Page 16 of Priestly Sins

Me:Can you find a reputable real estate attorney in Ireland and make sure Killian O’Shaughnessy is protected on the land there?

Bobby:Barrister.

Me:What?

Bobby:They’re called barristers. Never mind.

Me:I’ll get you the docs but best I can tell, my dad’s will would evict him.

Bobby:Such a stand-up guy. {Sarcasm}

Me:The word you’re looking for is asshole.

Bobby:Truth.

Me:And will you draw something up that we can provide to him assuring him I am not my father and he has legal rights so long as he’s living? There is more than enough land for me to enjoy and for him to live. Make sure he knows he’s protected and that the gift returns to me upon his death.

Bobby:Will do.

Me:Thanks!

“Father?”

I try not to act surprised when Evelyn pops her head in. I was so lost in my conversation with Bobby that I didn’t hear her come into the office.

“Good morning, Evelyn. How was your week?”

“You surprised me. In earlier than usual. All okay?”

“Absolutely. It wasn’t a great week dealing with my father’s will. I appreciate you holding down the fort.”

“Of course. There’s another funeral this week. Sorry you’re coming back to that. It’s tomorrow. I wanted you to have a heads-up before you see it on your calendar.”

“Who?”

“Enzo Calabrese’s father-in-law.”

“Oh? What time?”

“One. The burial is at Green Acres.”

“Thanks.”

* * *

I don’t getconfirmation from Staunchley before noon that day. Nor by close of business.

The next morning, I call him from my cell. Our brief conversation does not settle my concerns that he is doing what I’ve requested.

I make a second call on my way to the office. Ibrahim Al-Hamani, a former associate of my father’s, who assumed he was relieved of the debt he owed upon my father’s passing, takes my call, but is hesitant to speak. His reticence doesn’t bother me.

“Ibrahim? This is Sean, Patrick O’Shaughnessy’s son.” I pause to wait for some kind of assent. His grunt will do.

“I’m prepared to forgive the debt you owe my father. I want nothing to do with his business. Unfortunately, I need a favor.”

Silence.

“It’s the easiest one you’ll ever do. Hal Staunchley has been slow to dissolve my father’s last legal enterprise. I want this done yesterday. He’s dragging his feet. Some encouragement from you would be welcome.”