wanted was a lecture. At thirty, he was too old for that. He watched his father pour two glasses of fifty-year-old whiskey, the sign that he was about to get on his soapbox.
Walt brought the drinks over and handed one to his son before sitting in an identical chair.
"You sure you want my help?" Walt asked.
Griffin sipped from his glass as he weighed his options. The lawsuit was a nuisance designed to take his money. He didn't have time for that and didn't want to make the time for it either. But what was it worth to him? Did he really want to be indebted to his father? It was bad enough he was always telling him to settle down and get married, what would he want in return for his helping him with this case?
"That depends," Griffin said. "I know you're not going to let me off easily. You always have something up your sleeve."
Walt laughed.
"I don't know what you're talking about," he said. "The only thing I have in mind is your best interest. Remember, this lawsuit doesn't look good for me either. Every time your name is published in the news, I'm linked to you."
Griffin sighed as he took another sip of the amber liquid.
"Just be straight with me, Dad. If I let you help me with this, what do you want in return?"
Walt raised his glass as he tried to hide the smile forming on his lips.
"I want you to go on a vacation," he said. "I spoke to Drew Titan, and he mentioned a new resort of his in Bora Bora. I think some relaxation would be good for you."
Griffin waited for his father to say he was joking. Was that really it? He just wanted him to go away and enjoy himself?
"What's the catch, Dad?"
Walt nodded as he took a sip of his drink.
"You're right, there is a catch," Walt said. "You need to keep it in your pants while you're away. No chasing skirts or tail or whatever you boys call it nowadays. You have enough problems going on right now, I don't need any more."
"That's it?"
"Yes, that's it," Walt said before taking another sip of the whiskey. "Take your time thinking about it, but don't forget depositions start next month."
Griffin cringed as he thought about the depositions. He knew the questions were going to be tough. The attorneys would bring up his character and try labeling him as some kind of deviant. Griffin knew he had a bad reputation and was quite proud of it normally, but today he wasn't so sure.
"Fine, no women. I swear you take the fun out of everything," Griffin said. "I'll give Drew a call and look into flights."
"No need, you leave in the morning."
***
The dark green grass of the resort's golf course swayed and parted as the helicopter landed. Drew Titan stepped out of a golf cart and walked towards Griffin as he touched down.
It had been a long time since they last saw each other. Drew stood just an inch taller than Griffin's six-foot frame. Griffin was glad to see Drew still looked the same. He didn't have that flab many of Griffin's married friends had.
They shook hands and Griffin clapped his hand on Drew's shoulder, glad to see him.
"Good to see you," Drew said as he motioned to the golf cart. "I'll take you to your villa so you can unwind. I made sure the bar was fully stocked."
"You're a good friend," Griffin said with a laugh.
He enjoyed the scenery while Drew drove towards a building on the edge of the water. The warmth felt good and as he looked at the beach, he admired the women in their bikinis. They were just the kind of trouble that Griffin got himself into.
"I heard your dad retired," Drew said.
"You'd never know it. He's still very involved with the business, but I don't mind. I think I'd miss him if he wasn't. This is quite a place you have here though."
Drew nodded. "I love my resorts, each one is different. Your dad had great timing because I just opened this place. You'll have to let me know how you like your stay here."
"How long will you be here too?"
"I'm actually heading back tonight. I don't like being away from Trinity and the kids for very long.