Journey Through the Abyss

The Charlotte's Family

It was 9:00am, Sunday morning. Ben Charlotte, Adeline's sweet charming hubby has been away for over six months. He's been battling in the country service as a soldier in what was known as the Cyprus Conflict. He left his wife, and two children back home.

Adeline Charlotte, Ben's wife had to come to terms with living a lone life with two kids, whenever hubby was away.

"Ben, we will miss you. Hope there will be intermittent ceasefire this time around; peradventure the war finally ends in record time?"

"That's absolutely unpredictable. It's dependent on certain records we must have set in the process of our engagements, and subsequent aftermath."

'Not to worry, Adeline, all will be fine.'

'As a wife, I must salute your courage. (moved closer to his wife, embraced and kissed her). Tears trickled down her face.' (Ben took his handkerchief, wiped away the tears from his wife's face)

'I love you. Am sure you know. Yes, I do' (in her squeaky voice).

(She became somewhat lively again)

'Ben, you have indeed spurred my courage over the years. My confidence has increased as the years pass by.'

Being emotional is not a symbol of cowardice. As humans, we are bound to express our feelings from time to time. I understood how you felt initially. You have been a brave woman.

It's so surreal, observing as if in a dream, whenever I realize you are still very much present in our lives. Have got a pent up fear at the early stage. Grateful I can still hold on to my husband over and again, and not a final touch for the last farewell.

'Am glad the same way you are. Still seeing each other is one thing have appreciated on this journey. It's not been easy. Thankful our marital journey is not yet enclaved in a one-sided affair, having the other party permanently shut beneath the great beyond.'

'Let's keep being confident. Thanks to your support', Ben applauded.

'You're most welcome, my love.'

Marrying a soldier had meant resorting to a solitary life for Adeline. Catering to their two children, Kevin, eight; and Kerry, two was no mean business. Coupled with the fact that she was a Barrister. She had been able to push through every moment in her life, with the support received from their families.

(The bell pulsated) Am coming (Adeline took some steps towards the door).

"Hi, Melissa. Glad to have you. I was thinking you would come later in the evening."

"I have an appointment with the dentist today. I decided to stop by on my way home. Oh, I see, that sounds better, instead of having to come back."

Adeline's younger sister had promised to pick Kevin for the week long mid-term holiday, to allow her some time to rest, and concentrate on Kerry.

"How is mum, Melissa?"

 'She is fine.'

"Hope she is taking her medications?"

'Yes, she is.'

"Hope to check on her next week too."

"That's fine, Adeline. You are always busy, and she's aware. She would have loved to visit you instead, but for her condition. She is always concerned about you."

"I understand, Melissa. You know this time in her life, she needs more attention than us. She is in her payback time.'

"You are right, Adeline, but we need to rub each other's back too. All she cares about is ensuring her children are in a pleasant state. Even while we are so worried about her, she kept her mind glued up on her children. You can as well, tell how caring your mum is."

"Kindly extend my greetings to her. Let her understand am fine. Tell her Ben sends his greetings as well."

I will, Melissa responded.

"Okay, let me pack Kevin's bag so you can leave on time. The house is all yours. Feel free and get yourself something to eat. I will be right back."

Sure, I will.

Kerry was taking a nap on the couch.

 Adeline's mother-in-law was mostly around on her usual visit. She was still nimble, covering the distance from Moore to Dame Street twice a week at times.

This has been a quota to her son's family. The measure of time she lavished on Ben's family was magnanimous, compared to her other kids, who were lucky to enjoy a family fusion.

Grandma's other children were compassionate enough to see every reason for their mother's devotion to Ben's family, being the youngest child with a tender marriage.

'Mum, you can always stay with Adeline. Am still fine here. Can send for you to come spend some time with us here if the need arises. All I know is Ben's family needs you more at this time. My own husband is available. We can always cover the gaps while you are away.'

'That's so thoughtful of you, Tilda.'

Ben's war engagements as a soldier, had got his mum nervous and apprehensive most of the time. He would always reassure her of his safety, and return from every single combat mission he embarks on. This had been a constant testimonial for Ben, after all.

