Jacob Finding His Way - 37. Chapter 37

(JACOB’S POINT OF VIEW)

Hanging out at the house on Sunday proved more tiring than I thought it would be. By evening all I wanted to do is just rest in front of the television. Just as I sat down to do so, the phone rang. No one seemed to want to answer the phone. So I dragged myself off the floor to make my way to the phone.

When I answered the phone to say I am surprised, is a lie. Mr. Anderson is actually on the other end of the line.

“Well good evening Mr. Anderson. What do I owe this surprise call?”

“Good evening back to you Jake. Sorry for calling so late in the evening. I just got some news I felt you and Beth needed to hear.”

“Let me get her for you so you can talk with her.”

“Jake hold on for a minute, I would like you to be on the line as well” Mr. Anderson said quickly.

I agreed and then went and found Beth about to head out to her house. Beth and I walked to the study to have some privacy. On the way I grab Joey to be there for his mom just in case the news is bad.

“Mr. Anderson I am back with Beth and Joey. I asked Joey to join because Beth is his mother and he should be here to hear whatever news you have to deliver.”

“That is fine with me Jake. Good thinking on that front.”

The greetings were taken care of we took seats around the desk. I can see the fear in both Beth’s and Joey’s face. I think they think this is bad news. I really don’t think it is because of the tone of Mr. Anderson’s voice. I have gotten to know him, and his voice is telling me it isn’t bad news.

“Well, I’d better get down to business with you all. I don’t want to take too much of your time on a Sunday evening. I just got a call from the District Attorney from Arizona, and he had some good news for me to deliver you guys.

They have finished their investigation into the circumstances before, during and after the death of Mr. Alvarez. Combined with the records we had here they felt it was murder, but justified murder.”

The line went quiet as we looked at each other. I think I know what this entire thing means, but I really don’t want to jump to any conclusions. Beth beat me to the punch in asking;

“Mr. Anderson what does this mean? Do I have to make a trip back and turn myself in?”

With a slight chuckle in his voice Mr. Anderson replied; “No Mrs. Alvarez, you have it all wrong. Justified homicide simply means is that is a murder, but you had no choice but to do it. Your husband was beating on you and your daughter. Because of that, you had to defend yourself. You tried to beat him off, it didn’t work. You used death as a last resort in this matter.”

“So that means this is all over then?” I ventured daring to hope even though I felt I had the pulse of the situation.

“That is correct Jacob, it is over. Mrs. Alvarez you are free from this man once and for all. Please, in the future never let it get this far again” Mr. Anderson said in conclusion.

“Trust me Mr. Anderson, in the future I won’t ever get myself or my family in that kind of position again. No, I am totally happy the way I have things now.”

“Good to hear that Ms. Alvarez, good to hear that! By the way Jacob I heard what you did for Alejandro Garcia. You keep surprising me every time I turn around. First you and your grandfather ask for us to go easy on those guys that beat you. Now you walk into court and do something short of remarkable.

I hope you are right Jacob and there is a future for Alejandro Garcia. He is young, but sometimes these guys can’t be saved not matter what breaks they get.”

“I can understand that Mr. Anderson. I just felt that a second chance needed to be given to Alejandro. I really don’t know how he lived or how he was brought up. All I know is it is now totally up to him determine where he is going in life.”

“You’re too nice of a person Jacob but still I understand where you are coming from. I really hope he doesn’t let you down with chance that has been given to him. I talked with the judge and told me if it wasn’t for you talking on his behalf, he would have upheld the original verdict and left everything in place.

Well I better let you go, Jacob. You’re a better person than I am. If you ever need anything, please call on me and I will help you out. Take care and be careful Jacob.”

“You too, Mr. Anderson, take care. Good bye and I will keep in touch.”

I felt pretty good after we hung up. Beth has nothing to worry about anymore, and I know now I didn’t burn the bridge with Mr. Anderson. I thought I may have done that when I went and spoke on behalf of Alejandro Garcia. Joey and Beth left the study, I stayed. I decided to write a letter to Alejandro and tell him the true reason I did what I did for him.

As soon as I finished the letter I went up to bed. Joey was already in bed by the time I left the study. When I walked into the room, I did my business in the bathroom, undressed, and crawled into bed with Joey. I curled up next to him, pulling his body into mine, resting my head next to his. Before I knew it, I was out.

(JOEY’S POINT OF VIEW)

I haven’t seen that kid that put the moves on me since that day in the shower. For that I am thankful he hasn’t come around. Still I am always looking around the corners, making sure I shower with the guys after practices, and most important thing is that I am never alone.

As usual, after practice I meet up Jake and the guys for breakfast. Today though it felt different but I can’t put my finger on why. Just as I sat down, Heather came up to speak with Tom and I can see it makes David very uneasy with her here.

For those who don’t remember what the deal is with Heather Fuentes and Tom, let me remind you. Heather is the cheerleader that Tom went out with when he tried to sell everyone that he was straight. After months of dating her, he broke up with her. After that he worked very hard getting back together with David. Now she is coming out of the woodwork.

“Hey guys I want you to meet Heather Fuentes, Heather these are the guys…..”; Tom went down the table introducing us to Heather. It seems as if they are friends of sorts. But at the same time David doesn’t look like he likes the idea that Heather is around Tom again. I’m very curious what all this is about.

Before Heather could even sit down, that kid from the shower walked up to the table. I know without a doubt my face turned white the minute he walked up to the table standing right between me and Jake, he spoke up.

“So these are your friends Joey? Why don’t you introduce me to them?”

“Simply put, you are no friend of mine and that is why! So please leave me and friends alone!” Joey said with no amount of disgust in his tone.

“Come on Joey, this isn’t a way to treat someone that held you in their hands. You know what I mean by that!”

Jake got up from the table standing face to face with the guy. The look on Jake’s face told all the anger he has in side for this guy. Before I could even react, Jake pushed the young kid so hard he went flying into the other table.

“You little fucking piece of shit, if you value your life, you will leave right now! If you don’t, I kick your ass so bad, you won’t even recognize yourself when you look in a mirror.”

You could see the fear in the kid’s eyes as he looked at Jake. I have never seen Jake that angry before. Even the time when he walked into the restroom with me and the other kid or when he walked in on Tom, David, and me. I think Jake is getting tired of this, and I am not giving anything other than good reason to believe in me.

“Look I don’t want any trouble with you! I thought there was something going on between me and Joey. He and I had a thing the other day in the shower. Not my fault he misled me to believe he is available when he isn’t”

“You’re the only one that made moves. I never once returned any of the advances you made towards me the other day in the shower. I should have beaten the shit out that day, you little creep!”

“You were looking at me first. That is why I made the moves on you!”

“No matter if you are straight or gay, you look at others. I look all the time, but I never touch. I have my boyfriend that I love with all my heart. No matter what you say or do, that will never change.”

