William's Love - 36. Chapter 36

Schooling

“My, my, don’t we look HOT. All dressed up in our big boy clothes,” Ollie said blowing me kisses, from his seat at the kitchen table, while he fed Noah in his arms.

“All right, knock it off you two.” Liam came up behind me and kissed my neck. “Ooh Baby,” I was long forgotten. He moved around me to get to Noah. Ollie handed Noah over to Liam and took his seat to feed him.

I shook my head. “Good on Ya, I’ll never get him out of here now,” I said chuckling.

“That’s okay, easily fixed. I’ll go put my big boy clothes on and take you out Pumpkin. Liam can stay home and look after Noah. Win-Win.” Ollie winked at me and then looked over at Liam, “I just need to borrow your credit card, we can’t go to McDonald's on a date dressed like this.” Oliver put his hand out to Liam. Then said, “He does put out on the first date right?”

“Come get your kid,” Liam growled looking up at Oliver through his beautiful long eyelashes. I can’t believe he’s finally home. God, I love that man.

“That’s what I thought,” Ollie laughed and took Noah back. Liam stepped over to me and kissed me gently, taking my hand in his.

“Look at you boys all fancy schmancy, where are you off to?” Kat asked as she walked in the kitchen eyeballing us.

“I’m taking my husband out for a welcome home dinner,” I said proudly then kissed his cheek, Liam smiled warmly at me.

<>-<>-<>

“I’m so glad you’re home Honey, I missed you so much,” I said, taking Liam’s hand over the restaurant table. I brought him back to the same place we went on Valentines Day. We feel comfortable here, no-one cares we are a couple. We could be ourselves.

“I missed you too Babe, a lot,” Liam said squeezing my hand, “Why didn’t you tell me what was going on back home?”

I sighed, “Because you would have come back. You were in the middle of something important, an opportunity that doesn’t come around every day. I wanted you to have that, you earned it. I didn’t want you missing out because I was having a shitty week.” I paused for a second to gather my thoughts, but it was not what I wanted to talk about in a restaurant, “Can we talk about this later? I just want to have a nice romantic welcome home dinner with my husband,” I asked quietly.

“Of course we can Babe,” Liam smiled warmly at me.

“I want to hear all about your trip to California and the workshop, what you saw and did, places they took you. I bet it was incredible,” I smiled.

Liam’s whole face lit up, “It was Babe, some of the places we went, we had to hike nearly a couple of hours to get to. I’d love to go back and take you, we’d have to go with a guide but God, Honey, the view. I can’t wait to show you the photos.” I squeezed his hand

“Really, I’m excited to see them. What were the other people like that you were with?” I asked.

“They were fun, at first I didn’t think they would be, but after we all sort of got to know each other and we all kind of relaxed. Usually, photographers won’t divulge anything they discover, only information you can find on the net or in text books.” Liam shrugged his shoulder, “But most of them were great, we all shared little things we used or did to get a better result. It was unbelievable, I learned a lot.” Liam chortled like he’d remembered something.

“What?” I chuckled.

“When they found out that I had just gotten married, they gave me hell for a couple days for leaving you at home and not bringing you along. They were really nice when they heard about C.C, and were just excited as I was when she came home. They insisted I send the photo of us all jumping in the air; celebrating.” Liam grinned, “I had the best time, Babe.”

“You’ve no idea how happy I am to hear that,” I smiled, Liam squeezed my hand.

“I’m so in love with you Babe. You’ve no idea.” Liam said looking into my eyes lovingly.

“I have a feeling I might,” I leaned over the table, Liam meeting me half way and he kissed me gently on the lips. I’m sure my eyes were still closed when I sat back in my chair. I love him so much.

Our food was put in front of us, and we ate while Liam told me more about the workshop and some of the sightseeing he’d done. He was enthusiastic and kept telling me we were going to both go for a holiday together and discover more.

When we got home, Liam didn’t want his angry sex. He wanted to make love to me, slow, gentle and loving. Certainly didn’t stop him from waking me up again at four this morning for a more passionate and aggressive go around. Hmmm… I definitely missed him while he was away.

