Lost Soul - John/Christian - 4. Part 4

Remedial work had been carried out on the Thomas Street building. Roof insulation had been put in place, and windows had been replaced with double glazing that was tastefully done to look the same as the original windows. All plumbing, electrics and gas piping had been replaced to meet current standards. The decorating and furnishing were done to tastefully maintain the character of the building yet blend in with modern living. John had picked his room, or should that be rooms. They were furnished and decorated according to his choices.

The ground floor space, with its own separate entrance, was planned, decorated and furnished to Phillip's high standards. This is to provide an efficient but welcoming work environment for his accounting and financial services business. The work had taken longer than they had intended it to be completed, taking nearly four months. The Edwards family moved in with a smattering of snow on the ground in February.

This meant that their first Christmas as a family was spent with the Watsons and was a good and joyous occasion. Being John's first Christmas since losing his parents, he did have times when he missed them and became upset remembering the past. This was natural and to be expected. With the love and support of his new family, the Edwards', and the Watsons, he not only survived but John came through it a stronger young man.

As the weeks and months passed, John attended school and became a straight-A student. This not only had Phillip and Emily bursting with pride but also helped improve John's self-esteem and confidence. He also accepted that Christian was beyond his reach. Christian met and adored Jayne, who had become Christian's fiancé. John was Christian's best man at the wedding. The friendship between man and boy grew stronger with time.

It was because of this friendship that John confided in Christian a secret that he had been keeping and asked for his advice. Being a good man and true friend, Christian accepted John for who he is without a second thought. They were friends, and nothing could change that. Their bond was sealed with a hug that conveyed all John needed to know.

This was a troubled time for John as he knew that adoption was being talked about, and out of love for Phillip and Emily, he wanted, no, he needed to be honest with them beforehand. Fearing rejection, he packed a case with some of his clothes and other personal possessions. It was hidden in the rear yard before requesting a meeting with Phillip and Emily in Phillip's office. John knew that he was loved and knew, that neither Phillip nor Emily had ever said anything against gay people or the gay community, but he was trembling inside, and with a churning stomach, he was feeling sick. He would remember this meeting for the rest of his life, no matter what the outcome was. But he had to do it.

It was late that Friday afternoon. The business was over for the week, and Phillip sat in one of the armchairs in his office. Emily sat in the other. John stood nervously and refused to sit. Christian was at his side.

“John, I don't know why you asked for a formal meeting with us, but we accept that you felt it was important to do so. All I ask is that you try to relax and trust in your knowledge that we love you.” Phillip was doing his best to be reassuring. He felt for the boy standing before him.

John was visibly nervous and uncomfortable, to the point he was pale and looked ill as he bared his soul. “I know that you have done a lot for me, care for me a great deal and want to adopt me.” John paused and took a few deep breaths to calm down and find courage. “But before you do, I have to tell you about the secret I have been keeping from you.”

“John, you don't need to tell us anything. We love you no matter what.” Emily's heart went out to the boy that would soon be her son.

“I'm not perfect and can not be your son. I'm gay.” John was on the verge of collapse.

Phillip and Emily rose and made for John, who looked shocked and terrified. Then he felt the arms of both Phillip and Emily envelope him. “You beautiful boy, we know, never doubt our love. It is unconditional.” Emily was crying as she spoke. Her heart was breaking for the boy she loved.

“You are my son, I felt it the first time I held you, and I still feel it. You will always be my son.” Phillip held John in a vice-like grip refusing to let go.

Christian joined in the family hug. “I told you that you had nothing to worry about. Real love is just that, real love.”

The following month a Judge in The Family Court in Manchester was nearing the end of his last case. “I have only one question to ask before making my decision.” He looked directly at John. “By what name would you like to be known. This should be your own decision. Please, think carefully as this will be your permanent name.”

John had not spoken to anyone about his choices. They were made out of love and respect for those who had loved and cared for him in the darkest time of his short life. “Sir, I do not need to think. I wish to be known as Christian Phillip John Edwards.”

The Judge had read the files and smiled. “I like your choices and approve.” Raising his voice for all in the court to hear. “It is The Court's decision that the petition for adoption be granted and that the boy formally known as John William Gregory henceforth be known as Christian Phillip John Edwards and that he be given the same rights and protection in law as any biological offspring of Emily Margaret Edwards and Phillip George Edwards. This petition is granted with immediate effect. Court is adjourned.” As is customary, the Judge then banged his gavel. “The adoption and amended birth certificates will be available in seven days.”

The celebrations that night, were big and loud, with many happy smiling faces.