“Trust me when I say this, I always get what I want. I know guys like you; you just can’t just look. You must have!”

The kid just walked off not looking back even once. Jake sat back down not saying a word to me at first. Each time I looked over at him, I could see he actually is shaking. I could swear I saw tears starting to roll down his cheek.

I really hope he doesn’t believe what this kid is saying. I can’t lose Jake over something I didn’t even do. For the first time I am one hundred percent not guilty of wanting something with another guy. I want Jake only.

We sat there listening to Heather and Tom. David continued to look as uneasy as I am right now. Why is Heather even sitting at our table talking with Tom? They haven’t been together for a long time. I haven’t even seen them talk after Tom decided to come clean about being gay and having a boyfriend. I will get to the bottom of this.

(TONI’S POINT OF VIEW)

I just sat on the stoop of my front steps watching as people walked in out of the house. There are police officers in uniform and out of uniform. None of them gives me a time of day. I figure they see this kid and figure to let someone else worry about him.

As I just sat there watching, I withdrew into my mind as I always do whenever I get scared. That is the only place at a time like this where things makes sense. It’s the only place I can think things out without anyone bothering me. I got jolted out of thought when I heard someone asking me to move out the way. I didn’t even feel the person patting me on my shoulders to move.

I moved off the steps of the house to let others go back and forth. Just then, the coroner brought out my grandparents. They got loaded in back of this black van. The coroner wouldn’t let me go with them. At this point I didn’t know what to do. I know these police officers are not going to let me stay alone in the house.

“Hey young man come her please!”

I turned around to see who was calling me. I didn’t at first see who it was. There are just too many people roaming around the yard. It is hard to know who is actually talking to whom. Once again I felt someone patting me on my shoulder.

“Are you Toni Llamas I hope?”

I just shook my head up and down to acknowledge the question.

“Well Toni I know you are feeling very lost right now. Nothing I can say to you to help you feel any better. My name is Janet Young. I run a group home just a couple blocks down from here.”

I just stood there looking at this middle age woman. At least she looks middle age to me by the way she dresses. The way she dressed make her look middle age, but her face tells another story. With glasses sliding down her nose, the white hair already showing in her bleached hair, to the wear and tear of miles is all over her face. The clothes are the only thing making her look younger than what she is.

“If you don’t mind me calling you Toni, you can call me Janet.”

“Yeah you can call me Toni” I replied but I know my demeanor was distant.

“Toni this is no place for you to be right now. They have done everything they need to do in the house. So why don’t you grab some clothes, your school books, and whatever else you feel you need and come with me?”

“Where am I going Ms. Janet?”

“Right now we need you to have a place to stay. You can’t stay here alone no matter how you feel. Monday we will figure out if there is any other family that wants to take you in. We always want to keep family members together.”

“Trust me, there isn’t anyone else. My grandparents didn’t even want me when my parents died. So if this group home is a temporally thing, you shouldn’t waste your time and send me to a permanent place.”

“Toni if we find no other living relative out there, you will be staying at my group home. Please don’t worry about anything at all. Get your stuff you feel you need to have, lock up the house, and come with me please.”

I don’t know if I can trust this lady, but I had no choice. I ran up to my room, Janet followed me. Janet looked around my room with a look of surprise. There are no posters on the wall. Just a single bed in the corner, with one dresser, and my closet isn’t full with much. Basically everything I have filled just two bags.

Janet followed me around the house as I secured it. I closed and locked every window in the house. Making sure everything is off, including the television. I locked the back door and then walked out the front door, locking it behind me.

Janet led me to a van. It really didn’t surprise me she drove a van because of her running a group home. After putting my stuff in the back seat, Janet asked me to sit with her in the front with her. I did as I was told.

All the way to the group home, Janet talked to me about it. She seems to be a really caring person. I just don’t want to get my hopes up with her, and then taken away from her as well. This is going to be my fourth house in the last six months I will be staying in. I really have no reason to believe it is going to last either.

As we drove up to the house, it didn’t look half bad. It actually looked like a house, which it is. What I mean is, I thought I was going to be taken to a building of some kind, not an actual house in an actual neighborhood. I got out of the van and looked around. At first glance it seems to be a good place. But as they say, don’t judge a book by its cover.

I followed Janet into the house. All the way in, she kept talking about the kids in the house. I won’t be the youngest one in the house and I won’t be the oldest one either. There should be kids in the house she believes I can become friends with she said.

Right as we walked in, it looked like everyone in the house was there to greet her. She looked surprised to find them standing in the hallway.

“Well since everyone wants to meet the new member of our family, I will take this time to introduce him to you guys. Everyone, this Toni Llama; Toni, this is everyone.”

No one said anything, they just looked at me. It made me feel as if I was an animal at the zoo they paid to see. I didn’t like this feeling at all. I started to shake, though I tried to hide that.

“For now you guys get back to whatever you were doing. Please though, find time through the day and introduce yourselves to Toni. Make him feel right at home. Remember how it felt when you first arrived. That is how Toni is feeling right now.”

As the guys began to scatter, I noticed there weren’t any girls in the house. I wonder why there weren’t any girls in the house. Before I could ask, Janet held back another kid my age. He didn’t look happy being held back by her.

“Neil, I need you take your new roommate up to your room. Help him get settled and then show him around the house. Please be nice to him Neil. He is already nervous as can be and NO horror stories!”

Neil didn’t say a word to me. I just followed him up the stairs to a room where there were four beds. They are actually bunk beds. I thought it is pretty cool to have bunk beds.

Neil pointed out which bed and dresser is mine. He really didn’t say much more to me except to stay away from his stuff. Neil didn’t even give me chance to unpack before we got moving again. He showed me the kitchen, where we ate, where the television is. That is when he just sat down and started watching T.V.

I decided to head back to the room and settle in. After making my bed and putting my stuff away in the drawers, I walked back downstairs with the book I was reading when my life had suddenly changed once again.

During dinner I found that we all ate together. The chores around the house are shared and written on a schedule in the kitchen. Since I am new, I wasn’t on the schedule yet. So after dinner I went back upstairs, cleaned up and laid down on my bed.

I wanted to read my book, but the thoughts of my grandparents keep racing through my mind. Although they were not nice to me, they were my grandparents. I lost them and it felt bad. It seems that anyone I come in contact with, dies. I couldn’t get the thoughts out of my mind. Those are the last thoughts that went through my mind before I had fell asleep.

After breakfast the next morning, Janet asked to see me in her office. I walked in and took a seat.

“Toni, I know this is all new to you and you probably feel lost here. Give it some time and you will get used to being here. One way I know this move is going to be smoother for you is that you won’t be changing schools. In fact, you are closer to the school you are going to living here so you will be attending the same classes as before.

