Portions of this story contain copyrighted characters from other authors. Johnny Carter is © ND from his story Nick & Ashley and is used with permission. The characters and situations from A New Day Dawns are © GunRunner and are used with permission. Mark Owens is © Slash and is used with permission. The characters and situations from One Door Closes are © MultiMapper and are used with permission.
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Noah and Caleb stood nervously next to Cory, waiting to be called in. Just as they were finally settling in to their new home, Cory received the summons to come to see Admiral Morrow yesterday. For some unknown reason, Cory had insisted that the two boys be with him for the meeting.
"Ensign Short, the Admiral will see you and your party now."
"Thank you, Lieutenant." Cory replied. He walked through the immense door into the Admiral's office, followed closely by Noah and Caleb. Cory walked to the front of Admiral Morrow's desk and came to attention. Cory saluted as he said "Ensign Cory Short, reporting as ordered, Sir."
"At ease, Ensign. Due to the nature of today's discussion, I would like to keep this meeting informal. Why don't you introduce your companions, then have a seat while we wait for the rest of the guests to arrive?"
Cory smiled. "Thank you, Sir. On my left is Noah Barnes, and on my right is Caleb Barnes. Guys, this is Admiral Harrison Morrow, the Commander-in-Chief of Starfleet."
After the three boys took a seat, Admiral Morrow asked "Cory, may I inquire why you thought it necessary to bring Noah and Caleb to today's meeting?"
"Well, Sir, they both assisted me in troubleshooting the software and designing the repairs to the code. Due to them being so much help, I figured they deserved to be here to receive credit for their work."
The Admiral smiled at the two blushing boys. "In that case, the two of you should be very proud of yourselves. I'm not sure if you know this, but Cory is considered one of the top ten Engineers in Starfleet already. There are cadets who would give up their commissions to work with him on a project. You have received quite an honor." He then focused on the now-blushing Cory. "Cory, there's no need to blush. The Starfleet IT Department is using your code modifications in all of our training software; after the magic you worked on the Enterprise, as soon as it arrived this morning it went into production - without testing. It seems that Space Sim was not the only software with the security holes in it. Your patches are being applied to all of the outsourced software and some of our own internally developed software. Once everyone else is here, we'll discuss it further. What is the latest on those two boys from California?"
Cory relaxed at the change of subject. "Well, Sir, we know for certain that they are en route to Des Moines to contact Federation Youth Services. I have Clan Security on a 24-7 watch on them, and we are prepared to extract them at a moments notice if deemed necessary. I've already told Mom that the Clan is taking them under Safe Haven; she's prepared to do the honors as soon as they arrive."
"Who will be listed as their parents?"
"Actually Sir, nobody. They will get the same guidance from the adults as the rest of the kids, but their guardianship will be listed as Clan Short. As such, no legal proceedings can be brought against them for the actions that were required for them to escape. Sean and Aaron handle our legal affairs, and both of them have already got it set up so nobody on Earth can touch them."
Admiral Morrow smiled and shook his head in wonder. "You know something Cory? Every time I talk to you, you sound more and more like a man I respect like no other - Ambassador Sarek. I feel sorry for any being that crosses either one of you; they don't have a chance."
Just then the intercom on the Admiral's desk chimed. "Admiral; Captain Kirk and Captain Spock to see you, Sir."
"Send them in."
Cory jumped up and came to attention facing the door, followed a split second later by Caleb and Noah. Once Kirk and Spock were done with their official greetings to the Admiral, Cory saluted. "Welcome back, Captain."
Kirk grinned as he returned the salute. "Thank you, Ensign. I appreciated your homecoming gift!"
"Thank you, Sir!" Cory replied before dropping the salute and turning to Mr. Spock. Cory raised his hand in Vulcan greeting, his actions being mirrored by Noah and Caleb. "Welcome back, Captain Spock. I hope that your latest travels were successful."
Mr. Spock raised an eyebrow at the two boys with Cory before returning their greeting. "It was as expected. May I inquire as to the identities of your companions and the logic behind their presence?"
Unsure of the boy's positions, Cory described them as he introduced them. "As you wish, Sir. The young man with blond hair behind me is Caleb Barnes, and the young man with brown hair is Noah Barnes. Both are Clan Short members who have been added since your departure. Noah and Caleb assisted in the debugging and repairs to the Space Sim software, and share equal credit with myself as to the finished product."
Mr. Spock nodded his head once. "Your decision to include them in this meeting is acceptable. I have reviewed the results of your work and found it to meet the expected standards. You may continue introductions, Mr. Short."
Cory nodded his head before motioning the two boys to join him at his side. "Noah, Caleb; I'd like you to meet my Commanding Officer, Captain James T. Kirk of the USS Enterprise."
Kirk stepped forward and shook both boys hands. "It's great to meet you guys; you've got to be pretty special to keep up with Cory on the computers! Just call me Uncle Jim, the rest of the kids do."
Both boys were awestruck as they shook Kirk's hand. Caleb was the only one able to speak. "WOW! Cory never told us we'd be meeting y'all! This is awesome!"
Kirk chuckled. "Just wait, Sean don't know it yet, but he's bringing all of you up to the ship tomorrow! I'm sure Scotty is going to want to meet you two."
Both boy's grins showed their acceptance of the news. Cory then turned to Mr. Spock, and as Noah and Caleb turned they both became serious. Cory again did the introduction. "Noah, Caleb; it is my honor to present to you Captain Spock, First Officer and Science Officer on the USS Enterprise and son of Ambassador Sarek."
Noah stepped forward. "Mr. Spock, I speak for my brother as well as myself in stating it is an honor to make your acquaintance. We are honored that you found our work acceptable. I believe you will find the details of the problems most interesting."
Spock raised both eyebrows. "I shall await your report then, Noah. May I inquire as to the length of time you have resided with Clan Short?"
Noah nodded. "We have been residing at our new home slightly in excess of seventy hours, Sir."
"Your grasp of proper communication skills is unusual for that time frame. My father will find my report to him on your progress very interesting."
Kirk interrupted the conversation. "Okay Spock, you can stop torturing the boys now! Admit it, they impressed you!" He turned to Cory. "Cory, one of these days you're going to do something that DOESN'T surprise me!"
Cory grinned at Kirk. "No way, Sir! I promised Scotty that I'd keep you on your toes!"
Kirk shook his head. "For some reason I believe you! Let's get this over with before you cause any more gray hairs."
Admiral Morrow chuckled. "Hold on, Jim. There's one more guest coming; Cory is planning on having some fun."
As if on cue, the intercom dinged. "Admiral, a Mr. William Gates to see you."
The Admiral motioned everyone over to the conference table before replying. "Send him in, then hold all my calls until further notice."
"Aye Sir."
As everyone took their places around the table, the Admiral met Mr. Gates at the door. He escorted him to the table, then once they were seated began the introductions. "Everyone, this is Bill Gates, head of Microsoft. Mr. Gates, let me introduce our companions. To my left is Captain James T. Kirk, Commanding Officer of the USS Enterprise. Next to him is Captain Spock, Science Officer on the USS Enterprise. To my right is Ensign Cory Short, Engineers Assistant on the USS Enterprise and Patriarch of Clan Short of Vulcan. To his right is Noah Barnes, Clan Short IT Security and Caleb Barnes, also Clan Short IT Security. I will be quite honest, the details of the report I received are Greek to me, so I'm going to turn this over to Mr. Short."
"Thank you, Sir." Cory said as he stood and walked over to the display on the wall. "Mr. Gates, we discovered a flaw in the retail versions of Space Sim that allowed them to uplink to a Starfleet ship's computer. Upon comparison of the retail code to the classified Starfleet specific code, we found you in contract violation. To be exact, we found that both contained the same code with a weak lock placed on the retail version."
Gates interrupted Cory. "Listen kid, you have no idea about contract law, so give it up. Besides, if you decompiled the retail version I'm filing charges; we only gave Starfleet rights to their code."
Cory held up his hand to stop the Admiral from responding, then went into Vulcan mode as he replied. "Mr. Gates, it is apparent that you have been given insufficient information. The code in question is considered a Starfleet security breach, as such it is open for inspection. The standard Starfleet software license requires access to all associated code whether retail or custom; it is a non-revocable clause in a contract your company signed. Additionally, if you continue on your present course of action, there is a high probability that you will leave here with no company to be head of."
Mr. Spock spoke as Cory paused. "Mr. Gates, I concur with Mr. Short's hypothesis. I place the chances of your company being bankrupt at 98% if you continue with this illogical emotional outburst."
Gates looked at the Admiral for help. "What's the deal here?"
Admiral Morrow shook his head. "I hate to tell you this, Bill, but Mr. Short is one-hundred percent right. Both he and Mr. Spock are referring to a ruling by the Federation Council. By contract, you should have already lost everything due to the amount of flaws found; the fines are on a per-incident basis. Mr. Short requested that you be given a fair hearing to discuss the problems found and assess where the fault lay. Before you leave today, the five gentlemen with us will decide on their recommendation to the Council as to your fate. Of those five, four will decide using logic only, so you better pay attention."
The anger on Bill Gates face disappeared, and was replaced with shock, then fear, then resignation. He turned back to Cory and spoke. "Mr. Short, it appears I was out of line. Please continue."
Cory nodded. "Thank you, Mr. Gates. We found one flaw that seems to be common across multiple software platforms; unfortunately Space Sim did not lock it out properly in the retail code. I am going to display the code snippets for the areas we found; Noah was in charge of error tracking and will describe the implications of each problem."
Cory brought up the first frame, and Noah took over the commentary. "This segment is where the software connects to Starfleet servers to access the DNS for Fleet ships. The retail version should have had this code stripped out, instead it was locked out by using false ship names. If the name of an actual ship was forced into the program, it was able to access the ship's training database. We found that by removing this code and all calls for it that program speed increased three percent. We developed a modified access code that is more secure; it only adds a one percent overhead."
An hour later, Noah finished with the last slide. "As you can see, by your programmers leaving in the Starfleet code there was serious unneeded overhead in the retail version. You will notice that we did not show you the repaired code; some of it is for Starfleet eyes only. Caleb will discuss with you what your options are at this point."
Caleb stepped up. "Computer; begin logging."
"Logging activated."
Caleb turned to Gates. "We had our Clan legal department review your contract. Forty-eight of the flaws we found were in direct violation of the contract terms; each copy you have made of Space Sim is subject to a fine for each of those flaws. As such, the total of your projected fines exceeds Microsoft's estimated value considerably. Due to the fact that a portion of those flaws have been found in other manufacturer's software in a lesser degree, we have developed a more logical solution to this issue. We will provide you with a clean copy of Space Sim; all the offending code has been removed, and we repaired a few bugs that have slipped through your programmers as well. You will make this copy available for download immediately at no charge, and will distribute it to anyone who calls in for it on appropriate medium for no fee. Don't require proof of ownership; this needs to get out to the hackers as well as legit customers. You will turn over all existing code to Starfleet and use this as your base code for the next version. In thirty days, we will make a modification to a certain address Noah did not show you that all of the existing copies try to access. Once they access that address, the software will be disabled and a notice will appear on their screen giving the address to download the replacement version and the phone number to call to get a hard copy. You will need to keep the download and hard copies available for one year, even if you release a newer version before then. If you agree to this route, all you have to do is figure out the excuse you are going to use for needing to do this; if you pick the right one you might actually pick up some customers on your next version."
Gates looked around the table. "Considering the alternative, I really don't have much choice. Does anyone have any ideas on how we can pull this off?"
Cory smiled. "You would have to get the Admiral's permission, but I think that you could play it off pretty easily. There are two copies on the disk we'll give you; one is just 2004 stripped of all the code, while the other is marked as 2005 with quite a few enhancements. We looked at all of the areas that annoyed us as players, and worked out the bugs in them. In addition, we were able to insert the code giving the retail version voice capability. Personally, I'd make an announcement that a hacker had managed to access the retail copies and install a spy worm into the program; then in the same announcement state that Starfleet programmers assisted you with completion of the 2005 version and verified the access point was closed. Make it sound like you are distributing 2005 for free because you are concerned about your customer's privacy; you might even consider free full version displays at major retailers to make sure it gets out. We've already taken care of the hacked software distribution sites; they all have the edited 2004 version now. Oh, one thing Caleb forgot; from now on you will only develop the retail version, the copies Starfleet gets from you will be internally modified to meet Simulator requirements. You will still be provided the information you need for new classes of Fleet ships to add them to the base program."
"I like that idea; I think it will work great! Admiral, give me about a week to find out exactly who approved the code being left in like that; even though Cory is offering my company a chance, I would prefer to turn the responsible party over to you for further action. Despite the rumors in the IT industry, I don't approve of sloppy software. It looks like it's time for me to do some overdue house cleaning, and then stop everything and review every line of code in all of our products. I busted my tail to build this company, I'm not about to lose it because someone got lazy."
Admiral Morrow nodded his head. "As long as you put it the way Cory suggested, I'm fine with you distributing the 2005 version that way. I think we're about done. Gentlemen, I need your recommendations to pass on to the Council. Caleb?"
Caleb looked up. "Mr. Gates suggested that it might be a breakdown in management that caused this. I'm okay with leaving it at this as long as he is able to provide a verifiable area where the problem occurred and can prove that it is fixed."
Noah went next. "I agree with Caleb, as long as something is in place so this doesn't repeat. If it does happen again, the fines should be automatic without appeal."
Cory took his turn. "I believe we should follow the outlined agreement. Admiral, I do think that a fixed time line needs to be set by you; and it needs to be non-negotiable."
Admiral Morrow turned to the other side of the table. "Mr. Spock, your opinion?"
"I find the statements made by Clan Short to be acceptable. The economic impact of dissolving the company makes that option illogical; the alternative developed by Clan Short lessens economic impact while still providing appropriate discipline for the transgressions of the employees."
Kirk looked around the table before answering. "Well, I think the Clan's got it all handled; the only thing I can think of is making it so that they review all future releases of any software which might contain Starfleet code before the software can hit the streets. As a third party, maybe they can keep this from happening again."
To everyone's surprise, Bill Gates spoke up. "Excellent idea, Captain. I'd be happy to agree to that; it protects both parties that way, and the code is secure with them."
Admiral Morrow stood up. "Gentlemen, since we are all in agreement, I will pass this on to the Council for approval. They are in session now and awaiting my call, I shall return shortly."
Fifteen minutes later, Admiral Morrow returned. "The council has approved the arrangements. Bill, hang around; we need to set up a schedule. The rest of you are free to go."
Cory walked up to Bill. "Mr. Gates, here's the master for you to distribute. This other one has the same thing as the master along with the modified 2004. I would suggest not letting your programmers even know that you have it until it's locked in to where they can't touch it; we closed off almost all of their back doors too. It appeared that each team installed their own back door, their were about 40 of them total. We left the QA doors and your personal door, all of the rest are gone."
Bill chuckled. "No problem; but I'll bet you installed one for yourself."
Cory giggled. "No need to, we've got yours! You did a good job of hiding it, so we'll just use it. Just let us know if you change it."
"Will do!" Bill replied. He then spun in shock as Caleb gave him a serious swat on the behind. "What was that for?!"
Caleb grinned as he replied "Windows ME - need I say more?"
Bill chuckled. "You're the first person with enough ba ... guts to literally spank me for that mess! You are definitely going to go far with that attitude, young man. Don't ever change it!"
Mr. Spock looked over from where he was getting his report from Noah. "Mr. Gates, am I correct in my observation that you consider corporal punishment a suitable recourse for production of inferior software?"
Bill smiled as he replied. "Considering the programmers seem to be getting younger every year, it might not be that far-fetched of an idea, Mr. Spock."
Both of Mr. Spock's eyebrows went up as he returned to his discussion with Noah. Once they were finished, Cory said their farewells. Fifteen minutes later, they beamed back into the front hall at home.
The three boys headed into the Rec Room to see what was going on. Cory was about three feet inside the doorway when Timmy noticed him and came flying across the room.
"DADDY! YOU'RE HOME!" Timmy yelled as he pounced Cory.
Noah and Caleb saw Timmy coming, and managed to brace Cory to keep him from falling as Timmy slammed into his chest.
Cory giggled at the squirming boy in his arms. "Hey rug-rat; did'ja miss me or something?"
Timmy purred as he molded himself to Cory. "Yeah Daddy; I was scared you wasn't comin' home."
Cory kissed Timmy on the cheek. "You can relax, little one. There's no way I'd let anything separate me from you and Pop; the two of you are what makes me smile whenever I wake up."
Timmy snuggled tight against Cory's chest. Cory walked over to where Sean was sitting at the terminal, leaned over, and gave Sean a quick kiss. "Hey Cutie; did you miss me too?"
Sean giggled. "Of course, silly! I was getting lonely without my favorite cuddle toy! How did the meeting go?"
"Pretty good; the patches were approved and Microsoft is going to distribute the reworked Space Sim. Noah and Caleb got to meet the Captain and Mr. Spock; you should have seen Noah discussing programming with Mr. Spock! Oh, dust off your pilot clothes, you're driving the tour bus to the Enterprise tomorrow."
Sean got suddenly serious. "Cor, please don't joke about that. I'm not ready to take responsibility for taking these guys into space. I care about all of them too much, if something happened I'd die."
Cory saw the fear in Sean's eyes. He quickly sat Timmy on the loveseat, then returned to Sean. Cory then pulled Sean to the loveseat also, guiding him onto his lap once he was seated. "Sean, babe, relax. Nobody is going to get hurt; Captain Kirk is the one who wants you to do it. You are qualified, and I trust you just as much as I trust Uncle Chip. This is the one thing that you can do that none of the rest of us can; you make me proud when I see you run through the practice courses on the simulator like they are nothing. You're the best thirteen-year-old pilot in the Federation; I think it's great that you get to show our new family why they call you that. You always tell everyone not to talk down about themselves; listen to your own advice bro."
Sean nuzzled Cory's cheek. "Yeah, I guess you're right. You gonna be my co-pilot?"
Cory smiled. "Naw, I think I'll let Matt do it. I'm not qualified yet, and I want to wait until you feel comfortable teaching me. Besides, this way I can handle all of the questions from the newbies so they don't bug you."
"You know, for a blond you're pretty smart!" Sean giggled.
"Yeah, and you don't do too bad yourself, considering you're a Helmsman!" Cory shot back with a chuckle.
Their cuddle was interrupted by Tommy shouting. "Holy Smoke! I ain't never heard no such thing! Bro's, git over here; y'all ain't gonna have no ideas guessin' what Justy's done found!"
Cory and Sean jumped up and ran to the computer terminal. Aaron arrived the same time they did; he took one look at the screen and grinned.
"Justy, could you print that? Make a few copies; I think Mom might be interested in this one." Aaron requested.
"Sure. Computer: print document, five copies. Execute."
A few seconds later, Justy handed two copies to Aaron. He gave Cory and Sean each a copy, and placed the last one on the growing pile of research that all of the boys had conducted. Cory glanced over the form, then looked back up at Justy. "Bro, we're gonna take Timmy and Ricky upstairs to explain this to them; could you and Tommy fill everyone else in while Aaron handles the adults?"
"No prob, Cor. This just explained a lot of things."
A few minutes later, Sean and Cory sat Timmy and Ricky down in the bedroom.
"Why's ev'ryone so 'cited, Daddy?" Timmy asked.
Cory smiled. "It's because we just found out something really special, lil' guy; something special about you and your friend DJ."
Both young boys perked up at the mention of DJ. "Did you figger out why he's talkin' to Timmy?" Ricky asked.
Sean giggled. "Not for sure, munchkin; but what your Uncle Tommy and Uncle Justy found helps us a lot to guess at how it's happening. You guys need to sit still and wait to ask questions until Cory finishes telling you about what we found, okay?"
Both boys nodded, then sat back holding hands while watching Cory expectantly.
Cory pulled a chair over and sat in front of them. "Timmy, before you were born, your birth Daddy used to work on experimental stuff for Starfleet. At the time, they were experimenting with what's called time travel; basically what they were trying to do was figure out how to go a short time into the past to prevent disasters like a ship blowing up or stuff like that. Your Daddy was supposed to be sent back thirteen minutes as a test; something messed up and he was sent back thirteen years. He had a tracking bug on him, but it took almost two years to find him by searching through the time lines. When they found him, a pre-arranged signal was triggered which told him that he would be transported back in five hours. When he came back to his normal time, he brought you back with him, Timmy. What it says here is that he had a job in California while he was waiting, and got a little too drunk at a New Year's party. It seems that he got one of his co-workers pregnant; nine months later you were born. Since your mommy was married to someone else, they made it look like you died in the hospital. They did that to protect you and your daddy; if anyone found out he was from the future there would be a lot of trouble. Also, if he had left you there it could have messed up what we know as reality today. You understand so far?"
Timmy nodded. "Yeah, kinda. That means I'm like Uncle 'Tonio, ain't I? I'm old but still a kid."
"You got it, kiddo. You grow normal, it's just that you will always be eleven years older than you look."
"Okay; but whaddabout DJ?"
"I'm getting to him, Gizmo. You see, your Mommy had another baby about a year after you were born. Your Daddy had already came back, so he didn't know about it. Starfleet prevented him from contacting her; they thought it would be best to keep separate just in case his return erased her memories of him being in the earlier time. To make it easy; DJ is your half-brother. I think that the two of you can "talk" because of that; kinda like the twins all do."
"KEWL! I gotta brother!" Timmy exclaimed excitedly.
Ricky gave Sean a confused look. "Pop, does that make DJ a big brother or a little brother?"
Sean giggled. "I don't know, Ricky. I guess you guys will just have to argue about it when y'all meet."
"Ya' think he's gonna like me, daddy?" Timmy asked in a suddenly subdued voice.
Cory reached forward and pulled Timmy onto his lap. "You know what, munchkin? I think he's gonna love you, just like all the rest of us do. You're an awesome little guy; anyone who don't like you has gotta be crazy."
Timmy gave a small smile and rested his head on Cory's chest. "I love you, Daddy."
Downstairs, Austin, Teri, Aaron, Tommy and Justy were sitting at the table discussing the latest turn of events.
Austin looked across the table. "Justy, how sure are you of this being accurate?"
Justy grinned. "Doc, if you knew where I found this at you wouldn't ask that! Let's just say the place where Starfleet has this stored requires a pretty high level of access just to know it's there. That printout is part of the official logs; lying on it would be grounds for Court Martial."
"Okay, if it's so secret, how did you find it?"
Justy looked up at the ceiling and shook his head. "Starfleet don't keep secrets from Vulcan, and Vulcan's don't search for information unless it's necessary. As a Vulcan family member searching from a Clan headquarters, ANY information that matched my search was made available. I started this search last night; this was buried so deep that it took until today for it to be found."
Austin began to respond, but was cut off by Tommy. "Doc, I ain't meanin' to be rude, but y'all are a' whippin' a dead horse. It ain't makin' a lick of difference where Justy found it; I'm gett'n new kin, a nephew bigger 'en me. What's y'all's plan here? There ain't no way my bro can have a son that's grown same as him. It ain't right and ain't fair to DJ. Whaddabout Tanner; both 'dem boys need real kin to call their own, parents lettin' them know if they's slippin' the wrong way. Y'all's givin me new kinfolk, 'stead of floppin' like tadpoles let's git these boys their own kin too."
Aaron was in shock at Tommy's outburst. Teri just chuckled. "Oh, Aaron, I forgot to warn you; your little brother gets a mite bit excited at times. It seems to happen when he knows he's right from what I can tell."
Tommy turned bright red and stared at the table. "Sorry Mom; I didn't mean to be bad, please don't be mad at me." he sniffled. He jumped in his seat when Teri reached over for him, but relaxed somewhat when she pulled him onto her lap. "Please don't hit me, mommy." he whined.
Teri pulled him tight against her bosom and kissed his forehead. "Shhh, relax son; I will never hit any kid, especially one of my own sons. I have no reason to be mad at you; in your own way you told us what you thought needed to be done. We might need to work on your diplomacy a little bit, but I think everything you just said was absolutely correct." She sat and caressed his back for a few minutes until he was relaxed, then continued in a soft tone. "You know something? You sound a lot like one of your big brothers, Cory. I know that even when he was younger, whenever he spoke up like that he had an idea about how to fix the problem too. Do you have any ideas?"
Tommy replied just loud enough for Teri to hear him. "Yeah, but it's dumb, it ain't gonna happen."
Teri turned his head so she could kiss Tommy on the tip of his nose, then replied "The only way it can't happen for sure is if you don't tell us. It won't hurt to try."
Tommy looked around, he was shocked to see that Cory and Sean had joined them. "I guess so. Y'all promise not to laugh at me?"
"We promise, babe. Just look at me and let me know your idea."
"Well, I was kinda thinkin' that since Russ and Sara have been so good, maybe they'd like to have DJ and Tanner for kin; maybe they could help out somehow."
Teri gave Tommy a hug of encouragement. "There's nothing dumb about that idea, son. In fact, I think it's a great idea. Why don't we see if your brothers can make it work?" She looked up at the rest of the boys. "Well, guys, any comments?"
Sean looked at Cory. "I know that Sara's a nurse, but what about Russ?"
"I don't know either. What about you guys?"
Aaron shook his head, but then Justy's face lit up. "Oh yeah, Russ used to do some work as a sound mixer. Air-boy, you still planning to use that studio out back at the Ranch for your recordings?"
Aaron grinned. "You know, that's been one of the things holding me up from using it; finding someone to run the sound room that I approved of. It would be perfect if I had family to count on to run it."
Austin broke into the mix. "You know, since Sara's a nurse, maybe she could act as a liaison between me and Camp Little Eagle. It would make things easier for me and the Camp to have someone handle the day-to-day medical needs."
Teri looked back down at Tommy. "See what I meant? Not only did you have a good idea, but it's one that your brothers have already figured out how to make work. Doc Austin and I will do the next part, convincing them to do it. Thanks to you, Tommy, the boys could very well have another surprise coming. I'll start working on Russ and Sara as soon as I can talk in private to them. They called earlier and told me the boys were getting on a bus; they are supposed to call back tonight once they are safely off."
"I guess so." Tommy replied softly. "Whaddabout me bein' dis'spectful? I gotta be punished, ain't I? My old Mommy'd slapped me to next month if I'da done dat with her 'round."
Teri pulled Tommy back against her. "I need you to be honest, son. Did your old mom hit you a lot?"
Tears streamed down Tommy's face as he sobbed. "Yeah, all the time. Lotsa times she'd do it just cuz' she hadn't caught me doin' nothin'. She says I ain't gonna learn to be good without being punished."
Teri glanced around the table, and was surprised to see the looks of shock on Sean and Cory's faces. Guessing that she was in territory which they had no knowledge of, she continued carefully. "Tommy, you're a very strong young man, and very well mannered for your age. You've had a rough life from the sound of it; but instead of it bringing you down, you've developed into a fine young man. I know you loved your mom, but what she was doing was not punishment; it was abuse. You are my son now; like I said earlier, I do not hit my sons. I also don't believe in punishing them for expressing their opinions, as long as it's done in a constructive manner. I will admit you were a little rough about the way you went about it, but I understand where you were coming from. Adults are not perfect, Tommy; we make mistakes just like you do. If I hadn't listened to Sean and Cory, none of what you see around you would have happened. Today you followed in your new big brother's footsteps; you spoke up and are probably going to make a difference in two boy's lives who you've never met. Do you still think you need punished?"
Tommy turned his tear-stained face to Teri. "I guess ... if you put it that way ... you really ain't gonna treat me any different than Sean or Cory, are you?"
Teri smiled and kissed Tommy on the forehead. "No, son, I will never treat you any different. You can ask Adam and Tyler; they've been around longer than you."
A small smile crept onto Tommy's face. "I love you Mom!" he exclaimed as he threw his arms around Teri. "Y'all've made me feel special ever since I got here. I'd been wonderin' when it was gonna end; now I'm seein' it's for real. Thanks for puttin' up with me."
Teri giggled. "Silly boy; there's nothing about you to 'put up' with. You're twelve years old; you have a lot to learn and it's my job to help you learn it."
Cory walked over and put an arm over Tommy's shoulder. "You know, lil' bro, if you keep sittin' on mom's lap she's not gonna be able to get ready to talk to Russ and Sara. Why don't we hit the pool and let the old folks do their thing?"
Tommy got a mischievous look on his face. "Yeah, sounds great! We better hurry before they forget what they're 'posed to do! You know how old folks forget stuff."
Teri shifted her fingers under Tommy's armpits and tickled him. "Are you trying to say I'm forgetful, giggle boy? How's about I forget you're dressed and toss you in myself!"
