yes, Jeff. I believe the same thing. Candace has been acting extremely weird lately whenever we ask about college and Juan. Darlene and I, at first, figured that it was simple teenage stuff, but now I think there is more to it. She was trying so damn hard tonight to keep Darlene and me from hearing what they were discussing. This shit has been going on since January. Her attitude and evasiveness are not helping Darlene, and it’s beginning to piss me off!

Jeff, I need to ask you something. Darlene is not doing good. She is very depressed. I know we told you that we didn’t want to go to Mexico, but now I am rethinking that decision. Will it be okay with you guys if we join you next week? I think it would help Darlene and me to get away.

I am on speakerphone, Heather. Elliott just nodded, okay, and it is fine with me. Heather, it’s me, Elliott. Close the office if you need to. Do you want me to arrange the trip?

No, Elliott. I will do that as soon as we hang up. Thanks, guys. I appreciate this.

Okay, you and Darlene need to let us know when you will be here. Tell Darlene we love her. Talk to you later.

The light from the moon was glistening off the quiet bay and slightly illuminating the living room through the massive glass balcony doors as Elliott and Jeff returned home.

I want to sit out on the balcony for a few minutes and listen to the sound of the waves. Sit with me, Jeff. Speaking softly as not to alert Linda that they were home, Jeff mentioned Darlene and Heather. That was some weird shit coming from Heather tonight. I wonder what is going on with Candace. If you think about it, Juan has been acting the same since January, and I don’t think that is a coincidence.

It is okay with me if they stay here. We have the other spare bedroom next to Juan’s that they can use. Is that okay with you, Elliott? That’s cool. So much for a quiet vacation. Somehow, I had a feeling that they would all be joining us. I hope this trip helps Darlene. I am beginning to worry about her. Come on, let us go to bed. We have a busy day tomorrow.

Turning out the bedroom light, they bid adios to this first day of their Mexican vacation.

The serene tropical atmosphere of this moonlit night did not indicate that chaos was looming in the few short hours ahead.

2

THUNDER IN THE DISTANCE

Blue sky and sunshine make up the masquerade, posing as

the backdrop, attempting to keep the tempest at bay. Thunder

in the distance is making its presence known, shouting out a

warning of the storm that nonetheless is sure to come.

Jeff, I’m going for a run on the beach. Still not fully awake and trying to focus on the time display on his phone, Jeff managed to say, ‘Are you kidding me? It’s only 5:30. The fucking sun isn’t even up yet."

Do you want to join me, Jeff? I can wait until you get dressed. No way! I will hit the gym later this morning. Have fun and be safe. I am going back to sleep. I love you.

Earbuds in and the music on, Elliott was out the door and headed to the beach. Now unable to fall back to sleep, Jeff glanced again at his phone and noticed a new text message had arrived.

Mr. Ryan, this is Noah. I hope you remember me. I need to let you know that something is wrong with Juan. I am standing outside his dorm room, and he will not let me in. He went out last night and got drunk. I am not sure, but he may still be drinking. He yelled through the door that he is packing for the trip to Mexico. We were planning to go to Florida when, out of nowhere, he changed his mind. He is crying all the time and will not talk to me, and told me to mind my own business. I have never seen Juan act this way. Last week he received a call, and he has not been the same since. I am worried about him. I would not bother you if this were only boyfriend drama, but I think it is deeper than that. He is always looking over his shoulder as if he is afraid of something or someone. I wanted you and Mr. Romano to know this before he gets there. Please let me know that he arrived safely. Noah.

Jeff immediately sent Elliott a text to get back home now. Within minutes Elliott was back at the condo. What’s up with your weird text? You scared me.

Jeff was pacing around the living room. Elliott, look at this text I received from Noah. I tried calling Juan. He will not answer his God damn phone. That is not like him.

Wow, Jeff, do you think there is something to this, or is Noah overreacting? I don’t believe that Juan would treat Noah like that or talk to him that way if everything were okay. Something is going on with him. We need to get to the bottom of it. I am sure it is no coincidence that both Juan and Candace are acting weird simultaneously. Something is going on with both of them!

You’re right, Elliott. Damn, I wish one of us was with him on that plane today. I don’t think Juan should be traveling alone. We need to call Noah and invite him to come down here with Juan. I will call him right now. In the meantime, Elliott, you need to call and talk to Candace.

Pacing around the room as he dialed Noah’s number, Jeff yelled, Come on, please answer your phone, Noah! He was ready to hang up and dial again when he heard, hello.

Noah, this is Mr. Ryan. I am sorry to bother you, but I need to know what is going on. I tried calling Juan, but he will not answer. By the way, thank you for your concern and your text.

He is still in his room, Mr. Ryan. Hold on, Juan is opening the door. Appearing as if he hadn’t slept all night, Juan yelled, What the fuck, Noah? I told you to leave. None of this is your business!

Noah shoved his phone into Juan’s hand. Take the damn phone, Juan; it’s your dad. Talk to him, please! With a look of confusion, Juan shouted out, Why the hell would he be calling you? Noah shot back, Stop yelling at me, Juan. Please talk to him.