I would normally like to have you go to school with out missing a day. But tomorrow you will need to sit down with a social worker and I hope a guardian ad-litem. That way they can help you out on whatever help you need.

Tuesday you will be returning to school. I want to make sure there isn’t a lot of change in your life. Please try to get with you friends and do the normal things you do. Your friends are more than welcome here anytime.”

“Yes ma’am, thank you!”

The rest of the day I was left alone. The others seemed to stay away from me as if I had the plague or something. I started thinking to myself, no matter where I am, nothing changes in my life. No one wants to get near me or talk with me.

(TOM’S POINT OF VIEW)

I pulled Heather aside from the rest of the group. I needed to find out what is up her sleeve. Why in the world did she decide to come and sit with us out of the blue? I am in love with David, and I know David wasn’t comfortable with her at the table.

We walked over to the corner of the planters we use to sit at with we were together. As before, she got up leaving me to look up at her. I really didn’t care at this point. I just need to clear the air with her.

“Heather what is up with you? You have never wanted to hang out with me and my group of friends. Why do you find a need now to hang out with us?”

“Tom I was wrong from the beginning not to hang out with you and your friends. If the football team can adjust and become friends with Joey, and accept you, I don’t see why I can’t do the same.”

“Heather you didn’t even give me any warning to let David and the guys know. You just sat down and joined the group as if you have been part of us since the beginning.”

“I didn’t think you minded. You introduced me to everyone and allowed me to just get into the groove of things. I thought you were accepting me as part of your group.”

“I didn’t want to be rude, Heather. You should know that about me by now. I will never disrespect or make anyone feel unwanted if I could help it. You made David feel very uncomfortable during breakfast. And no he didn’t say anything; I could tell.”

“Look Tom, I am sorry I did that. I really didn’t mean to do that to him or you. I know where I stand with you. You are in love with David and a blind mouse could see that. I will never pull an Elizabeth on you. I want to have you as a friend. I told you that when you told me about being gay. I didn’t go out telling the world what you told me. I let you live the way you felt comfortable.”

Heather and I sat there talking for another five or so minutes. I cleared the air with her and knew she truly wants nothing more then a friendship. Before I left, I made sure she understood she is more than welcome to hang with us.

Now I need to make sure David understands this is nothing but a friendship. That is going to be a hard job to accomplish. Knowing David, he is already thinking that I am trying to return back to the way I was over a year ago. David tends to always over think things. I think that is why he and Jake get along so well. They both do the same thing.

I found David at our lockers. Just by the look on his face, I knew I had my work cut out for me. I walked up to him, leaned in and kissed him. At first he didn’t return the kiss. Finally after a few seconds, he did. David is the first one to speak up.

“I know you didn’t know your ex was going to join us for breakfast this morning. I don’t hold that against you at all. I also know I won’t lose you ever again. All I ask is give me time to get used to her being around.”

“That is all I was going to ask. If you can’t get used to her being around, just say the word, and she is gone. You are the one I love, you are the one I want to be with, and you are the one I will always make sure is happy.

I talked with Heather and told her that which I really didn’t have to. She told me that she saw it in both of our eyes. The love we have for each other can’t be hidden. All she wants to be is friends. She feels bad for doing this at first, and wants to correct it now.”

“I love you David and I will do anything to make you happy.”

We didn’t need to speak anymore about the subject. We walked to class ending the conversation I thought it was going to be a hard one to have. It turned out to be the easiest one we’ve had so far in our relationship.

(ANDY’S POINT OF VIEW)

I couldn’t believe what my mom just told me over the phone. Jake really made sure she couldn’t do a thing about the house. I can see why he did that, but still. What in the world am I going to do to give Normal the wedding she wants? The money isn’t there to do that for her.

I walked over to the living room where Normal was looking at table planters for the wedding. She looks so happy there looking at her dream wedding. This is going to be difficult news to deliver, but I need to.

Just as I walked in the room, see looked up at me with a smile. I smiled back at her as I sat down on the couch.

“Normal we need to talk sweetheart.”

“Okay; you are getting me worried Andy. The only time you say ‘sweetheart’ is when something bad needs to be discussed.”

“It is bad news that is for sure. I really don’t know how to say it, but to say it. I just got off the phone with my mom and she had bad news. She was going to get a loan on the house, but Jake set it up where she would need his signature on the paperwork in order to do that. Of course he isn’t going to do that.”

“What the hell is your brother trying to do? He wants to control everything in our lives doesn’t he? I am getting tired of him holding things back.”

“Normal, we are asking him for a lot of money. I can understand where he is coming from. You asked me to disinvite him from the wedding, but yet you and I still want him to give us money for the very wedding he isn’t welcome to attend. He is a very smart guy, and a guy that doesn’t take well to being hurt.”

“So what are we supposed to do about this? Go over and kiss your brothers ass to get the money?”

“I think the money is out of the question now. I really think he isn’t going to give us one thin dime for the wedding no matter what we do or say to him. We burnt down that bridge and if we try to cross it again; well let’s just say he will see right through us.

I am as guilty in this as anyone. I should have stuck to my guns and not disinvite him from the wedding. Now I am at odds with my entire family except my mom and let me tell you how weird that is. Jake is the one that has been there for me all the times when thing went wrong in the house. Even when he didn’t have this money, he snuck me back into the house when my mom kicked me out.

I then turn my back on him now. I love him no matter what he does in his life. I want my family at my wedding. Not just my mother. The way things sit up right now, it is going to be just my mother.”

“What do you think we should do then Andy? Call off the wedding?”

“We don’t have the money to have the wedding you want. I don’t want to hold up us from getting married because you won’t get any benefits from the military once I go in. What we should do for right now is have a small wedding with the Justice of the Peace and later on, after saving up enough money on our own, we can have the wedding you of your dreams.”

Just as I finished what I was saying, Normal got up and walked off. The next thing I heard was her slamming the door to our room. I know now she is very angry with me. I don’t see any other way out of this. I really want to marry her, but I also want my family there the day I get married.

I will make the first step with this. Even though I feel it took both of us, Jake and I, to bring our relationship to this point. Still I will be the better person and go over to talk with Jake. At least I can hold my head up high once I do that.

(JACOB’S POINT OF VIEW)

During lunch Heather joined our table once again. I really didn’t mind at all. David looked like he is taking it better. That is telling me that he and Tom had a talk about this. Heather might be around, but Tom really does love David with out question.

Lunch went by way too fast for my taste. I can’t believe the bell is ringing already. Although I really don’t know Toni that well, I noticed he hasn’t been around. I am now getting worried. Joey pulled me out of thought as we headed to our lockers.

“I can probably tell you what you are thinking right now. You are worried about Toni aren’t you?”

“Yeah we haven’t seen him all day. I actually looked for him in the usual places where I have found him before. I didn’t find him anywhere.”