<>-<>-<>

We were sitting in the waiting area for Derek and the Coaches, for the meeting about school for Jason and Stephen. Uncle Ian entered with Ms. Temple, the Principal of our school and Detective Price. They were deep in conversation, so I just waved. Uncle Ian waved back. I wonder what the Detective is doing here. He’s been around Uncle Ian a lot recently, as far as I know, the Detective is straight. I hope Uncle Ian isn’t getting in too deep with him. He’s been through enough without adding a broken heart again.

“Babe, I’m going to quickly check on our fur baby's,” Liam said as he got up his seat and went to the common area, where they had run off to as soon as they got through the door.

Ms. Temple the Principal called me over, and explained the process we would have to go through to get Stephen back in school. It was going to be a hard sell, but it would be worth it to get him back on track, even if the chances weren’t good. I’d also begged her not to let on she knew the full story about Jason, I didn’t want to lose his trust, just that I said he wanted to switch schools. She said she’d handle it delicately.

Once we were all seated in the small conference room, Derek said, “The boys asked if they could be together for this meeting, and I agreed.”

“Do you know why I’m here Will? What’s going on?” Stephen leaned into me whispering.

Coach Ferrige piped up, “You should tell him, Will, this is your plan,” and he smirked, he was going to make me own this.

I cleared my throat and turned my attention to Stephen, “Well, after speaking with you when I brought C.C. into the veterinary clinic. I talked with the Coaches, Mr. Wright, Derek, and Theo. Then they went to Ms. Temple. Everyone here, including Liam, have agreed to support you going back to school. The only thing is it’s going to be a hard sell. If you want to at least try, we’ll go to the PTA for their support, and if they do agree, again, all of us plus the PTA representative will go to the board in full support of you continuing throughout your senior year. You’ll have to complete some summer school classes for what you missed to graduate on time. Now, this is the part you might not agree to, but I think it’s the only way we can plead your case. We tell them the whole story, well-abbreviated version, from the bribery, you being kicked out of home, and what you want to do in college, the whole thing.” I explained.

Stephen looked around the room, and all eyes were on him, “Why did you do this? You don’t even like me? I don’t understand, I’m fine with the way things are,”

I was a little annoyed, I think it’s because it’s Stephen, “My feelings toward you are irrelevant. I did this because you didn’t actually do anything to Liam, yes you could have probably done more than you did to stop them, but I know you were scared and felt trapped. You’ve lost everything, the punishment is too harsh, Stephen. By the time you can finally get to college, you’ll no longer be eligible for government help. If we try doing this and it works, you can stay at the shelter, finish school and the government will help with your tuition for college. This should put you back on track because after college you’ll also have Veterinary School. Everyone here is willing to put their full support behind you,”

Stephen wiped away a tear, stood from the table and walked out the door. We all looked at each other. “Uncle Ian maybe you should talk to him, you’ll have the gentlest touch.”

“I think you might be right, Will,” Ms. Temple said looking at Uncle Ian.

“Sure, I’ll be back, hopefully with a sullen teen in hand.” Uncle Ian grimaced he looked at the Detective, indicating for him to follow.

“Now you young man,” Ms. Temple turned her attention to Jason, “Will said you’ve had a hard time at your school and want to transfer to ours. Is this correct?”

Jason looked at me confused, I nodded my head and smiled encouraging him to answer, “Yes Maam,” he replied.

“Would you agree to take a couple of tests and maybe some summer school to have you up to date with our curriculum to complete your senior year with us?”

“Yes Maam,” Jason said enthusiastically nodding his head.

“Meet me on Monday at my office, Will can pick you up and show you where to find me. I’ll see you nine am sharp,” Ms. Temple finished.

“Yes Maam,” Jason smiled happily and mouthed “Thank you,” to me.

Stephen slid back into the seat next to me his eyes puffy and red. The conversation continued to flow around the table giving Stephen time to calm down.