The phone rang from the sitting room, Sarah Charlotte was busy making her cherished pancakes for the evening. She quickly dashed out of the kitchen to pick the call.

"Hello mum, it's Ben. Oh, how do you do, son. Good to hear from you."

"Mum, I will be home next week Tuesday, my final paper comes up on Monday."

"That's great, son. Am glad to hear that. Looking forward to seeing you."

"Same here, mum. Have missed home. Till then, mum. Bye for now."

Ben was studying Engineering at the University College, Dublin. Ben had topped his class as the best graduating student. This has brought much solace and fulfilment to his mum.

His mum had visited the grocery over the weekend to pack the house full with all vitals in anticipation of Ben's return from school.

The blaring horn of the car, a taxi Ben had boarded home from the train station, announced his arrival.

"Hey, Mr Brown. I appreciate your calm driving." (Ben handed over some wands of notes)

'It's a pleasure, Ben.'

Ben alighted, picked his luggage from the booth, and headed to the door.

(Sarah aimed for the door as the bell rang)

'Oh son, it's you. Glad you are finally home. How was your trip?'

"Mum, it all went well. Am happy to see you." (they both exchanged a warm embrace)

Ben sat at the dining after a warm shower. Mum served him his favourite dish; Irish bread pudding with Caramel sauce. Ben and mum conversed late into the night.

"Mum, it was my final exams. The project defence signalled the completion of my course. I had a great time during the final internship. The experience was indeed exhilarating."

"Am glad you have finally completed your undergraduate study. It's quite fulfilling to know you were also the best in your class. You have rewarded me immensely, by putting in your best. Am so proud of the son you have become. You have my congratulations, Ben."

"Thank you so much, mum. Thanks for being a true pillar of support. I so much cherish and appreciate you. Without your efforts, I could not have gotten to where I am today."

'That's okay, Ben.'

"It's time to take another giant leap forward."

'That's quite crucial, mum.'

"There are lots of things you need to consider now, as you move ahead."

"You are right, mum. I understand your concerns. I have some great plans drawn up already."

'That's great. We shall discuss better tomorrow. You need some rest now.'

"Yes, mum. I need a long rest. School work can be very tedious, especially, in the finals."

'Taking some days on exclusive rest is most essential at this time.'

'I will sure work on that. Thanks, mum.'

See you tomorrow, son.

That decision to join the military college for the requisite training after his undergraduate study, was a choice his mother took with dismay. This sounded incredulous to her, due to a shocking memory the army experience had slammed at her.

Sarah Charlotte, Ben's mother lost her husband who was a soldier during the Congo crisis. This has left indelible scars which was still taking time to heal. Her niggling condition lasted for a while, especially when she needed to fiend for her children. Though, she got her husband's entitlements and adequate compensation from the Irish government, this was incomparable to the support and efforts her husband would have offered his family if he were to be alive.

Sarah had not relented in quenching her son's dream. She broached the subject of his dad's demise, when he initiated the idea a day after his arrival. Amazingly, Ben was resolute.

He tactically made his mum see reasons for his decision. The heated argument started a day after his arrival from school. Ben's sister was summoned by their mum as a ploy to make a convincing move against his decision. His implicit and meandering reactions, became a build up to every point he made. His responses took a grip on the conversation as he patiently convinced his family into buying his decision.

"I have no other job am looking at, other than the military, mum. My field of study will produce a long-term impact afterwards. I don't have to be a combatant throughout my service years. In the cause of time, I will engage in other aspects aside war missions. Come to think of it, I could have objected to the idea of going through the university, because it's not a prerequisite in the military service. Due to my long-term goals, I pictured it into fruition."

"No problem, let's be hopeful it turns out as planned, Ben."

'Yes, it will, Tilda.'

Please, excuse me for a moment. (Ben got up).

"Mum, you've got to leave Ben for now. His mind is made up on this. As you can see, he is decided to embark on this mission. Let's support him in our best ways. It's a suggestion, mum."

'That's all you have to say, Tilda?'

"Mum, I repeat, just agree with me on this. What else will you do to dissuade one who is so determined. Fine, the idea is not bad in its entirety, is it? You've got to take it easy mum. All will be fine."