“Don’t worry, it’s probably something simple. He is a lot younger than us. Remember how we were when we were thirteen years old, skipping classes all the time?”

Joey slapping me on the back laughing as we got to our lockers. He is right about that. I know I did my fair share of skipping school. It just didn’t sound like Toni. School is the only thing that poor kid has going for him right now.

The afternoon classes were dragging on until ROTC. Right after roll call, Major Moore called me into his office. I know it isn’t about the newsletter or the Mid Year Drill Meet. Those are still a month away.

As I walked in, I waited for Major Moore to let me take a seat. This time he didn’t. He looked like he actually is in a rush to get this conversation over with like he has somewhere else to be instead of here!

“Mr. Hernandez I am getting a little worried here. You haven’t kept me informed about the banner. What is going on with the banner, sir?”

“I am sorry Major Moore; I really don’t know what you are asking me.”

“The banner you promised to have made for our sponsor. You know the one that is going to be in front of our teams as we march in the Thanksgiving parade this year.”

I completely forgot about that banner. I haven’t even looked into it.

“Major Moore I have completely forgot about that banner. I will get right on it and have it done by Wednesday sir. Sorry for this, it won’t happen again.”

“I believe you when you say it won’t happen again. Get on top of it and have an answer for me soon. I don’t want to pay an arm and a leg for that banner. It could be for only a one time deal. Plus it is only a month away.”

We continued talking as we walked out of the office. We stopped at the door that entered into the large classroom. He explained how he needed to get going to a meeting in the main building. He really didn’t look like he wanted to go to this meeting. I went back to the classroom as he went out the exit.

The rest of the day went off without a hitch. Always when we close to the holidays, the students and teachers seem to care less! We all are counting down the days to our holiday vacations. The second six weeks exams are waiting for us in a month.

As soon as I got home I grabbed the phone book. I had no idea who to call for this kind of poster so I just started dialing stores I thought that made the signs. After my fifth call I finally got directed to the right store. With that information, I looked them up and found many others. By the third store, I got a pretty good price for the banner that was needed.

Now I have to get someone in the Battalion that is good at creating a banner from scratch. Putting words on a banner is easy. The drawing to grab the attention of the viewers is my specialty. I will look for that cadet tomorrow.

Joey walked in and called me in for dinner. I love when my grandma cooks. She and Beth have been taking turns each day doing the cooking. Beth’s food is good but my grandma has this old style of cooking that is unique.

Just as we finished eating, the door bell rang. We all looked at each other, and then we heard the door open. Now that has gotten my attention. Everyone that lives here or visits is sitting around this table. That includes Tom. So who in the world is walking into this house?

(TONI’S POINT OF VIEW)

This weekend was the worst for me. I was kind of happy when I woke up this morning. At least the weekend is over and I am one day closer to spending the days away from this house at least. No one here seems to want to make friends with me here. To top it all off, I am not good on making friends at all.

I had breakfast with everyone, but they headed off to school. I went back up to the room I am staying in. About an hour later, Ms. Young called up for me. I joined her in the office. As I walked in I noticed another person sitting there.

“Toni let me introduce to you Ms. Catherine Perkins, a guardian ad-litem. The social services office had her appointed to oversee your personnel business. They want the transition to move as smooth as possible.”

I just looked at Ms. Perkins. She seems to be a loving person. But looks can be deceiving at times. I will listen to her and see what she has to say. I know I am stuck in here no matter what.

“Toni I know you are scared and really don’t know what is going to happen to you. That is why I have been assigned so quickly. I have your file and see what we are working with. This file, by the looks of it, isn’t much to go on!

No I see you are adopted and the grandparents that passed away are from the adopted family. I also see where your real mother and father are at. Have you been told about them by your adopted family before they passed?”

“Yes they told me everything years ago. There isn’t really any family on either side. Really you guys can’t find any family on either side. You have tried before, but no luck doing so. Then to make matters worse, both of my parents gave up their rights as my guardians when I was born.”

“Wow, this is going to make my job easier. Most adopted parents never tell their adopted children they are adopted or if they do they never tell them about their real family. With them telling you this, it is going to easier for me.

I am not going to lie to you. You are probably going to be here for a long time, probably until you turn eighteen and you move out as adult at that time! The reason I say that is because if we try to place you with a family, we are going to have to be rough on them. Let me explain what I mean.

Your adopted father was in the military. So when he died, he left a pension for you until twenty one. Your grandparents were receiving that money. Now we are going to set up a trust where that money is going to be placed. Whenever you need something, aside from the money given by the state to Ms. Young, we will get it from this fund. You and I will talk whenever that is needed.

Also, your father had insurance because he was in the military and died in the line of duty. The insurance paid off. Now your adopted mother was named first, in case she died, you were next. Also you mother knew she was sick, so she had life insurance. Both of which paid off and those funds will be placed in this trust fund.

Let me make this clear to you Toni. Your adoptive family set you up pretty well in case they left this world. But with their wishes and State law says you can’t touch the money until you are twenty one. Even then, you won’t be able to access the money completely. Every four years it releases a set amount to you.

Your college is already taken care of. All you have to do is graduate high school and choose the college you want to attend. If anything comes up between now and your twenty first birthday where you need to touch the money, you will need to come to me and we will see if it is needed. Do you understand everything I am telling you Toni?”

“Yes ma’am I do understand what you are telling me. Why can’t I know what the amount is in my trust fund though?”

“We don’t want you telling others in this home that you have money coming to you or the amount that is coming to you. Sometimes if people find out this stuff, they do stupid things.”

“Ok I understand what you are trying to protect me from. Trust me no one here wants to even look at me so I haven’t a thing to fear here. Out there I have a small group of friends that don’t need any money. They have plenty of their own.”

“Toni what do you mean the kids here don’t want to even look at you? Have they hurt you in any way honey?”

I looked up at Ms. Young. She has a look of concern on her face. I haven’t seen that look of concern for me since my mother. My adopted mother I mean. I really do miss someone actually caring for me in anyway.

“No ma’am they haven’t hurt me. Just they act as if I have the plague or something. It could be that I am new. Also it could be because I don’t make friends that easily. My friends at school pretty much approached me and asked me to be their friends.”

“I would like to meet these kids. They seem to be very nice young men. They haven’t asked anything of you that may be considered wrong?”

“No ma’am it is completely friends. I don’t have a thing they want. They are smart, they have quite a bit of money, and they are happy with who they are. No they just saw me sitting in the hallway one day. They came up asked me to eat with them, and the rest is history.”

Both Ms. Young and Ms. Perkins looked at each other. Finally Ms. Perkins spoke up first.