I leaned toward him and asked quietly, “Are you okay? I didn’t mean to upset you. I won’t be offended if you don’t want this. It’s your life, your decision, do what makes you happy. You have no one to answer to but yourself. I didn’t come to you first because I didn’t want to get your hopes up. But the opportunity is there, no harm in trying, you have nothing to lose.” I told him with a small smile, I don’t know what possessed me to reach over and squeeze his hand in support, but I did. A look of relief washed over his face, and he took a deep breath.

“Ms. Temple, I’d like to at least try and go back to school. Thank you all for supporting me.” Stephen said quietly.

“Alright then, you understand it might be a battle?” Ms. Temple asked.

“Yes Maam,” Stephen said politely.

“If you get back in, you’ll be on probation for the entire year, and you’ll have to keep your grades up. If you are having trouble with your classes, there are plenty of people to step up and help you. And you can always come to me if you can’t get help, I’ll find you some.” Ms. Temple said firmly.

“Yes Maam, I understand. I won’t let you down. I promise I’m nothing like Trent or Gator, sorry I mean Brian.” Stephen said shyly, but he looked her in the eye to show his sincerity. Son of a bitch, he makes it hard to hate him.

“It’s not about letting me down, it’s about helping yourself.”

“Yes, Maam,” Stephen’s face was flushed.

“I’ll call an emergency meeting of the PTA for Monday night. We will all be there.” Ms. Temple waited for Stephen’s response.

“Yes Maam, I’ll be there.” He said looking around the table at all the nodding heads.

“Yes, you will.” She said sternly, “You’ll need to keep a clear, cool head and mind your manners. I know it’s only the PTA but your future, for the minute, is in their hands.” Ms. Temple finished.

“Yes Maam,” Stephen smiled at the Ms. Temple.

“Right, well if that’s all there is, I’m going back to my garden,” She smiled at us around the table as we said our goodbyes and she exited the room quickly.

Derek turned to Liam and me, “Could you guys excuse us for a couple of minutes, I'd like a quick word with these two.” He said it politely, pointing toward Stephen and Jason. “Don't go too far I’d like to talk with both of you privately after.”

“Sure, we’ll check on Cash and C.C, let us know when you’re ready,” Liam said standing and pulling me up from my seat to stand next to him.

We said our goodbyes to the Coaches, Uncle Ian and Detective Price. We found our babies playing kissy face with two of the younger boys, a red head and a brunette, who was giggling and petting the dogs. They were letting the dogs kiss their face. Liam took my hand and pulled me toward them with a mischevious grin.

“Hey, boys are you having fun?” Liam asked them with a big smile.

“Yeah, they are so cool, you’re lucky. I’d love to have a dog,” The red head said.

“They are pretty fun to have around, but they take a lot of work,” I said.

“I know,” the boy sighed, “Will you bring them back?”

“Of course, we bring them about twice a week,” I smiled.

The boys looked at each other, “Awesome!” they exclaimed.

Liam was on point now, with whatever he had going on in his head, “Have you boys ever seen dogs use toilet paper?” Liam said brightly grinning.

“No!” They both answered together, giggling at the absurdity of the question.

“Then why would you let a dog lick your face when it licks its own ass?” Liam laughed. He’s such a shit head sometimes. I tried to keep a straight face, it didn’t work very well.

“Ew! Gross!” The brunette exclaimed while wiping his face on his sleeve.

“I’m going to wash my face,” the red squeaked as he ran off, the brunette on his tail.

I laughed, “You’re an ass,”

“I know, but we put a lot of work into training them not to lick people,” Liam chuckled, “Plus it was fun,” he said shrugging his shoulders.

“Guys?” Jason called and signaled for us to go back to the office area.

We wandered slowly through and were ushered into Derek’s office. Derek was seated at his desk, with all our folders packed back into the boxes we brought them down in. Theo leaned on his elbow against the bookcase.

Derek swallowed slowly and looked at his husband, then turned his attention to us and cleared his throat, “Firstly I want to apologize to you Will, for the way I treated you. My husband isn’t too happy with me about it, and I honestly don’t like myself much at the moment.” Derek apologized, he looked ashamed.