The face-off from a sort of imbroglio between Sarah and her dear son, Ben, lasted for a while. Everyone had to accept the new face of the sky dawning on the Charlotte's family. This unearthed a replay of the events in the life of their father; a brief reminiscence of Tony Charlotte.

Sarah at first, tried to take it calmly with her son, in a bid to manoeuvre him out of his wish.

"Ben, you knew how I had to confront the realities and challenges that accompanied the loss of your dad."

A short script of the life of Tony Charlotte was played back in a flashback to Ben. Yet, Ben stood his ground irreversibly.

"Just count me out of your rash and inconsiderate decision", Sarah revolted.

She saw her son's determination as an incautious step.

"I would not support this for any reason you may put forward. Mum, try to understand. I have a vigorous passion for the military mission."

(Sarah and Tony Charlotte in Retrospect)

Sarah Charlotte would on such important days, pack into the box, some of her husband's toiletries with other basics. This was necessary in order not to leave out any essential item. That's her duty in ensuring all things were intact well ahead of her husband's departure to the military base.

Tony Charlotte, at that point, mentioned in passing, how he would love one of his children to join the army. Over the years, he had been quite vociferous whenever it came to standing tall about the military service.

"Love you, dear wife, my sweet loving Sarah. Thanks for all you do for me and our lovely children."

"Thanks for all you do for us as well, Tony"; Sarah gestured.

"You are always cherished, darling."

My departure time is 7:30am tomorrow. Not to worry, all is set already.

'Tony, you can imagine my level of phobia for anything military. Do you think I quite love the fact that you are a military officer?'

'Well, I understand your fears. There is absolutely nothing bad about our commitment to the peaceful existence of humanity, fighting injustice and common cause through defence.'

'In all sincerity, I would like at least one of our children to toe a similar path, sustaining this virile passion of military service by upholding the legacy I have set. It tops one of the earnest desires of my heart, Sarah.'

Come on, don't just try that. None of my children will embark on such an unpredictable journey.

"You are actually missing something. Being in the military or not, does not guarantee life's certainty or longevity. There are several qualities you admire I possess, that my trainings over the years have imbued in me."

(Tony turned around, staring intensely in his wife's face) "Lastly, fighting other people's cause or common cause is a purpose some have got to fulfil, don't deter such when you find them."

"I understand you have some reservations attached to our duties and life's safety, but I bet you, intricately, the travesty of life goes far beyond that. When the impact makers die, they become heroes and preserve a posterity. Hope my points were valid enough?"

'Alright, let's just lay that aside, is not an option for any of my children though. Am happy you have championed that cause. It starts, and ends with you. You are our role model for achieving that feat as a Colonel in the army. Bravo, thumbs up to you.'

Tony enjoyed long years of service in the military until he was being snatched by the cold arms of death in an ensued war battle.

On that fateful day, Thursday evening precisely, Sarah Charlotte was home after a day that seemed unending. She had a long stretch of events, attending to customers at her popular grocery on George Street. It was gravitating towards another time of the year when people stock their houses for the festive season.

(A military van zoomed in, halted right in front of the Charlotte's apartment. The bell rang)

Coming, please hold on. (Sarah paused her activities in the kitchen, washed her hands, mopped it dry with the towel. She dashed straight to the door) The last two children were in the university. Tilda was the only available one working at the post office. She was running a side business as well. Sarah had gracefully gotten to a point when she had little or no busy schedules to run over her children.

(Behind the door, were two soldiers standing)

Hi, how may I help you?

'Are you Mrs Charlotte?', one of them inquired.

"Yes, I am.' (They handed over a letter from the Lieutenant General)

The content requested Sarah Charlotte's appearance at the base tomorrow by 10 am. Such a scenario was not maiden to Sarah. She had gotten similar special invitations which had been on the positive beat.

Hope all is well?

'Yes, your presence is needed.'

'I shall be there tomorrow.'

Breaking the news of the fallen soldiers to their families was a cut to the bone. Though, it was done in a most civil way, the shock was devastating. Medical personnel were on ground, in case of an emergency. Family representatives had been mandated in the letter to come along with one or two persons. Sarah went with her eldest child, Tilda.