Tommy wiggled free, then went around the back of Teri's chair, leaned over, and kissed her cheek. "Thanks Mom, you're the best!"
A few minutes later, Teri watched with pride as her boys led the troupe in tossing their clothes into the changing room and running out to the pool. Austin joined her as she walked over to the doorway and looked out at the playing boys.
"All of those boys are amazing!" Austin commented.
"That's the understatement of the century." Teri whispered. "I honestly love every single one of them. I thank God every night for bringing them into my life."
John and Dan had came up behind them. Dan placed an arm around Teri. "A little secret Teri; every night we hear them thanking God for you being here for them."
The adults watched the boys as they frolicked and cuddled in the pool area. After a few minutes, they turned with smiles on their faces and went inside to begin the process of augmenting their growing staff.
Tommy awoke to the sound of soft giggles coming from behind him. As he rolled onto his back to investigate the source, Kelly moaned in his sleep and shifted himself around until he was laying on the left side of Tommy's chest. As Tommy wiggled his arm free and wrapped it over Kelly's back, he addressed the source of the giggling. "Timmy, Ricky; what'ch y'all gigglin' 'bout?"
Timmy pointed towards Noah and Caleb. Though obviously still asleep, the two boys seemed to be acting out their mutual dream by grinding their bodies together. Tommy smiled then motioned to Timmy and Ricky. "Y'all get over here and cuddle with us; them two is just enjoyin' a dream. There ain't no need in you wakin' them and ruinin' it."
The two boys crawled over and slipped under the covers. Timmy immediately wiggled around until he was laying on top of Tommy's stomach, while Ricky snuggled into Tommy's right side. Kelly semi-woke enough to shift around and place his arm across Timmy's back and muttered "Go back to sleep kiddo, it's too early to play."
The last thing Tommy heard before he drifted back into dreamland was a soft voice from the middle of his chest. "Night, Unca Tommy. Love you."
Cory and Sean were engaged in the middle of their morning tongue wrestling when they heard Kelly's comment. "Timmy, this is getting to be a habit!"
They broke their kiss and scooted over to join the tangle of four boys by them. Cory took one look at Tommy's face and knew what had happened. "Hey lil' bro, let me guess; your nephew the wiggle worm has struck again. Don't worry about it; as far as I know he hasn't started doing it on purpose - yet."
Sean placed a hand on Timmy's shoulder and rubbed it softly. "Can you tell me what happened, son?"
Timmy turned his head and replied softly. "Sorry Poppa, Unca' Tommy was dreamin' and he started wiggling his pee-pee on me. My pee-pee was layin' on his; it felt good so I started rubbin' too. A couple a' minutes later, Unca' Tommy's spermies came out all over my weenie, they made it slippery and it tickled then tried to squirt spermies too."
Tommy sat up and pulled his nephew into a hug. "Relax little buddy, I'm not mad; you just surprised me. Promise me that you'll only do that with Ricky? It ain't right for you to be rubbin' with uncles, okay?"
"But we don't know what to do, Unca' Tommy."
Cory looked at Sean, who nodded his head. "Tom, Kel; for some reason I think these two trust you in these matters. We know neither of you would take advantage of them, so could you help them out?"
Kelly giggled. "I think you're just scared they'll get you next! I see what you mean, though. They see all of us makin' out and want to feel it too; it's up to Tommy, but I think it's a good idea that they learn what's okay and what's off limits."
Tommy glanced down at the young boy snuggled tightly against his chest. "I ain't gonna let this lil' guy get hurt; if we don't do it, he'll find someone who will. Kel and me's gotta get Doc's okay first, but if he goes for it we'll handle it bro."
Cory smiled. "Thanks guys; sooner or later Sean and I are gonna have to go on duty with Starfleet. You have no idea how much better it makes me feel to know that we can trust y'all to watch over Timmy. Now, nothing personal, but y'all need a shower!"
Cory and Sean couldn't help but giggle at the looks on Tommy and Kelly's faces as they were drug into the bathroom by their young nephews.
Everyone had just finished breakfast when Dan turned to Matt with a grin on his face. "Matt, did you remember to grab extra sheets for the boy's beds?"
Matt looked at Dan with a confused look. "Yeah, why?"
Dan chuckled. "From the amount of showers this morning, I'm betting they need changed already!"
Before Dan could brace himself, Justy led the charge of blushing boys pouncing Dan. John sat back and laughed. "You should know better, babe!" Before anyone else could react, Dan found himself unceremoniously thrown into the pool.
Teri tried to keep a straight face as the boys filed back in. "Was that really necessary, guys?"
She lost control though when Justy replied. "Yes Ma'am, it sure was! He's just jealous 'cause John didn't give him any last night!"
Once everyone had settled back down, Teri turned to Sean. "What have you guys got on the schedule today, Sean?"
Sean looked at his watch. "In a couple of hours we are supposed to leave to go up to the Enterprise. I figure we have enough time to catch a movie, then we'll head out to the spaceport and head up. That reminds me; just in case anything happens, I'm going to forward the house phone to Cory's communicator. We can respond a lot faster than you could if the boys need us."
"Good idea, Sean. Any idea when you guys will be back?"
"Not really, Captain Kirk invited us up. I'll call you just before we come back."
"Okay. I talked to Russ and Sara last night, they agreed to Tommy's plan, and are going to drive over as soon as they take care of a few things at home. I think there are going to be a pair of very happy boys very soon."
Timmy interrupted. "There's four now, Gran'ma! Kyle asked Mikey, DJ made two friends but the aunt they are comin' to see is in Heaven with my first Daddy."
Teri walked over and gave Timmy a hug. "Thanks for telling me, little one. We'll take care of DJ's friends too."
The boys headed into the Rec room and put in a Harry Potter movie. A few minutes later, Teri looked in on them and chuckled as she heard a lively argument going about which actor was the cutest.
Sean began strapping himself into the pilots seat on the shuttle and glanced nervously at Matt.
Matt saw the look, and responded calmly. "Settle down Sean, this is no different than your training runs. If I even considered that you were not ready you wouldn't be sitting where you are now. Just relax, let's get this show on the road."
Sean sat back for a second, then turned to the passenger compartment. "Justy, secure all cargo and make sure everyone's belted in."
"Yes, Sir!" Justy replied with pride. Two minutes later, he called forward. "Passenger area ready for flight, Sean."
Sean forgot who his passengers were and settled into the routine. "Thanks' Justy. Mr. Barnes, begin preflight."
Matt began running his fingers over the console. "Exterior hatches closed and sealed. Life Support on line. Diagnostics passed, standing by to prefire thrusters."
"Acknowledged." Sean replied. "Opening flight plan."
Sean put on his headset and set it for the tower frequency. "Des Moines tower, this is shuttle Mississippi."
"This is Des Moines Tower. Go ahead Mississippi."
"Des Moines, open my flight plan, destination is NCC-1701-A. Standing by thrusters for clear pad."
"Acknowledged Mississippi. Flight plan open, state pilot and co-pilot."
"Des Moines, Pilot Ensign Sean Short, Co-pilot Lieutenant Matthew Barnes."
"Understood and logged Mississippi. Pad clear, engage thrusters and hold position."
"Thank you Des Moines. Engaging thrusters, understand hold position."
Sean turned to Matt. "Mr. Barnes, engage maneuvering thrusters and hold position."
"Aye Sir. Thrusters engaged, engines pass diagnostics and on line."
A few seconds later the comm link came to life. Shuttle Mississippi, this is Des Moines Tower. You are clear for takeoff heading 273 true. Transfer to Denver Control upon entry into Mountain Time Zone."
"Acknowledged Des Moines. Takeoff heading 273 true, transfer to Denver at Mountain Time Zone. Thank you, Mississippi out."
Sean then turned to Matt. "Mr. Barnes, take communications, I have the conn."
Matt smiled at the professional manner Sean was displaying. "Yes sir, I have communications and navigation, you have the conn."
Sean spun the shuttle until it was pointing the right direction, then engaged the engine and launched. As soon as they reached cruising altitude, he relaxed slightly as he announced with a grin "Thank you for flying Clan Short Airlines. I'm sorry, but we will not be providing in-flight meals today; the amount of food required to feed y'all would have put us over takeoff weight! You may now release your seat belts, we are taking a detour over the Grand Canyon for your viewing pleasure."
Matt barely suppressed his laughter at Sean's announcement. "Now THAT is the Sean I want to see at the helm!" he announced over the intercom.
Sean giggled. "We'll see what Captain Kirk thinks first; I'm not sure he's expecting that."
A couple of minutes later, Cory came up front. "Hey Matt, why didn't we get the Newton today?"
Matt grinned. "Well, Cory, the Newton is for Federation business - basically for your Mom and John. This shuttle was just assigned to Clan Short. It has a unique diplomatic status to match the Clan's status. You have got your own personal shuttle, in fact when we move to Orlando it moves with us."
"Wow! Who set that up?" Cory asked in surprise.
"I think Admiral Morrow did it as a gesture towards the Vulcan Embassy; basically acknowledging the status of the Clan. In fact, when we get back it's getting your crest put on it; they didn't have time to do it before we needed it today. They barely managed to get the new transponder in so that we ID as a diplomatic shuttle."
"Kewl! Thanks Matt, it all makes sense now." Cory replied as he turned to re-join the rest of the boys.
About fifteen minutes later, Sean announced "Anyone wanting to see the Grand Canyon, here's your chance!" It took a few passes to satisfy all of the boys, but once they had all returned to the back Sean smiled. "You know Matt, seeing the kid's faces was worth the side trip!"
"I agree! You can see so much more the way you went; I think it was a perfect choice."
"Thanks Matt. It made me relax some too, just flying without having to worry about anything. You ready to go up?"
"Ready when you are, Sean. Just give the word."
Sean smiled. "Let's do it, Matt. Lay in a course for the Denver corridor, then begin preparations for atmospheric departure."
"Course laid in, it's all yours Sean." Matt replied before turning his head to the passenger compartment. "Justy, get everyone ready; we're going up."
Just as Justy began strapping in the kids, Cory's communicator went off. As soon as he answered it, his face went pale. "Hold on, Tanner, we'll be right there. I'm going to give you to Justy; keep him updated - we are on our way." Cory passed the communicator to Justy then ran to the front of the shuttle. "Mr. Barnes, you are relieved of your station. Outfit a security crew with full body armor and prepare for landing. DJ has been shot, they are at the bus station in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Mr. Short, notify Denver Control we are declaring a Priority One emergency."
Sean snapped into command mode, and began rapid-firing orders. "You heard him, Mr. Barnes. Justy! Keep Tanner on the line; Adam - prepare for emergency maneuvering! Cory, take your station, lay in a direct course for Cheyenne, Wyoming."
Sean switched channels on the communications console as he began initialization of the emergency overrides, then announced "Denver Control, this is shuttle craft Mississippi. We are declaring a Priority One Medical Emergency; I repeat, this is Shuttlecraft Mississippi, we are declaring a Priority One Medical Emergency. Clear all airspace between our present location and Cheyenne, Wyoming. Clear airspace above Cheyenne, Wyoming for emergency atmospheric departure by request of Cory Short, Patriarch of Clan Short of Vulcan. Acknowledge."
A few seconds later, he received the reply. "Shuttlecraft Mississippi, Priority One emergency acknowledged. You have clear airspace below thirty thousand feet en route to Cheyenne, Wyoming. Civilian ATC has been notified and traffic grounded. Airspace above Cheyenne is now a no-fly zone. Do you require us to contact your destination?"
"Negative Denver, thank you. Initiating Emergency maneuvers. Mississippi out."
"Acknowledged. Denver Out."
Adam yelled from the back. "Hit it Sean, we're set back here."
"Hold on!" Sean yelled back as he maxed the thrusters and sped towards Cheyenne. The snap from the shuttle passing the sound barrier echoed down the length of the Grand Canyon. Sean kept his eyes on where he was going as he asked Cory "Have you located that bus station yet?"
"Just entering it into the system now!" Cory replied. "You got it - they better hope there's a place to land."
Justy yelled directions from the back. "Sean, Tanner says there is a yard on the east side; the doors are on the west side though, the east side is only windows."
"Land on the east side!" Matt yelled. "We'll make our own door if we need to!"
"You got it Matt; prepare to disembark on my mark. Phasers set at your discretion, use deadly force if needed."
"Cory, set override on the doors. I want them open the second I cut the thrusters."
Cory entered the commands into the console. "Override set, awaiting your command."
Sean came in fast and low, taking the top off of a small tree as he crossed the sidewalk. He was still about six inches off of the ground when he cut the thrusters. "Landing Party - MOVE!"
Matt led the calvary out the open door. As he quickly appraised the situation through the glass, he saw a man he recognized from pictures as Colin laying on the floor, holding his leg with one hand while trying to control a pistol with the other. When he saw the man turn the pistol towards a small body on the ground, Matt blew out the window in front of them with his phaser rifle. At that point, Colin made his first and last mistake. He shot towards Matt's legs; the problem was, he hit the artificial section of Matt's leg. Colin's shock at Matt not even flinching at a hole you could see daylight through caused him to pause, before he could recover and fire again it was too late. JJ and Gabe both drew a bead on Colin and knocked him out with their phasers. A movement between the benches caught JJ's eye; he nudged Gabe and they focused on the area. JJ had a hunch that he knew who was trying to sneak away; as soon as they got a clear shot they dropped the two suspects. Matt looked over the area then opened his communicator. "Area secure." Immediately, Antonio exited the shuttle with the Med kit, followed closely by Justy, Jamie, Jacob, Kyle, Sebastian, and Sammy. Cory led the second group out, leaving Sean as the only one in the shuttle.
Antonio laid out the Med kit, and quickly surveyed the injuries. Colin's injuries were the worst; he had been stabbed in the inner leg and the femoral artery had been nicked. Antonio quickly repaired the artery and closed the wound, then sedated Colin so that he would not be a threat for about eight hours. Antonio then rushed over to the boy laying on the floor with Timmy trying to snuggle against him. "You must be DJ; relax and I'll see what I can do."
Timmy snuggled tighter to DJ and held his hand while Antonio started stabilizing him. "Is DJ gonna be okay, 'Tonio?"
Antonio looked up from the readout on the tricorder. "He's gonna be fine, it looks worse than it is."
Antonio winced as he began repairs. No major blood vessels had been hit, but the bullet had lodged in the bone. Antonio sealed the smaller blood vessels to stop the bleeding, and extracted the bullet to prevent lead poisoning. The damage to the bone was too much for the equipment he had to take care of, so he temporarily closed things up and numbed the nerves in DJ's leg to eliminate the pain he was feeling. "DJ, listen up. You need to stay laying down, I've stopped your bleeding, but we need better stuff to really finish fixing you. Your bone is messed up, it might break if you stand on it. That new growth on your side is Timmy; why don't the two of you get to know each other while you are waiting to leave."
DJ gave a weak smile in response, and Antonio stood up to go to the other injured boy. As he walked over, a strawberry blond boy that was kneeling by DJ got up and joined him.
Once they were out of earshot, the boy asked Antonio in a low, cold voice "Why did you fix that trash before you fixed DJ? I thought you were coming to help us."
Antonio spun and looked up to stare the boy straight in the eyes. "You must be Tanner. Let me tell you something; in thirty-six years, I have learned one thing, it is NOT my place to decide if someone lives or dies. I suffer from a unique medical condition that makes it in my best interest to have the medical knowledge of a paramedic; I have a photographic memory so I can learn a years worth of knowledge in a week of studying. Since I'm the one with medical training, I'm the one responsible for making the decisions as to who is most critical. If Colin dies, it will be as a result of judgment for his crimes or other causes; not because I refused to treat him. If you ask any ethical medical personnel what you asked me, they will give you the same answer." Antonio turned, knelt down, and began examining a black-haired boy lying on the floor.
Tanner looked down at Antonio in shock. "Sorry Sir, I kinda thought you was a k ... I mean ... uhhh ... is Beau gonna be okay?"
Antonio looked over his shoulder. "Beau is gonna be fine, thanks for telling me his name. He's just got a mild concussion, I can fix that fairly quick. We'll have to talk to Doc about a replacement tooth though, he lost one here. What happened to him?"
"Colin pistol-whipped him, sir. Toby is freaked right now. He won't come out of the office; he's afraid that he's lost his little brother."
Antonio turned to Tanner with a smile. "Tanner, please stop the 'sir' stuff, I'm Antonio, okay? I may have been alive thirty-six years, but I'm still only nine. I'll explain later, it's kinda confusing. Don't worry about what you said, I actually understand what you were thinking; I don't hold it against you. Right now I'd like to ask a favor of you; can you get Toby and tell him I said he needs to be here when I wake Beau up? Then go tell Cory what happened; he's the blond numbskull talking with DJ and Timmy."
"Okay, but why does Cory need to know what happened?"
"This is kinda scary, but he's in charge! Trust me dude, you guys just got inducted into a group that's put the FBI in their place; just go with the flow for now and we'll fill you in later. Go get Toby, I'm almost done."
Tanner ran off, and a few seconds later a boy with white-blond hair came sliding to a stop next to Antonio. "Tanner said he was gonna be okay! Why are his eyes still closed? Where's the doctor?"
Antonio smiled. "I guess you're Toby. I'm Antonio, and I'm the one fixing up your little brother. Beau is fine, but the best thing for him is going to be seeing his CALM big brother sitting here with him when I wake him up. If you are scared, he'll be scared. Let me know when you are ready."
The shock of finding a kid healing his little brother brought Toby out of his panic. "Dude, I hope you're not messin' with me! If you're serious, hit it. If not, you better run."
Antonio giggled. "Get ready then." He adjusted some controls, and a few seconds later Beau's eyes fluttered open.
"Toby!" Beau exclaimed softly as he sat up and wrapped his arms around his brother's chest. "Are you okay? Are DJ and Tanner okay?"
Antonio answered for Toby, who he could tell was speechless. "Tanner and Toby didn't get hurt; DJ's still got to be fixed up the rest of the way, but he's gonna be fine too."
Beau looked over at Antonio, and saw the medical equipment strewn around him, including things he didn't recognize. "Where's the doctor? Last thing I remember is getting hit after I stabbed that sorry piece of trash."
Antonio smiled. "I'm the one who fixed everyone up; from what I've heard, you saved DJ's life. The trash is going to be punished severely for hurting you guys."
Beau looked at Antonio suspiciously. "Yeah, right; whatever. I heard him say he was a cop; ain't no one gonna believe us over him. I'm probably goin' to jail now."
All three boys jumped as a new voice joined in. "You're wrong on both counts. He screwed up big time; he's not gonna be going in front of any Earth courts. By the way, I'm Cory; and I know for a fact that there's an Admiral who won't even let charges be filed against you. You might not have known it at the time, but when you swore to be DJ and Tanner's brothers forever last night, you put yourself under the same protection they're under since they ran away. They told me all about you guys; the only place you two are going is to your brothers new home. The four of you are family, and it's gonna stay that way. C'mon; DJ is waiting to see you guys; he's got to wait 'till we get to Doc to get his leg finished, so right now he can't walk."
The boys went over to DJ and Tanner, and were shortly tied up in a group hug. As Cory walked with Antonio to join them, he commented "How're they doing, Gramps?"
"Stuff it, Blondie." Antonio growled. "I might be old enough to be your dad, but we've already decided not to treat me that age. They're gonna be fine; I'm glad I'd studied all of those medical books over the years - somehow I chose a different one after each brain wipe they tried. Doc Austin found out and showed me how to use the Med Kits; with you klutzes he figured we'd need it. "
They had got within earshot of the new boys as Antonio made his comment, and Cory noticed three confused faces staring at him. "I'll explain later guys; for right now, lets just say you are looking at a very old nine-year-old. I've got some good news for you though; you don't need to talk to Mom about the Safe Haven Act. All four of you are protected under Vulcan law as members of Clan Short. Mom's working out the details now to give you the family you deserve, and I've made sure that there's not a law enforcement agency on Earth that can touch you for what you had to do." Cory finally took the chance to look over the new boys. DJ matched the description they had of him perfectly; thirteen years old, about five foot three, with sandy blond hair and emerald green eyes. He then looked over the three other boys. Beau, the youngest, was about four-three, with black hair and what could only be described as blazing blue eyes. >From his build, Cory guessed him at about eight years old; but after Jamie and Jacob he knew better than to go by looks. Next to him was Toby; white blond hair, maybe four-six, with the same eyes as Beau. Toby looked no more than ten. Last was Tanner; about five-three, strawberry blond hair with an eight-inch thin pony tail, steel gray eyes, and the best tan Cory had ever seen. Cory knew that Tanner was also thirteen, and that him and DJ were boyfriends. He turned to Tanner. "Hey Tanner, you can relax; your boyfriend is going to be just fine. Why don't you introduce everyone to the rest of the group here?"
As Matt went to restrain the freshly sedated Colin, JJ and Gabe ran to the other two suspects. As they were restraining the pair for when they regained consciousness, JJ yelled to Matt. "We've got Steve and Mary here!"
"Okay, I've got positive ID, this is Colin!" Matt replied. He finished restraining Colin, then turned to the group of telepaths waiting in front of him. "Okay guys, they are all yours.
Justy concentrated for a second, then announced. "Bro's, take this piece of trash; Kyle and 'Bastian, take Mary. Sammy, you and I'll take Steve. Let's drain them guys."
Just then, a local Police Captain walked up to Matt. "I don't know who the hell you think you are, but get these kids out of here before I arrest every single one of you for disrupting a crimes scene. Where are tho..."
Matt interrupted as he flipped out his ID. "I'll tell you who we are. Lieutenant Matthew Barnes, Head of Security for Clan Short of Vulcan. My security team has taken three persons into custody for attempted murder of a Clan member. Any further questions need to be directed to the Clan Patriarch, Cory Short; he's the blond young man talking to Detective Gunn over there."
The Captain glanced at the ID, then looked back up with a smile. "My apologies, Sir. I didn't consider that this might be a different way of doing an investigation. Don't you worry about the loss of physical evidence?"
"No need for it. Do you see the pairs of boys with each suspect? By the time those boys stand up, I'll be able to tell you if any of them killed a fly ten years ago. All six of those boys have telepathic abilities, and have been trained to use them to collect evidence. The evidence will be verified by Vulcan mind-meld and entered into an official deposition."
The Captain chuckled. "I know where it goes from there; a Vulcan deposition bears more weight than a signed confession. Is there any way we can assist you?"
Matt thought for a second. "I think we've got it under control in here; but could your officers clear traffic and pedestrians for about a one-block radius? If I know our pilot, he's gonna tear out of here like a roadrunner with it's tail feathers on fire as soon as we can load up the injured kids."
"Consider it done!" the Captain replied as he pulled out his radio and ran towards the doorway.
Tanner looked at Cory in shock. "How'd you know we're boyfriends? Now I know we ain't gonna ..."
Cory placed a hand gently over Tanner's mouth. "Shh, don't panic. A lot of the guys in this room are boyfriends, in fact my life partner, Sean, is waiting in the pilot's seat of that shuttle for all of us. Our son Timmy is the one who has been talking to DJ; that's him down there holding DJ's hand. Y'all are with friends now, for real."
Tanner nodded his head. Once Cory moved his hand, he smiled shyly. "Sorry I panicked, it's just that nothings went right yet. The blond here is Toby, and the little black haired guy is Beau. They're twelve and ten, they're supposed to ..."
Cory interrupted again as he pulled the two boys into a hug. "They are going to join you as brothers in your new family. Guys, your Aunt passed away; later tonight I'll explain how we knew without knowing your names. For now, you can relax; you have a real home to go to."
Jamie and Jacob walked up and joined the group. Jamie spoke for the pair. "Cory, how long do we gotta keep this trash in our heads? Uncle Spock's gonna have to use bleach to get it outta there - it stinks!"
Cory giggled. "Not long guys, we're taking off as soon as everyone's ready. I'm figuring he was the worst, so I'll ask Mr. Spock to do you guys first."
Within a few minutes, Justy, Sammy, Kyle, and Sebastian joined them. Antonio looked up, "It's about time, slowpokes. Y'all ready to go?"
Matt turned to his telepathic interview squad. "You guys have been in their heads; do I need to have them beamed up or will they be safe in the shuttle?"
Justy, Kyle, Sammy, and Sebastian conferred for a minute before replying. Just before they were ready to answer, Antonio joined them. A few seconds later, Justy gave their answer. "Load them up and strap them down, Matt. We got it all figured out."
Antonio waved Benji and Eli over. He broke into giggles when Eli walked up. "Eli, you forgot something again, goofball!"
Eli grinned as he looked down and noticed only one foot. "Whatever; it's just for show anyways! Is DJ ready for a ride?"
DJ was feeling a little silly. "Dude, you're standing on one leg; how can you carry me?" he giggled.
Benji leaned over and explained softly. "He's gonna carry you the same way he carries himself; by floating. I'm gonna take care of the rejects from society. If you want, Tanner can ride with you."
DJ looked over to his boyfriend and smiled. "Tanner, can you hold my hand and walk with me?" The look on all four new boy's faces was priceless as DJ raised off of the ground and floated towards the shuttle.
A minute later, everyone was loaded into the shuttlecraft. Sean looked over their prisoners, then asked a smirking Antonio "What did you do to them, 'Tonio?"
Antonio giggled. "They're just taking a nap for about the next eight hours. Doc McCoy can wake them up if we need them."
Sean smiled. "Way to go, bro." He then headed to the front, and stopped at the first row where their guests of honor were seated. Justy had converted one of the seats into a bed for DJ; Sean smiled as he knelt next to him. "Hey dude, you doin' okay?"
DJ gave a weak smile. "Yeah, but I can't feel my leg. Are you sure it's gonna work again?"
Sean laid a hand on DJ's shoulder. "Don't worry; Antonio just blocked the feeling in it so that you don't suffer. It's all still there."
"Promise?"
"Promise. Now you need to just relax, I'm about to take you on the kewlest ride of your life."
"Okay."
Sean became all business as he stood up. He looked around the cabin, addressing occupants as he found them. "Gabe, JJ; you are authorized deadly force - understood?"
"Yes Sir."
"Cory, call Mom. We're stepping up the timetable; we've got the resources of the Federation at our disposal, tell her to use them."
"Got it Bro."
Sean yelled over his shoulder as he moved into the pilots seat. "Justy, prepare for atmospheric departure!" he then turned to Matt. "Mr. Barnes, notify Denver we are initiating Emergency Atmospheric Departure. Bring all systems on line NOW."
"Yes Sir!" Matt replied as he worked his console.
Sean adjusted his communications board, then keyed the transceiver. "Enterprise this is shuttle Mississippi."
"Enterprise, Uhura here. Go ahead Sean."
"Thank you Nyota. I need to speak to the Captain or whoever has the Conn. Requesting Emergency Recovery."
A few seconds later, a new voice came on. "Kirk here. Is there a problem Sean?"
"Yes Sir; could you have a Medical team and Security detail standing by in the Shuttle bay? We are transporting a stabilized gunshot victim and three detainees. We are initiating Emergency Atmospheric Departure in approximately fifteen seconds."
"Understood Ensign. Upon atmospheric departure, initiate Emergency Recovery Sequence Alpha. Personnel will be standing by."
"Acknowledged Captain. We are to come in under Recover Sequence Alpha. Mississippi out."
"Enterprise out."
Justy yelled from the back. "Sean, passengers secure."
"Thanks Justy." Sean turned to Matt. "Status, Matt?"
"Life support on line, all propulsion systems on line. Awaiting your command."
"I have the conn; let's rock and roll." Sean announced.
A scant few seconds later, a sonic boom marked the beginning of a new life for four unknowing boys.
As soon as he closed the connection with Sean, Kirk went into action. "Mr. Dodds, take Helm to manual. Uhura, sound Yellow Alert; Med team and Security to Shuttle bay for emergency recovery. Mr Spock, you have the conn."
Kirk spun and headed for the turbolift. "Shuttle bay." he announced as soon as he was through the doors.
Scotty met Kirk as he entered the shuttle bay. "What be the problem, Capt'n?"
McCoy joined them just as Kirk replied. "Ensign Sean is coming in hot with a gunshot victim and three detainees. Bones, he said the victim has been stabilized. Scotty, recovery procedure Alpha has been set."
"I'll be on it, Sir!" Scotty replied as he spun around and began rapid-firing orders to the bay crew.
Kirk had just finished filling in Mr. Thompson when he saw the flash of the shuttle passing the Enterprise and then making a quick U-turn. A few seconds later, Scotty received control from Sean and Kirk announced "We're bringing them in; get ready to move!"