“Ok Toni I want you to go to school as normal. I will take care of your grandparent’s funeral. I don’t have to do much because their other kids are stepping up and taken the responsibilities on the funeral. I am expecting a fight over the money, but they won’t win. There was a will left by both of your parents which it left everything to you

By the way, that includes the house Toni. Your parents actually paid off the house and still the house was in their name. That means the house is yours. I don’t want you making decisions right now. Think about what you want to do with the house. I will talk with you again in couple of weeks.

If you need to talk with me before then, here is my card. It has both of my numbers in the office, including my home phone. Call me day or night about anything. I really mean anything Toni. No matter how big or small you might think it is.”

I took Ms. Perkins card as she got up to leave. I thanked her for everything. I promised her I wouldn’t tell a soul about the money my parents left me. Ms. Young just looked at me with caring eyes. I know she is worried about me.

“Toni let me know if you are having a hard time here. I will be checking in a lot more with you than the others. You have had a bad hand dealt to you. It is time for your luck to turn around once and for all.”

“I promise Ms. Young to let you know if I need anything. I am used to others not giving me the time of day. I get through the day by drowning myself in my books.”

Ms. Young still had a worried look on her face as she excused me to leave. On the way to my room, my mind just wandered all over the place. I wonder why my parents left me everything. I know I was their son, but not their blood son. They could have left all their belongings to their brother’s and sister’s, if not their parents.

(MS. YOUNG’S POINT OF VIEW)

I couldn’t get myself to work anything else after talking with Toni. My mind couldn’t stop worrying about him. He is only thirteen and all alone. Toni has gone through so much already in his short life he has had on this earth.

First his parents never wanted him. They are now in prison and will never see the light of day so they gave their only child up without a second thought. I would have at least put in somewhere in the paper work if they locate their real family that Toni could go and live with them. But no, they just didn’t care one way or another if their only son lived.

Then there are his adopted parents. They were taken away from Toni. The father in the military, killed, and the mother died of cancer. I wonder if the adopted family got Toni the minute he was taken from his parents. They named him and had him since birth.

Then to make matters worse, when he lost his only parents he has known in his life no one wanted to take him. I truly believe the only reason his grandparents took Toni in is for the money and that is a shame. Why aren’t there people in this world that just care because it is the right thing to do?

Oh no, I am not going to let this kid down! He has had too many let downs in his life already. He needs someone steady in his life that will care for him because he is a wonderful person and not because he has all this money or is getting paid by the State.

I will need to finds out about his schooling. The little I know is he is a very smart kid. Thirteen and already a junior in high school! His parents had him in a special school for his gift. I will look in on that and see if I can get him back in that school.

There is so much I need to find out about Toni. Every step of the way I will clear everything with him. It is his life, he needs to have a say in it as well. No matter what, I will take him under my wing and protect him as if he is my own.

(DAVID’S POINT OF VIEW)

After all the hoop la during dinner, Tom and I headed up to my room. I wanted to spend private time with him. More than just cuddling, I want to make love with him. Not because of Heather. I have wanted this for awhile, and my therapist thinks I am ready. I was warned to take it slowly and to stop if it becomes uncomfortable.

As a closed the door to my room, Tom headed to the bed. I followed right behind him. We almost reached the bed at the same time. Gently I pushed Tom onto the bed and started to kiss him on his neck.

Tom pulled me away from his body with a concerned look on his face.

“David are you sure you are ready for this? I can wait until you are. I don’t want you to feel I am rushing you in any way to make love with me.”

“I know you are not rushing me to make love with you. I want to try and make love with my boyfriend. I have wanted to do this for a while now. All we have to do is go a little slow, that is all” as I kissed him deeply.

I believe that satisfied Tom’s worries. He let go of me with a look of surprise. I slowly went back to kissing him up and down his neck. Tom looks extra good today. He has a shirt on that shows off his chest and his pants; well let me tell you if you never believed that a person could make you fall in love with them by just looking at them, well you haven’t seen Tom in his jeans.

I slowly kissed up his arm until I reached his right hand. I licked each finger of his right hand until I had each of them in my mouth. I moved to his left arm and hand. Did the same thing to his left as I did to his right!

After getting my fill of his large hands and fingers, I turned my attention to his chest. I slowly lifted his shirt past his chest, then over his head. Now Tom is laying there on my bed glowing. His chest glistened with the light of my room shining down on him. I took a few minutes to just stare at this hunk of a guy.

Every muscle in his chest is moving! I don’t know if he is actually flexing for me, but I like it. My eyes started moving down to his well defined six-pack. Just like his chest, I could see every muscle. No hair any where on his body except his treasure trail. I just wanted to eat Tom up right there and then.

I leaned in and started playing with his chest. His nipples are already hard and I am making them harder. Sucking on each of them, I went back and forth. I didn’t care if I gave them equal time; I just wanted to have him.

Tom started to moan louder and louder as I played more with his nipples. I started to move my hand down until I reached the promised land. Tom is already hard as a rock. His dick is already fighting with the jeans that cover it. I wanted to free Tom’s dick so bad, but at the same time I didn’t want to rush this.

I slowly kissed my way down to Tom’s belly button. Licking in and out of his belly button makes him go even crazier.

“If you don’t stop babe, I am going to cream my pants before you can get to it. Please take it out and take care of it. I don’t want to lose my load in my pants!”

Ignoring Tom I kept licking his belly button. Tom kept moaning and moaning as I stuck my tongue into his belly button. I did this for a few more minutes then made my way to his waist. He isn’t wearing a belt today. That is going to make it even more easier for me to get to my gift.

I didn’t even bother to unbutton Tom’s jeans. I started licking his dick through the jeans. He is so hard now I could actually see the outline of his dick through his jeans. I kept sliding my mouth up and down his shaft. I don’t know it is my spit or his pre-cum, but his jeans started to get soaked.

I got up to allow Tom to catch his breath. I lifted his left foot and undid the laces to his shoe. I removed the shoe but left his sock on. I did the same thing to his right foot as I did to his left. Once I finished taking off his shoes, I made my way back to Tom’s waist.

Slowly I unbuttoned his 501’s and pulled them off. With Tom’s help by lifting his butt from the bed, I removed his jeans in one quick motion. There he is on my bed, just his white boxer briefs and white socks. Tom’s dick straining against his briefs wanting to be set free! I am more than willing to be the one to set it free.

I leaned down, as I did before. I licked up and down Tom’s shaft through his underwear. I actually started sucking him off. Without thinking, I pulled Tom’s dick through the pee slot. Now standing at attention for all to see is Tom’s dick.

I started go down on him as he started to moan even louder. I started to worry that maybe the others in the house are going to hear him. I wanted to go up and put my hand over his mouth, but didn’t. His moaning is actually making me harder. If I don’t watch it, I will blow my load in my pants before my dick even gets free.