The news dealt a huge blow on them. Sarah wailed repeatedly, sobbing uncontrollably. She had to be taken in at the military hospital to forestall any adverse consequence this might have on her. She was sedated to keep her rested and calm.

'Mum, are you awake?' Tilda tried to check.

'Yes, daughter, I am. Where are we?'

"Still in the hospital mum. We received the news of dad's passing in the embattled Congo mission." (Sarah wept the more)

(A nurse approached the scene) 'Madam, are you fine? Take heart, all will be fine.' 'Mum, you need to be strong to look after us', Tilda added after the nurse left.

The military van later conveyed them back home, after she had become a little stable.

Getting home, it was no longer business as usual. Life took a different turn. Tilda had to take some days off to stay by her mum at such a trying time. Her consolatory words were a little soothing, lacking the capacity to bring back her husband.

Sarah had been apprehensive when he got the news well ahead of the Lt General's invitation. She had taken it in with less worries. Her husband had warned that a wrong signal or information you receive can kill even before the real news surfaces. So you maintain your calm in the face of whatever occurs. So, she was less bothered initially, thinking all would be fine, until the news stung her directly.

The parade for the fallen heroes was the last Sarah could remember of her husband. Although, it was historic, as monuments were set aside to commemorate the contributions of the fallen soldiers to humanity in general, and the Ireland Republic in particular. The quietus exit of Taylor Charlotte reshaped Sarah's life.

Despite the prolonged years of incidence, combined with the fact that her son had now served the Ireland army for several years, his mum could still not discard that past, because of the devastating pressure it pulled over her life. She kept reminding her son, especially whenever he had to travel on a combat mission.

"Mum, this particular one has been a strategic one for us. We are at the front line. We have to come out victorious, vanquishing our assailants."

"Ben, have always advised you not to gloss over this subject. Do not kill me prematurely. I never supported your decision to join the army in the first place. So, keep me out of the stories. All have got is my watchfulness in prayers over you, I must not loose anyone, not again."

"Relax mum, it's okay. I promise not to bring up the subject anymore."

Ben's wife on her part had to nurse her worries in solitude. She had her family to talk to, at any spate of anxiety. Though her mother-in-law was often present, it has been a collective agreement by the family not to create further tension that could aggravate the woman's health. She smiled in pain to encourage her mother-in-law, engaging the divine in her private life, while receiving her own prod from her family members.

"Grandma, I got a call from Ben today. He extended his greetings."

'Oh! Am so elated to hear that. Hope he's well?' 'Yes, mama'; very well.'

He mentioned he sent you some money. You might need to confirm from your bank in case you are yet to receive it.'

'That's a good news. Thank you', my daughter.'

Sarah Charlotte would always love to receive such news from his only son.

The dusk was greeted by a torrential drizzle that Friday. Grandma and the children were home in winter apparels, windows slided up to invite warmth and a cosy environment.

Kerry was within grandma's cuddle. The children had gotten so used to their grandma. They were somehow nostalgia whenever she was not around. Grandma had suggested the children live permanently with her, but their parents would not oblige. This would also mean taking Adeline's usual companions away from her. So, the suggestion had never climaxed to reality.

The door bell rang. It suggested none other than Adeline. It had turned a recurring order that became constant with time. On that fateful Friday, this regular norm was altered. Adeline had stopped over at the grocery to get some food items for the family after work. Kerry was fast asleep, lying on the sofa with his head on grandma's lap.

(Grandma placed Kerry's head on the sofa to check who it was)

Incredibly, it turned out to be her son. Her mouth agape in utter disbelief as joyful emotions welled down.

"Ben, is this my son? How are you? What a surprise arrival you have thrown at us. Please, come on in."

Her joy could not be quantified.

'Mum, I just decided to take you unaware.' Kevin had jumped over his dad who flung him up in the air as a gesture in admiration, and embraced him.

"Thanks for your constant cares, mum." (Ben took his seat while mum still stood by him, gazing surreptitiously)

"Mum, I cannot thank you enough. Have been able to progress as a result of your love and efforts."

That evening, Ben had decided to give his family a surprise visit having gotten a four months break, due to a ceasefire recently announced to the Ireland troops on war mission. He was full of joy as this meant a huge opportunity to join his family again.