McCoy led the charge into the shuttle as soon as the door opened. He spotted a young boy with a tricorder hovering over a seat in front, and rushed up there. Just as he arrived, he heard some very un-childlike mutterings from the boy about the linage of shuttle pilots. "How's the patient, doctor?" McCoy asked with a touch of sarcasm.
Antonio responded without looking up. "Considering the roller coaster we just rode, he's fine. Sean ain't gonna be that lucky when I get my hands on him." Antonio then turned his head and saw who he was talking to. "Sorry Sir, I'm Antonio Barnes. Let me get out of your way."
"I'm Doctor McCoy, son. The only place you're going is to sickbay with our patient. I've been waiting to meet you; besides it sounds like you need a little instruction on keeping hot-shot command officers in line." McCoy replied with a rare smile. He looked over at the three worried faces hovering over DJ. "You three are coming with us; it looks like a couple of you got involved too. I'll get your physicals out of the way while he's recovering."
McCoy led Antonio and the four boys into the lounge to rejoin their group. The only remaining sign of DJ's injury was a slight limp. They were no more than three feet inside the door when Timmy noticed them and ran over, wrapping his arms around DJ's waist.
"DJ! I KNEW you'd be okay! Doc is the BESTEST in the Universe! C'mon guys, you gotta meet ev'ryone!"
McCoy shook his head in wonder as Timmy dragged the boys off. Antonio joined him as he walked over to join Kirk, Chip, Matt, and Sean.
Kirk could not resist the temptation as the two joined them. "Why Bones, I do believe you are growing a shadow!"
McCoy glanced at Antonio, and placed a hand on the blushing boy's shoulder as he replied. "Actually Jim, this young man's thirst for knowledge on the preservation of life is, as Spock would so eloquently put it, impressive. His mind is like a steel trap; by the time DJ was done, Antonio was asking questions about the equipment that I had to think about the answers to. Sean, tell that blond goofball that passes for an Engineers Assistant not to question this young man about medical priorities; the tricorder recorded his tongue-lashing of Tanner. I couldn't have done it better myself. I've ordered Dr. Michaels to accelerate Antonio's medical training. Within the next six months, he is going to take over internal Clan medical. That will free Doctor Michaels up for Safe Haven work. Chip, that means he will be taking care of your sons planet side."
Matt knelt down and pulled Antonio into a hug. "I'm proud of you Son; today you showed everyone the special lil' guy that I love more and more each day."
Antonio melted into Matt's arms. "Daddy; can we sit down? I wanna cuddle."
"As you wish my Elven Prince!" Matt replied as he stood with Antonio still in his arms and carried him to a chair.
Once they were out of hearing, Sean asked McCoy softly. "Doc; all of this switching around ain't gonna mess up Antonio's head, is it? I mean, he won't get dual personalities or something?"
"Good question Sean. From what I can tell the personality shifts from child to adult are a survival instinct; he should grow out of it as his body reaches adulthood. It seems that when his experience is needed the adult comes out; otherwise his normal emotional level is dominant."
"Thanks Doc, that makes sense." Sean glanced over towards the new boys and noticed they seemed to be getting mobbed. "Excuse me, I see four boys who look like they could use a private tour to unwind. With your permission, Captain, I would like to have them on the Bridge in a half hour. I think a stop by the Recreation Deck would do them some good first."
"Permission granted, Ensign. Your plan sounds perfect."
"Thank you, Sir." Sean replied before he turned and intercepted DJ, Tanner, Toby and Beau.
Chip glanced around the room, and smiled as he saw Scotty and Cory assembling their own little group for an Engineering tour. "They're learning." he muttered.
"Yes they are." Kirk replied. "Let's head to the Officer's Galley on Deck Three. I want to give these guys a surprise for dinner."
To both Kirk and Chip's surprise, McCoy chimed in. "Good idea, let me get Antonio and Matthew. Two of these boys have nutritional requirements which they need to be aware of."
Russ looked up at the clock on the wall. "That's a good sign; the boys should have left Cheyenne about a half hour ago."
Sara nodded. "I'm surprised they haven't called to say they're okay. I'm sure if Teri had got a call she'd let us know though."
Just as the words left her mouth, the doorbell rang. She relaxed when she opened the door and found their neighbor's eleven year old son Ian.
"Hey Sara, can those boys come out and play?" he asked excitedly, a gleam in his brown eyes.
"I'm sorry Ian, they had to go home already."
Ian was crestfallen. "Aww mannn. I figured they was still here since those birds are still playin' in the yard. I didn't even get to meet them."
Sara ran her fingers through his long chocolate-brown hair. "I'm sorry kiddo." It then hit her what he'd said. "Ian, did you say birds; as in more than one?"
"Yeah, why?"
"Stay right here, Ian." Sara turned her head. "Russ! Front yard, NOW!"
"Ian, how'd you like to see those eagles up close?"
"Won't they hurt me?"
Russ joined them. "Actually, I'll bet they would like to play in the sprinkler with you. Those are special eagles."
They went into the front yard. Sure enough, William and Duke were strutting around the yard, popping covers off of the sprinkler heads then putting them back on.
Ian began giggling once he realized what they were doing. "They're silly birds!"
William looked up, then walked over to Ian and gently tugged on the boy's pants. Duke began tapping one of his claws on the top of the sprinkler that he had just re-assembled.
Ian knelt down, and was surprised when William hopped onto his lap and snuggled against his chest.
"Go ahead and pet him." Russ told Ian.
The boy's eyes were wide as he gently rubbed his fingers along William's head and back. Russ brought over a lawn chair, placing it behind Ian and then helping him up into it.
Russ leaned over to William. "William, tell your friend I'm going to turn on the section by the driveway so the rest of us don't get wet."
Duke gave a "cluck" of thanks, then strutted over to the edge of the driveway.
Russ had just returned from turning on the sprinkler when Ian's dad and mom, Robin and Kayla, walked into the yard. Sara motioned them to join her next to Ian. "Come on over and meet Ian's new friend, William!" she chuckled.
Robin was trying to figure out a tactful way to separate his son from what he was sure was a wild eagle, when he was distracted by the sudden appearance of two shimmering columns directly in front of them.
As soon as Teri and John materialized, they took in the action around them. Teri turned to Russ and held out her hand. "Russ, I'm Teri Short, Federation Youth Services. This is Commander John Martin, Federation Security. You already know William; the bird who mis-appropriated your sprinkler is Duke."
Russ shook their hands. "Pleasure to meet you. These are our neighbors Robin and Kayla York. That's their son Ian holding William. Are ..."
Sara snapped out of her shock and interrupted. "I'm Sara. Are the boys okay? What happened? ..."
Teri held up her hand. "The boys will be fine. Right now they are on the Starship Enterprise, along with two friends they made on the bus. Their former parents are in custody; the little bit of information I have suggests freedom is no longer an option for any of the three of them."
"What happened?" Sara repeated.
John took over. "The preliminary report I got from Lt. Barnes is pretty minimal. It appears that Colin, DJ's father, had someone here tracking you. They found out the boy's route, and tried to abduct them at Cheyenne. Two boys got hurt; one of their new friends got a concussion when he was pistol-slapped after injuring Colin with his knife, and DJ was shot in the leg. Tanner used the cell phone you gave him to call; it was forwarded to the shuttle that Cory and the rest of the boys were on. They responded, gave first aid, took the suspects in custody, then went directly to the Enterprise to finish the repairs to DJ's leg."
He was interrupted by Teri's communicator.
"Enterprise to Director Short."
Teri recognized the voice instantly; there was no mistaking the accent. "This is Mom, go ahead Tommy. Does the Captain know what you are doing?"
"MOM!" Tommy giggled before he continued. "Aunt Nyota is giving me lessons. We just heard from Doctor McCoy. DJ is on light duty for a week to finish healing. When we get home, you need to sit down with Antonio, Helen, and the new parents regarding a medical problem Toby and Beau have. Scotty won't let us feed the old parents into the converters, so as soon as we eat and figure out which prison planet they go to we'll be home. Love you, Mom!"
Teri smiled. "Thanks for the update Tommy; Love you too! Short out."
"Enterprise out"
The combination of the good news and the actual exchange broke the stress and had all of the adults smiling. "It sounds like you've got a pretty special son there, Mrs. Short." Robin chuckled.
"Please, just use our first names." Teri replied. "Would you believe that he has a Mississippi drawl that will drive you nuts normally? He's the most recent son that I've adopted, and still is adjusting to having a loving family. I'm up to five living sons at home, one unofficial son in Orlando, and one who was killed by a drunk driver but tends to pop in occasionally. And I can't forget, one grandson and one grandeagle; from the looks of it they are missing each other."
Teri noticed that Ian looked dejected. She knelt in front of him and lifted his chin. "What's the matter, Ian?"
"Nothin'."
Teri looked him in the eyes. "Ian, I have a house full of boys of all ages who have had to live through things you've never heard of. I've got real good at knowing when something's wrong. We can't make it better if you don't tell us."
Something in the tone of her voice reached Ian, and he opened up. "When I saw a couple of boys over here, I was hoping that they'd like me and maybe be my friends. I got here and they were already gone; now I hear one got hurt and they got to go to a starship. They ain't never gonna come back here, and I ain't got any friends since I am nasty. Daddy can't move anywhere where nobody knows about me since he got laid off. William's the only one besides mommy, daddy, Russ, and Sara that even will cuddle me."
To everyones surprise, Teri looked at the eagle in Ian's lap. "William, I just heard Ian talk bad about himself. By any chance is he feeling the same emotional leanings as most of the boys at home?"
Surprise turned to shock when William turned to face Teri and clearly nodded his head. He then turned back and snuggled into Ian's chest.
Teri turned her attention back to Ian. "Do your parents know what you were talking about when you called yourself nasty?"
"Yeah."
"Okay, we'll talk about this out in the open then. You are not nasty; you might be gay. There is nothing wrong with that; in fact I personally know about thirty boys who are gay. I love every single one of them, too. If your parents don't mind, you still have a chance to meet DJ and Tanner; you can escort William and Duke to the Enterprise. That way you can talk to the guys in person, and see that there is really nothing wrong with you."
Ian looked at his parents expectantly. "Please? I'll be good!"
Kayla thought for a second, then asked Teri "Who would be watching him? The other boys could lose him so easy up there."
Teri smiled reassuringly. "Two of my sons are Ensigns assigned to the Enterprise. Also, the Chief Helmsman's sons are there. Between the five of them, there's no way anything will happen to Ian. He's probably safer up there than in your own yard."
Robin glanced at his wife, then gave the decision. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for him; go ahead. How's he going to get there and back?"
Teri smiled. "He'll be transported up; if I know Sean and Cory, they'll bring him back on the shuttle after dinner."
Robin reached over and ruffled Ian's hair. "What do you think, son? Can you handle a transporter, a starship, and a shuttle ride all in one day?"
Ian was speechless, all he could do is nod his head so fast it was about to pop off.
Teri put a hand on his shoulder. "You're going to need to calm down a little so I can tell you what to do, okay. I'm going to call in and make the arrangements while you are relaxing."
He nodded once more, then Teri opened her communicator.
"Director Short to Enterprise."
"Enterprise, Uhura here. How may I help you, Teri?"
"Nyota, I have two eagles and one youth who would like to come aboard."
"The Captain says that's not a problem, Teri. Do we need to make any special arrangements?"
"You probably should track down my grandson and his cohort to meet their eagles; since Cory is probably glued to Scotty he can welcome Ian."
Nyota was chuckling as she replied. "Not a problem, Teri. Mr. Scott will call you when he's ready. Enterprise out."
"Thank you; Short out."
Ian was in a daze as Teri explained what he needed to do. She had finally got through to him when her communicator went off.
"Enterprise to Director Short."
"Go ahead, Mr. Scott."
"Aye Lass; by any chance would the young laddy and our feathered friends be ready to join us?"
"I'm not sure who is more excited Mr. Scott; the birds or Ian. They're in position; three to beam up."
"I be locked in and awaiting your word, Teri."
"Energize, Mr. Scott."
A few seconds later, Scotty came back on. "The young laddy and his feathered friends be flyin' around the transporter room. I do believe they're happy to be here!"
Teri giggled. "Thank you Mr. Scott. Short out."
"Enterprise out."
Teri looked over to see four relieved faces looking back at her. "I think he's going to be occupied for a while; now it looks like the six of us need to sit down and have a talk about the future."
Kirk turned to Spock as they were entering the Brig. "I'm still not sure this is a good idea, Spock."
Spock stopped, motioning the rest of the group to wait. "Understandable, Captain. Logically this interrogation is unnecessary by looking at the surface facts. You must factor in the emotional inconsistencies of the human brain to find the purpose of this endeavor. The emotional and physical trauma which this being has inflicted with the willful arrogance that he is above the law requires closure. The only logical means of closure for these youths is to witness his ultimate breakdown when the fallacy of his legal status is realized."
McCoy's comment from the rear of the group caught everyone by surprise. "I hate to say it, but for once your damn logic makes sense Spock."
Kirk smiled. "Well put, Bones. Let's get this over with."
They split into two groups as they entered the area. DJ, Tanner, Toby, and Beau took up positions in the back group. Kirk, Spock, McCoy, Cory and Lt. Thompson entered the cell first. Gabe and JJ entered next and took up positions covering the flanks of the main group. Finally, the back group entered, staying safely behind everyone else.
Cory took the lead. "Colin McAllister. You have been detained for a multitude of crimes." Cory then listed off every single law that Colin had broke. " ... The last and most serious charges against you are one count of attempted murder and one count of assault with a deadly weapon. Do you have anything to say for yourself?"
Colin grinned smugly. "I'm a cop, punk. Don't try to pull no shit. That fairy so-called son of mine made that shit up to cover for his little boyfriend trying to kill me with a bat. Also, if that little brat hadn't stabbed me, nobody woulda got shot; my finger wasn't even on the trigger. I want my lawyer; once I'm done all of you are getting it for false imprisonment; those four punks in back are all going to Juvie."
Cory barely kept his temper as he replied. "You might want to rethink your attitude; I've got statements which prove you are lying out your ass."
"Kid, go back to your sandbox. Your so-called statements ain't worth toilet paper. I'm a cop, my word IS law."
"Not on MY planet it's not." Cory growled. He turned to Kirk, came to attention, and spoke in a flat voice. "Captain Kirk; as Patriarch of Clan Short of the family of Sarek of the planet Vulcan I am required to claim jurisdiction regarding this detainee. I require the assistance of the persons present as witnesses to immediate trial."
"I acknowledge your jurisdiction, Patriarch Short. The resources of the Enterprise are at your disposal." Kirk replied.
As Cory turned to Spock, Colin shouted out "What the hell do you think you're doing? You are a HUMAN, and the Federation is supposed to protect US! You have no right letting some alien trash persecute me! I want to talk to your superior officer NOW!:"
Cory ignored the outburst as he spoke. "Mr. Spock, you may proceed."
"As you wish, Mr. Short." Spock replied. "Mr. McAllister, there are indications that you are unaware of the facts surrounding this issue. David and Tanner are under the protection of Clan Short by order of Admiral Morrow. Your recent action regarding David violated Interstellar Law. Mr. Short's declaration of jurisdiction may only be overridden by the Vulcan High Council; the scope of the evidence against yourself indicates that the logic of his decision is impeccable. Immediately following your detention the facts of your crimes were telepathically retrieved by two independent sources. Patriarch Short requested my assistance reviewing the evidence. Upon completion of the review I logged the official deposition. The list of crimes which Mr. Short reviewed earlier are correct, in addition the charge of attempted murder is raised to five counts. It is my findings that your intent was to murder all four boys in addition to an Officer Robb Gunn. Mr. Short. As First Officer of the Starship Enterprise, I release Colin McAllister for your sentencing."
Cory stood silently, his expressionless face watching as Colin realized he had finally met his match. In the back, Tanner and DJ began to feel that justice was being served as they watched the emotions fleeting across Colin's face. At first there was anger, but it quickly gave way to shock, panic, and then a painful resignation.
Once Cory was sure Colin realized the full implications of his actions, he spoke. "Mr. McAllister, over a course of many years you have used your own son for personal gain. You invaded his privacy and committed murder of your own wife to continue your perversions. You committed the worst act a father can do to his child; you attempted to molest him and his friend. Then you went a step further; when it was obvious he was no longer going to cooperate with your wishes, you attempted to kill him and his friends. Humans are an unique species; they literally wear their emotions on their faces. The one emotion which you have not displayed your entire life is remorse; even now it is absent from your expressions. I will allow you two minutes for a final statement before pronouncing sentence."
Colin realized leniency was not in Cory's vocabulary, so he went for broke; trying to inflict one last bit of pain. "I admit I did all of that - in fact I made good money. My only regret is that they didn't wanna play along; in fact I would have let their little friends join the fun too if they wanted to."
He was cut off by a soprano growl from the back. "You bastard!" Beau screamed as he rushed past the shocked adults directly towards Colin. Beau had his knife in his hand, and it was obvious he intended to complete the sentencing himself.
Everything seemed to switch to slow motion for everyone. Beau launched himself into midair, bowie knife out for the kill. Colin knocked Beau off to the side and managed to grab the knife from him. As he turned towards Kirk and raised the knife to throw it, JJ realized what was happening and tackled the Captain. Gabe drew a bead; as soon as Beau had fell clear, Gabe shouted "Strike three; you're OUT Bitch!" as he vaporized Colin on the spot. As the knife clattered harmlessly to the deck, time slipped back to normal and everyone began to react.
As McCoy checked on Kirk, Cory rushed over to Beau and ensured he was okay. Once he was sure that the only thing wrong was that Beau was a little shaken up, Cory sat on the floor and pulled the boy into his lap. As the rest of the boys surrounded him, he spoke calmly "Beau, promise me you will never attempt anything like that again. Even though the end result was the same, that was not the way he needed to be executed. You let your anger take control; you ended up putting everyone in this room, including yourself and your brothers, in serious danger."
"But he was trying to hurt DJ again!" Beau answered defiantly.
DJ touched Cory's shoulder, then replied. "Yes he was bro; but I knew it so I wasn't listening. I stopped listening to him when Cory said there was no remorse; when I heard that, the last bit of power he had over me evaporated. We could have lost you bro; and that would be a lot harder to live with than some words out of a dead man's mouth. You were going to execute him, weren't you Cory?"
Cory looked at DJ over his shoulder. "DJ, you will never see his psychological profile. There was no possibility of rehabilitation for your father; even if imprisoned the probability of him committing murder to further his goals was unacceptable. The only logical choice for the protection of him and society was termination."
McCoy joined them, and lifted Beau off of Cory's lap. "Cory you are as bad as Spock. I saw the profile too; what he's saying boys is that Colin was a killer looking for targets. Yes he was going to be executed; and I even agree that it was best. Now you, Beau, are coming to Sickbay for another exam and some talking to about being a hero."
Cory stood up and joined Kirk and Spock as they walked up to Lt. Thompson.
Kirk addressed the security officer. "Mr. Thompson, report please."
"Well Sir, when the young man lost his temper and attacked, the suspect managed to take Beau's knife away from him. Mr. Richardson was closest to you; when he saw the possibility you were under attack he responded by knocking you to the deck. Mr. Michaels and myself continued to monitor Colin; Mr. Michaels was able to achieve the first clear shot and dispatched Colin before anyone could be injured."
"Thank you Lieutenant; please draft a commendation to join mine in these boy's service records."
"With all due respect Sir, that might be a problem." Cory interjected. "They are Clan security; they are not commissioned officers."
"I guess we'll have to fix that problem!" Kirk replied. "Mr. Thompson, I expect to see that commendation in three hours." He turned and went to the Comm station on the desk. "Uhura, get me Admiral Morrow; pipe it down here when you get him."
While they were waiting, Cory rounded up the boys to witness what he thought Kirk was up to. They were all standing behind him when the call came in. "Captain, I have the Admiral on the line."
"Thank you, Uhura; visual please."
The screen came to life. "Good evening, Captain. After seeing the group behind you I'm not sure if I want to ask this, but is there a problem?"
"Good evening Admiral. I do have an issue I need to discuss with you. But first, I believe that there is a Clan Patriarch here who wishes to tell you something."
Cory shot Kirk an 'I'll get you later' glare before composing himself and stepping forward. "Admiral; the youths that were being monitored at your request have been evacuated and are now directly under Clan Short. At this time I request closure of all Federation and planetside investigations directly involving either youth. The situation regarding Colin has been resolved by termination. It is logical that the Federation prosecute Steve and Mary due to the lesser severity of their crimes."
Admiral Morrow nodded. "As you wish, Mr. Short. Yourself and your Clan have done an impressive job; I fully intend to give Ambassador Sarek a glowing letter of appreciation for the assistance you provided. Live long and Prosper, Patriarch Short."
"Live long and Prosper, Admiral Morrow"
As Cory stepped back, Kirk took over again. "Admiral, in the course of Colin's trial there was an altercation. Two members of the Clan Short Security detail were present; due to their quick and professional responses no innocent persons were hurt. As a matter of fact, one of them took it upon himself to knock me to the deck when it appeared I was about to become the target of attack, while the other focused on Colin and dispatched him as soon as safely possible. I fully intended to enter commendations for these two young men, but have been informed they do not have service records. May I suggest that as a measure of goodwill towards Clan Short that their senior security personnel be issued commissions in the Federation Security Department?"
Admiral Morrow chuckled. "You know Captain, I think if you had your way every single one of those boys would be commissioned! In this case I agree with you, though. To perform their jobs properly on Earth they need clearance which will not be argued with. What are their names; I will take it from here and make the appropriate calls."
"Thank you Sir. They are James Jacob Richardson and Gabriel Michaels."
"Very well, then. Express my thanks to both young men. Morrow out."
"Kirk out."
They prepared to leave, but stopped when DJ and Tanner, flanked by Gabe and JJ, stopped in front of Steve and Mary's cells.
DJ placed an arm around Tanner's waist to give him support, then Tanner spoke. "You never were parents to me. I know what a real family is like; maybe now I can have one again. The only good thing I have to say about you is you didn't try to kill me. You might as well forget my name; when I walk out that door I'm going to forget you and everything about you. You no longer exist, you pieces of trash."
Cory felt an unnatural chill at hearing Tanner's words. He intercepted Tanner in his march towards the door. Quietly, so nobody could overhear, Cory spoke to him. "Tanner, calm down a little bit. I have no doubt that exactly what you said is going to happen if I let you walk through that door right now. You need to stop and sort things out for a second; I'm still recovering from losing memories, and I've learned they are all tied together. If you let this happen, you are probably going to lose your memories of DJ as well."
Tanner froze. "But I don't want them in my head! What can I do?"
Cory relaxed. "Sit down with DJ and the guys tonight; you have a lot of help if you ask for it."
Tanner gave Cory a quick hug. "Thanks for stopping me before I screwed up."
Cory looked over Tanner's shoulder and saw the relieved look on DJ's face. "Any time, bro. Let's go home."
Kirk watched with a smile as the boys all prepared to leave. His smile grew even wider when Ian walked up and gave him a hug.
"Thanks, Sir, for letting me visit! Your ship is AWESOME! I wish we could stay longer though, Sean said there's still stuff I didn't get to see."
Kirk tilted Ian's head up to look him eye-to-eye. "Well, I guess that means you are just going to have to come back again, doesn't it?"
Ian's eyes widened. "Really! KEWL! I can really come back?"
Kirk nodded. "You better believe it. You better hurry up, you don't want to miss your first Shuttle ride, do you?"
"No Sir!" Ian exclaimed as he gave one more quick hug then ran towards the craft.
On board the shuttle, Sean was trying to restrain his giggles. On the way up, DJ, Tanner, Toby, and Beau had been to preoccupied to pay attention; but now they were investigating every inch of the craft. When Ian joined them in their poking around, Sean finally lost it. After giving the boys time to satisfy their curiosity, Sean leaned over to Matt. "Matt, you mind sitting behind the co-pilot? The last time we left, I screwed up a surprise. I'm going to try to get it right this time."
Matt smiled. "I was hoping you'd think of that, Sean. If he needs help, I'll be right there."
Sean walked up to where Cory was explaining the console to the newest additions. "Guys, get with Justy and get ready to go. Cory, could you do something for me, babe?"
Cory relaxed as Sean put his arms around him. "What's that, teddy bear?"
"I know this stuff today has stressed you out, hon. Since we can't relax by playing with the flight sim, could you do me the honor of being my co-pilot?"
"But what about Matt?"
"It's okay. He thinks it's a good idea too, and he said to tell you if you need any help he'll be sitting right behind you. I won't be mad if you say no; I just would like the most important person in my life sitting by me as we take the new guys to their new life."
Cory could feel the day's stress fading away as he was filled with the love and support of Sean. "I can't argue with that logic. Let's do it!"
The boys took their seats. As soon as they were strapped in, Sean turned to Cory and announced with pride "Mr. Short; seal all hatches and prepare for departure."
"Aye, Sir!" Cory replied. "Justy, prepare passengers for takeoff!"
Kirk and Chip were standing by to watch the boys take off. They exchanged surprised looks when they heard the voice on the comm channel.
"Enterprise, this is Mississippi requesting permission to depart. Pilot is Ensign Sean Short, Co-pilot is Ensign Cory Short. Destination is Des Moines, Iowa."
Chip, smiling, took the controls. "Mississippi, this is Enterprise. Permission to depart granted. Destination of Des Moines, Iowa is acknowledged and logged. Enterprise will maintain surveillance until you contact San Francisco Control. Have a safe trip."
"Roger, Enterprise, and thanks."
Kirk and Chip witnessed the Mississippi's thrusters fire up and gently rotate the shuttle into an outward path. Within minutes, the shuttle carrying the boys was slowly gliding through the forcefield and on its way home.
Teri looked around her at the group waiting anxiously at the Des Moines Spaceport. Besides Dan and John, she had four parents waiting for their kids to come home. Robin and Kayla were still in shock at the sudden turn of events in their lives. Russ and Sara, on the other hand, were worried to the point of almost being sick about the injuries to the boys and whether they would accept the plans which had been made for their futures. Just then Teri's communicator went off.
"Enterprise to Director Short."
"Go ahead, Enterprise."
"Teri, the boys just transferred to San Francisco Control. Mattering on how much sightseeing they do, they should be there fairly soon."
"Thanks Nyota, we'll be watching for them. Short out."
"Enterprise out."
Teri turned to the group listening in. "Relax, everything will be fine. If there were problems, Nyota would have told me." She then added with a grin "Besides, they are in the capable hands of Starfleet's only thirteen-year-old qualified shuttle pilot; what is there to worry about?"
Sean beamed with pride as he listened to Cory handle communications.
Cory switched to the San Francisco frequency, then began. "San Francisco Control, this is shuttlecraft Mississippi. Pilot Ensign Sean Short, co-pilot Ensign Cory Short. Request clearance and routing instructions for atmospheric re-entry."
"Mississippi, this is San Francisco Control. You are cleared for re-entry on lane five, you have a clear lane. Please inform your pilot that my nephew is nowhere near the bridge today, so I highly recommend he goes ABOVE it."
Cory was giggling as he replied. "Acknowledged, San Francisco Control! I think Captain Sulu is still reeling from the last bill! You have us cleared for re-entry on Lane Five."
"That is correct. Have a good day, Mississippi, and welcome back to Earth. San Francisco out."
"Thank you, and have a good day yourself. Mississippi out."
Cory looked over at Sean, who was still grinning. "You heard him Sean, no rooster tail contests today. Let's hit it, these guys need to get home to relax."
Sean yelled to the back. "Justy, is everyone ready for re-entry?"
Justy yelled back. "What do you think, Bozo? Of course they are, we're wanting some of Helen's treats!"
"You're goin' swimming for that comment, Angel Boy! Here we go y'all!"
Sean then turned back to Cory. "Cor, prepare for re-entry."
"Already done, Sean; awaiting your word."
"Begin re-entry!" Sean announced.
As Sean did the final shutdown of the shuttle's systems after landing in Des Moines, Cory headed to the back. He stopped when he reached the row of seats with DJ, Tanner, Toby, and Beau in them, and surveyed the nervous faces on the four boys. "What's wrong, guys?"
DJ spoke for the group. "What's gonna happen with us now? What if Teri can't help us; or there's no family that wants all four of us? You're just a kid like us, you can't take us in if that happens. What about the cops; I know they want Tanner."
Cory crouched down. "DJ, you all can stop worrying. First thing is, Mom ain't gonna let anything happen to you. She went through a year of torture just to be there for me, and she'll do whatever she has to for you. Just because I'm fourteen doesn't mean anything; we'll all sit down later and talk about it, but for now just trust me. When I accepted these Ensign bars I legally became an adult, and some recent things that have happened make it so that I can take control over any Earth agency in regards to you guys. The cops can't touch you, just ask Eli and Benji; they got to watch the FBI get knocked down a few notches. Until Mom tells me that all four of you have a family that she approves of, you are under my custody. Does that make any sense?"