“I don’t understand Derek, what did I do? Why do you feel that way about me, us,” I said pointing at Liam and myself, “You made me feel like a dumb kid, and you hurt me,” I felt my eyes sting with tears. Liam put his hand on my back and rubbed to calm me.

“Will, I honestly don’t feel that way about you.” Derek sighed, “As soon as I’m surrounded by these walls and these kids they become my first and only priority. I do love and respect you as family, I should have listened and asked questions.” He paused and touched one of the boxes, “Thank you for giving me the chance to look over your proposal for the Foundation.”

“Well, what do think now?” I asked flatly, crossing my arms over my chest.

“I’m in awe of the work you’ve done so far. There’s still a long way to go, but the base is there. I hope you don’t mind, I’ve put some notes in there with your information. A few things that will help, or that were lacking. Not that I think you didn’t do a great job or that you’ve even finished researching. But hopefully, the information will help guide you and bring you along. Some are actually programs I’d like to put into place but just can’t get the funding for.” Derek said earnestly.

“Thank you, we need all the help we can get,” I said honestly.

Derek looked at Theo again, and back to us, “Um… I know I don’t deserve it, but if you would let me and Theo be involved with the foundation, I’d really appreciate it. What you want to achieve is pretty impressive and will go a long way to helping kids in the foster system as well as the shelters. We’d like to help you get there. I would like you to run the SAT prep course here, but we would have to renovate to do that, so don’t think it’s possible.”

“Liam and I will talk it over with Mom, Dad, Papi, and Lee and let you know, what they say,” I stated.

“Thanks, Will, it’s all I can ask.” Derek murmured quietly.

“If you could write down what requirements you expect of a salaried employee, who would run these classes, and what you’d have them do as part of their duties if some of their time was spent here when they aren’t running the course. It would be a big help. It will take some time setting up the program so the sooner we sort out what we want from the person in the role, the sooner we can advertise.” I said giving him an olive branch, “I’m also not aware of what certifications they need to work with children if you could include that I’d appreciate it.”

I’m tired, I don’t like my life or myself at the moment. I’m usually strong and confident, so at the moment I’m going to fake it till I make it, as they say. Holding a grudge this big is tiresome and counter productive to what we want the Foundation to achieve. Derek’s apologized and I’m going to accept it and try and let it go. He does seem sincere so it would be petty of me to not. I think Liam is right, previously I would have fought to make Derek listen to me. So I’m going to try my best to get back to my usual self and fight for what I want and what I believe in. Besides aren’t we all on the same side.

Derek smiled big and looked at Theo, “Sure we’ll email it to you, in a couple of days,” Theo nodded his head in confirmation.

Liam wrapped an arm around my waist and pulled me into him, kissing my forehead, “Before we go, I’d like to borrow Jason and Stephen for the night. I’ll return them sometime tomorrow if that’s okay?” Liam asked.

Derek looked at me, I shrugged my shoulders, “I have no idea,” looking at Liam quizzically, what is he up to now? Liam just gave me that look of “You’ll see,”

“Fine, I’ll go and round up the dogs while you guys gossip,” I said leaving the office with a smile, I feel a little better already.

After I had secured Cash and C.C. in the bed of the truck, I sat in the passenger seat to wait for Liam. He came out to the truck with Stephen and Jason in tow. The two boys jumped into the back seat, and Liam took the driver's seat.

“What’s going on Babe?” I looked over to Liam, who wore a grin from ear to ear.

“Do I need to give you another lesson in patience Honey?” He said laughing.

“Oh yes, yes you do, I apparently didn’t learn the first time,” I snickered, Liam laughed harder and adjusted his crotch before starting the truck. He looked at me sideways, with a twinkle in his eye. That was an enjoyable lesson in patience, one I choose to ignore. Liam had tied my hands to the bed and teased me, worked me up, then would stop and then bring me to the edge again. It felt like it lasted hours before he allowed me to cum. One of the most fun nights we’ve had. I still have no patience, what a shame I need another lesson.