As I get into my rhythm going up and down Tom’s dick. I struggle to kick off my boots. Boots were the wrong choice of shoe to put on today. I really don’t care. Somehow I got them off, and then started working on my pants.

Tom didn’t even know I started stripping down. He has his eyes closed tight. I know that he is getting close to exploding. His toes are curling up. I do want to taste Tom, but at the same time I want to try and get further than last time.

Without skipping a beat, I got up taking off my pants. Like second nature, I pulled off my underwear in one motion. Tom still hasn’t opened his eyes. So I decided to give him even a bigger surprise than he has gotten so far.

I got the lube from the nightstand drawer and put a big glob on my hole. At the same time I was massaging Tom’s balls and stroking his nether region. Once I was lubed, I used the same hand to lube Tom’s cock. He smiled, still with his eyes closed, but he knew what I have in mind. I climbed on the bed and straddled Tom, facing him so I could see his face. His face reads like a book. I can see every thought and feeling he is having. Slowly I lowered myself onto the tip of Tom’s dick. Just as it got to my entrance of my butt, I slowly let Tom’s dick enter. Right as Tom’s dick entered, I felt him grab hold of me. That’s the feeling I longed for a long time!

Tom sat up, stretching his arms around my lower chest. While I slowly went down on Tom’s dick, Tom started kissing my neck. I am so into the screwing part, I didn’t even know Tom started to talk to me.

I got Tom’s entire dick in me. I rested a few moments before starting. Tom didn’t even expect me to start when I did. I started slowly coming up and then down onto Tom. Little by little I picked up my speed and got into the rhythm. Once I got into the rhythm, I started moaning as well. Tom is hitting my sweet spot. Each time I go down on him, my dick jerks and gets harder. I don’t even have to touch it, to keep it hard.

“If you don’t slow down babe I am going to explode! Please babes, I want this to last, slow down, please just slow down!”

Tom started begging me to slow down. I sat down on top of him, allowing him to catch his breath. As he caught his breath I look down and see how hard my dick is. I can bust the nut right there and not even touch my dick.

All of a sudden I felt Tom beginning to pump his dick inside me. The third full push is all it took. I started shooting all over Tom’s chest and abs beneath me. Shot after shot after shot. I couldn’t believe the amount of cum that is coming out of me!

Just as I finished Tom started to scream out. “I am about to cum, fuck yeah babe this feels so damn good. I am going to cum……”

That is all it took. Tom started shooting inside me. The first three shots I feel hit me so deep in side I thought I might actually be able to taste in my throat. That is how hard Tom is shooting inside me right now.

Just as he finished shooting, Tom pulled me down to lay on top of him. I love the way Tom’s sweaty body felt against my mine. It just feels so normal to me. He makes me feel so safe whenever I am with him.

Tom wrapped his arms around me pulling me in closer to him. All I want to do right now is crawl inside of Tom and stay there. As Tom tried to pull me in even closer, he started kissing me neck. Whispering into my ear as he kissed it!

“David, you are back; my David is back. Words can’t explain how you make me feel when we make love. You make feel more than just a man; you make me feel as if I am the only one on this earth. I love you for that. I know we will never lose this closeness we have.”

I didn’t say a word to him. I really don’t know what to say. Simply put I am not too good with words. All I know right now is Tom makes me feel the same way as he says I make him feel when we make love together. I feel that way every minute of every day when I am around him.

Tom looked like he didn’t want to get up at all. I knew different. I knew we needed to get cleaned up before anyone came a knocking trying to find out what all the yelling and moaning was all about. I lifted up and Tom’s dick slipped out of me leaving me feeling a bit empty. I got up pulling Tom with me.

We headed into the bathroom locking the other door leading into Chase’s room. As I lock the door, Tom it getting the shower going. Once the water was to the right temperature, we get in together.

I wash Tom from head to toe and he returned the favor. At the same time, both of us got hard again. We got hard while the other touched the others body. Tom fell to his knees to take my dick into his mouth. I couldn’t believe I forgot how great it is having Tom’s mouth around my dick. He makes me tingle from head to toe.

It didn’t take long for me to reach my second climax of the night. I warned Tom I was about to explode, but he didn’t care. He kept my dick in his mouth and kept bobbing up and down on me. Then it happened, I just exploded again in his mouth. This climax felt just as good, if not better, as the first one did.

As my body slid down the wall of the shower, Tom caught me. He pulled me up towards him until our lips touched. We went into a kiss that I felt I started walking on water in the shower. Yes, as Tom said, I AM back !

I was brought out of my thoughts with something warm splattering between my legs. At first I don’t know what it is, and then I figured it out by the look on Tom’s face. We didn’t even have to touch him to reach his second climax of the night. He started shooting between my legs.

I looked at Tom with a big smile across my face. “Thank you for everything you are to me Tom. I love you so much I can’t breathe without you anymore.”

“No need for any thanks at all. I want to be with you for the rest of our lives. I will do anything to make that happen and to make you happy” Tom replied.

With that we cleaned ourselves up the second time. We hurried up and got out of the shower after hearing a knock on the door. Chase’s voice pierced through yelling to save some hot water for him and the rest that need to take a shower.

Tom and I laughed wrapping towels around us and unlocking the door. Chase opened it looking in smiling at us.

“I am glad to see you two are having fun, but do it on your own dime. I have needed to use the bathroom for a while now!”

“The bathroom is all yours my friend!” Tom said, barely able to speak between laughs.

We walked back into the room, got dressed before heading back down. I hope everything is cooled down and the fighting is over. I can’t stand being around so much yelling. Jake loves the world, but there are times Jake has to set down his foot and mean it.

(TONI’S POINT OF VIEW)

The rest of the day I explored the rest of the house. I needed to figure my way around the place since no one else is going to show me. I found a stairway in the back leading into the kitchen from the upstairs bedrooms.

I explored the house as much as I could before the first group of kids returned from school. Once I heard them I headed back up to my room, not too really hide, but I really don’t want to deal with them. They don’t like me, so why should I have to deal with them? What comes around goes around as they say.

I sat there reading my book when I felt someone hitting my mattress. Lowering my book, I looked to see who it was. I recognized the guy, but I haven’t talked to since I arrived Saturday afternoon.

“Ms. Young and the staff want all of us in the yard. It is our normal weekly meeting with them. So come on and get yourself down there so you don’t get in trouble.”

Laying down my book on the bed, I jumped down and followed the kid. We walked to the back yard where everyone was already sitting. No chairs or anything, just wherever there is a spot to sit down is where you sat on the grass.

Ms. Young ran the meeting. She went over the rules, well the rules that keep being broken. The other boys that are not doing their chores, she actually pointed them out. That would make me feel little. Now knowing that she does that, I will make sure to do my chores all the time.

Several of the staff spoke before Ms. Young got back up and spoke again. This time I knew what she started speaking about is meant for me.