"Whatever." DJ stated, obviously not believing a word.
Justy joined them, and heard DJ's response. "Dude, watch out for Cory; he's a blond with a brain cell and he knows how to use it! Seriously, have you heard of Ambassador Sarek of Vulcan?"
"Yeah, whaddabout him? He ain't got nothing to do with us."
Justy gave DJ a stern look. "He's got EVERYTHING to do with you. This blond nut case next to me also happens to be Patriarch of Clan Short of the family of Sarek of Vulcan; he reports DIRECTLY to Ambassador Sarek. Clan Short is responsible for rescuing abused and homeless youth, no matter what planet they are from. Before y'all were even on that bus, the Federation had already made a formal request for Clan Short to ensure your welfare."
"So that's what all that stuff was about with Colin; I thought it was just something you had all cooked up to mess with his head. You mean that trial was for real?"
Justy nodded solemnly. "Serious as a heart attack, dude. Y'all ain't got to worry anymore; we've got your backs. Whadda you say we hit the deck; if I know Helen she's got some awesome munchies waiting for us."
DJ looked around and found that the little group he was sitting with were the only ones left in the shuttle. "I guess you're right."
Tanner finally spoke. "Deej, even though some screwed up stuff happened at that last bus station, it's like someone's watchin' us and helping. I don't think God would'a sent Toby and Beau if we wasn't going to make it. Let's see what Teri can do; I got a weird feeling that we're done running for real."
The boys exited the shuttle; Toby, Beau, DJ and Tanner were deep in a discussion reassuring each other they would all stay together, so they did not notice the adults standing and waiting for them. Tanner was the first to look up.
"Holy smoke! Russ, Sara; how'd you get here?" Tanner exclaimed.
Russ gave a small smile. "We heard about what happened at the bus station and had to see for ourselves that you guys were okay. Besides, I couldn't wait to hear about Ian's adventures in space!"
Teri took advantage of the pause as the boys were digesting the surprise welcoming committee and walked over. "Hey guys, I'm Teri Short. A couple of not-so-little birdies told me you need to see me. Hop in one of the Hummers; once we get home I've got some surprises for you. For now, just know that I know of four boys who are about to see the dawning of a new life - together."
Teri's technique worked; the boys heard the mention of the Hummers and all other thoughts exited their mind. Without a word they flew over to check out the custom vehicles. Russ and Sara watched in wonder as the boys disappeared into the vehicles.
Russ turned to Teri. "Why didn't you tell them?"
Teri grimaced. "You might not believe this, but Timmy told me to wait. He said DJ's still working out a couple of things in his head. I gave him enough info to settle the worries, now he's just got to sort it all out. By the time we get to the house, he should be ready for the surprise."
Russ looked at Sara. "I think I know what you mean, Teri. It seems that DJ is feeling responsible for everything that's happened."
Sara added "Russ and I've talked about it already; somehow he needs convinced he's not to blame."
"Don't worry about it." Teri replied as they headed to the other Hummer. "Knowing my crew, he'll be getting a reality check by the time they go to bed tonight."
As they left the spaceport, things began to get interesting in the Hummer carrying Cory's family and the new boys. Timmy looked up from his perch on Cory's lap. "Daddy, can you tell DJ 'bout the stuff ya' found? Ya' know, 'bout him and me?"
Cory glanced at DJ, and found that he had stopped investigating the interior and was staring in their direction. "I guess so, Gizmo. DJ, you might wanna have a seat for this one."
DJ plopped down. "You mean that you know why we can talk to each other?"
Cory nodded. "Yeah, but you ain't goin' to believe it. DJ, were you ever told about your Mom losing a baby before you were born?"
"Yeah, what's that got to do with it?"
"The baby was not 'lost' in the normal way. Timmy's birth dad did some experimental stuff for Starfleet with time-travel. Your mom and him got together during a party; things happened and she got pregnant. When he came back to his normal time, he brought the baby back with him. That baby was Timmy; he's your half-brother. We think you guys are developing the ability to communicate like a lot of twins do with your minds. You might say I've got a personal interest in you, DJ; since you're my son's brother I've got to make sure you're safe."
The pessimistic attitude that DJ had been using as a shield from the fast paced events of the last few hours evaporated. "M .. my .. my brother?" he whispered repeatedly. Ian and Toby sat back and watched, giving DJ the space he needed. Tanner cuddled against DJ's side, quietly giving him support as he digested the new information.
Timmy slid off of Cory and wiggled onto DJ's lap. He looked at DJ and said "I'm 'fused though. Are you the big brother or am I?"
DJ looked in wonder at the boy in his lap. "I've always prayed that I wished I'd met you. It'd be too weird to call you my big brother though; would you be okay with me calling you my little brother?"
Timmy stretched up and kissed DJ's chin. "Yeah, I was scared you wouldn't want me."
DJ had tears in his eyes as he pulled Timmy tightly against him with his free arm. "I've wanted all my life to know you; now I have got my wish and I'm not gonna lose you again."
Cory watched with a smile and cuddled against Sean. "DJ, don't worry; we won't let it happen either." Cory turned to look at Toby and Beau. "Guys, I've got good news and bad news for you. The good news is that you don't have to worry about where you are going to be living at; we've already found a real family for all four of you. The bad news is about your Aunt Gloria; she passed away a few months ago. She died in her sleep, they think it was a heart attack."
"Where we gonna be livin' at?" Beau asked in a worried tone.
"I don't know for sure yet, but if Mom was able to convince them to do what I suggested it'll be somewhere near all the rest of us. We'll find out more when we get home."
Toby and Beau visibly relaxed at knowing their future was secure. Tanner looked up from watching DJ cuddling his long-lost brother and softly said "Thanks for helping us, guys. I know you had to; but still, thanks."
Sean slid from under Cory and sat next to Tanner. He put an arm over Tanner's shoulder, then replied "You're welcome, Tanner; but you have one thing wrong. We didn't help you guys 'cause we had to; we helped you because we wanted to. Every single one of the guys you met today did something to try to make sure you were safe. We could have picked you up from Russ and Sara's, but Timmy there said you still needed time to work out some things in your heads. I'm glad we listened; since you were able to help Toby and Beau by being on the bus."
Sean paused, looked over at Cory, then continued. "You guys might all want to listen to this. Cory had a meltdown shortly after we got Timmy. Timmy said something to Cory then which struck all of us. He told Cory 'Sometimes bad things gotta happen so that good things can happen'. You guys just went through a pretty bad spell, but you are not alone anymore. It's kinda becoming a tradition for all of us to sit down before bed whenever a new guy joins us to go over what all of us have went through. I know for sure that you guys will be the guests of honor tonight, and I suspect that Ian will be joining us too."
One hour later, Josh and Chip beamed into the foyer at Teri's house. They followed the noises of kids at play, and found themselves in the back yard looking out over a major barbecue. Josh couldn't resist the temptation, and yelled "Hey, Teri - who let the animals outta their cages?"
"I'm gonna shoot you!" Chip exclaimed to Josh just before the first wave of pounces hit them. It took a minute to dig themselves out of the pile of giggling boys, but Chip and Josh finally broke free and started towards a table. They were about halfway there when Eli yelled "Hey Uncle Josh; turn around!"
Josh turned, and was pounced once again - by Eli's prosthetic leg! Josh managed to catch it; but it wiggled free and rose to the top of his head. Even Chip was laughing as the leg began a victory dance on top of Josh's head; totally messing up his hair in the process. It then hopped down and jumped over to join the boys, who were rolling on the ground at Eli's latest prank. Josh was grinning as he watched the leg run off and yelled "Hey Eli, you really need to get a leash for that leg!"
The adults sat down and made sure all the preparations were taken care of, then Chip waved Aaron over. "Aaron, get the boys together, it's time to answer some of their questions."
"Got it, Chip." Aaron replied as he ran off and started rounding them up. A few minutes later, all of the boys were seated on the ground by the table, waiting to see what was going to happen.
"You're on, Teri." Chip announced.
Teri looked over 'her' growing tribe of boys. "Guys, all of you made me really proud today. DJ, Tanner, Toby, Beau; that includes you too. Today you were placed in a situation which would panic most adults; you worked together and made sure everyone made it through. Ian, you may not have known it, but you helped your family more than you know earlier; you're about to see how much. I know what you guys want answered, but there's a couple of other things you need to know first before I tell you that."
"I guess first thing you should know is that we have a couple of new neighbors at our new house in Orlando. Russ is going to be in charge of the studio on Southcrest, and Sara has accepted a position as Medical Liaison between Doc Austin and Camp Little Eagle. Robin just accepted the Head of Security job at Camp Little Eagle, and Kayla is now the coordinator between the various departments of Youth Services, including assisting Clan Short. Each family is getting five acres of land on the property line between Southcrest and our new place; the houses are going up right now. The Federation is providing modular houses for both families which are about three times as large as their old homes. DJ, Tanner, Toby, Beau; you guys need to come up here and have a seat for the next part."
The four boys nervously got up and joined the adults at the table. As they got closer, DJ and Tanner realized who was sitting next to Chip.
"WHOA! You're JC from N'Sync!" they exclaimed in unison. Tanner continued their thoughts, "Man, you're awesome! Why're you here?"
Josh chuckled at their reaction. "Chip and I had to come to make sure our sons were not torturing Teri too much. Besides, part of the surprises for today we have a hand in. Grab a seat over here; it's time to talk about your future."
The awestruck boys took the offered seats, DJ and Tanner both stealing quick touches to assure themselves Josh was really there.
Teri gave Russ and Sara a glance once the boys were seated, then sat down.
Russ and Sara came over and knelt down in front of the boys, then Russ spoke. "DJ, Tanner; we've got to be honest with you. We knew you needed time to sort things out, so we called ahead and talked to Teri long before you left. We would not have let you guys leave if Teri was not able to help you. Both of us felt sick when we were told about you guys getting hurt at the bus station; then Teri got through to us that if we had not let you go, Toby and Beau would not have got the help they needed. All four of you boys must have someone special looking out for you in Heaven; will all four of you let Sara and I be the ones watching out for you here on Earth? We want to have all four of you as our sons, forever."
Before they could reply, Sara added "Russ is speaking for me too, guys. It does not matter what has happened to you in the past; we both want to make sure all four of you have a happy and safe future. We heard that you swore to stick together; at the bus station you proved it was not just words. I've been watching Toby and Beau since I met them, and I honestly believe that they are just as sweet and caring as you are, DJ and Tanner. I want to see all four of you together as family, and I really hope you'll let it be our family."
Russ looked at the four stunned faces in front of him. "Guys, why don't you grab Ian and head to someplace private to talk it over? He's known us all of his life, and he can probably answer a lot of your questions. We'll wait for you, it's a big decision."
The four of them nodded silently, and stood to head off to talk. To everyones surprise, Timmy ran over to join them, William flying alongside; after a few whispered words, DJ picked Timmy up and carried him along as they met with Ian and headed into the house.
Teri waved Cory over. "What's your son up to this time?"
Cory smiled. "Relax, Mom; him and William are going to pass on any questions they have to us. Timmy's just trying to look out for his brother."
Teri shook her head. "He's getting more and more like his Daddy every day!"
Cory giggled as he turned to rejoin the rest of the boys. "Thank's Mom!"
Once the six boys were settled in the living room, DJ finally spoke. "They lied to us. I thought they were so kewl, but they lied to us. I'm tired of being lied to."
Ian shook his head. "I don't understand; I've never seen them do that before. Usually Russ will just say he can't tell me, he's never lied to me."
Timmy held up his hand to tell them to wait, then spoke after a couple of seconds. "Jamie checked their minds; they was scared you'd run if you knew they were tryin' to make sure Gran'ma was gonna help. They talked to Gran'ma, and she told them to just let you go with what you needed to do. They knewd you was scared and needed to work stuff out."
Tanner looked at Timmy warily. "How do you know that?"
Timmy turned his head and pointed to the talon embedded in his earlobe. "See that? It's onea William's claws. He's an Eagle Spirit, and he picked me as his helper. Me and him can talk in our heads like DJ and I talk when we're dreamin'. He asked Duke, Duke told Ricky, and Ricky asked Jamie. Jamie and Jacob can look at anyones brains."
Beau giggled. "He's not lyin', bro. They were able to tell me stuff about Toby that only I know."
Tanner gave a small smile. "Okay. Sorry Timmy, it's just kinda weird. I'm still getting used to DJ doing it."
DJ got back to the subject. "I guess I kinda understand why they did it. What's gonna keep them from doing it again?"
Toby chimed in. "Man, I think they only did it to help you. We might not have met if you had known the truth, what about that?"
"Yeah, maybe that was one of the bad things that needed to happen so we could meet you." Beau added.
A new voice from behind them startled the boys. "Very good, Beau. You hit it right on!"
Timmy turned around. "Uncle Mikey! Stop scaring us like that!"
Mikey giggled as he became visible. "Wazzup, rug-rat! Gentlemen, Saint Mikey of Urbandale, Protector of Gay and Abandoned Youth, at your service. Welcome to the family, guys. Oh - news flash - Colin is now sweating off his extra pounds Down There."
Tanner recovered first, and asked "Why did Timmy call you Uncle Mikey?"
"He can get away with it; when I was alive I was Sean and Cory's big brother. Kyle called me over in case you guys needed any help deciding what to do. I think you need a little more info than anyone here can give you."
DJ sat back in awe. "Dude, I can feel you here! What don't we know?"
Mikey settled in front of them. "The Book of Life had the two of you staying with Russ and Sara instead of getting on the bus; Colin was supposed to be captured trying to take you from there. By listening to their concerns for you instead of their hearts, Russ and Sara caused a minor rewrite which put you here today. Our Father was actually quite pleased; it's rare that anyone goes to the lengths they did for someone else. Then you performed a miracle; you caused a change in the Book that the results of are still a blur. When the four of you swore to be there and take care of each other, you altered the future. Toby, Beau; it was your time at the bus station. I'll leave it up to you to decide when and who to tell. Our Father gave your dad a waiver, he is watching from Heaven since his suicide was a humanitarian gesture to give you a chance. The four of you have a long future ahead of you; a future in which you are truly calling all of the shots. I'm going to be there to advise you, but only Our Father knows what your decisions will bring forth. Even the choice of staying with Russ and Sara is not decided yet, guys; but you should consider that their actions are the reason the four of you are here today. I understand your aversion to being lied to, DJ; but I can promise that lies are not going to be the norm if you say yes."
DJ thought for a minute. "You're right, Saint Mikey; knowing all of that does make a difference. I guess I need to stop judging people like they're my father, don't I?"
"That's a good way to put it, DJ. I think you can learn a lot from Russ about what a real father is like, but it's a decision all four of you have to agree on. By the way; you're Timmy's bro so it's Uncle Mikey for you. The rest of you can drop the Saint, I don't mind."
Tanner smiled. "Thanks, Mikey. I think we can all figure out the right thing to do now."
Mikey gave them all hugs, then faded away. The boys huddled together, and began seriously discussing what their choice would be.
Russ and Sara watched nervously as the boys filed out of the house and walked towards them. The yard fell silent as everyone awaited their decision.
Tanner led the group. When he reached the table, he spoke. "I drew the short straw, so I got stuck being the one to speak for all of us." Tanner paused as he watched Russ start to take a drink, then delivered the punch line. "It looks like at least one of your four new sons is gonna grow up to be hung like a horse!"
His timing was perfect, as about half of Russ's Dr. Pepper came flying out his nose. Sara laughed as she pulled the four boys into a hug. "Welcome to the family guys! You had us worried, it took so long."
DJ grinned. "We had to talk to Uncle Mikey, he's a Saint. He showed me that I'm gonna need a little help with trusting people after what my father did; can you do that?"
Russ had joined the hug, and both him and Sara answered "No problem. Did you say UNCLE Mikey?"
Teri saw the confused looks at DJ calling Mikey his uncle, and helped explain. "Mikey is, well was, my oldest son. He was killed by a drunk driver, He's the guardian angel for all of these boys, and carries the official rank of Saint Mikey of Urbandale. Get used to hearing his name, he pops in and out a lot around here."
Russ answered in shock. "Holy smoke! He helped me talk to my brother! You mean your SON was the subject of the Papal Proclamation that said there was a new Saint that is the protector of gay and abused children. Is this the same one?"
Teri nodded. "One and the same."
They were interrupted by Tanner turning and yelling "Hey everyone; we've got a new FAMILY!"
The yard broke into cheers from all of the boys. As the congratulations were winding down, Helen announced that the food was ready.
Once everyone finished eating, Teri got the boy's attention. "Hey guys; pools open - explain the rules to the new guys!"
Teri watched with amusement as the regular crew stripped to birthday suits in record time. As most of the boys ran towards the pool, Timmy and Ricky hopped on Eli's back as he flew Superman-style behind the rest of the group. DJ, Tanner, Toby, Beau, and Ian sat and watched the others strip and run off. Teri came over to the blushing boys and crouched in front of them. "What's wrong guys, don't you want to swim?"
Tanner looked at his companions, then answered for them. "Yeah, but it's too weird getting nude out here."
Teri stopped him. "Tanner, do the rest of these guys know what you and DJ had to go through; and what was done to you?"
"Toby and Beau do; we ain't told Ian about it."
"I'm pretty sure Sean is going to be doing something like this a little later tonight; would it be okay if I told him the short version so he understands what we're talking about?"
"I guess." Tanner and DJ replied.
Teri turned to Ian. "Ian, you have made friends with a group of very special boys today. Something you don't know about them is what they went through before they came here. Some of them simply lost their families, some others were abandoned or kicked out. Some of them went through various degrees of sexual, emotional, and even physical abuse. These guys have had to suffer through just about all of the above between the two of them. It's my guess that you, Beau, and Toby are just shy about people you just met seeing you nude; these two had to live with their privacy being violated every day."
Ian stood up, turned, and pulled DJ and Tanner into a three-way hug. "Dang guys; that's messed up. I KNOW Russ and Sara ain't gonna let that stuff happen to you again. It sounds like the rest of those guys had to get over some bad junk too; maybe this might start helpin' you guys get over it."
DJ leaned back a little and smiled at Ian. "You know something, you might be right Ian. My old father is dead; I gotta stop lettin' him control my life. What do you think, Tanner?"
Tanner nodded. "Makes sense to me. You in, Toby and Beau?"
Toby grinned. "If it's gonna help you guys, try to stop us!"
Teri stepped back to give them space as the five boys quickly stripped down and streaked off to join their new friends.
Chip chuckled as he watched the last one disappear. "You know Teri; you're teaching these boys, especially my boys, bad habits."
Teri grinned. "Just consider it payback for pouncing lessons!"
As they headed into the house to settle final details on the boy's placements, Robin got Teri's attention. "You know, I think Ian's smiled more today than he has the whole last couple of months."
"These guys have that effect sometimes. There's a good chance he's going to discover a lot of things about himself that he wouldn't normally have noticed; these guys as a group seem to give peer pressure to be the best you can be, and being able to do something that other kids consider weird is considered something to celebrate with them. That's why nobody even blinked when Eli flew into the pool with Timmy and Ricky on his back."
Robin grinned. "I think Ian's gonna fit right in ... "
The boys were surprised when they came inside. Teri had them get dressed then sit at the dining room table. When John and Matt came in dressed in full uniform, they fell silent, curious as to what was about to happen.
John stood at the head of the table. "Patriarch Short, may I have your assistance?"
Cory stood and joined John. "How may Clan Short be of assistance Commander Martin?"
"It has come to the attention of my superiors that the senior members of your Security detail have performed their duties above and beyond what was required of them. To ease the performance of their duties, and in appreciation of services rendered in the last twenty-four hours, the Federation is offering commissions for your two men. With your approval, they will be issued the rank of Ensign; upon completion of training on Federation laws and procedures they will receive automatic promotions to Lieutenant Junior Grade. Is this acceptable to you?"
Cory nodded once. "It is acceptable; you may proceed Commander."
John nodded to Matt, who stood and announced "Mr. James Jacob Richardson and Mr. Gabriel Mark Michaels; please join us in front."
Once the boys had joined them, John continued. "Mr. Richardson and Mr. Michaels; the Chief of Starfleet Security has authorized me to offer you both commissions in Starfleet Security. Are you willing to accept these commissions, and the responsibilities that accompany them?"
"Yes, Commander." both boys replied.
John nodded to Matt, who pinned their new rank emblems onto their shirts.
"Gentlemen," Chip announced as he rose from his seat, "I've been authorized to inform you that commendations have been inserted into your service records for your performance today aboard the Enterprise. In addition, Captain Kirk and Lieutenant Thompson both send their congratulations. On a personal note, I want to say great job, guys."
Before they could respond, John added. "The formal part is over; way to go guys, I'm proud of you."
JJ spoke first. "Thanks Uncle Chip, tell Uncle Jim and Mr. Thompson thanks too." He then turned back to John. "Thanks Pop, this is awesome!"
As JJ gave John a hug, Gabe took his turn. "Uncle Chip, thanks a bunch; please tell them thanks from me too." Once JJ broke the hug, Gabe held out his hand. "Thanks Uncle John, we won't let you guys down."
Once all of the congratulations were over, Chip and Josh rounded up the group to return to Southcrest. Just as they were all preparing to be beamed out, Beau ran up and pulled the twins into a three-way hug. When they saw the smile on Justy's face, they gave each other knowing looks, then finished preparations to depart. Once they had beamed out, Cory looked over the remaining group.
"Okay guys, let's hit the bedroom. It's been a long day; Sean still has to go through his indoctrination of you guys. See you tomorrow, Mom."
The boys headed up to the bedroom, and a couple of hours later Teri did her nightly check. She smiled as she looked at the boys all snuggled in their groups; their faces showing total contentment as they slept. She turned and closed the door, and shut off the lights as she called an end to one of the most eventful days she had ever experienced.
DJ slowly awoke from the best sleep he'd had in a long time. He smiled as he realized who was snuggled in his arms; his boyfriend and soon-to-be brother Tanner. He began to wiggle free; but stopped when he heard a soft whimper from behind him and felt a small arm reach across his chest and take hold tightly. DJ's smile grew to a grin as he looked over his shoulder. Latched securely to his back was his long-lost little brother. DJ twisted around and ran his fingers through Timmy's bright red hair lovingly. After a minute of this attention, Timmy's eyes fluttered open and he smiled up at DJ.
"Kewl! You're really here, bro!" Timmy whispered.
DJ replied softly "Yes little brother, I'm really here. Did you sleep okay?"
"Yeah. I ain't gotta be scared no more that you'll get hurt. I was 'fraid I'd never get to meet you."
DJ shifted to where he could pull Timmy against his chest. As he hugged the small body of his long-lost brother he replied with a tear running down his face. "Now that I've got you, I swear you'll never have to worry about losing me again. You're a really special little fireball, and I ain't gonna lose you again."
Timmy snuggled tightly against DJ's chest. "I love you big brother. I ain't gonna ever let you get hurt again."
DJ sobbed softly as he replied. "I love you too little brother. I really don't know what I'd do without you now, you're really a part of me."
Timmy replied by snuggling tighter against DJ. A few seconds later, he asked shyly "Deej, can you take me into the bathroom?"
DJ was interrupted in framing a tactful response by the sound of someone giggling from the other bed. DJ turned his head and found Cory sitting there watching them.
"It looks like you got his seal of approval, DJ. He only schemes to get people into the bathroom he likes; you must really mean something to him since he's not including Ricky. You've got mine and Sean's okay; if we didn't trust you Timmy would not have been sleeping where he did last night. Go spend some time being a big brother; when he tries to talk you into a shower go ahead, I'll see you downstairs."
DJ smiled at Cory. "Thanks Cory; I think I'll do just that. Why are you guys so nice to us?"
Cory smiled back. "We'll talk about it over breakfast; right now get your little brother into the bathroom before I ground both of you!"
The boys all finally managed to make it down to the breakfast table. They waited patiently as Helen,Tommy and Tyler took turns bringing out omelets cooked to each individual order. Once everyone finished eating, Cory got their attention. "I was asked earlier why we are being so nice to our newest Clan members. I think it's gonna sink in better hearing it from all of us. DJ, since you asked, I think it's only fair you get your answer first."
Sean stood up. "DJ, the ONLY reason that Cory and I did not adopt you ourselves is that it would not be fair for you to have to answer to someone your own age. You are and always will be Timmy's big brother. Cory and I talked it over this morning; you are just as much our son as Timmy, but asking you to respond to me as a parent when I'm only a couple of hours older than you is just wrong. Tanner, Toby, Beau; that goes for you guys too in a different light. The three of you are about to become Timmy's brothers by adoption; if we had decided to adopt DJ the three of you would have been included. That means that once the adoption is final, you all have a little fireball as a brother. Russ, Sara; as of now we want you to know you have our permission to treat Timmy just like the rest of your sons. That includes straightening him out if he gets in trouble."
DJ had tears running down his face as he replied to what he just heard. "Two weeks ago I had someone I didn't even want to call my father; now I've got two dads, a pop, and a mom, not to mention a boyfriend who's also my brother plus three more brothers. I don't know what to do or say; I'm scared I'm gonna wake up and this is all a dream."
Cory walked over and pulled DJ into a hug. "DJ, it's not a dream. This is your reward for surviving the hell you lived through. Sean and I don't expect you to call us Pop and Dad; if you want to and it's okay with Russ and Sara you can. If you do, plan on seeing people outside our group giving you weird looks!"
To everyones surprise, Tanner spoke up. Turning to Russ, he asked "Dad; is it okay if we call Cory and Sean Dad and Pop sometimes?"
Russ smiled as he replied. "Guys, if it wasn't for those two all of us wouldn't be here. If you feel comfortable with it AND you promise not to confuse people with it I'm fine. Just remember that they have the same rights with you guys as they have given us with Timmy. You don't know this; but Teri, or should I say your Grandma, told me last night that legally Sean and Cory are adults. That means that even though they are your age, they have to answer for their actions just like Sara and I do. If they tell you to do something, listen and do it."
All four boys agreed. A few more minutes were spent discussing their status within the group, then they all split off to take care of their daily business.
Russ couldn't help but smile as he looked at the passengers in the Hummer. When him and Sara announced they were taking their new sons out to get some clothes, they suddenly found they had a mini-army that insisted on coming along to assist. At first Russ and Sara tried to argue, but they gave up after Tommy informed them 'There ain't no way we's lettin' no grownups pick our nephews new clothes. Y'all's got no sense of whats cool.' Now they had DJ, Tanner, Toby, Beau, Tommy, Adam, Tyler and Timmy joking around in the back as they headed out to Jordan Creek Towne Center to raid the clothing stores. Ian managed to con his way into joining the group, but Cory and Sean begged off on the trip; saying there was no way they were going to miss a chance at some alone time.
In the back, Adam giggled as he watched Timmy bouncing between his big brother and his soon to be brothers. As Timmy started his third round on DJ's lap, Beau moved over and sat next to Adam.
"Adam?" Beau asked shyly.
"Yeah little guy?" Adam replied as he placed an arm over Beau's shoulder.
"Please don' get mad, but I wanna know something."
"I won't get mad; go ahead. If I'm gonna be your uncle I gotta be there to answer questions for you."
The boys fell silent waiting to hear what Beau was going to ask. "Okay. I kinda looked at ya when you got up this mornin. I know Sean told us about what happened to you, but when I saw all them marks I felt sick. Would it hurt if I touched them?"
Adam was blown away, he definitely didn't expect the question he was asked. "I guess it's okay. I'll let you know if it starts to hurt." He carefully pulled up his shirt and sat forward to give Beau access.
Beau gingerly reached out and gently ran the tip of his finger over the large scar that ran the length of Adam's spine. Silent tears rolled down Beau's face as he finished tracing the large scar and began working his way through the smaller visible scars using both hands. It only took him a couple of minutes to work through all of the accessible scars on Adam's chest, back and arms. Beau sat back and placed a hand over his eyes, now audibly sobbing softly.
Adam pulled Beau onto his lap and held him tightly. "It's okay lil' guy; the people who did this ain't gonna hurt anyone no more. I'm gonna be okay."
Beau spoke through his sobs. "Look at my arm, Uncle Adam."
Adam looked down, and was shocked to see a map of the injuries on his arm fading from Beau's arm. "What did you do? Are you okay?"
Beau had mostly recovered, and asked Adam "Does it feel different where I touched you?"
Adam thought for a second before replying. "Yeah, I don't feel the spots I was hit there."