<>-<>-<>

We dropped the dogs back home, and Liam made me change into jeans and a t-shirt. It’s like a million degrees outside. The two hostages put their bags into the spare room. The four of us piled back into the truck and Liam drove down to the local ice arena. Oh hell yes, cold, cool air. Thank the Lord, for small mercies. Out the front waiting patiently for us was Kat, Ollie, Lee, Pat, Sha with Seb and Beau. Seb had finally finished his degree and couldn’t start work until after his graduation, so he was free to enjoy most of the summer with us.

Liam turned to the boys, “Everythings already paid for, entry fee, drinks, food, the works. If you want anything go to the snack bar and tell them to put it on the Blundell-Sands party,”

“But Liam…”Stephen started to say something, poor Jason just looked at his lap.

Liam held up his hand to stop him, “I don’t want to hear it, a buddy of mine works here. None of us are paying. There was a party that canceled but had already paid, he rang and asked if I wanted the booking free of charge. I’m not stupid, it’s ninety-five degrees outside. Besides, I think all of us are in need of a little bit of fun for a change. It’s summer vacation, we’re teenagers, let’s go and act like it.” Liam grinned.

“Thanks,” Stephen smiled, but then it faded, “what if your friends don’t want me here?”

“They’ve all been told you’re coming, the only one to look out for would be Lee, our little brother,” Liam laughed, “He’s been learning Jiu Jitzhu and likes to practice whenever he finds a chance, the little bugger can pack a punch, cover your groin. I learned the hard way.” Liam cackled as he exited the car.

“Holy shit,” Jason muttered under his breath, I just laughed.

“You'll be all right,” I rest my hand on his shoulder, “let’s go have some fun.” I grinned as we walked to greet the others. We introduced Jason to everyone, Lee hugged him, they had been at the shelter at the same time and were still close friends. Thankfully nobody was rude to Stephen, Ollie struck up a conversation with him as we entered. I saw him relax a little.

“Where’d you stash Liam’s baby?” I chuckled at Katherine.

“We dropped him with Uncle Bill and Uncle John when we got Lee. They insisted; since they can’t ever get near him when Liam’s around.” Katherine laughed.

“How are you handling it? This will be your first time without Noah,” I said putting my arm around her shoulder as we walked.

She side eyed me and smiled, “I already rang twice. The third time I was told Kung Pow Chicken was half price if I also bought a large fried rice then the call was disconnected,” I threw my head back and roared with laughter, pulling her in for a hug and kissing the top of her head.

“Papi?”

“Uh-huh,” She sighed, but was grinning.

“He just wants to give you a break, and for you to have a good time, Princess.” I rubbed her shoulder trying to comfort her.

We got our rental skates and one by one we got on the ice. I watched as Seb lovingly helped Beau get his skates on and helped him onto the ice. Beau didn’t hold the barrier he held onto Seb as he struggled to skate. Seb had his own skates and was a terrific skater, Beau he seemed more confident the more they skated. Pat and Sha slid along holding hands. They seemed steadier on their feet than Kat, and I. Lee and Jason had both rented hockey skates and jumped onto the ice confidently and took off together, laughing and playing around. I had no idea Lee could skate like that, he was having a blast.

Kat and I were watching our friends have a ball and having a laugh. Kat was next to me, hanging on as we made friends with the barrier. We didn’t make much progress around the rink, we were slow but still having a good time and poking fun at each other. Kat nudged me, and I nearly slipped over.

“Hey,” I laughed, as I tried to the right myself.

“Look at our idiots would you?” she scoffed pointing at Liam, Oliver, and Stephen. I turned to see what they were up to and it was my undoing. Kat laughed raucously while trying to help me to my feet, I think I might have weighed too much for her to actually be of any real assistance. Next thing I know we are both on our ass, laughing hysterically. Since I was down, I took the opportunity to safely see what our idiots were up to. Liam, Oliver, and Stephen were all unsteadily trying to race and push each other over. They were all laughing and yelling trash talk.