“This group of boys is the best group of boys I have had in this house. You guys are polite and respect one another. No matter if it is personal items or the feelings of each other, you respect each other. We are a family after all.

However, my staff has seen a change. When they told me about this change, I couldn’t believe it at first. Then as I looked around since yesterday, I saw it as well. No matter who the person is, we have always taken in the new person as one of our own.

If I were Toni, I would think everyone here is nothing but snobs. You guys are acting like snobs. What ever your problem is with Toni, get rid of it. Take him in as you have with each other. I don’t want to see what I have been seeing the last couple days.

Also when I asked Toni about it, he didn’t say a word. In fact he had nothing bad to say so far about the house. Let’s keep that way.”

Everyone looked at me as she finished talking. I kind of felt uncomfortable when she talked about me. I couldn’t believe Ms. Young actually told the guys what she told them and I really hope they don’t hold it against me.

Ms. Young excused us to for dinner. Pretty much all of us raced to the bathrooms to clean up. I waited for everyone to finish where I didn’t find myself with them. I don’t know how they are going to react to what Ms. Young said.

My roommate, Neil, actually came to let me know the bathroom is all clear. While washing up for dinner, Neal walked in. I looked over to him starting to shake. I really don’t know what the guy is going to do or say. Was he sent in here by the others to give me a good talking to?

“Toni I understand you are friends with Jake and his group. Is that true?”

“Yeah Jake and the rest befriended me a couple weeks ago.”

“That is cool group to be part of. Although they are not the popular group, but pretty close! Then there is the fact Jake and his boyfriend are wealthy as hell. Jake doesn’t show that he has money, but he does.”

“I really can’t say. They have never spoken to me about their money and I have never asked. They treat me respect and took me in as a friend, I have no reason to question them in anyway.”

“Well do you know what Jake has gone through?”

I looked at Neil and had no idea what he is talking about. I shook my head no to his question. Neil; just looked at me and started telling me everything. I couldn’t believe what Jake has gone through. I thought I have had a hard life. Compared to Jake’s, it has been a cake walk!

Neil and I kept talking as we headed down for dinner. For the first time since I got here, I felt somewhat comfortable. I know that sounds weird, but it only takes one to open up and just talk to someone. I wouldn’t have figured my friendship with Jake and the guys would make me popular here in the house.

Although the guys wanted to know as much as they could about Jake, I didn’t say a much. I didn’t have much to say. I haven’t known Jake for that long to have any gossip about him and Joey. Even if I did, I wouldn’t spread it around.

After dinner Ms. Young spoke with me. She told me I handled the guys well when they wanted to know about Jake and the others. She had no idea they are the friends I was telling her about earlier this morning. After finding out they are the ones she had no objections of me hanging with them. In fact she thinks it might do me good.

After talking with Ms. Young I started to head to my room when Neil stopped me. He asked me to join him and the rest to watch television. I really didn’t care, so I said ‘yeah’. Neil and I went to the dining room to join the rest in front of the television. Since I really don’t watch much TV, I didn’t care what was on.

All that matters to me is that they are accepting me. I will now always think if it wasn’t for Ms. Young, would they might never have accepted me. Would they have ever even talked to me? I figure those questions will never be answered. So I better stop asking them.

(JACOB’S POINT OF VIEW)

I got up from the table to see who just walked into the house. As I walked into the hallway, I couldn’t believe who is standing before me. How in the world did he find out where we lived? Plus, what balls this kid has just walking into a house that he hasn’t been invited to or asked in.

“You are one stupid son-of-a-bitch! If you value your life, you will turn right around and walk out the door. If you choose not do that, I kill you where you stand!”

“I got invited by Joey, He asked me to come over after football practice!”

I called for Joey to come out to the hallway. As he walked out I knew what the kid said was a lie. Joey had no idea why he is standing in our hallway. Within seconds Joey’s face turned from stunned to pure anger.

“What the hell are you doing here? You really have stepped over the line coming to my house like this.”

“Didn’t you invite me to your house to spend time with you? I could swear in the showers again after football practice when we were fooling around you asked me to come over to have some private time together.”

“I never did any such thing. I never fooled around with you today or any other day. You came onto me and I shut that door right away. The last time I saw you is when you approached me and my friends while we were eating. So once again, what the fuck are you doing in my house?”

The rest of the guys, including my grandparents and Beth walked into the hallway to see what all the yelling is about. You could see surprise on the guys face when they saw Greg standing there in the hallway. The others had no idea on what is going on.

“I am not telling you again. You walked into a house that you were not invited into. If you don’t turn around and walk right back out, I am going make you wish that you did. Get the fuck out of this house!”

If I didn’t make myself clear the first time, I most certainly did this time. Before I made any move, I looked over at Joey and the guys. Once I realized I am the one that is going to have to take care of this problem, I looked back at Greg. He doesn’t even look scared at all. Does this shit head think I am fucking around or what?

That did it for me. Before Greg could react, I lunged at him. He went flying against the front door of the house. I didn’t realize I had moved from the spot I was standing. I had him down, punching him as I was standing over him.

All I did know is all the anger inside me about all the times I thought Joey cheated on my boiled to the surface. As I whaled on Greg, I didn’t see his face at all. His face kept changing from David’s, to Tom’s, to Joey’s. I had held in the anger and the mistrust I have had about Joey until now.

I kept hitting Greg in the face, the chest and lower stomach. Not caring how bad I was hurting him. All I knew is that I wanted this feeling in my stomach to go away. If beating on this guy does the job, then I will do that.

I don’t know how long I was over Greg hitting him. I do know the guys tried several times to get me off of Greg, but no luck. There is so much anger in me; nothing will get me off of this guy. Anger that has been bottled up for so long, it was only a matter of time for it to finally boil over!

With the help of my grandfather and all the guys, they actually pulled me off of Greg. I tried several times to lunge back at him, but I was held back. What really settled me down is when I heard my grandfather yell at Chase to call 911.

“Someone, Chase call 911. This kid is bleeding and he is out!”

I looked at what I had done. Man oh man, I couldn’t believe Greg is bleeding all over the floor of my house. Mainly I couldn’t believe it was me that did that to the poor guy now on my floor. I did warn him to leave my house, he didn’t listen.

It didn’t take long for the fire department to show up. Right away they looked at Greg before asking any questions on what had happened here. Minutes later several police cruisers drove up. Before I knew it, our house filled up with officers, paramedics and fire personnel, all looking over Greg before moving him. I finally spoke up giving orders.

“I want you to remove this guy from my house as quickly as possible. He walked in here without our permission. When asked to leave, he didn’t. I warned him what would happen if he didn’t leave. Still he chose not to leave. Now he is sitting on my floor making a mess I really don’t want to clean up!”