Beau gave a small smile. "Jamie and Jacob were right then. They told me that they thought I could make someone not hurt by touching them. It don't heal ya, but it stops your hurts. I felt what you was feeling. Why was you lying to everyone and tellin' them you didn't hurt?"
Adam was shocked. "The rest of the guys needed help a lot more than me; I didn't want anyone worrying about me."
"Please don't do that. Too many people love you."
Tommy interrupted. "Yeah, bro. If we don't know you're hurtin', then we worry sumthin's wrong when you don't wanna do stuff."
Adam looked at the faces surrounding him; all of them showing concern. "Dang it guys, y'all worry too much. Beau can tell ya, it was just my bruises hurtin'; there was nothing major wrong. Beau, that's an awesome talent you got there; if you don't mind, I think I'll have to get with you later for the rest of the spots. How long does it last?"
"I don't know; it's the first time I've done it. I'll do the rest as long as you promise not to hide hurting from us again."
"Deal."
Tanner waved Beau over to join him. "Hey bro, I do have a question for ya'; whats the deal with you, Jamie, and Jacob? Y'all seemed kinda tight when they were here, and you've kinda been down since they left."
Beau blushed as he took a seat. "Jamie and Jacob talked to me a lot while we were on the Enterprise. They knew Toby and I were gonna end it all until we met you guys on the bus. They told me all about their old life; even stuff Justy don't know. They had it really bad, I guess I kinda like them both since they shared with me what they had to live with."
Everyone turned their heads to look at Ian as he announced, "I'll do it, Timmy." Ian took a deep breath. "I guess William and Duke like me. I can hear them in my head!"
William squawked from his perch on the rear shelf, nodding his head.
Ian continued. "Kyle's talking to the twins and Duke's relaying it. They're not ready to tell everyone what all happened; they said thanks Beau for keeping the secret. Did y'all notice how they always do stuff together? They have spent all of their lives supporting each other, and even though they are in a safe home they still can't handle it if the other one's not around. Until they met Beau, they had figured they'd never have a boyfriend. All the guys they liked were either taken or would have weirded out about having to share them. Beau, you're different. As soon as they scanned your head like they do for all the new guys, they knew you were different. I guess the best way to say it is you're the third part that is going to make them complete. William just told me that the Book Of Life has updated again; and thanks to you, their future just got better."
Tanner smiled as he put his arm around Beau. "Bro, I guess that means you got a pair of boyfriends, don't it?"
Beau managed to turn an even deeper shade of red. "I dunno. I guess that'd be kewl, but I ain't asked and they didn't either. I really don't know how."
Ian surprised them all with his next move. He moved over by Toby, and shyly spoke. "Toby, I ain't doin' this just for show; this is for real. Can we .... I mean .... would you be my boyfriend?"
Toby was speechless for a second. From being with Ian the last couple of days, he had already learned that Ian was quiet and shy about expressing his thoughts. "Ian, I've been wanting to ask you the same thing since I met you, but I was scared you'd say no." Toby reached around and pulled Ian into a hug. "Yes, I'd love to be your boyfriend!"
As everyone congratulated the new couple, Tommy pulled Beau off to the side. "When we git back home, you're callin' the twins on the console. Y'all need to settle this, ain't none of y'all gonna be settled 'till ya' do. Maw's been harpin' me to start lookin' out for myself, I guess that means I'm needin' to be lookin' out for kinfolk too. Cor called you our kin this mornin'; so y'all are gittin' treated as such. Get to thinkin' 'bout what you're gonna say, you ain't gonna be happy 'less you do it."
Beau just nodded his head as he tried to figure out what he was going to do.
Russ did a quick head count as the group left Yonkers and headed for the Food Court. He was pleasantly surprised at the choices the boys made in clothes; the 'uncles' made sure that the choices were not too plain or too outlandish. Once he was sure everyone was still with them, he led the group over for lunch.
On their way over, Adam had to hit the restroom; as he was coming out he heard someone say hesitantly, "Adam Short?"
Adam turned to see who was talking; and was surprised to find one of Sean's teammates, Clint Anderson. He had met Clint at the party two weekends ago; but was surprised that Clint recognized him. "Hey Clint, wazzup?"
Clint smiled. "Not much, just chillin'. How you doin', last I saw you was kinda messed up."
"I'm healing slowly. Thanks for asking."
Clint joined Adam as he headed to the group's table. "Hey, Adam, I know your mom said if anyone needed help to call her. Does that apply to straight kids too?"
Adam suddenly stopped and gave Clint his full attention. "You better believe it; straight, gay, from any planet in the Federation, it don't matter. What's up?"
"Well, I kinda goofed up, and I think I got my girl pregnant. Crystal is cool with it, but we think our parents are gonna blow. I know my dad's gonna beat my butt raw; her dad is worse than mine. When I met him, he not only told me he'd cut my nuts off if I touched her, he showed me the knife he'd use to do it. The bad part is, if she is pregnant I want to raise the kid. I'm adopted, and I know what it's like wondering why your parents got rid of you. She agrees, but we both know her parents are gonna force her to get an abortion."
Adam shook his head. "Dude, you ain't kiddin' you need help. I'm glad I'm gay; if JJ gets pregnant, it really is a miracle. Come on, I want you to tell Russ and Sara what you just told me; they can call Mom and fill her in. Is Crystal here?"
"Yeah, she should be coming out of the restroom any time."
"Get her and bring her over, she needs to be involved in this too."
As Clint went to get Crystal, Adam hurried over to Sara and Russ. "Sara, did you bring that tricorder Doc gave you?"
Sara gave Adam a worried look. "Yes, what's wrong?"
"We might need to do a pregnancy check."
Russ chuckled. "Adam, I really don't think you have to worry. JJ's not THAT good!"
Adam shot back with a grin. "Don't be so sure, he carries a lot of magic in that wand of his! Trust me!"
Sara giggled at Russ's flushed face. "You should know better, Russ. You're an easy target!" She then turned back to Adam. "Okay, on who?"
Adam motioned towards Clint, who had just joined Crystal and was talking to her. "Clint's girl Crystal. If she is, Mom might have to pull some strings for both of them."
Sara looked over at the couple; they appeared to both be in their mid-teens, with matching medium blond hair. The body structure of both indicated that puberty was well along. As she watched, they headed towards the table, both obviously nervous. After they arrived, Adam did the introductions. "Russ, Sara; this is Clint Anderson and his girlfriend Crystal."
Russ stood and shook both of their hands. "It's a pleasure to meet you. Adam said that you might need some help; he hinted that Clint's little head took over thinking from his big head and now you might have a problem. Have a seat, tell us about it."
As Clint recapped what he told Adam, Sara scanned Crystal with the tricorder. Once Clint was done, Sara gave her findings. "Crystal, Clint; you performed an adult act, and seem to be willing to be responsible for the consequences. I've talked to Teri quite a bit, and am pretty sure that if even one of you has problems with your family over this, both of you will be taken in for your own protection if she thinks it's needed for your safety. If your parents respond the way Clint thinks they will, both of you will be removed from your families. Are you both willing to take that step, and more important are you willing to stay there for each other?"
Sara was impressed to see that both of them thought it over before responding. Crystal answered first. "My Mom had a heart attack in her sleep last year, so now it's just Dad and me. He doesn't like Clint; in fact he's hated ever boy I've even been friends with. Once, he threw a boy across the yard then slapped me so hard I got a black eye; just because the boy kissed me. I love Clint; if I didn't we wouldn't have done it."
Clint took his cue. "Like I said, I'm adopted, and any time I screw up they throw it in my face. I don't want to put another kid through that, and I know abortion is just legal murder. I love Crystal and want to spend my whole life with her. If she's pregnant, I'll do whatever it takes to protect her and our child."
Sara smiled. "Good answer, both of you. Give me your numbers, I'll get Teri to have your parents over. Crystal, whats your last name?"
Crystal relaxed slightly knowing they had support now. "It's Thornton."
"Okay; have a seat, we'll head out shortly. By the way, start thinking up names; you'll need three of them."
The sudden silence at the table was broken by Timmy. "William says they're all little boys too!"
Russ placed a hand on each of the shocked couple's shoulders. "Congratulations! I think there are going to be three boys who will have some very good parents. If things go down like we think they will, I promise you'll have all the support you need with them."
Crystal finally found her voice. "How does he know they are boys? He's on the other side of the table! And who is William?"
Russ chuckled. "Relax; you're about to meet a very special group of boys and young men. As compensation for the trouble they have all lived through, it appears that Our Heavenly Father has Blessed some of them with some additional skills. The little redhead over there is Timmy. Do you see the eagle sitting on his lap?"
As Crystal and Clint looked over, William stuck his head over the edge of the table.
"The eagle is William; I can tell you for a fact that him and Timmy are able to talk to each other. William is what the Indians call a 'Spirit Guide', and Timmy basically acts as his interpreter. A couple of the guys can read minds and emotions; I'm going to make sure they are watching your parents while we give them the news. If any of them see that your parents are faking accepting it to make Teri happy, they'll speak up and Teri will respond according to what they find."
Clint looked over at Adam. "Dude, is he for real?"
Adam smiled. "Oh yeah, he's for real. He's seen all of us in operation; in fact they have four new sons thanks to us."
As soon as Adam made the comment, DJ, Tanner, Toby and Beau raised their hands. DJ spoke for the four of them. "Trust me, you guys are safe. The FBI won't even mess with these guys. If Teri says you need protection, you've got it. I'd tell you to ask my ex-father, but last I heard he was building fires in Hell."
"DJ!" Russ said in shock.
DJ grinned. "Sorry Dad, but that's what Uncle Mikey told me!"
Russ shook his head. "I think I'm gonna have to have a talk with that boy!"
The table broke into laughter when Tommy quipped "Don't bother, Russ. Mikey is just denser than a force field sometimes!"
Adam took over the conversation one it quieted back down, introducing the rest of the group while Sara called and filled in Teri on what was happening. Thirty minutes later, they were finished eating and headed back home.
Teri, Dan and John took their seats at the table and looked around to ensure everyone was present. To John's right was Mr. Thornton; next to him was Mr. and Mrs. Anderson. Finishing out the side of the table were Sean and Cory, both in full uniform. On the opposite side of the table sat John, Clint, Crystal, Sebastian, Sammy, and Tommy. At the end of the table sat Robin and Kayla.
Teri introduced everyone, then began. "Clint and Crystal approached one of my sons today to ask for assistance with a problem they are having. At their request, I arranged this meeting to discuss it in a controlled environment. Does anyone have any questions before we begin?"
Mr. Anderson spoke up. "Yeah, this ain't none of these kid's business, get them out of here. Those Starfleet costumes don't impress me."
Before Teri could reply, Cory waved her off and stood. "Mr. Anderson. I am afraid Director Short was in error during her introductions. Let me clarify the duties of the persons attending this meeting. My presence here is two-fold. In one regard, I am present at the request of Director Short as a representative of Starfleet. In that regard I am acting as Ensign Cory Short, Engineers Assistant, assigned to the USS Enterprise. My secondary function here is as my official title; Patriarch of Clan Short of the family of Sarek of the planet Vulcan. Your offspring approached a member of Clan Short for assistance; if at any time during this conference I determine that it would be logical for Clan Short to assume responsibility I will declare such. Present to my right is Ensign Sean Short, Helm division, USS Enterprise. Present to Miss Thornton's left is Samuel Martin and Sebastian Martin. Both are Clan Short Intelligence, and are here at my request. The final Clan member to the left of Sebastian Martin is Thomas Short, Communications Officer for Clan Short. His presence is required due to the probability of Clan Short involvement; he will be logging these proceedings. Have I clarified the necessity of our presence sufficiently?"
Anderson growled "Yeah, you proved your a punk who knows a lot of big words." He started to reach over to push Cory, but suddenly found John holding his arm.
John flipped out his credentials with his free hand before speaking. "Mr. Anderson, let me refresh your memory; I'm Commander John Martin, Starfleet Security. I would highly recommend you sit down and relax. You just about put yourself in a serious situation. If you would have made contact with Patriarch Short, I would have no choice but to put you under arrest for assault on a Vulcan Dignitary. Once he identified himself as such, Patriarch Short is no longer operating as a Starfleet witness. I assure you he is not playing a game; I can also assure you he has no sense of humor in this capacity. He is literally the most powerful fourteen-year-old on Earth, take my advice and don't cross him."
Anderson glanced at Cory, expecting to see a smug look. He was surprised to see an expressionless face looking back at him. "These guys are serious! What the hell is going on here!" he thought as he sat down.
Once everyone was re-seated, Teri began. "This will be easier if I describe the situation. I'm sure all of you know that Clint and Crystal are dating. You may not be aware of this, but they are committed to each other and plan to marry upon reaching adulthood."
Cory stopped Teri. "Director Short, I must inform our guests that I have security personnel standing by with phasers set to stun. They have been instructed to disable any occupant of this room which attempts a hostile act or logically appears to be doing same."
Teri took the hint, one of the twins had signaled Cory there was going to be trouble. "Thank you Patriarch Short. Everyone, he's not joking, and if he's got who I think he does behind those phasers they are crack shots. The reason Clint and Crystal came to me is they made an error in judgment due to their love for each other. They are both very mature for their age; most fifteen year olds would have panicked. Federation Child Services has performed a med scan on Crystal, and we have determined that she is pregnant with triplets; additionally they are confirmed to be Clint's children. The couple has declared their wish to keep the children and raise them."
Crystal's father landed halfway across the table, hands outstretched towards Clint. The Andersons watched in shock as John calmly walked over, sat him back in his chair, then restrained him. He turned to Cory. "Sir, how long will he be out?"
"At the setting Mr. Michaels is using, approximately seven point three minutes Commander."
John nodded. "Mr. And Mrs. Anderson, it look like you have about seven minutes for your response, we already know his."
John glanced at his sons, both of them frowned, telling him they still needed to watch the Anderson's. John signaled behind his back to the security team to keep on guard, then took his seat.
Before either of them could speak, Sebastian stood up. "Mr. And Mrs. Anderson, don't bother. Patriarch Short, we have determined the unborn children and possibly their parents are in lethal danger."
Cory stood up. "Report, Mr. Martin."
"Mrs. Anderson intends to perform an abortion with a clothes hanger on Miss Thornton. In addition, Mr. Anderson intends to beat his son, using a leather strap and/or bare fists. He is also considering the same for Miss Thornton. We also found that Mr. Anderson fully intends to remove Clinton's testicles with his military Bowie knife."
"Acknowledged, Mr. Martin. Notify me of any additional developments. Director Short, Clan Short requires you to invoke the Safe Haven Act based on the information you just received."
Mr Anderson stood up. "Now wait just a cotton-picking minute! What's this 'Safe Haven' bull; and where do you get off basing anything on some little punk blowing smoke out his ass? I'm taking my son right now, and as soon as he's safe I'm calling the cops and reporting you for attempted kidnapping!"
He started to continue, but froze as he felt two phasers at his back.
"Mr. Anderson, I would suggest you take your seat." JJ said from behind him.
Once he sat down, JJ and Gabe stepped back towards the wall and held their phasers at the ready.
Seeing things were under control and that Mr. Thornton was awake, Teri began. "The Safe Haven Act is a law that was passed by the Federation Council back in 2002 which protects children and youth from unsafe or abusive situations and abandonment. Tommy, Sammy, and Sebastian are all three recipients of that protection. As far as Sebastian's report, it bears more weight in a court of law than a signed confession. The twins are telepaths, and have been trained to Vulcan standards for collecting evidence. Since their accounts have been accepted by Patriarch Short, I have no choice but to honor his request. As of this time, I hereby take custody of Clinton and Crystal under the Safe Haven Act, article sixty-seven point six. From this point forward, you are to have no contact with either of them. Failure to heed this no contact order will result in prosecution under Federation law in a Federation court. You will remain here while Federation Security escorts both youths to retrieve their personal belongings. You will be given the chance to review same belongings before you depart; once you depart any claims to same belongings are null and void. Any attempt to bring theft charges against either youth will be considered contact and prosecuted as such; in addition civil courts will be given the option to charge you for filing of a false report. Do you understand and acknowledge these stipulations?
"Yes" All three adults replied in a beaten tone.
Tommy spoke for the first time. "I have acknowledgment. Case number Two-F-Seven-Dash-CPS-Four-Nine-Eight-DHQ is filed and former guardians acknowledgments are on record. Clint's case file is on your terminal, Mom."
Robin spoke up. "Teri, what is it going to take to get custody of them?"
Teri smiled. "Seeing as I have all of your information on file, you are halfway there. Kayla, you and Ian need to be in on the decision too."
Teri, Robin, Kayla, Ian, Clint, and Crystal were sitting in the living room, winding down from the earlier excitement.
"I don't believe he tried to claim my underwear was his property!" Clint chuckled.
Teri laughed. "I know, he was getting pretty pathetic. The twins told me he was going to pull that before you even got back; I wish I had a picture of his face when they started listing off everything you left that was legally yours. Oh, the couple of things you forgot about that you did want have been taken care of, they're with the rest of your stuff. Transporters come in handy, we even got your teddy bear from when you were in the group home. I think your sons will love having something their Daddy used to cuddle with."
Kayla smiled at Clint's blush. "Don't be embarrassed; all kids have one of those. It might not be a bear, but they all have a special cuddle toy. Ian's still got his raccoon; and still uses it if he feels lonely."
"MOM!" Ian moaned.
Clint giggled. "Don't worry Ian; the only reason I didn't still use mine is it was hidden from me. Where was it?"
"In the basement" Teri replied. "Your old mom hid it from your old dad, he was going to burn it. Not to change the subject, but does anyone have any problems with Clint and Crystal moving in with y'all?"
Kayla was the only one to speak. "Is either one of you going to have a problem with Ian being gay? I'm sure someday he's going to have a boyfriend."
"No problemo!" Clint replied. "I've got a few gay friends, in fact some of them live here. It's no different having a gay little brother; I'll protect him either way."
"That goes for me too." Crystal replied. "As long as he don't mind me asking advice on fashion; I'm a klutz when it comes to picking out clothes!"
Ian giggled. "I can do that! Oh, Mom, I do have a boyfriend - Toby! He said YES!"
Ian suddenly found himself in the middle of a parent sandwich, as Robin and Kayla expressed their joy at his new-found happiness. Clint and Crystal looked at each other, then went over and joined the hug.
Teri waited for the congratulations to die down, then announced "I guess its official; y'all are now a family!"
Tommy looked over his shoulder at Cory; he was standing behind Beau with his hands crossed over Beau's chest, trying to calm Beau's nerves.
"Hang in there Beau; we're gonna stay right here with you." Tommy said softly.
Cory smiled as he squeezed Beau. "You better believe it; no matter what happens we're here for you. You ready?"
"I guess so; are you sure they won't laugh or hate me?" Beau asked.
"I'm sure." Cory replied as he gave Tommy the nod to go ahead.
Tommy entered a command into the terminal in front of him. A couple of seconds later, Josh came on the screen. "Southcrest, how may I help you?"
"Hey Uncle Josh; are the twins available."
"Hey Tommy. Just a second, I'll see if I can catch them. They just dumped an ice tray down the front of Zac's pants; last I saw he was chasing them around the dining room table."
"Tell Zac I said pick on someone his own size!" Cory yelled.
"I'll be sure to tell him that." Josh chuckled as he turned away to get the twins. A minute later, Jacob and Jamie appeared in front of the screen, grinning but out of breath. "This better be good, Tommy; we just about had Zac!"
Tommy grinned back. "I think you'll like this. Cory and I have someone here who wants to ask you guys a question. When he asks, trust me he's serious."
Cory moved Beau in front of the screen. "Go for it. You'll never know until you ask."
Beau blushed and said under his breath. "I can't. I'm scared."
Jamie and Jacob looked at each other and smiled. Jacob spoke for them. "We could find out Beau, but we think it's gotta be important for you to be scared. Remember, it's us; there's nothing you could say that will make us mad at you."
Beau gathered up what little resolve he could, and blurted it out. "I love you guys and wanna be your boyfriend!"
Cory watched the screen as Beau tried to pull himself tighter against Cory's chest, sure he was about to be rejected.
The twins stood there speechless, mouths hanging open in shock. Jamie found his voice finally and whispered just loud enough to be heard "Did you mean both of us?"
Beau nodded his head, then returned to looking at his feet.
Jacob recovered. "Beau, look at us, please!"
Beau looked up; he was shocked to see both boys looking back at him with smiles on their faces and tears running from their eyes. Once they were sure he was looking, they gave their answer in stereo. "You really DO understand us! We had been tryin' to figure out what to do if you asked one of us since we both like you; we never figured you'd ask us both. We know things are gonna be weird sometimes, but YES!!!!"
Beau got a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "For real? REALLY!"
Jacob and Jamie's heads bobbed up and down like kids on pogo sticks. As Beau broke into a huge grin on the screen, Jamie turned his head and yelled "POP! DADDY! JUSTY! C'MERE!"
Justy was first into the room; as soon as he saw the trails of tears on their faces he ran over and put his arms around his foster brothers. "What's wrong bros? Who made you cry; I'll kill 'em."
By that time, Josh and Chip had joined the group. Cory figured he better help calm them down before things turned bad and came onto the screen. "Justy, put your fists away; those are tears of joy. You might wanna take a seat; your bro's have some good news."
Chip and Josh each put a hand on Justy's shoulders. "Settle down and hear them out, Munchkin."
Jacob and Jamie were not fazed by Justy's protective outburst. Both of them glowed with joy as they announced "Daddy, Pop, Justy; We got ourselves a boyfriend! Beau asked us and we said yes!!"
Chip and Josh looked at each other in shock. Justy broke free of his parents, knelt down, and looked his new brothers in the eyes. What he saw brought joy to his heart; the boys had a spark and life in their eyes he'd not seen since he first met them. Justy looked up at his parents and saw the doubt in their faces. "Daddy, Pop; it's right. Daddy, they've got the same light in their eyes you had when you came home from that New Year's Eve party after meeting Pop. I don't know how they're gonna do it, but they're happier now." Justy turned to the screen. "Beau, thanks buddy. Welcome to the family! I know this is gonna be new to you and my little bros; if you need help or advice just give me a yell."
The twins looked up at their new parents. Chip took one glance at Justy and Josh, then smiled broadly. "Congratulations guys. It looks like you got the approval of the leading matchmaker in Florida. Seriously, you guys deserve to be happy; if you honestly are going to be happy having Beau as both of you's boyfriend we'll give you the chance."
Josh turned to the screen. "Beau, you just made two boys really happy. I'll tell you now, you are moving into territory I wouldn't even attempt to try. All three of you need to ask for help for this to work; once you get down here, I want to sit down with the three of you as soon as you get here."
Beau was all smiles. "This is for real, ain't it? The two cutest boys I've ever seen not only are my boyfriends, but their parents are happy about it! I was so scared y'all'd think I was weird 'cause I wanted to ask both of them; it's so kewl you want to help us! I hope Russ and Sara are this okay about it."
"Okay about what?" Russ asked as he walked into the room.
Beau was still riding the high of finding out he had Chip and Josh's support. "Jamie and Jacob said YES! They're my boyfriends now!"
Russ looked at the screen and saw the joyous faces of the twins, then looked at Beau and saw the same look in his eyes. "From the looks of the three of you, it doesn't matter what we think. Just for the record, I do wonder if you guys are old enough for a relationship; but I'm willing to support you if you're serious. Come here Beau; congratulations son."
Sean slowly looked around the yard. The adults had announced at lunch that the houses in Orlando were ready. Now all of the kids were relaxing in groups in the back yard; most discussing how this house had changed their lives in such a short time. It was sobering listening to them; even though Sean knew each story and had told them himself countless times, hearing it from the person it happened to was different. What was really getting to Sean was their claims as to the help they had received from himself and Cory.
Cory joined his boyfriend. "Hey babe; whats up? You seem kinda out of it."
Sean wrapped an arm around Cory's waist. "I don't know, Cor. These guys are makin' you and me sound like some sorta miracle workers. We mighta helped them, but I'm not sure about all the stuff they're sayin'."
Cory pulled Sean with him and found a seat. Once Sean was safely on his lap, Cory began. "Teddy bear, they are totally right; but it really is all because of you. If you hadn't stood by me when I was down, none of these guys would be here today." Cory saw the stubberness in Sean's look. "You don't believe me, do you? I can think of one thing which proves my point. When we saved Adam, he was convinced he was worthless. A couple of days ago, he did something that I know he learned from you; he took charge and helped someone he barely knew. You're the reason that Clint and Crystal are going to be able to have a go at a life together. You might not have been there, but your big heart is contagious. That is one of the things I love the most about you.
Sean snuggled closer. "Thank's babe. I guess it's just too weird hearing people say I'm special; I just treat everyone like I wanna be treated. I guess Mom taught us good, didn't she?"
"Yep; but you learned better than me. I had to copy you and Mikey to figure out what to do."
The two boys cuddled for the next hour, then joined everyone as they joined in a group hug. As the hug was breaking up, Clint got everyones attention.
"Guys, I heard an old song yesterday. When I heard it, it hit me that it could be a theme song for all of you. Teri has a copy of it, come inside I want you to hear it.
Everyone followed Clint into the Rec Room. He played the song through, then looked at Cory. "What do ya' think, Cory?"
Cory smiled. "I think we need the lyrics real fast so you can play it again."
Sebastian giggled. "You're getting' slow Cory!" he announced as he brought the lyrics up on the big screen. "Play it again!"
The older boys who remembered the song took the leads as the rest kicked in on the chorus.
This ain't a song for the broken-hearted
A silent prayer for the faith-departed
I ain't gonna be just a face in the crowd
You're gonna hear my voice
When I shout it out loud
Chorus:
It's my life It's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
(It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my way
I just wanna live while I'm alive
It's my life
This is for the ones who stood their ground
For Tommy and Gina
who never backed down
Tomorrow's getting harder
make no mistake
Luck ain't even lucky
Got to make your own breaks
Chorus:
It's my life
And it's now or never
I ain't gonna live
forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
(It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did
it my way
I just want to live while I'm alive
'Cause it's my
life
Better stand tall when they're calling you out
Don't
bend, don't break, baby, don't back down
Chorus:
It's my
life
And it's now or never
'Cause I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
(It's my life)
My
heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my
way
I just want to live while I'm alive
Chorus:
It's
my life
And it's now or never
'Cause I ain't gonna live
forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
(It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did
it my way
I just want to live while I'm alive
'Cause it's my
life!
"It's
My Life"
Available on the Bon Jovi Album "Crush"
©2000
Bon Jovi / The Island Def Jam Music Group
The boys turned to the sounds of applause from the doorway. Dan spoke for the assembled audience. "Boys and Crystal, that song fits your lives to a tee. If that's the official song of Clan Short, I can't think of a more fitting one. Oh, you sounded awesome by the way!"
Russ chimed in. "When we get all set up in Orlando, I'm going to get the arrangements made so you can all record it. You really did sound good."
Sean got everyones attention. "You know, that really does fit all of us; but it's not just because of Cory and I. Every one of y'all got here today by being stronger than the ones trying to hurt you. Mom, Cory, and me mighta helped some, but y'all need to take credit for yourselves too. Together we might be hard to beat, but that's because of all of you."
Antonio smiled as he added "He's right, I've seen the changes in all of y'all since I got here, and they didn't do nuthin' to make you change; you did it yourself. Y'all are my family now, and I couldn't want a better one!"
The emotional charge of the room finally got to be too much, and all of the kids all huddled into another group hug. Once the hug broke, everyone separated into their respective families and began preparing the move to Orlando. The first group to leave was Russ, Sara, Robin, Kayla, and their new families. Matt and Helen rounded up their group next; they wanted to make sure the house was ready for Teri and her boys tomorrow. Andrew decided to go with Helen to give them a hand. Doc Austin rounded up his group and joined them, saying he wanted to get started setting up his new office.
Dan came in to the Rec Room and addressed the shrinking group. "Guys, I think its time to get our stuff from our old house. I want to do this as the family we've become. Teri, John, and I talked; we think each of our families deserve some one-on-one time without all of the craziness of the last couple of months. Enjoy the break guys. JJ, Kyle, Sammy, 'Bastian, let's head out."
Fifteen minutes later, Dan and John took their family in one of the limos to Dan's old house. Derek said his goodbyes, and Teri suddenly found herself with nobody but her sons and grandson sharing the house with her. She made the rounds of her boys, giving each a hug and kiss, then went to the kitchen to start supper. She was pleasantly surprised when Tommy and Tyler shyly followed her.
"Mommy, can we help?" Tyler asked with puppy dog eyes.
Teri pulled both boys into a hug. "I wouldn't miss that for the world guys."