 At about 6:30pm, a taxi pitched to a halt right in front of the Charlotte's Condominium. The beautifully structured four bedroom duplex apartment each, have been carefully erected for the military family. It had been a special area which was now being labelled a mini barracks.

Adeline handed over some notes to the driver as she got her things down from the car, heading towards their house. Kevin was close to the door. He heard the bell, and decided to check who it was. Grandma was in the kitchen to boil some water for coffee.

'Welcome mum, dad is back', Kevin exclaimed gleefully.

Is this meant to be a joke or what, Kevin?

Not at all, mum. Am serious. Kevin took some bags from his mum. They both dropped them in the store to confirm Kevin's assertion.

(Kevin tip toeing up the stairs to call out his dad) Adeline was startled as Ben responded. 'What! You are truly back.' Grandma approached the scene to share in the amazement and joy.

It's a special night for us. 'What an august arrival we have got here', grandma added.

The dinner that night was quite special, and reflective after. Ben had a lot to share. His family wasn't left behind. They got lots of eventful issues to discuss as well.

Adeline talked about her success stories at the law court.

"I had the most distressing case lately. The client was almost loosing hope, but just when the nightfall was approaching, came a glimpse of hope from the moon light."

Am happy to hear that, Adeline. Kevin shared his various encounters in school from academic work to peer relationships. It was a night of reunion and reintegration.

Ben with his wife were later left alone. They had their conversation well into the night. 'Adeline, have really missed you.'

'Same here, Ben.'

"I know it's not been easy. My passion for this mission had kept me in the military service. Thanks for your constant perseverance", he added. 

Wrapped in each other's arms in their room later that night, emotional tears ran down their cheeks as they both made some romantic moves deep into the night. The joy was palpable, reuniting with each other again.

Ben's family came brightened up with life and vigour during his reintegration. Kevin and Kerry were the ones who enjoyed most as dad showed some commitment towards school matters and duties.

He visited school within his transient homecoming, to check up on Kevin's performance. He did the daily transportation routine for his kids. The school bus had got a recess period. They needed the bonding, and had to get as much as they could for the time being.

Adeline was not left out. She got relieved of most burden she would have borne alone. Grandma was quite elated as she enjoyed her dear son's companion for that period. She radiated overwhelming joy, always written all over her.

"Your sisters have expanded their businesses", grandma chipped in, as they engaged in a family conversation.

"Yes, Tilda said she wanted to open another branch to accommodate footwear collections, and other accessories. We speak whenever am free, mum."

Ben would listen, and at times, he dosed off when the conversation became so protracted (his mum would wake him up with another subject)

(The Tapestry's Home)

The wind motion had suddenly relocated grandma from Ben's house to the Tapestry's family, Ben's eldest sister, Tilda. Grandma had some time to share with her daughter who had just delivered a baby boy.

The journey was a smooth ride from Dame to Connell where the Tapestry reside. Ben conveyed his family for the baby's christening.

"The baby shall be called Bright Tapestry", the priest declared.

It was an evening of cheering up, rejoicing and bonding for the Charlotte's larger family. Grandma stayed back to take care of her daughter's new born.

One of Ben's worries at this time was how his wife, Adeline, would cope with the family, given the current baby addition to the bigger family. This would invariably distance grandma, at least, tentatively from his own family.

Ben had enjoyed the privilege of having his mum around with his own family the most. It would be unfair at such a crucial time, not putting into consideration, his sister who had just put to bed.

"Adeline, don't you think it's high time we employed a nanny."

"You are right, just my scepticism around it, though."

"The most important factor is looking out for competence."

Ben started nursing plans to take a nanny to assist his wife in the children's care. Adeline has always been aversed to the idea of taking a nanny based on lack of total confidence. Her husband made her see reasons for it at such a time.

Adeline's mum was very helpful to the family when she was very healthy. She had battled health challenges, thereby precluding her from showing up like before. The major available option this time around was considering a nanny for the children.

(At the Law Court)

The court case ended at about 1:00pm. Adeline had felt some dizziness, and discomfort. She rarely felt ill. She had somewhat attributed the symptoms to stress and office workload. She decided to go home after the court case to ease off what she tagged a hectic week. Thankfully, she won the court case in favour of her client. This has been a usual scenario she is accustomed to in her legal practice, as a well respected and competent lawyer.