Everyone just looked at me. They all looked stunned with I said. If I didn’t make myself clear right then and there, then nothing is going to open the eyes of everyone in the house. I am not going to take shit anymore. If Joey is going to cheat on me, he is going to go out the door with the trash.

“Jacob you don’t mean what you are saying. Let these people do their work. They will have this guy out of our hair soon” Grandpa said trying to soothe things over.

“Grandpa I do mean what I said. Drag his damn body out to the street. I don’t care what they do in order to get him out of this house, just do it NOW! He walked in without permission from anyone, and then didn’t leave when warned what would happen!”

“Jake you are better person then this. He is wrong for walking into this house like he did. Now you are wrong on asking these guys to pull him out of this house before they feel he is able to be moved.”

“You better not say a damn word Joey right now! This little shit is here for whatever his mind thinks you two have together. I am tired of this shit. I tired of little asses like this thinking they can take whatever they want!”

Joey just looked at me with a hurt look on his face. I know he didn’t cheat on me. He didn’t ask for this guy to lust for him. I just can’t put down the past feelings right now. Our history in this arena isn’t good.

Without saying another word, the EMT’S finally put Greg on the stretcher. They looked at the police officers before rolling Greg out, and whispered something to them. Whatever they said got their attention.

Right after the EMT’S and fire department left. The officers separated us in different rooms. I sat in the study for awhile before the officer’s came in to talk with me. I really don’t know what they were doing with the others. If I would to a stab at it, I would think they were asking them what had happened here tonight.

Two police officers finally came in to talk with me. At first they didn’t say anything. All they did is walk around me as if they are measuring up their prey before eating it. No matter what, I know I am in the right here. Greg did walk into my house uninvited and when asked to leave several times, he refused to.

“Jacob Hernandez do you have some kind of ID to show us you are Jacob Hernandez?”

“I have my driver licenses, but I don’t have it on me!”

“That is no problem. We asked your boyfriend, that is what Joey is, to get it for us. Although you are in the right to defend yourself and property, but you went over the line tonight. The EMT”S told me they really don’t think this kid is going to make it.”

“He was asked several times to leave, and he chose not to. He entered my house without being invited in. With those facts, I could have pulled a gun and shot him dead where he stood and never looked back. He is lucky I chose to use my fists instead, At least he has a chance of living!”

The officers just looked at me before continuing with their questions. Really they are not even asking me questions. They are just throwing things around. I figure I should do the same as they did.

“Also EMT’S are not doctors. They don’t know if a person is going to live or die. Only the doctors can make that call.”

“Look Jacob we are not taking any of your smart ass remarks. You are in a lot of trouble already. You can’t afford to get into anymore. Just answer the questions and leave the smart ass remarks at the door!”

All I did is shake my head in the positive. I just want this to be over and these officers to leave my house. Already this has taken up too much of my evening.

“Now you could have stopped anytime after getting him to the ground. Why didn’t you do that Jacob? Why didn’t you stop punching this guy once he was out?”

“He entered my house without permission and then when asked to leave, he didn’t. I am within my rights to protect what is mine.”

“What I understand this isn’t your house Jacob. This house is owned by your grandfather. So you shouldn’t have done what you did.”

“Officer this IS my house. My grandfather owns the house next door to me. Even if this wasn’t my house, I was still within my rights. The kid walked in, was asked to leave, and he didn’t. Any person that resides at the property in question can defend it.”

“Enough of this Jacob, enough! I am going to talk with my partners to see what we can do here. More then likely you will be coming with us.”

The two officers walked out of the study. I couldn’t believe what they told me. I can be arrested for defending my own house? What is wrong with this picture?

TO BE CONTINUED……………………..

{What do you guys think? Did Jacob go overboard with Greg? The guy did walk into the house without permission and was asked and warned to leave. He was told what would happen if he didn’t leave. So did Jake go overboard as he defended himself and home?

The police officers at first seemed more distracted about the fact that Joey and Jake are lovers then the facts of what had happened in the house. Why are the police asking so many questions? In most states it is law that a person has the right to defend their property. Once a person comes into a home without being invited in, they could actually be shot. So how come, with Jake he can actually be arrested? I really hope he doesn’t get arrested. Jake doesn’t deserve this and Greg deserved getting his butt kicked.

Finally, all the feeling Jake buried deep down inside of him boiled over. Although Joey didn’t cheat on him this time, what about all the other times Jake gave him the benefit of the doubt? It always happens when you didn’t do anything, is when you lose everything. I hope Jake realizes Joey didn’t do anything and tucks away those feelings again. I don’t want to see these two break up because if these two do break up, Gloria wins! She gets what she set out to do with Jake and Joey. Jake and Joey can’t let her do this to them. They must stay strong and beat her at her game. If they ever find out that Jake’s mom is behind all this, will she have to pay for the wrong that has happened here? Greg wouldn’t have been beaten up if she didn’t ask him to do what he is doing. At the same time, Greg could have walked away.

It looks like Toni might have found a home where he can be happy. His grandparents really didn’t care for him. After losing his adopted parents, Toni really hasn’t had a real life. I really hope Ms. Young follows through on what she has said. Toni deserves better than what he has had in the past. I also wonder if there is something about Toni, you know his love interests?

I have stayed away a little from the ROTC. This time of the year is the busiest time of the year for the program. They have the Mid Year Drill Meet coming up. Plus the parade of Thanksgiving and other important twist. I wonder what twists lie in store for Jake and Joey in this program this year.

As always I can go on and on about the open plots in the story! If I do that, I can actually write several more chapters. There are so many plots that can take a turn at anytime. You might think it is going to go one way, but is ends up going another. Don’t miss out on anything, or you will be kicking yourself for it.

There is a so much to answer in the chapters to come. Stick around and keep reading the future chapters, and enjoy! Please email me and let me know how I am doing at jacobmillertex@aol.com, Thanks!}

EDITOR’S CORNER:

Well, there’s never a dull moment! Maybe Jake having “boiled over” will be his chance to have gotten rid of his buried angers. We can hope so and also hope that he avoids getting into deep trouble having dealt with Greg so thoroughly!

I’m so glad to see that David has gotten back to his old self after the rape. He is showing a good strength of character and I admire Tom for standing by, keeping the love fires burning. Tom has grown in strength of character from his former ambivalent character.

As the boys all grow and mature, you can see them evolving into adults and gaining resolve to not bow to instantaneous pressures, but to stand firm on their values and convictions. They all have paid high prices to learn that their resolve has to be solid.

Well, it’s going to be interesting to see how Andy handles his situation. He’s stuck in the middle between Normal and Jake and his ability to set things right is going to be a rough haul, if he can do it.

Remember that your e-mails are always wanted and appreciated! Let us hear your thoughts about the story and any ideas you have for a plot line.

Until next time,

“Daddy” Rick