Teri broke from her normal routine and decided to wake her personal collection of angels. The boys had decided that it would be only fitting to spend their last night in Des Moines in a nest in the Rec Room, watching movies until they all passed out.
She came to a stop as she entered the room; her boys presented a sight no artist could capture. Instead of the normal tangle of bodies, the boys had fell asleep in the perfect picture of brotherly love. They had piled pillows and quilts so that they were semi-reclining. Sean and Cory were sitting shoulder-to-shoulder, heads laying against each other. Adam was cuddled under Sean's right arm, head on Sean's shoulder; Ty fell asleep wedged between Adam and Sean, head on Sean's lower chest. On the other side, Tommy had taken up the same position as Adam on Cory's left side. Timmy was half-laying on Cory, securely held in place by Tommy.
A familiar voice from behind Teri made her smile even more. "Awesome sight, ain't it Mom?"
Teri turned. "Yes it is, Mike. I'm not sure who needed the family-only time more, me or the boys. I hate to wake them; they look so peaceful. Look at their smiles, you can't tell they are anything but family."
Mike smiled back. "Mom, when you put your foot down about waiting to leave until they had some time alone, it was the best thing you could have done. All of them have been trying to look out for the other guys, they needed the break to finish bonding. I think we're gonna see a change in all of them today, a change for the better."
The conversation was interrupted by a sleepy little voice from the pile of boys. "Mornin' Gran'ma. Mornin' Unca' Mikey"
Teri turned to see her grandson wiggle out of the group, waking most of them in the process, and stumble over to give her a hug. "Good morning Timmy. Did you sleep good?" Teri asked as she picked him up.
"Yeah. I was missin' Ricky, but Unca' Tommy cuddled me and made it better." Timmy replied as he made himself comfortable on Teri's hip. He looked over Teri's shoulder and asked "Unca' Mikey, you gonna stay an' visit today?"
Mikey wrapped his wings around his mother and nephew. "I'm gonna try to, kiddo. If I do have to leave, I promise to come right back."
"Okay."
The rest of the boys wandered over and joined the family hug, sleepy smiles on all of their faces. As the hug broke, Mikey commented "Mom, I think it might be an idea to let the guys use your shower this morning."
Teri cast Mike a knowing look. "I agree; you guys go get cleaned up, I'll whip up some breakfast."
As the boys headed down the hall to get the shower, Adam noticed Cory had quiet tears running down his face, along with a small smile. "What's wrong, bro?" he asked with concern.
The group stopped as Cory replied. "Whenever Mikey thought I needed reassured that we were all brothers, he'd talk Mom into lettin' us use her shower and all three of us would shower together. Mom used to have some special liquid soap that smelled like strawberries just for that, and we'd all wash each other. I didn't remember about it 'till he said something, and I guess I kinda miss him doing that."
Adam handed his clothes to Tommy then hugged Cory. "Bro, maybe that's what Mikey's doing; we can still do it in his memory. We share a lot with the rest of the Clan; but this is just for our family. Will you please make me your little brother?"
Cory smiled as he felt all of the pressure of the last two months fall away. "Little brother, I think you're right. Let's go; it's time to make us all family."
They went into the room, and Cory went to the cabinet that Teri had always kept the body wash in for them. He opened the cabinet door, looked inside and exclaimed "Oh my God!"
The rest of the boys rushed over, and found Cory sitting on the floor holding a bottle with a dusty note on it. On the front of the note, it read "To Cory from Mom".
Cory carefully took the note off of the bottle, and slowly opened it. Once he had read it a few times, he passed it on to Sean with tears in his eyes. Sean took one look, and asked softly "Can I read it out loud, Cor?"
Cory just nodded, still unable to speak.
Sean re-opened the note and read it aloud:
Cory;
Since you are reading this, it means I finally have my other son back. Mike always insisted on this certain soap for any time you or Sean felt down, and I guess one of you is in need of support again. Cory, since the day you moved in Mike considered you just as much his brother as Sean. He loved both of you equally, and told me more than once he'd rather die than see either of you hurt.
Today I placed the rest of Mike's belongings in his room and locked the door. I plan to do the same for your things tomorrow; tonight I'm going back to the hospital to be with you. Today you woke up; thank God you remembered Sean a little bit; he can live with you remembering your friendship. The doctors say you might not remember everything from when you woke up, so I'll fill you in a little. Sean and I were in the room the first time you woke up; you saw me first and asked "Ma'am? Where am I? What happened?". Sean was sitting in a chair on the other side of the bed; when he saw you didn't remember me he sobbed aloud. You turned over and saw him, then said the words I'll never forget. "You're ... Sean? You're my friend, ain't you?"
Cory, you saved Sean with those seven words. If it takes every penny I have, I'm going to get you well again. The bottle this note was on is a symbol of Mike's love for you, as you use it remember Mike is here in spirit with you. I will not ever pack it or throw it away.
Love;
Mom
Tommy took the note from Sean's hands as Cory stood and fell into Sean's arms. He carefully folded it and laid it on the shelf, then joined Sean and Cory's hug. Adam, Tyler, and Timmy also joined, all of them crying silent tears to match Sean and Cory's tears.
After a few minutes, they broke the hug. Tommy picked up the note. "Timmy, take this to Grandma and have her put it someplace safe, okay?"
"Okay Unca' Tommy." Timmy replied as he took the note and walked out of the room.
Teri was just about ready to start cooking when Timmy walked into the kitchen. "Gran'ma, Unca' Tommy says to put this somewhere safe."
Teri took the note in wonder, looked down at it, then realized what it was. "Oh no! I forgot all about this! Are your Daddy and Pop okay, Timmy?"
"They cried some, but William says it was a good cry. William said to tell you they's okay."
Teri knelt down and gave Timmy a hug. "Tell William I said thank you. I'll put this away for your Daddy; now you better hurry up and get back up there before they start without you."
Timmy squeezed her then gave her a sloppy kiss on the cheek. "Okay Gran'ma, love you!"
Once Timmy returned, the boys undressed and climbed into the huge shower. Even with six of them, there was still a little room to move around. Not a word was said as they started with Cory, everyone slowly washing him from head to toe. Once Cory was done, they switched around and did the same to Sean, then Adam, Tommy, Tyler, and finally Timmy. Just as they finished drying off, Timmy climbed up on Sean and gave him a hug. "Pop, can you ask Gran'ma if we can stay here again tonight? I wanna sleep in our bed with just all my uncles one more time."
Sean looked around at the rest of the group, then replied. "I think you got a good idea, son. I'll see what I can do, okay?"
"Okay Pop. I love you."
"I love you too. Let's get dressed so we can eat, okay?"
"Okay." Timmy replied as he slid down Sean and grabbed his clothes.
Once they were all dressed, the boys headed down for breakfast. Once Timmy let William out for his morning hunt, they sat down. Teri came out pushing a cart stacked with waffles, sausage, and hash browns. "You guys ready to eat?" she asked.
"YEAH!" the boys chorused, trying not to drool.
As Teri started passing out the plates, Tommy looked around the table. "Mom? We got any peanut butter?" he asked.
Teri looked at him in surprise. "Yes, we do; why?"
Tommy giggled. "You mean y'all ain't had peanut butter on waffles? It's awesome!"
Teri went and got some peanut butter; she was surprised to see the rest of the boy's curiosity overcame their hunger as they watched Tommy carefully make sure each square had some peanut butter in it, then pour syrup over the top.
Timmy walked over to Tommy's seat. "Unca' Tommy, can I try a bite?"
Tommy grinned, and cut a small piece off for Timmy to try. Timmy slowly put it in his mouth, ready to spit it out. Once he tasted it, he broke into a huge grin. "Awesome! Unca' Tommy, fix mine like that!"
Teri shook her head as half of Tommy's first waffle disappeared with the rest of the boys trying it. As she saw how the voting was going, she got up and grabbed another jar of peanut butter, sure that it would be needed.
As they finished off the pile of food, Sean got Teri's attention. "Mom, could we stay here one more night? We kinda need some more time together."
Teri looked around the table at her boys, half of which had peanut butter mustaches. She noticed something different; the new bond between them was almost visible. "I'll call everyone and let them know. I think you guys have earned it."
The boys were waiting for Sean in the Rec Room. He told them he had to get something special, then went upstairs. He entered the room carrying a yellow bag, holding it like it was fine china. He carefully sat the bag down, then looked at Cory. "Cory, I promised myself that this bag wouldn't be opened until the day that you could do it. Is today the day?"
Cory looked at Sean, then over at Mikey, who was floating about six inches above the love seat. "Yeah, but I have to say something first. Everyone gather around here, you too Mikey."
Once they were all in place, Cory gathered up his courage and spoke. "Most of you guys don't know what's in this bag, or what it means to Sean and I. I probably couldn't open it if Mikey wasn't here; that drunk killed him when he was coming to pick us up after we bought it. It hurts some to look at that bag; even though Mikey has told me a thousand times that it was his time to go, I still blame myself a little for talking him into taking us to the mall. Sean and I have been talking about getting this out for the last couple of weeks, but I never could go through with it." Cory reached into the bag and pulled out a small white bag. With tears in his eyes, he handed the contents of the bag to Mike. "Mikey, we bought that game for you. I can't play it now; not without you here to play it with me."
Mikey motioned for Cory to sit on his lap, then embraced his little brother with both his arms and his wings. As Cory buried his face in Mike's shoulder and began sobbing, Mike spoke softly. "Cory, I love you little brother. Thank you. I know it still hurts, that's because you love me too. Let it all out, Tigger; you can still love me without the hurt. Listen to your heart, it knows I didn't leave you, I just changed so I can watch my little Tigger no matter where you go or what you do."
Hearing Mikey call him Tigger had the desired effect on Cory; he cuddled in tightly to Mikey, put his thumb in his mouth, and fell asleep. When Cory was young, Mikey had given him the nickname because of the way he always bounced around. As Cory got older, it became an unspoken rule that only Mikey could use the nickname; even then it was saved for special occasions when Cory needed extra support. Sean explained that to the rest of the boys while Cory slept, and warned them that it was best not to use it. Sean had seen one of their cousins try it once before Mike died, and Cory had went off like a rocket. Now, there was a good chance Cory would try to kill anyone who called him by the nickname reserved for Mikey to use.
When Cory awoke twenty minutes later, he followed the same pattern he always did after Mikey helped him get through a meltdown.
Cory looked up at Mikey's face and asked in a sincere, small, childlike voice "Does Tigger's big angel still love him?"
Mikey noticed the slight change in the normal procedure - instead of 'big brother' Cory said 'big angel'. "Tigger's big angel is always gonna love him forever." Mikey replied as he kissed Cory's forehead.
"I love you Mikey." Cory murmured in a more normal voice.
"I love you too Tigger. You know, I've been waiting over a year to see what you guys got; why don't you show me then we'll see if angels can play video games?"
Cory gave Mikey a small smile. "Okay, what are we gonna play?"
Mikey picked up the game Cory had gave him earlier. "I have this game from the most important people in my afterlife I want to try out."
Cory turned and kissed Mikey's cheek. "Thanks bro, I'm sorry for being such a baby."
Mikey looked Cory straight in the eyes. "You are not being a baby, you're being the little Tigger that I've always loved. No matter how old you are, I'll always be here for you if you need to let out your emotions. You've had a rough year, Cory; you needed to let it out. Do you think you are ready to move on with your life, knowing that I'm right here with you even when you can't see me?"
Cory nodded. "I am now; I'm glad Mom set it up so we would be alone today."
Mikey gave Cory a squeeze, then set him loose to open the bag. Cory brought out the X-Box and games they had bought in the mall, and began setting it up with Sean's help. A few minutes later, it was ready to go, and Sean turned to Mikey.
"Mikey, who do you want to lose to first?" Sean goaded with a grin, secretly glad things were working out the way Cory and him had planned in the mall while eating.
Everyone knew it was no contest; when Mikey answered 'Cory' they all smiled. Each of them realized that Cory was the only choice, he needed the final closure of actually playing the game with Mikey to really move on.
Teri looked in the doorway about ten minutes later. Tears of joy came to her eyes at the sight before her. She recognized the NASCAR racing game on the screen as one that Mikey and Cory used to spend hours on with their PS/2. She knew the game was securely locked in her safe for Cory's emotional well-being, so it only meant one thing; the X-Box that they had been putting off getting out was finally being put to use. The part that brought back the most memories was who the players were; Mikey and Cory. Sean was joined by Timmy in his normal position cheering Cory on, while Adam and Ty took up position as Mikey's cheering section. As she turned away, the joyous yell from Cory as he beat Mikey out of the pit made her smile.
The boys played again for about three hours after lunch, then Teri interrupted them. "Guys, I hate to say it, but we need to run out and get some more food if we're going to stay another day. If you want to come with me, I'll let each of you pick out a game to play on the X-Box. And yes, Mike, you can pick one out too."
Sean, who was getting thoroughly trounced by Tyler, saved their game. "Sure Mom!"
Mike smiled. "I'll pick out a game on one condition; Cory has to teach the rest of our brothers how to play."
Cory grinned, already knowing what Mikey's choice would be. "You're on, bro. Their one I gave you is just for when you are here though, okay?"
Mikey smiled, he now knew Cory would be okay. "It's a deal. You want me to drive, Mom?"
Teri grinned when Cory replied "No way dude! Your license expired when you did!"
When the laughter subsided, Mikey put his arm over Cory's shoulder. "Now that's my little Tigger! Good one, Cory!"
Cory grinned at Mikey. "Thanks bro!"
A few minutes later, they loaded up into Teri's Suburban for the trip. Mikey went invisible and tagged along in the front seat, enjoying the one-on-one time with his charges as much as they were enjoying having him around. As the boys discussed the various wrecks and goofs as they each played the game, Teri drove to the Wal-Mart Supercenter on 73rd street. After she parked, the boys piled out, anxious to get inside and out of the unseasonably hot weather.
After picking up everything they would need for another day in Des Moines, they left the store. They were about halfway to the Suburban when William suddenly launched from Timmy's shoulder and flew off to a far corner of the parking lot. About thirty seconds later, Timmy screeched and went into his war paint. Cory and Sean instantly reached under the loose tee-shirts they had put on and pulled their phasers, then they all followed Timmy to where William was circling a car parked in the corner. Teri hurried to the Suburban and tossed their purchases in the back, then drove over to where William was circling.
As they reached the car, it took less than a second for the boys to assess the situation and jump into action. Sean started trying doors, finding them all locked on the running vehicle. Adam did a flying kick which shattered the drivers window, then reached in and shut off the car. While all of that was happening, Cory got out his communicator, silently thanking God that the Enterprise was in orbit.
"Enterprise this is Ensign Short. I have Priority One traffic!"
The reply was immediate. "Ensign Short, this is Enterprise. Uhura here. Proceed with Priority One traffic."
"Enterprise, I need a Med Team Code Red to my coordinates. Tell them to bring anything they can carry. Subject appears to be an eleven year old male. Have Transporter standing by for pickup."
"Acknowledged Ensign. Med team enroute and transporter standing by. Enterprise standing by."
Cory dodged the seatback from the Lumina Euro that Sean had just cut off then thrown out, and went in to further assess the situation. He almost gagged at what he saw; chained into the back seat was a boy of about eleven, beaten to within an inch of his life. The boy was totally nude, and was still bleeding from what appeared to be a partial castration. He helped Sean cut the chains with his phaser, then gently helped lift the sweat-covered boy out. As they were lifting him out of the car, Cory noticed the heater controls were set for maximum heat, even though it was almost ninety degrees outside. He had heard the blower motor running when they came up, so it was obvious what was happening.
Just as they were laying the boy out on the makeshift cot formed by the removed seatbacks, McCoy beamed down with his team. He took one look at the boy then began stopping the bleeding. "Ensign Cory, call the ship and tell them to be ready to scramble some molecules ASAP!"
"Already done, Doc. They're standing by."
"Good. Where's the bastard that did this?"
Cory looked over his shoulder at the Windsor Heights police cruisers pulling in. Obviously the Wal-Mart security force actually watched the cameras in the parking lot. "I don't know yet, but I'll bet these guys pulling in will find out."
Cory watched as the cruisers emptied with guns drawn. As soon as the officers realized Starfleet Medical was on site, they put the guns away. Cory got out his ID and walked over to the nearest officer. Figuring this was no time to play games, he pulled rank the best way possible. The wallet was open to show both his Starflleet and Vulcan identification cards when he handed it to the officer, he figured the Vulcan one would get things done the fastest. "Captain, I am Patriarch Short of Clan Short of Vulcan. An attempted murder has occurred. There is a high probability it was committed by the registered owner of this vehicle. May I presume your assistance in the apprehension of the individual who committed this crime?"
Tyler came up at the end of Cory's speech. When he heard how Cory was talking, he decided to follow suit. "Sir, the victim has stated to Doctor McCoy that the assault was performed by his biological mother. His condition is weak, but he positively identified the vehicle as hers."
"Acknowledged Tyler. Inform Director Short that I am claiming jurisdiction over the victim for his protection."
"As you wish, Sir." Tyler replied, then turned and headed for Teri.
Cory turned back towards the Captain. "I revise my earlier statements. Director Short of Federation Child Services witnessed the conditions of the attempted murder. I believe she will be able to arrange any assistance you will require to apprehend this criminal."
The Captain finally found his voice. He had heard the rumors going around the local police forces about Clan Short and Youth Services, but had never expected to actually be dealing with them. "Mr. Short, I assure you that we will do everything in our power to find the person who attempted this. May I ask who is the victim and how bad?"
"Earth male, approximate age of eleven years. He appears beaten over seventy percent of his body, is bleeding from a partial attempt at castration, and is suffering heat exhaustion from being locked and chained in a car with the heater running at maximum intensity."
As Cory went down the list, you could see the blood rising up the Captain's neck. When Cory finished, the Captain replied. "Thank you Mr. Short. Please contact me when you are able to get the victim's name, right now we've got a monster to catch." He turned and started barking orders to his men, then headed over to work with Teri on speeding up catching the mother.
Cory returned to the area where Doctor McCoy was working on the boy. "How is he Doc?"
McCoy didn't even look up. "Just about stable enough to transport. I expect a full report ASAP."
Cory smiled, knowing that McCoy's 'just about stable enough' meant the boy was going to make it. "No problem Doc; we're gonna come up with him. I just claimed jurisdiction; he's mine until I decide otherwise."
Just as McCoy was about to reply, the boy spoke in a soft voice. "Look, an Angel! Am I dead?"
Cory glanced up and smiled; Mikey was hovering over them. "No little buddy, you ain't dead. That's your Guardian Angel, Saint Mikey. He's here to make sure nobody hurts you ever again."
"Kewl!" the boy exclaimed softly before drifting back to sleep.
Cory looked back up at Mikey. "You gonna come up too, bro? Please?"
"I'll be there, Cory."
Cory finally finished his reports, and joined McCoy at the bedside of their newest addition. "What do you think, Doc? He gonna be okay?"
McCoy looked over at Cory. "It matters what you mean by okay. Whatever that witch used to try to castrate him was contaminated; I was only able to save one testicle, the other was already infected and beyond help. No matter what I do, he's going to have some scars, there's too much damage to the skin. He's going to be sensitive to temperatures for the rest of his life, on top of the emotional trauma of what was done to him. He's going to survive, but it'll be a damn miracle if he's ever okay again."
Cory reached down and gently brushed the boy's fine auburn hair out of his eyes, then softly replied "Do what you can, Doc; we'll take care of the rest."
As Cory watched, he saw the boy's hazel eyes flutter slightly and begin to open. Cory motioned for Tyler to join them, then gently took the boy's hand in his.
Tyler saw McCoy's questioning look, and answered the question before it was asked. "Doc, remember I'm an Empath. He's one of us now, that means he gets all the help we can give him."
McCoy allowed himself a rare smile as he thought 'If anyone can save this kid's sanity, they are here in this room. Welcome to your new life kid." He stepped back to where he could monitor the Med Bed, and let the boys get to work.
The boy focused on Cory after some effort. In a slightly weak voice, he asked "Where am I?"
Cory smiled. "Hey little buddy. You're on the starship Enterprise, and just had the best doctor in the Federation fix you up. I'm Cory; how do you feel?"
"I kinda hurt; not as bad as I did, but I still hurt. You were in my dream; I thought I saw an angel and you were there too."
"That wasn't a dream, buddy. That was your new guardian angel watching over you. You're safe now, I promise nobody's gonna hurt you again. Can you tell me your name?"
"You promise not to make me go back if I tell you?"
Cory leaned over and kissed the boy's forehead. "I promise, little guy. The only place you're going when you leave here is to your new home with me."
The boy looked at Cory with suspicion. "You can't promise that; your just a kid like me. You ain't gonna be able to talk your parents into letting me stay; I'll end up on the streets like my little brother."
McCoy stepped up to assist Cory. "Young man, Cory is probably THE most powerful fourteen year old in the Federation. If he decides it's needed, he can have your mother executed for what she did to you with just a nod of his head. Right now, every law-enforcement agent in the United States is searching for your mother, on his orders. If he promises you something, you can bank on it. Do I make myself clear?"
The boy was looking wide-eyed at Cory as he answered McCoy. "Yes SIR!" After a pause, he shyly replied to Cory. "Cory, my name is Calen Michael Slate. I'm sorry about being such a brat, but I guess that's all I'll ever be."
Cory smiled. "Calen, you were not being a brat; you were trying to protect yourself. You were doing nothing wrong. Now what was this about a little brother? Fill me in, I'll bet you we can find him too."
Calen smiled at the praise. "He ran away about a week ago, his name is Cabe Dyson Slate, he's gonna turn nine tomorrow." Tears ran from his eyes as he continued. "I'm gonna miss his birthday; but he had to run away so Mom would stop hurting him. She said he was a freak, he can watch someone play an instrument once then he can do it. I wish CD was here!"
Cory took Calen's hand. "What does he look like?"
"Mom used to say he looks just like me; we got the same eyes and everything."
Cory turned his head. "Doctor, with your permission I would like to have my personnel utilize your resources to locate the missing youth."
McCoy looked Cory straight in the eye. "What are you waiting for, Christmas? You're as bad as Spock; get to it man."
Cory smiled as he looked around the room and began shouting directions. "Okay guys; search and rescue - you have twelve hours! Subject is Cabe Dyson Slate, nicknamed CD. He's eight about to turn nine; look for both ages. Probably malnourished like his brother. Auburn hair, hazel eyes. Tommy - take the law enforcement agencies. Adam - you have the youth shelters; state and private. Sean - courts and newspapers. Timmy and William - work with Orlando, have them cover surrounding states. Move it gentlemen - we have a birthday boy to save!"
McCoy was pleasantly shocked as he watched the Clan step into high gear. When Cory wasn't looking, he slid over to the com unit. "Sickbay to Bridge."
Kirk came on. "Kirk here. Is there a problem Bones?"
"No, but I think you need to see this, Jim."
"On my way. Kirk out."
Kirk smiled when he walked in and found Cory sitting in a chair with a freshly-dressed Calen on his lap. McCoy pulled him off to the side. "Jim, the boy, Calen, has a little brother who ran away a week ago. You've said you wanted to see Clan Short in action; turn around and hold on tight to something."
Just as Kirk turned to look, Timmy called out "Indiana and Nebraska are clear!". A few seconds later, Tommy chimed in "No police reports filed; Polk County Law Enforcement clear!" followed by Adam adding "Polk and Warren County youth shelters clear!".
As Kirk watched the boys working like a well-oiled military machine, McCoy explained. "Cory gave them twelve hours to find the boy; Timmy is interfacing with Orlando, the rest are assigned the most likely ways of locating him in-state. They've already cleared the upper half of Iowa, and all of the states immediately bordering it have been cleared by the Orlando crew."
Kirk shook his head in wonder. "And what is Cory's part in this?"
McCoy smiled. "If I read his eyes right, he's comforting a boy who is about to become his son. At the very least, Teri is going to get two more sons if Cory don't claim them himself."
Just then, Adam yelled out. "Got him! Oskaloosa; private shelter!"
"Get me coordinates!" Sean barked.
Kirk rushed to the com unit. "Bridge, this is the Captain. Have Lieutenant Thompson assemble a security detail in transporter room one ASAP. Stand by for landing party."
"Acknowledged Captain."
Cory stood and brought Calen over to Kirk. "Captain, I'd like you to meet Calen. Would it be possible, with the Doctor's permission of course, for you to arrange a tour for him while Sean and I handle some Clan business?"
Kirk smiled. "Bones, I do believe this young man could stand to see some of the sights in the ship; things like our hot fudge sundaes and the famous Enterprise pizza. Don't you agree?"
"You just better make sure he doesn't over exert himself Jim."
Kirk turned back to Cory. "I'll handle this personally. Cory, I assume you want him to get the 'crew's dependents' tour?"
Cory blushed. "As much as I'd like that, I don't think even I could pull it off."
Kirk turned his head. "Ensign Sean Short, front and center!"
Sean rushed over and stood next to Cory. Kirk looked both of them over, then started. "Sean, has Cory discussed with you his feelings about your newest charges?"
"Yes sir; and I agree with him. But we really have very little chance of doing it."
Kirk grinned as he took Calen from Cory. "You two go get Calen's brother while I show him where his new parents work. That's an order."
Timmy came running from the other side of the room. "Unca' Jim; can William and me go with you and Calen? I can show him the kewl stuff Justy showed me! This is kewl; I'm getting' more brothers!"
Cory stared at William, who had landed on Kirk's shoulder opposite of an awestruck Calen.
"You know, for a little bird you got a big mouth!" Cory mumbled just loud enough to hear.
William turned around and shook his tail feathers at Cory, which caused everyone to laugh. Kirk managed to squeeze out between chuckles "Come on Timmy, let's start the tour."
As Kirk left to start the tour with Timmy and Calen, Sean and Cory led their brothers to the transporter room to begin the rescue mission.
The group beamed into a field near the group shelter. Adam stopped them before they headed to the building. "Hold on guys, I have some background Calen didn't need to hear."
Everyone stopped and turned to Adam. "What've you got?" Cory asked.
"As I was searching the directory for Oskaloosa, I noticed this one did not show the occupant turnover the rest did; in fact the same names were on their resident list for the last two years. On a hunch I did a DNA scan of the building, trying to match to Calen's DNA. The computer came up with a match inside; 97% probability of being related. I've got a feeling this is not what it's supposed to be."
Tyler held up his hand for silence before anyone could reply. About thirty seconds later, he spoke. "I count fifteen kids in there. All of them feel like they're scared and trapped. I can feel their hunger too; not like when we are hungry, but like Jamie and Jacob were when we found them."
Cory had heard enough. "Thanks Ty and Adam. Mr. Thompson, deploy your men to cover all exits. Nobody leaves the building. Call the ship and have Doc standing by in the transporter room; tell him I'll have fifteen boys to be checked out. I'll need Briefing Room One for debriefing the boys once he's done."
Cory then turned to Adam. "Hey bro; have you been taking the weapons training with JJ?"
Adam grinned. "You better believe it. I gotta be able to cover my boyfriend's back."
Cory grinned back. "You're definitely my brother! Did John issue you a phaser yet?"
"No. He said he couldn't unless you told him to. Things have been too nuts for me to ask you. JJ tried to tell him it was okay, but he said you had to make the call."
Cory frowned. "I gotta fix that; JJ is head of security and a commissioned officer, it's his call. Mr. Thompson, do you have a spare phaser with you?"
"As a matter of fact I do; I was not sure if you and Sean grabbed yours, so I brought some extras with me." He pulled a phaser out of the pack on his waist. "Here you go, Adam. I just heard Cory say you were to have one, so that one is yours. I'll get a replacement from Commander Martin."
"Thanks Mr. Thompson." Adam said as he took the weapon, turned so it was pointed in a safe direction, and verified the power level and settings. Once he was sure the phaser was set properly and safe, he clipped it on his belt and turned back to Cory. "Okay, Cor; I'm ready when you are."
Before they headed to the house, Sean added his own thoughts. "Guys, of all of the kids we've helped, this is the first time we are going in as just family. Calen and CD are proof that us brothers are able to handle things without a huge support group. Captain Kirk is going to make them Cory and I's sons, but I'll always know that we wouldn't have them without the help of our three brothers and our youngest son. I know it might not have seemed like it with all of the other guys around, but you guys really do mean more to us than anyone else. You are our brothers, and we are proud of it."
Lt. Thompson smiled as he watched the brothers embrace in a five-way hug. As the hug broke, Cory announced "Okay bros! Let's go show these punks that nobody messes with a kid when the Short family is around!" The boys all high-fived, then turned to the house in the distance and walked purposely towards it.