Seb stopped by us and let Beau take hold of the barrier and helped Kat then myself get on our feet again.

“There you go guys, are you alright?” he asked grinning.

“Yeah we’re okay,” Kat said as she was trying to stop laughing, “We’re having fun, and that was Liam’s point – I think. Either that or he wants to bruise us up like peaches.” She said as she swatted at her ass trying to get rid of the ice that was on her jeans.

Lee and Jason flew by Lee us, smacking Seb on the ass and cackling as they took off, “Can you stay with Beau, while I make your little brother pay.” Seb grinned, watching Lee as he rounded the bottom end, Lee was flipping him off as Jason laughed.

“Go for it,” I chuckled, “Good luck, he’s a sneaky little shit.”

Seb took off like lightning, the three of us watched as Seb cut straight across the middle to catch up to Jason and Lee. The two’s eyes got wide, and they took off like missiles. Seb chased them around, all three of them weaving in and out of traffic. It took some tricky maneuvering for Seb to catch up to Lee and Jason. Once he did, he managed to get them both in headlocks, one under each arm as the three kept skating at a slower pace. I don’t know what he was saying to them, but he all of a sudden let them go, and the three of them took off again. They snuck up behind Ollie, Liam, and Stephen – who were oblivious – Seb, Jason, and Lee came to a screeching halt, right behind them where a big water puddle had formed. The boys got drenched, as they screamed at the shock of the icy water.

Liam, Oliver, and Stephen skated back over to us laughing, looking like drowned rats, “Do they not realize they have to get off of the ice eventually,” Oliver’s teeth chattered as he spoke, “they better sleep with one eye open tonight.” Ollie threatened, there wasn’t much to the threat since he couldn’t stop laughing while he froze. Liam and Stephen were standing in place arms out water dripping from them. Big grins on their faces.

“Do they know who they’re messing with,” Liam said with a mischevious grin.

“Oh, Shit!” Kat mumbled behind me, “And three more throw their hat in the ring.”

“You boys just keep your hi-jinx away from Noah and me, or there will be hell to pay,” Kat told them seriously. Ollie slid toward her on the ice and went to cuddle her, “Get off me you ass, you’re all wet.” She squealed and tried to squirm out of his reach. At least she was laughing.

When we’d all had enough and were sitting to take our skates off, Liam was trying to organize dinner.

“How ‘bout Pizza, is everyone cool with that?” Liam asked.

“Actually Liam, after you called I took a bunch of burgers and gourmet sausages out of the freezer to thaw. I thought since it’ll be a beautiful warm night we could grill them on the BBQ. I already made some salad, I’ll grab some buns, rolls, and baguettes on the way home.” Kat said.

Liam walked toward her, “Thanks, sweetie, you’re the best,” he grabbed her and Ollie came up from behind, and they sandwiched her between them, and she screamed at the cold, wet pair. Man those two are going to pay dearly. The rest of us just laughed as we watched it all unfold in front of us.

Pat leaned over to me, “Do them two idiots realize Kat will get them back right and proper,”

I laughed, “Probably not, but at least the rest of us will get a laugh out of it.” I said chuckling.

“Hey, guys should we invite all of the parents over? Or do you want a kids night?” I called out.

“Kids night,” Ollie said, “They’ll all be over tomorrow for brunch anyway, even my folks are coming.”

“What about your parents Kat?” I asked.

“Nope,” Kat and Seb answered at the same time.

“I don’t mind taking Noah to see them. But out of respect for my brother, Adolf and Eva aren’t setting foot where we live. Not until they accept Beau is Seb’s soulmate.” She said like the true Mama Bear she is, walking over to Beau and cuddling up to him. He smiled and kissed her cheek. Seb looked on fondly. I know it’s not funny, but who nicknames their parents after dictators. I can’t help but laugh, after meeting them, I actually agree with her.

“Thanks for today Babe, I think this is exactly what the doctor ordered. Stupid teenage fun.” I called out to him.

Liam grinned from ear-to-ear as everyone thanked him, “You’re all welcome, now let’s go home and EAT.”