"Am grateful for your exceptional inputs on this matter", Mr Cliff appreciated.

'It was a pleasure', Mr Cliff.

 Returning home, she exuded some joy and fulfilment. Adeline had been a sort after in the legal profession. She has earned a lot of respect from her clients. Her husband loved her for this.

It was exactly two months into her husband's departure following the four months break expiration. Adeline had missed her husband's companion. She got back home, meeting the children in the care of Nanny Celica, as she was fondly called.

Celica, how do you do? Hope you had a great day? Yes, we did, madam. I need to rest now. I had quite a busy day. She went straight to the showers, had her bath and was aiming for her bed after the dinner.

She bade the nanny farewell for that day. Fortunately, the children had been catered for prior to her arrival. They all went to bed early.

Kerry had been making some painful sounds in the midnight. Adeline tired and fast asleep, could not perceive the sound coming from the child. Kevin's attention was later drawn to his brother around 1:30am. She tapped his mum who was not responding.

Later, he doubled his efforts by calling out mum audibly, and tapping at the same time. Kevin was now nine years, and his brother, Kerry was close to being 3 years old.

Their mum meandered from sleep as Kevin drew her attention to Kerry. Mum, Kerry woke up and was showing some signs of discomfort. 'Kerry, are you fine?' Mum who was still not fully awake, asked.

Kerry wasn't responding. That was the moment their mum's eyes became more lucid. She reached out to the child, checking if everything was alright. She discovered the child had been running serious temperature. She got up to get a drenched towel placed around Kerry's body.

As she wondered what could be the cause of the child's sudden fever, Kevin narrated to her, what transpired the day before, while Kerry was cycling on the dining and eventually fell on his head.

What! Where was Celica at the time?

'She was preparing our lunch.'

'Why didn't she explain to me when I got back', Adeline protested. Kevin explained a pain relieving drug was administered after Kerry cried profusely. Then, mama rubbed that part of the head which was now swollen.

Adeline's prior weakness fizzled out at the appearance of her son's health condition. The boy's head injury already triggered a concussion. The boy slept back much later following series of first aid application by his mum.

Adeline was fully awake, waiting for the night's transitioning to dawn. She called the hospital's emergency line initially, and was advised appropriately on what to be done to keep the boy stable that night.

Early that morning, they left for the hospital with the nanny. Adeline didn't make any fuss about the situation that led to it yet, as her immediate goal was to ensure the child's health was fully restored back to his normal condition.

Adeline drove down to St Patrick Dun's hospital that morning. Two nurses were later sighted with a stretcher to help Kerry into the ward.

The child was taken to the Paediatric care for necessary attention. He was checked for subdural hematoma through CT scan. The boy was diagnosed with acute hematoma.

Treatment commenced immediately, placing him on bed rest to fast-track his recuperation. The neurosurgeon advised on placing him on steroid medications as the blood build-up was minimal.

'Thank you, Doctor Isabella.'

"It was a pleasure. In a few days time, your son will be fine. We shall be observing him. Am certain, he will respond rapidly to treatment. We have taken him through necessary treatment procedures."

"Am grateful, doctor. See you some other time, madam." (the doctor exited the ward).

Adeline was not feeling any better. His son being hospitalised, with lack of enough rest had worsened her condition.

"Madam, I will be running some tests on you to ascertain the cause of your illness before administering required treatment."

'No problem. Thank you, Dr Fox.'

She was later placed on bed rest at the hospital after doctor Fox's confirmation that she was two months pregnant.

'Congratulations, madam. You're two months pregnant.'

Herself and kids were left in the nanny's care. Ben was informed about his family's condition. He contacted his immediate elder sister and mum. They all agreed to allow grandma pay them a visit.

Grandma's return was timely as both mother and son convalescence was right under her nose.

Two weeks after, they all returned home following the doctor's certification on their stable health conditions.

Seven months down the line, Adeline returned to the hospital after her three trimesters had been completed. She gave birth to a bouncing baby girl, Adorable.

Family members came together to christen the baby. Ben came home three months into the birth of their baby girl.