As they approached the house, Cory noticed the barred windows and excessive locks on the door. "Mr. Thompson, I don't think we are going to bother with the doorbell. All personnel set phasers to stun and have them at the ready, we're going in hot."
Thompson nodded. "I agree Cory, I can smell the fear here. Hold on for a second." He reached into his bag and pulled out two more phasers, then handed them to Tyler and Tommy. "I've seen both of you at the practice range; you might not be certified yet, but I think you can handle these well enough if needed."
They walked up to the door and Thompson smiled. He held up three fingers, got in position, then counted down. When he reached zero, he gave the door a swift kick. The door flew open, the wood frame no match for Thompson's training.
Cory was first through the door. He spotted a man reaching under the kitchen counter and yelled out "Starfleet Security - this is a raid! You in the kitchen; hands where I can see them! Walk VERY slowly in here and lay face down on the floor!" Cory glanced around and verified what he first saw; all of the boys visible in the room were wearing nothing but loose boxers; no socks or anything else. From the bruises he saw, some had very recently been manhandled by an adult. "Adam, Tommy - clear the house; I want everyone in this room! Tyler, guard this man; if he so much as twitches I expect you to fire."
Adam and Tommy took off through the house, and Tyler moved into a safe position to guard the prisoner. Thompson leaned over to Cory. "Why did you announce Starfleet Security instead of Clan Short?"
Cory replied with an evil grin. "I've got quick eyes Lieutenant; if my first impressions are correct, there's a good chance I'm going to say or do some very un-Vulcan things. Just roll with it, this is one of the times human responses are more logical."
Thompson chuckled. "I want to be a fly on the wall when you debate that one with Mr. Spock! You're in command, follow your instincts."
A few more boys came down the hall and joined their house mates on the floor in the main room. Cory noticed the terror on their faces. "Hey guys, relax! We ain't here to hurt you, we came to help you. Once everyone's out here, I'll explain what's going to happen next; if you want to watch some TV while you are waiting go ahead. Just keep the volume down so we can hear if anyone needs help, okay?"
Just then, Tyler yelled at his prisoner. "Don't move, dirt bag!"
Cory grinned. "Guys, don't mind my little brother; he's watched too many Police Academy reruns! The only one here who needs to worry is the guy laying on the floor; thats a real phaser and Ty knows how to use it!"
The boys relaxed and giggled at Cory's humor. One of them reached over and turned on the TV, then flipped to the Cartoon Network. "This is kewl; we never get to pick what we can watch!" he exclaimed. One of the younger kids, who had fresh bruises on his face, came up to Cory. "Sir? Phil's not the real bad guy. He tries to make us feel better when we hurt. Can he watch 'toons with us?"
Cory saw the sincere look on the boy's face. "Mr. Thompson, secure Phil's arms and legs, then sit him up against the couch."
Cory smiled as the boy who asked him to give Phil a break grabbed one of his buddies and pulled the cushions off of the couch to make a comfortable seat for Phil. Once Phil was comfortably seated, Cory leaned over and whispered so that only Phil could hear. "Dude, you still have a lot to answer for. That boy there just got you out of life in prison, at the very least. You are going to be interrogated by a Starfleet officer I know quite well. Take my advice; tell him everything that you have seen or done here. If you fondled a boy, tell him; if you sat up all night cuddling and calming a boy who was just violated, tell him. Right now, I'm here as Starfleet security; when it comes time to decide your fate I will be presiding in my higher office as Patriarch of Clan Short of Vulcan. My intelligence team will be verifying if you told the truth; considering most of them are telepaths I won't have any doubt. We will talk again, the next time you will be given a chance to explain yourself."
Cory stood up, straighted his clothes, then came to attention. "Mr. Thompson, I require your assistance."
Thompson turned from looking out the doorway and hurried over to where Cory stood; the formal tone Cory had used told him this was suddenly Clan business. "How may I be of assistance, Patriarch Short?"
"My observations have led me to conclude that another being is responsible for the majority of the suffering of the assembled youths here. Based on that observation, once Commander Dodds concludes his interview with this subject I must require that he reports his findings to myself before any action is taken. Based on the findings of his investigation and the interviews that Clan Short will perform with the victims, I will then declare the logical deposition of the subject."
Thompson nodded. "I assure you the appropriate people will be notified, Sir."
Cory relaxed and looked around at the confused faces of the boys in the room. "Guys, you just saw me handle stuff in my official capacity. Not only can I tell the FBI to take a flying leap; I've done it. Whatever has been done to you here is over; it's time to be kids again."
Just then, they heard Adam yell from down the hall. "Stay clear of the door!" A few seconds later, a loud crash signified that another door had been sacrificed to the cause of children's safety. About four minutes later, Adam and Tommy reappeared, Adam carrying a boy appearing to be about six. "This floor is clear, Cory; we didn't see any attic access or basement doors in the hall."
Cory smiled as he realized the boy on Adam's side was latched on securely and not letting go. "If you need help explaining your new son to JJ let me know bro. What's his name?"
Adam smiled as he caressed the little blond's head. "Harley Jared Donaldson. His parents were killed in an accident; he got sent here when none of his relatives wanted him. Funny thing is, he's not on the list of kids supposed to be here."
Cory's smile turned to a grin. "Well bro, why don't you, Harley, and Tommy stay here with Sean and Ty while Mr. Thompson and I find the basement. We're still one kid short up here; the kid who is responsible for all of these boys being saved, I hope."
Cory nodded towards the kitchen, and followed Lieutenant Thompson as he worked his way back as silently as possible. Just as Cory had figured, there was a doorway around the corner at the back of the kitchen. They opened the door and carefully slipped down the stairs. The main basement area was clear, but there was a partition at the south end with a dead-bolted door on it. Thompson looked over the design and whispered to Cory. "They have a strong door there, but I think the walls might be weak. Your choice."
Cory looked it over, then whispered back. "Too much chance of hurting someone if they are by the walls; burn off the deadbolt pin then we'll go in through the door - it opens out, so nobody can be hurt."
Thompson nodded, adjusted his phaser, and set to work on the deadbolt. Cory had his phaser out, ready to fire if need be. After about thirty seconds, Thompson stepped back. "It's weak enough we can grab the door and break it; I'm ready when you are."
Cory moved into position at the side of the door, listened for a few seconds, and then nodded that he was ready. As soon as Lieutenant Thompson yanked it open, Cory dove through the doorway. As he entered the room, he saw a man trying to force a boy to perform a blow-job. Reflex kicked in; before Cory even thought about it he fired his phaser and dropped the man where he stood. Cory took a quick look around the room; nobody else was in there. "Clear!" he called out.
As Thompson entered the room; Cory went over to the boy, who was now curled into a ball sobbing loudly. Once Cory got a better look he knew instantly they had found who they were looking for. "CD, I'm Cory; relax little one, we came to rescue you."
CD looked up in shock. "I ain't told nobody to call me that! How'd you know my nickname?"
Cory knelt down and rubbed his shoulders. "Your big brother is worried about you. Your old mom tried to hurt him, and we found him. I promised him I'd make sure you guys were together to celebrate your birthday tomorrow. Hop on, I'll give you a ride upstairs."
As CD uncurled himself and started to climb onto Cory's back, Cory notice Lieutenant Thompson checking the man for a pulse. Cory gave a knowing grin as he commented "Mr. Thompson, I keep forgetting to have you look at my phaser. It seems the power adjustment keeps slipping without me noticing."
Thompson looked up and returned with a knowing grin. "I'll make sure this man's death is logged as a weapon malfunction. When we get back to the ship, remind me to get you a new one. I'll take care of the defect paperwork."
Thompson turned red with anger as CD announced "That's what he gets for tryin' to make me suck him! He was goin' to try to put his thingie in my butt."
Thompson pointed to Cory's phaser then held out his hand, unable to speak. Once Cory handed him the weapon, he fiddled with it for a second then fired it at the body on the floor. Cory and CD watched as the lifeless body turned into a scattering of ashes. Thompson took his phaser off his belt and handed it to Cory. "Yours was definitely defective. Too bad the poor guy was attacking a Clan member, he might have had a chance otherwise. Take mine, I'll have to destroy this one; it's not safe."
Cory saw the confused look on CD's face. "He was attacking you, kiddo. Both you and your big brother are under the protection of Clan Short of Vulcan. I'll explain more later; but for now just remember nobody will ever try to force you to do that again."
A huge grin spread across CD's face as he realized what Cory was saying and what had really happened. "Thanks Cory, you're awesome!"
The three of them headed back upstairs to rejoin the rest of the group. Once they were all together, Cory looked around. "Mr. Thompson, have your team escort this man to the brig; after I brief Commander Dodds on the situation here, I'm sure he'll want to have a long talk with him."
Once the team, to the delight of the kids in the home, beamed up with their prisoner, Cory asked Sean to fill in the boys on what was about to happen.
Sean got all of their attention, then began. "Okay guys, you are about to go visit the USS Enterprise. Once we get up there, Doctor McCoy is going to check each one of you out to make sure you are okay. After that, we'll sit down with you and see if you have a safe home to go to; if not we will put you someplace safe. You guys told me that you have no clothes here; don't worry about it, we will get you some on board the ship. We're gonna talk to y'all all at once so you know there's no funny stuff going on. Right now, CD and Harley have new families they are going to; so they will just be watching as the rest of you get helped out. Mr. Thompson is going to arrange you guys to beam up, stay where he tells you to and stand still. Any questions?"
The oldest boy there, who looked to be twelve, raised his hand. "Are we gonna get to have a tour of the Enterprise?"
Lieutenant Thompson answered for Sean. "You better believe it; I'm going to take you myself. You guys deserve it."
It took a few minutes for the boys to be put in their places, then Cory opened his communicator. The boys all were shocked when they heard his next words.
"Enterprise this is Ensign Cory Short."
"Enterprise, Uhura here. Go ahead Ensign Cory."
"Thanks Nyota. Is Scotty standing by in the lower Transporter Room?"
"Affirmative, Cory. One second, I'll put you through."
A few seconds later, a new voice came on line. "Scotty here. Would our wee guests be ready to come aboard laddie?"
Cory grinned. "That they would, Scotty. We have two groups; Sean is escorting a group of ten, let me know when you are locked in."
"I be ready now Cory. Countin' Sean I have eleven lads showin' on my screen."
"That's affirmative Scotty; energize!"
The first group dematerialized. About a minute later, Scotty came back on.
"I be lookin' at ten excited young lads waitin' here with young Sean. Are their friends ready to be a joinin' them?"
"Affirmative Scotty; ten to beam up. Energize!"
Once everyone else had cleared out of the transporter room, Thompson approached Scotty. "Commander Scott; this is Ensign Cory's phaser. I believe you found that it was unstable and required immediate destruction."
Scotty looked up in surprise; Thompson was the last person he expected to request the falsification of a report. When he met the Lieutenant's eyes, a chill went down his spine; the cold fury in them was so out of character that Scotty knew something bad had went down. "Aye, Lieutenant; I believe I did. Be in Briefing Room One in five minutes for debriefing; I'll be makin' sure the Captain is present."
"Yes Sir." Thompson replied, then headed through the door.
Once the door was closed, Scotty set the self-destruct timer on the phaser then transported it into empty space. Once that was done, he called the bridge. "Bridge, this is Commander Scott. Might the Captain be where I kinna have a word with him?"
Kirk answered immediately. "Is there a problem with the boys, Mr. Scot?"
"The laddies be fine, Captain. With all due respect Sir, I be thinkin' that yourself and Mr. Dodds might be needed in Briefing Room One. I'm a thinkin' Lieutenant Thompson's debriefing will be needin' sealed."
"Your instincts have not failed me yet, Scotty. We'll see you there. Kirk out."
Cory looked up from watching Calen and CD explore William's feathers to see Kirk walk into Sickbay. As soon as the Captain spotted him, he motioned for Cory to join him in the passageway. Cory told the boys where he was going, then joined Kirk.
Once the door closed behind them, Cory asked "Is something wrong, Sir?"
"Yes and no, Ensign. For the first time since he came aboard, I just had to seal a report from Lieutenant Thompson. You were in command of the mission, and overall I believe you performed flawlessly. If I have a choice, I'll take an officer who thinks on his feet and adapts to the situation any day over one that is strictly by the book. On the other hand, I will not condone one of my command officers bending or breaking the rules just to satisfy a personal vendetta. Mr. Spock saw the logic in your actions in the basement; I still need to be convinced as to why I should file an official report which differs from what actually happened. I want the truth, Mr. Short, and you have five minutes to do it."
Cory began describing his thoughts at the time. "Sir, I had indications that there was at least one serial rapist on the premises before entering the basement. Most of the younger boys have various stages of bruising on their faces consistent with forced oral sex. On the basis of their interaction with the prisoner upstairs, I concluded he was most likely not the one doing it. One of the boys basically told me as much; in fact quite a few of them interacted quite well with him. While Mr. Thompson was cutting the deadbolt downstairs, I was leaning against the wall and could barely hear a voice inside. I heard a man say, quote: 'Open your mouth, punk, and get it wet - now! You might as well stop fighting it; you're the only cherry here I ain't popped, and today's your day! You've got one minute, then I flip your scrawny carcass over and pop it dry.' end quote. In my opinion at that time, there was a good possibility that, if that was indeed the almost nine year old boy we were looking for, the boy was in danger of being greviously injured. In fact, the attitude of the assailant suggested it could be fatal. Since the man was using his penis as a weapon, I set my phaser accordingly before entering the room. Once I confirmed that what I heard matched what was happening, I fired."
Kirk barely managed to keep from smiling as he informed Cory of his verdict. "Mr. Short, that has to be the loosest definition of a deadly weapon I have ever heard. A judicial review would determine that stunning him would have been sufficient." Kirk paused for effect, then finally let his smile free. "Fortunately, I usually disagree with the findings of judicial reviews! There's nothing worse than a back-seat driver. Considering the information you had, I think you made the right choice, Cory. Just so you know, if you hadn't done it, Mr. Thompson was going to finish the job. Since your phaser was so 'unstable' that Mr. Scott had to beam it into space, I guess that any relatives are going to have to live with the official report. You did right, Cory. Just remember that sometimes a leader has to put his men on the spot for them to learn how to make proper decisions."
Cory smiled back, relieved it was over. "Thank you Captain. I see what you mean now. It makes a difference if you think it through after it's over."
"You're learning!" Kirk chuckled. "Once Bones is done poking and prodding, get all those boys dressed and bring them and your brothers to the Bridge. Calen, Timmy and William too."
"Yes Sir!" Cory replied as he gave Kirk a quick hug of thanks and went back inside.
Cory couldn't help but giggle as the door closed behind him. Adam was pacing back and forth, a worried look on his face. "Hey bro; you lose something?"
Adam stopped long enough to reply. "Yeah, Doc's takin' FOREVER with Harley!"
Cory quickly went over and pulled Adam into a hug before he could start pacing again. "Relax bro; you know that Doc is just making sure he's okay. Knowing him, he's also probably talking to the little guy to help him relax some and feel safe. I was kinda joking with you down there about him becoming your son; you're serious about it, ain't you?"
Adam nodded. "Yeah, the little guy kinda stole my heart I guess. I can't let him get hurt again."
Cory searched Adam's eyes, then made a decision. "Bro, as much as I love you for what you want to do, I can't let you do it without one other person's approval. Take a seat, I'm getting JJ up here."
As Adam followed Cory's instructions, Cory went over to the com unit. "Bridge, this is Ensign Cory. Could you please contact Commander Martin and have him arrange for Ensign Richardson to be beamed up ASAP? Better yet, all of his family, there's some Clan business we can handle while they're here."
Uhura chuckled as she replied. "You are right on cue, Cory! Mr. Spock just informed the Captain that it would be logical for you to call for them! I'll get them up here as fast as I can. Where do you need them?"
"I need JJ down here. We'll meet the rest up there. Thanks, Nyota."
"Consider it done, Cory. Bridge out."
As Cory turned around, he was just in time to see Adam fly out of his chair and run over to where McCoy had just appeared with Harley. As Adam took the boy from McCoy, he asked "How is he, Doc? Is he gonna be okay?"
McCoy rolled his eyes in wonder. "Settle down before I sedate you Adam. Other than a sore butt for the next couple of days he will be just fine. Take a seat before I put you on a table." McCoy turned to where Sean was sitting with Timmy, Calen, and CD. "Okay Mr. Short; time to give up your soon-to-be middle son for his physical."
CD climbed off of the table after a little urging from Sean, then slowly shuffled towards McCoy. Cory intercepted him, lifting his chin to look him in the eye. "CD, remember me saying I was going to make sure you were safe?"
"Yeah."
"Part of making sure you are safe is making sure you ain't hurt, buddy. Doctor McCoy is the best doctor in the Federation; he wouldn't be here if he wasn't. Don't be scared of him, he's not really as mean as he sounds."
CD gave Cory a small smile. "Okay, I guess. You ain't gonna leave are you?"
Cory smiled and kissed CD's forehead. "No angel; I'll be right here waiting for you."
Ten minutes later, CD came running out and jumped in Cory's lap. "You were right! He's nice! I wish all doctors were like him!"
Cory giggled. "Doc, your reputation is ruined! How does he look?"
McCoy shook his head at Cory's comment. "Other than the malnutrition, he's just fine. Obviously you got to him before that slime did. You know the routine; both of them are on the same diet as Justy's brothers. Now get these boys some decent clothes before I decide that two Ensigns are due for a full physical."
Cory turned his head towards where Sean, Tyler, and Tommy were standing. "Bros, could you handle getting these guys down to the Quartermaster while Adam, Harley, and I handle one last piece of business? We'll catch up with you in a few."
Timmy jumped down from next to Calen and grabbed Sean's hand. "YEAH! C'mon Pop; I know a shortcut!"
Even McCoy had to laugh at Cory's quick response. "Timothy - NO! You are NOT taking them through the jeffries tubes! Is that understood?"
Timmy pouted and looked down at his feet. "Yes Daddy, I'm sorry."
Cory motioned for CD to get up, and went over to where Timmy was standing. He picked Timmy up and held him to his chest. "Hey Gizmo, a lot of these guys haven't done more than walk from the bedroom to the kitchen in the house they were in for quite a long time. How would you feel if one of them slipped and hurt themselves or one of the other guys? Think about Calen too, he's still weak from being hurt; do you think he should be doing that yet? I'm proud of how you are trying to learn all about Daddy and Pop's ship, but places like that are for Daddy and Uncle Scotty to work. They're not made for little boys to play in."
"Okay, Daddy. I unnerstan' now." Timmy replied as he gave Cory a hug.
"That's my Gizmo. I'll tell you what; you're in charge of making sure your new brothers get there okay. How's that?"
"Kewl!" Timmy exclaimed as he gave Cory's neck another squeeze and hopped down. "C'mon CD, we got to help Calen!"
With Timmy in high gear, it took no time for the room to clear. Tyler decided to bring up the rear to watch for stragglers; just as he exited the door, JJ walked in.
"Hey Doc! Was that the new midget engineers I just saw leaving?"
McCoy smiled. "Be glad Scotty didn't hear you say that. Cory went fishing and that was his catch; one from the first pond and fifteen from the other. Have a seat, you guys have to have a talk. I'll be in my office if you need me."
JJ went to take a seat; that's when he noticed Adam was there. "Hey babe! Who's that sitting in my favorite spot?"
Adam was so nervous he knew if he didn't get right to the point he'd chicken out. "JJ, this is Harley. Please say yes; I want him to be our son."
JJ dropped into the chair next to Adam in shock. Cory watched quietly as JJ reached out and took one of Harley's hands, slowly tracing each little finger.
Knowing what was running through JJ's head, Cory finally spoke. "JJ, you know the answers to all of those questions. They are the same answers as Sean and I received when we got Timmy. You and Adam are just as responsible for the happy boys we have it the Clan as Sean and I are."
JJ looked at Cory. "What if Dad and Pop say no?"
Cory pulled the trump card. "Mr. Richardson; what is your status in society upon accepting a Starfleet commission?"
JJ thought for a second, then smiled. "I'm an adult now."
Cory nodded. "Besides, I know your Dad and Pop will help you with learning to be a parent. You are no different than Sean and me; if they give you any hassle I'll deal with them."
JJ dropped Harley's hand and held out his arms. "Come over here Harley; Pop wants a cuddle!"
Cory let them bond for a few minutes, then ushered them out to get Harley his clothes and meet up with the rest of the group.
John glanced around the bridge, amazed at the restraint the thirteen identically dressed new boys were showing as they politely asked questions of the crew about the equipment. As Timmy and William supervised from Kirk's lap in the Command Chair; Tommy, Tyler, Kyle, Sammy and Sebastian helped keep the mob orderly. Conspicuous in their absence were Cory, Sean JJ, and Adam; repeated questions as to where they were just got answered by knowing smiles. John finally could no longer resist the temptation, and teased Kirk.
"Captain; I really think you need to get your transporter checked out. It looks to me like it shrank your crew!"
Not to be taken so easy, Kirk shot back "My crew? Their paperwork said they are your number one squadron."
John shook his head with a grin. "Don't give them ideas, Sir. Seriously, why the enlisted dungarees?"
Kirk grinned. "Cut the formality, John. When those boys beamed up, the only thing they had to wear was boxers. When Sean took them down to Supply, the Quartermaster made the mistake of telling them he could program for uniforms to fit them. As soon as they heard that, every single one of them decided to get them instead of the civilian clothes they could have had. He's getting a commendation for his mistake from Sean and myself; Sean informed me that the boys sense of self-worth jumped immediately as the uniforms were passed out." Kirk stopped as he noticed one of the older boys standing patiently behind John. To the boy's delight, Kirk was just able to read his name tag and addressed him by name. "Do you have a question, Peter?"
The boy seemed to grow two inches as he heard Kirk use his name. "Yes Sir. We were all talking, and we were kinda wondering ... we don't want to sound greedy ... but can we ... are we going to get to keep these uniforms? The man downstairs said that no kid who's visited has ever got any like these."
Kirk smiled. "You heard right; I have never authorized him to issue Enterprise enlisted crew uniforms to anyone but my crew. Those uniforms are yours to keep; you are a group of special kids, and I'm happy to give you all a special gift that nobody else has."
"Thank you Sir!!!" Peter replied with a huge grin. He glanced at Timmy, then asked shyly "Why does Timmy have a different uniform? His looks a lot like yours."
Kirk chuckled. "Timmy's parents are both officers here on the Enterprise. He has a uniform like they wear; you'll see what I mean when they get here."
"Wow! You're a lucky kid, Timmy! Thank you, Captain!" Peter then sped off to rejoin his companions.
A minute later, the turbolift door opened. Cory, Sean, JJ, Adam, Calen, Harley and CD stepped onto the bridge. All were dressed nearly identically; JJ, Cory, and Sean had insignia signifying their rank and division, Harley and CD had no insignia and wore the red turtleneck of a trainee, Calen's turtleneck was replaced by a red collarless shirt due to the injuries on his neck, and Adam was an exact match to JJ except for the rank insignia. They were about three steps inside the door when Lieutenant Thompson stopped Adam. "Mr. Short, are you aware you are out of uniform?"
As had been pre-planned, Timmy jumped down and ran over. "Unca' Adam, you forgot to put these on!" With a huge grin, Timmy handed Adam a small box.
Adam opened the box, and almost collapsed in shock. Lieutenant Thompson took the box from Adam's outstretched hand, removed the contents, and spoke as he put them in place. "By order of Captain James T. Kirk, Captain of the USS Enterprise, I hereby commission Adam Kelly Short as Ensign, Security Division. Mr. Short, do you accept this commission, along with the duties and responsibilities which accompany it?"
Realizing this was for real, Adam managed to come to attention. His voice cracked and covered several octaves due to the emotional overload as he replied. "Yes Sir, I accept my commission and all the responsibilities that go with it."
Thompson decided not to push Adam's emotions any further. "Relax Adam, before you pass out. Congratulations, and welcome to Starfleet. When you get to Orlando, Mr. Barnes will help you get all of the paperwork done. Right now, there's something a little more important to handle."
Timmy climbed into his favorite position on Cory's hip, then the eight boys worked their way over to the Captain's Command chair. Once there, Kirk stood, congratulated Adam, then had Uhura contact Teri and put her on the main screen.
John had rejoined Dan; after looking over the group, he commented "Dan, I've got this weird feeling I've been here before and there's nothing I can do to stop it."
Dan nodded slowly. "Me too. My only question is who and how many."
Both fell silent as Kirk began. "Good evening, Teri. As you've probably figured out by the group behind my chair, your boys have been busy. You can relax; the boys behind my chair are having a sleepover on the Rec Deck tonight. Based on what Sammy and Sebastian have found, these boys will be staying across the street from you in Orlando. I've spoken with your new assistant and she is processing their records as we speak. I believe the placement of these last three boys you are going to want to handle personally. I handled the interviews for you, but the final placement is all yours." Kirk turned to the boys. "Ensign JJ Richardson, Ensign Adam Short; front and center. State your request gentlemen."
Adam and JJ stepped up, each holding one of Harley's hands. Both tried to start a couple of times before Adam turned his head. "Sorry Sir, but we can't seem to ask this formally. Permission to speak informally?"
Kirk nodded. "At least you tried. Permission granted."
"Thank you, Captain." Adam said before turning back. "Mom; this little blond guy between us is Harley Jared Donaldson. JJ and I talked it over, and we want to adopt him and give him both of our names. He doesn't have any family to go to. JJ and I are both legally adults; we think with you, Dan, and John to guide us we can give him an awesome loving family. Please Mom?"
Teri thought it over for a few seconds before replying. "Both of you have been there from the minute Cory and Sean adopted Timmy, so I know that you understand what you are getting into. JJ, from the shocked looks I saw behind you, I assume you did not discuss this with your parents. You'll be glad to know they recovered quickly and signaled me with a thumbs-up. I have to agree with them, since I know neither one of you is afraid to ask what to do if you don't know. Congratulations guys; now how do you want your new son's last name done?"
JJ quickly put his hand over Adam's mouth. "Teri, please make it Short-Richardson. Adam's the one that saved him."
From the look on Adam's face, Teri could see that he had just been overruled. "Adam, your partner is right; you saved him so our last name should be first. Take your son to meet his granddad and grandpop."
As the grinning boys turned and went to where Dan and John were standing, Teri turned her attention to Cory and Sean.
Before a word could be said by anyone, Timmy spoke his mind. "Gran'ma, you know Calen; this is his lil' brother CD. You're 'posed to make 'em my big brothers!"
Teri couldn't help but chuckle. "Slow down there Tiger. You're as bad as your Daddy and Pop were at your age! Boys, now you know how I felt when you two pulled that! I was a step ahead of you this time; I saw the looks before you beamed up. Hurry up and get my grandsons down here! Dan, John; I need to steal Harley tonight, I'll turn him over for you to start spoiling tomorrow. JJ, you can stay over with your new son tonight if you want to."
JJ thought for a second, then took Harley from John. "Hey lil' guy; is it okay if Pop goes and gets your new bedroom ready for when you come home tomorrow? Your Daddy will still be with you."
In all of his short life, Harley had never been consulted as to what he would like. He wrapped his arms around JJ's next and hugged tightly. "Okay Pop. Can you find me a new Teddy Bear? The bad man took my old one."
JJ kissed his new son's cheek. "I'll do even better; I'm going to give my teddy bear to you. I think he's getting lonely and needs a little boy to cuddle with."
Harley was speechless, he could only respond with a hug.
Kirk smiled at the boy bonding with his new pop, then addressed Teri. "Give about a half hour for them to wrap up things up here, then your quiet house will be re-invaded. I know of a great Italian restaurant there in town; Biaggi's Ristorante Italiano. Take the boys there, I'm covering the bill. Goodnight Teri."
Teri had just finished filing her reports on the latest adoptions when she heard the telltale sound of a transporter beam in the front foyer. She quickly got up and went to greet the boys. On her way out of the office, she grabbed a camera. As she rounded the corner and spotted her family, she got off a quick shot before any of them noticed her, then quickly placed the camera on a nearby stand.
"MOM!" Cory exclaimed.
Teri grinned. "Cory, I'll never understand how someone who loves to use a camera as much as you could hate to have their picture taken like you do. I wanted to make sure my first look at my new grandsons with their dads and most of their uncles was saved forever."
Cory shook his head and grinned. "Okay, I guess you're off the hook this time Mom; just don't make it a habit!"
Teri noticed that both Calen and CD cringed when the heard Cory tell her what not to do. She motioned for Timmy to climb down off of Sean. "Timmy; why don't you bring your new brothers and cousin over and introduce them to me?"
