The welcome home was nearly as crowded as the send-off. Family and friends gathered at Mascot. Cheers erupted as they walked from Customs. A welcome home party had been arranged for the following evening.
Prior to the party, Julian and Sinead had arranged to visit Eddie. Both were surprised at how his health had deteriorated; at how his thin body had shrunken even more.
“I’m going to leave you two for a while,” announced Sinead after their arrival. “I’ll give your mother and father my version of the trip.”
Eddie smiled, knowing she was giving him time with his friend, perhaps their last time together.
“Married life is agreeing with you,” Eddie smiled.
“I’ll give a big tick to that statement,” Julian retorted. Then asked quietly, “How do you feel, mate – really?”
The brown eyes, always so alive, now looked forlornly from the sunken face. Slowly he responded, “I’ve tried to keep the ‘it’s all right mate’ attitude with everyone, especially with Mum and Dad. But sometimes, Julian, I question – Why? What have I done? Sometimes I ask myself is there really a God? And if so, why is He punishing me? Then, other times, I’m accepting. The physical pain can be treated. But these questions…” His voice faltered.
Julian’s arm shot around his friend’s shoulders. For some time he said nothing. Then, “Mate, you are one of the special breed on this earth. I’ll say it again – you are one of the special breed on this earth. Why this is happening to you – there is no answer, Eddie. No answer at all! Some may suggest that your lungs were weakened due to your infancy and early childhood experiences. Others may suggest that the infection could be hereditary. But no one can prove any suppositions. We don’t know, Eddie. But – you – you are the best of the best. You deserve nothing but the very best. Oh, mate!” Julian broke off as the tears he had been pushing back began to escape. Tears flowed freely as they hugged each other.
“Thanks, mate,” Eddie eventually whispered. “Just needed to share a few feelings – as I do now and then with you and Joe. It always helps.”
It’s not fair, Julian thought. It’s just not fair!
“Now tell me all about the trip.” Eddie suddenly changed the subject.
Julian knew that Eddie would tire soon. With that in mind, he raced through a brief description, finishing with, “I’m not much good at describing holidays. As soon as we have photographs printed, we’ll give you a ball-to-ball description with the photos.”
Eddie nodded.
Julian continued, “Now, I do have some news for you. Firstly – our secret. Sinead is expecting our baby.”
Eddie’s face lit up. “Oh mate, how wonderful. What super news!”
“It is exciting! As it’s still very early days, we’re keeping this to ourselves for the next few weeks. But Si and I wanted you to know.”
“Thanks, mate. I’m so pleased for you.”
“Now,” Julian continued, “For your news.”
Eddie looked up, puzzled. His tension eased as Julian continued…