Trying hard not to slur his speech, Juan answered the phone. Papa, what’s up? I don’t know, Juan. Why don’t you tell me what is going on? Since you won’t answer your damn phone, I had to call Noah.

Papa, I need to talk to you and Papi. I am scared. I don’t want to talk over the phone. Jeff could feel the fear in his son’s voice. Okay, Juan, I understand. Before we go further, I need to know if you are drunk.

You know what, Papa, chill out. I had a few beers last night at a friend’s house. It is no big deal. Can I talk to you, or are you going to treat me like a child?

Juan, I will treat you the way you act. Don’t ever tell me to chill out. You are acting like a spoiled brat. So, the ball is in your court. Change your damn attitude now! Put the phone on speaker and get Noah in the room!

Mr. Ryan, this is Noah. Go ahead; I am listening.

Noah, what are your plans for spring break? Nothing, sir. I don’t have any plans since we are not going to Florida. So, I’ll be staying here in the dorm or hang out at my parents’ house. Why do you ask?

Noah, I will arrange for you to get on the same flight with Juan. Please agree to come to Mexico. Hearing what Jeff said, Juan grabbed the phone from Noah. Papa, no, this is my problem. Noah doesn’t need to come to Mexico with me.

Shut up, Juan. Stop interrupting. Do you understand me? Noah, will you come here to Puerto Vallarta with Juan? Yes, sir, I want to be there with him.

Jeff let out a sigh of relief. Okay, both of you need to leave for the airport now. I will make all the arrangements. You call Elliott or me when you are on the plane. Do you understand me, Juan? Yes, Papa. I understand!

Okay, Elliott, and I will see both of you this afternoon. I love you, Son. Don’t ever forget that.

Noah, who by now was in tears, asked Juan, Why are you pushing me away? I want to help you, but I can’t unless you tell me what’s wrong.

Noah. I made a huge mistake. I do not know how to handle it. I am in deep trouble and scared for my life. It will be easier for me to explain everything after getting to Mexico and talking to my parents. Please go along with me on this, please.

Elliott was in the kitchen on the phone, arguing with Darlene, while at the same time, he was trying to listen to Jeff’s conversation with Juan in the other room.

Candace knows what’s going on. You need to make her tell us? Elliott, go to hell. I certainly won’t demand her to tell you anything. She made a promise to Juan. Trust me; she will not break that promise. I will put Candace on the phone. She will make her own decision on what she wants you to know.

Mr. Romano, it’s me, Candace. I am sorry, but it is not my place to tell you anything. I do know that Juan has reached his breaking point and needs your help. He will tell you everything you need to know. Please do not be upset with him. He needs you guys now more than ever.

Okay, Candance, I understand. Let me talk to your mom. Darlene was hot under the collar when she grabbed the phone from Candace.

Before you say anything to me, Elliott, how dare you demand me to make Candace do anything. You better figure out your own son’s problems before you stick your nose in our business!

Give me that phone, Darlene! Heather forcefully shouted as she took the phone. Elliott, this is Heather. What is going on? Candace ran into her room, crying, while Darlene is yelling at you. I am going to hang up now. Everyone needs to chill out before we say things that we all will regret. I will call you guys back in a couple of hours. Abruptly, she hung up.

Jeff was having problems getting Noah booked on Juan’s flight. Feeling as if his back was against the wall, he decided to do something he has only done one other time in his life, using the power of his father’s name and position in the Senate to get what he wanted. He hated to go that route but felt he had no other choice.

Even though his father failed at a run for the presidency, William was still a mighty man in Washington as the Republican Senate Majority Leader. Jeff used his father’s name to contact the CEO of the airlines. After explaining the situation, Jeff was assured that Juan and Noah would have first-class seats on Phoenix’s first flight to Puerta Vallarta.

Elliott, I finally booked Juan and Noah’s flight. They will be here this afternoon. I think we should meet them at the airport. How did your conversation with Darlene go?

Not good, Jeff. Darlene and I got into an argument. I think she may have been drinking. Heather hung up on me. By the way, I heard how you were talking to Juan on the phone. I am sure Linda also heard you, and she is two doors away. Jeff, what precipitated all that shouting?

Deciding that this was not the right time to inform Elliott that Juan may have been drunk, Jeff explained, Elliott, I did something today that I am ashamed to have done. I became so upset that I yelled at Juan and told him to shut up. My fucking father used to do that to me when I was a kid. How could I have been so stupid? I don’t think Juan will ever forgive me.

Elliott kept on pressing Jeff about the call. Why did you get so upset? What did he tell you? Hesitating for a few seconds before answering, Jeff reluctantly explained. "I didn’t want to tell you, but you need to know. Something is deeply troubling him. He told me that he needs to talk to both of us. He said he is scared about something. Also, I think Juan was drunk this morning. Noah also suspects that he is drinking excessively. I do not think we should overreact. We need to observe him while he is here. Let’s keep