"Okay!" Timmy exclaimed as he jumped down. To her surprise, Harley assisted Timmy in ushering his reluctant brothers over to her. She knelt down to be closer to their level before speaking to them. "Okay, who is who Timmy?"
Timmy smiled broadly as he introduced them to her. "Gran'ma, this is Calen; an' this is CD. They's my big bros now! My new cousin is Harley; we are 'bout the same age and he's really kewl!"
Teri smiled as each boy was introduced, then spoke. "Thank you, Timmy. Calen, CD; right now I probably know more about what your old home was like than your dad and pop do. Things work a lot different around here. For one, if an adult hits you they have a whole line of people who will literally kick their butts. We actually had an adult hit Chip's son Justy a few weeks ago; last I heard he was still in the hospital undergoing reconstructive surgery on the hand he did it with. The things you had to live through will never happen again. I saw your reaction when your Dad sounded like he was talking back to me. He's not in any trouble, I knew what he was trying to tell me. Around here, I want you to express your opinion; all I expect is that you are not rude about it or crude and insulting. I'll bet there were a lot of things you guys were afraid to do because you thought you would get in trouble and get hurt. I know it will take getting used to, but now if you are not sure if you can do something just ask. If someone gets mad at you for asking a question, they have to deal with your Dad and Pop; if they are not around tell me and I will take care of it for you. Oh, I also require everyone to get lots of hugs!"
Calen decided to test her while he knew everyone was watching and could protect him. "How could you know what our life was like? We didn't tell anyone about a lot of it."
"Good choice of a question, Calen." Teri replied. "After you beamed up to the ship, I talked to the police officers that had came out there. I knew Cory and Sean would be busy with you, so I had them contact me with any information they found on your old mother. It didn't take too long; they found her in a bar in Altoona. I had her brought here, then called Orlando and had Josh send over Jamie and Jacob. If I know your Pop, he's going to fill you in about them, but for now all you need to know is they are telepaths. An hour after they got here, I had a report and they went home; your old mother is now sitting in jail awaiting trial on Federation charges. Considering the twin's report is better than a signed confession, she will be convicted for attempted murder and about twenty other things."
Feeling a little more sure of himself, Calen went for broke. "I bet you can't tell me why she did this to me."
Knowing she was about to break through his shell, Teri replied carefully. "Calen, I don't know how CD and Harley would respond to the answer to that. I know the rest of these guys might giggle, but they would not make fun of you. I won't say it out loud unless you ask me to; we can go in my office and I'll tell you in private if you want."
The last thing Calen expected was compassion at his statement. "Go ahead and say it; they're gonna find out anyways."
Teri nodded. "With the exception of CD and Harley, I know for a fact that all the rest of you do what Calen did quite regularly; so no laughing. Calen was caught rubbing his privates and making himself feel good. Calen, she had serious problems; she believed anything to do with sex was dirty and that touching yourself made you a demon. There is no excuse for the damage she did to you there. She failed in both things she tried to do though; you are still alive, and you can do anything with just one nut that the rest of these guys can do with two. You have no reason to be ashamed of how your privates look now, they are proof that you beat her and survived. By the way, if I catch you, the only thing I'll do is tell you where the nearest bottle of lotion is so you don't rub yourself raw! Just ask your Pop."
"That explains it! Uncle John was asking why there was a half empty case of lotion in Sean's closet!" Adam announced with a giggle.
Trying to save face, Sean spoke before thinking about what he was saying. "You must have found it first, it was three-quarters full!"
Sean realized he goofed when CD turned and asked "Pop, can I use some? I've never tried it with lotion!"
Sean turned six shades of red in embarrassment. "Sure kiddo, you can have a bottle. Adam, you are soooooo going swimming!"
Teri shook her head. "Calen, there's something else I know. You have not had a hug from a grown-up family member since your Dad was killed in that accident five years ago. It's going to take time to get over what was done to you; can we start it with a very proud Grandma getting a hug from her oldest new grandson?"
Calen slowly stepped into Teri's outstretched arms, still unsure if this was real. It finally hit home when he felt Teri's arms gently wrap around him; obviously being careful not to make his bruised body feel any pain. The tears fell freely as he began to release his pent-up emotions from the last five years.
Teri kissed the top of his head. "Let it all out, Calen. I'm going to talk to your little brother and cousin, but I'm right here if you need me. Just relax in my arms, I'm not going anywhere." She looked up at her other two new grandsons. "CD, Harley; both of you have at least a week of experiences that only the two of you know about. Nobody will force you to talk about them, but I promise you will feel better if you do. I'm guessing that you two were made to do things you didn't want to do; those things don't make you bad or nasty, you didn't have a choice. No matter what you've done or what was done to you, you are my grandsons. Everything you heard me tell Calen applies to you too; and all three of you are welcome to hugs and cuddles whenever you want."
Both boys decided to take Teri up on the offer immediately, and joined Calen in Teri's arms. They stayed that way for five minutes, each of the boys overcoming some of the demons of their past with the help of Teri's love. When they finally broke apart, Teri smiled and said "Have your parents show you where the bathrooms are so you can clean up your faces, then we'll go out to eat, maybe even pick you up some more clothes on the way back. You guys look great in your uniforms, but I think that after tonight we'll save them for special occasions."
All three boys smiled their thanks, and were shortly enroute to get cleaned up to leave.
As the boys all filed into the bedroom, Cory, Sean and Adam pulled their new sons off to the side. Cory spoke for all three parents.
"Guys, all three of us care about you a lot. Part of that is making sure we don't do anything to make you feel uncomfortable. We want to let you guys decide where you sleep tonight, but you need to know a few things first. Usually all of us sleep nude; nobody is forced to, including you, but that's how we feel comfortable. No matter how you want to be dressed you can sleep with us. If you want to sleep with us, but can't handle us being nude, let one of us know; we'll put on something so we can cuddle with you. If you're really not ready to share a bed with us, there's another bed in Sean's room that you are more than welcome to sleep in instead."
Calen interrupted. "What happens if someone gets a stiffie?"
Sean took over. "I'll answer that one. If you get a stiffie, don't worry about it. If you want to play with it, go ahead. All of your uncles have boyfriends and are used to being poked with stiffies occasionally; nobody will say anything if you have one. That brings up another point which is more about CD and Harley; you guys were forced to do stuff. Nobody here will do that to you; the most that might happen is they might have a nice dream and rub against you in their sleep. Sooner or later, you guys are going to catch someone doing some of the stuff that was done to you with their boyfriend. If you look at their faces, you will realize it's different; they both want to do it and are not hurting each other. It's one of the ways they show each other that they are boyfriends and love their partner. Does that make sense?"
Calen nodded immediately. "Yeah, that makes sense to me, Pop. It don't sound so bad now that you explained it."
CD and Harley whispered back and forth a few times before CD answered for both of them. "When the Bad Guy was gone tryin' to find more kids, Paul used to let us touch each other. He said somethin' about us needin' to learn that sex wasn't supposed to hurt. He wouldn't let us see him nude, but he'd tell us what to do to make it feel nicer for each other. A couple of guys would even put our weenies in their mouths and make it feel really different. Harley and me will be okay, we know we're safe now."
Adam knelt down and pulled both CD and Harley into a hug. "That's right, guys - you're safe now. Around here there is one rule that is never to be broken. If someone says NO that means NO; we don't allow arguing about it or begging. You were forced to learn things which you wouldn't even think about until you are older; we understand that. There are some things that you are not allowed to do even though you know about them. Nobody is allowed to put anything in your butthole, and you are not allowed to put anything in someone else's butthole. Anything else besides touching you have to ask one of us first; we'll talk it over with you and help you decide if it's the right thing to do. Is that fair?"
"Yeah, daddy."
"Yeah, Uncle Adam. Thanks for lookin' out for us."
Cory looked over the three boys with pride. "Do you guys know what you want to do tonight then?"
Calen looked over at his little brother and new cousin, then back at Cory. "Can we talk about it for a minute, Dad?"
Cory smiled. "Sure, we'll wait over on the edge of the bed for you."
After a quick discussion, the boys came over to where Cory, Sean, and Adam were waiting.
"Pop, I gotta question. Is there a church we can go to so I can thank God for you and Daddy findin' us?" CD asked shyly.
Sean pulled CD into a hug. "Let me go talk to your Grandma; there's one nearby that I went to a lot when your Daddy was sick and in the hospital. Anyone is welcome, and they have morning services on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday so that people who work weird days can still go to church. We could all go there tomorrow morning; all of us have some thanking to do."
CD returned the hug. "Thanks Pop, that sounds kewl."
Sean ran downstairs, and returned a minute later smiling. "Hey everyone; fold the uniforms when you take them off! Mom wants us to wear them for Church in the morning."
Once Sean returned to his seat, each of the boys lined up with a parent; CD with Sean, Calen with Cory, and Harley with Adam. Calen spoke for all of them.
"Dad, we wanna sleep with all of you and sleep nude like you." Calen regressed to a small child as he spoke the next words; words echoed by CD and Harley to the parent in front of them. "Daddy, can you please help me get ready for bed?"
Cory didn't even blink. "If it makes you happy I would be honored to, SON."
A few minutes later, everyone was ready for bed and just kicking back, unwinding from the eventful day.
Tyler finally couldn't resist the urge to pick on Cory. "Hey, bro; you growing a crust yet? You musta eaten about fifty loaves of garlic bread!"
Cory giggled. "Dude, that was some great bread! Y'all just wasn't quick enough!"
Tommy joined in. "All of the food was awesome. I didn't believe you ate all that bread and still ate the meal you ordered!"
"Unca' Tommy, can you make 'paggettie like that?" Timmy asked while rubbing his belly. "It made my tummy all happy!"
"I'll see what I can do, lil' guy." Tommy giggled. "Spaghetti sauce is an art, but I think I know how they did it. We just gotta lock up the garlic bread so your daddy don't eat it all."
Cory just shook his head in defeat. "Okay guys, let's hit the sack; we gotta get up for church." He got up and went to shut off the light. He looked to make sure everyone was ready and smiled. With the exception of a small hole for him between Sean and Calen, everyone was belly to back, cuddled tightly into a supportive family group. He shut off the light, and made his way to the spot reserved for him. About a half hour of squirming later, he heard Calen whisper.
"Daddy?"
"Yes Calen?"
"It feels kinda funny down there where my nut was. You ain't gotta do nothin' but could you hold me down there tonight and put a finger where my nut was? I can't get comfortable to sleep."
Cory considered it for a second, then replied. "Lil' buddy, think about it for a second. I know I'm only fourteen, but I'm still your daddy; besides I have to do things like an adult. You're going to have to get used to it; I think I know someone who can help you some. I'll bet it's more that you are thinking about it too much. Let's go down to the Rec Room for a second, we need to make a call."
Once downstairs, Cory logged into the terminal and placed the call. A few seconds later, an obviously sleepy Dan answered. "Short Compound, this is Dan."
"Dan, this is Cory. Sorry about waking you, but I didn't know if the remote station in Kyle's room was set up yet. I've got a son here that could use some reassurance about something they have in common."
"That's not a problem, Cory. It's working, but the outside access to it won't be up until tomorrow. Let me transfer you over."
A few seconds later, Kyle came on the screen. Cory took one look and could tell Kyle had not slept one wink yet. "Hey lil' bro; you having trouble sleeping?" Cory asked.
"Yeah, I kinda miss Ty holdin' me." Kyle replied shyly.
"I bet you've got a big brother who feels the same way. After we're done, why don't you go cuddle with him so you both get some sleep. Right now, would you mind talking a bit with Calen? Since you know what it's like with only one nut, maybe you can reassure him about his."
Kyle giggled as he replied. "Like you have to ask? Get out of the room, I'll send Calen up when we're done talking. There's some stuff parents don't need to see or hear!"
Cory grinned and gave Calen a quick hug. "I'll see you in a few minutes, son. Kyle ain't going to lie to you; let me know if he was able to help. I'll stay awake until you come back up."
It took fifteen minutes before Calen quietly came back into the bedroom. His face broke into a huge smile when he found Cory sitting on the edge of the bed waiting for him. He immediately walked over and perched himself on Cory's lap and gave him a hug. "Thanks Dad. I guess I was kinda thinkin' about it too much. It's different now that I know someone else like me down there. I thought it was somethin' that made me look sick; Kyle showed me his and now I know I don't look much different than anyone else unless you really look at me. You ain't mad about me askin' you to do that, are you?"
Cory kissed Calen's forehead. "No, I'm not mad; you were asking for help the only way you could think of. Are you ready to get some sleep?"
Calen looked over Cory's shoulder and saw the hole that they had left was gone; CD was now cuddled agaist Sean. "Yeah, but our spot's gone; now you can't cuddle with Pop. I'm sorry!"
Cory glanced over. "There's nothing to be sorry about; I'm just as happy between you and Timmy. Let's get some sleep."
Cory scooted over to the end of the line of boys. Before he had a chance to roll onto his side, Timmy's 'daddy radar' kicked in; one leg and one arm reached out and made it quite clear that Timmy wanted to cuddle up to his Daddy's side. Cory lifted his arm out of the way of Timmy's head, and suddenly found CD following his new little brother into place. Cory looked over to where Calen was watching and said quietly "It looks like your brothers are claiming this side of me; the other side must be reserved for you."
Calen smiled and cuddled under Cory's free arm, snuggled as tight as he could be to Cory's chest. "Goodnight Daddy, I love you."
Cory kissed the top of Calen's head. "I love you too, Son. Sweet dreams."
Teri was sitting at the table drinking her morning coffee when she heard Adam yell "DUDE! Somebody needs to change their Huggies!" A few seconds later, the dining room was invaded by nude boys with watering eyes; Cory trailing behind with a huge grin..
"Did you guys forget something?" Teri asked with a chuckle.
Tommy looked over from his seat. "Mom, you can't go in the room without a gas mask! Even Timmy's teddy bear had to run for cover; Cory's butt is RANK!"
Teri thought for a second then slapped her forehead. "I should have known better, Cory and garlic don't mix! That was Garlic Bread you were hogging last night, wasn't it?"
Cory giggled. "Yeah, GOOD garlic bread, with lots of garlic!"
Teri shook her head. "Get your stinky butt up there and open a window to air it out; hopefully after breakfast the air will be clear enough for y'all to get dressed without passing out." She looked over at Sean. "Is he as bad as last time he pulled that stunt?"
Sean grimaced. "Worse; if I didn't hear his butt cheeks flap I woulda thought a skunk got in."
Teri chuckled at Sean's response. "Thanks for the visual, kid. Tommy, Ty; why don't you guys grab some aprons and we'll throw together some breakfast."
As Teri and her two helpers disappeared into the kitchen, CD leaned over and asked Sean "Pop, you mean we gotta help Grandma cook?"
Sean smiled. "No, little buddy. Your uncles like to cook; sometimes they'll even cook it all themselves and not let an adult help. Your grandma wants to get breakfast quick today, so all three of them will be cooking."
CD relaxed, obviously he didn't like kitchen duty. "What kinda chores do we gotta do then? Are we going to get an allowance?"
Cory came up behind CD and put his hands on his son's thin shoulders. "Slow down, CD. We are waiting to sort out chores until we get to Orlando. We'll figure out allowances then too. You'll have a say in it, so just wait until we are all settled in."
CD leaned his head back. "Okay Dad. I guess I'm still tryin' to fight to get stuff. We had to do all the chores, even cook, and was always promised money but never got it."
Cory brushed CD's bangs out of his eyes. "That won't happen, son. If your Pop or I even thought of doing that to you guys, your Grandma would chew our butts off."
CD smiled. "Thanks, Daddy. It's kinda kewl bein' able to ask stuff without someone getting mad."
Cory moved over slightly so he could put one of his hands on Calen's shoulder. "It's definitely kewl having two more sons to answer questions for!"
The boys all fell in line behind Sean and Cory as they walked up to the door of the church. Teri had dropped them off, having to do some emergency shopping at Sean's request. The pastor was greeting people at the door, and got a huge smile when he saw the group coming towards him.
"Sean! I'm so glad to see you; we've missed you. How's everything going?"
Sean shook the pastor's outstretched hand. "Everything's been great, Pastor Mills. We are moving to Orlando to a place where we can work at helping kids in trouble. My prayers got answered and then some! Let me introduce everyone. This is Cory; God gave him back to me just like you said He would. We're officially a pair now! The little guy in his arms is our youngest son Timmy." Sean reached behind him and guided CD and Calen forward. "These are our other sons as of yesterday, Calen and CD."
Once Pastor Mills finished welcoming Cory and their sons, Sean continued. "Pastor, I picked up some brothers too; this is Adam, Tyler and Tommy. The little guy in Adam's arms is his new son Harley; Adam got him yesterday too."
Pastor Mills welcomed the rest of the boys, then stepped back. "In all of my years, I have never seen a plainer miracle coming from prayer. A year ago, a scared young boy came in. After the service, we talked and I found out about how he had lost one brother forever and the other one had lost almost all of his memory. Today I'm looking at him and see the secure young man that God intended. Sean, you are living proof that love and prayer can accomplish anything."
Sean blushed as he replied. "Thanks Pastor. It's almost time to start, we'll talk some more during fellowship after the service."
As the boys headed in to find seats in the pews, CD pulled the pastor aside and whispered something to him. When the pastor nodded his head after a few minutes of discussion, CD gave him a quick hug then ran to catch up with the others.
"What was that all about?" Sean asked CD as they took their seats.
"You'll see, Pop!" CD replied with a grin.
The service went normally until the end of the sermon. Pastor Mills looked directly at the boys as he spoke his next words.
"Brethren, some of you remember Sean when he first visited us a year ago; most of you have grown to know him since then. Today Sean has joined us one last time before he moves to Florida; but he joins us with a joyous heart. The young man that makes his Spirit complete has recovered and is with him today, along with six other boys who now share in his endless amount of love. I would like for all of these young men to come forward so you can meet them."
Once each of the boys had been introduced, along with announcing their relationship to Sean, the pastor continued. "Since Cory's recovery, him and Sean have affected the lives of each of these boys in some way. From welcoming in an abandoned child to literally saving a life, together they have lived the teachings of Jesus to help their fellow man. One life in particular was touched so much that he has to say his thanks in front of God. CD has asked me to let him express his thanks in front of all of you. CD, go ahead."
CD stepped forward. "Thank you, Pastor. Let us pray."
The congregation bowed their heads, then CD began:
Heavenly Father, today we stand here in peace, some of us for the first time in our lives, to thank You for the blessings You have gave us. Thank you for not only giving me a new Dad and Pop, but sending them to save my brother Calen and bringing us back together. Thank you for healing Dad and giving him back to Pop. Thank you for giving us a grandma who is nice and listens to us. Thank you for Uncle Tommy, Uncle Adam, and Uncle Tyler. Thank you so much for giving me my new little brother Timmy to cuddle, love and teach. God, from the bottom of my heart I want to thank You for sending Daddy to find me and save me from the bad man who was hurting me. Also thank you just as much for sending Uncle Adam with Daddy so that he could rescue my friend Harley who You made into my cousin. Thank you for Pastor Mills and all of these nice people who helped Pop when Daddy was sick. Most of all, thank you for listening to the prayers of a bunch of lost boys and making it so they are all safe again. Thank you God for giving all of us a family to love us and teach us right from wrong. God, I know I didn't say much but the Lords Prayer for the last week, but you still listened to my heart. Today I can say it loud and strong with my new family that You have given me.
Our Father, who art in Heaven; Hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the Kingdom, and the Power and the Glory forever; Amen.
There was not a dry eye in the building after hearing CD pour out his soul. Cory led the boys in giving CD a hug of thanks; nobody said a word out of respect for the moment. Pastor Mills remained silent as the boys returned to their seats, then spoke in a subdued voice."There is nothing I can say worthy of following CD's prayer except Thanks be to God. The boys would like to have you join them in Fellowship Hall so they can thank you in person." He placed the microphone in its holder, and everyone stood to exit the Sanctuary.
Fortunately for Cory, the noise of everyone getting up and talking masked the sound of what happened next. The noses of most of the congregation were not so lucky. As he stood up, the gas he had been holding back decided to break free, resulting in a deadly semi-silent fart. Sean and Adam quickly guided Cory out along with the rest of the sudden mass departure before anyone identified him as the cause of the fresh round of watering eyes. They could tell by his look that he had tried to hold it, so neither said anything. As Cory headed to the restroom to try to clear out any aftershocks, Sean gathered the boys around. "Guys, it was an accident. No picking on him until we get in the limo, okay? We are still in church."
They all nodded, and once Cory came back out they joined the congregation in Fellowship Hall.
An hour later, after receiving best wishes from all of the people Sean knew, the boys were standing outside with Pastor Mills waiting for Teri. Pastor Mills turned to Cory. "Well Cory, you almost made it! That's the fastest I've ever seen some of them move!"
Cory dropped his head, ashamed of what happened. "How did you know?"
Pastor Mills reached over and lifted Cory's chin. "I happened to be watching you guys when it happened. I could tell by the look on your face something happened that you didn't want or expect. It didn't take long to figure out what. I'm glad this is not a Catholic Church; their candles would have lit off an explosion!"
Adam grinned and said in his best newscaster voice: "In other news, a 14 year old young man is in custody after unleashing a fireball the size of a watermelon on his unsuspecting church brothers and sisters. Minor injuries have been reported and the youth, who will remain nameless due to age, is being questioned on where he got the materials for such an explosive event. No motives have been discovered at this point and the National Guard has been asked to stand down after earlier reports of terrorism were squashed by the boy's mother, saying, 'I only feed him garlic!'."
Even Cory came close to collapsing with laughter at Adam's parody. Once everyone recovered their breath, Adam came over and gave Cory a hug. Loud enough for everyone else to hear, Adam told Cory "Sorry bro, but the timing was just too sweet to pass up!"
Cory returned the hug, replying "It's okay bro. That's gotta be a classic; besides it made me feel lots better!"
Pastor Mills was still chuckling as he added "I agree, nobody's made me laugh like that in a long time! I'm really glad you all came out today, there are a lot of people who are going to sleep better knowing you are all together and safe. You guys touched a lot of hearts today, maybe they'll go out and pass it on." He looked over and saw Teri pulling in with the Hummer. "It looks like your ride is here; keep in touch and Go with God."
Each of the boys gave him a hug and expressed their thanks. Cory went last, and was just finishing thanking the pastor one more time for taking care of Sean when a voice came from the Hummer.
"Hey Stinky, come on! I may have forever, but times wasting for y'all!"
Cory looked over his shoulder just in time to see Mikey float out of the Hummer and wiggle his wings. When he turned back, he could tell by the stunned look on Pastor Mills' face that Mikey was allowing the pastor to see him. On a hunch, Cory guided the pastor over to the vehicle.
"Pastor Mills, I'd like you to meet our big brother Mikey. He goes by Saint Mikey of Urbandale now though."
Mikey saw that the pastor was still speechless, so he went ahead. "Relax Pastor Mills; Our Father just wanted you to keep doing what you've been doing. I'm actually here on a more personal note; to thank you myself for helping Sean through what happened last year. My little brothers mean a lot to me, and you played a part in them making it to where they are now by standing by Sean in his time of need. You are a fine example for everyone around you, don't change a thing."
Pastor Mills found his voice as he relaxed. "Thank you Saint Mikey; I'll do just that. Your brothers and nephews taught quite a few people something about caring and responsibility towards others today, including me. It's been an honor to meet them and you, especially since Sean told me so much about you when you were alive. Today will hold a special place in my heart forever."
Mikey smiled. "Your welcome. You do have a reward for your efforts, in fact you've had it for the last six months. The boy Paul that you seem to run into whenever he's in desperate need for food is actually homeless and without any living relatives. He's afraid to tell you because he does not want to go to a group home. You will see him tomorrow; tell him it's time to have a home again with you. He will accept; you are the only person who has looked out for him without wanting something. Mom will call you tomorrow night and get everything done so that he becomes your legal son."
"Thank you for giving me hope, Saint Mikey. I promise to follow in Sean and Cory's footsteps and give this gift from God the life he deserves. I better hurry, I have a lot to do to prepare my place so that Paul has a spot to call home."
"Go with peace, Pastor Mills."
"May Peace be with you and your family, Saint Mikey."
As the boys piled out of the Hummer at the house, Teri told them "Get into something comfortable, then go to the Rec Room."
Everyone but CD knew what was about to happen, so they hurried and got changed into shorts and tee shirts. Once Teri saw that everyone was ready, she came walking into the room carrying a cake bearing nine candles. As she walked through the doorway, the boys started singing.
Happy Birthday to you;
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy
Birthday dear Cee Deeeee!
Happy
Birthday to you!
CD had a smile ten miles wide and tears of joy running down his face as Cory and Sean escorted him to the table Teri sat the cake on.
As Cory and Sean knelt beside him, Cory said "Make a wish and blow out the candles, son." CD closed his eyes for a couple of seconds, then reopened them. He took a deep breath and blew all of the candles out first try. He turned to Teri. "Thanks Grandma! I didn't think anyone 'membered with all the stuff that's happened!"
Teri smiled "Your big brother, Dad, and Pop wouldn't let anyone forget! I'm going to get the ice cream real quick; go ahead and cut your cake!"
Once Teri finished her cake, she went and retrieved the things she had picked up earlier, then passed them out to the boys. Once everything was accounted for, she signaled Sean. He cleared everyone but CD off of the couch, then stood back to wait his turn. As agreed, Mikey went first. "CD, Happy Birthday. Since angels don't have money, I had to have Mom buy this for me. But I picked it out for you as a reminder you always have one more uncle watching out for you."
CD opened the small box that Mikey put in his hand and stared. Inside was a pair of diamond stud earrings. He found his voice enough to say "Thanks Uncle Mikey! Now I gotta get my ear pierced, these are awesome!"
Mikey chuckled. "Watch, little one!" He took one of the earrings out of the box and placed it against CD's right earlobe. As everyone watched, it seemed to make it's own hole and slip right through. Mikey put the back on they moved back. "How's that?"
CD reached up and felt the new earring. "Wow, I didn't even feel it! Thank's Uncle Mikey! What about the other one?"
"Have Grandma put it in her safe in Orlando; it's a spare in case something happens to the one you have in."
"Okay."
CD was overwhelmed as the boys each gave him a gift. As he fingered the necklace Teri had just put on him from Calen, Sean and Cory came up together. Cory spoke for them both as he said "CD, we figured it would be more fair if you got one present from both of us. Happy Birthday, Son."
CD tore into the big box they sat in front of him. His jaw hit the floor when he opened the inner case and found a teal Fender electric bass guitar! He spent the next five minutes wordlessly bouncing back and forth between Sean and Cory giving them hugs of thanks. Once he settled back down, Teri spoke.
"CD, I went ahead and had my present to you sent to Orlando so it wouldn't get damaged. I got you the amp to go with the present you got from your parents. It is already in the common room of your section of the house."
While CD was in Teri's arms thanking her, the rest of the boys cleaned up the mess from his presents. Mikey said his goodbyes, and they all just sat back and celebrated being a family. About thirty minutes later, Cory's nose picked up on a familiar smell. He got up and went to the kitchen. When he saw Teri just finishing stacking brownies on a serving plate, tears started running down his face.
Teri looked up and saw Cory standing there crying; she dropped what she was doing and rushed over to hug him. "Tell Mom whats wrong, Cory." she whispered as she held him.
Cory wrapped his arms around her as he replied between sobs. "You made brownies the first day I started getting my memories back, Mommy. It was later that day they started working again. I'm sorry I hurt you and Sean like that; you had to live with me being here in body but not really being here as me."
"Shhhh ... it's okay, baby boy. Both of us were just happy you were able to be here at all. That don't matter anymore; we've got the Cory boy back that we have always loved. We loved you even when your mind was giving you trouble. Thanks to you, there are a bunch of boys in the other room that have learned to overcome their past and make themselves better. In the last month, you have done more than enough to make up for the year you were without memories."
"Thanks, Mom. I know we got to leave soon; can we do it from the front yard instead of inside?"
"Whatever it takes to make my Cory happy. If that's what you want, then thats what we'll do."
Cory gave her one more hug, then followed her in as she took the brownies into the rec room. An hour later, they watched as the contents of the house began to be transferred to their new home. When the time finally came, the only thing left was CD's new guitar; he refused to let it go without him with it. At Cory's request, Teri took everyone else outside, leaving him in the empty house alone. He went upstairs and into Mikey's old room. He stood in the center of it silently for a minute, then began going to the rest of the rooms in the house, repeating his actions in each one. Finally he reached the front foyer, and stood looking at the view he had seen millions of times. He smiled as he turned and opened the front door. As he opened the door, he found Sean waiting on the front step for him. He stepped out on the porch, and reached for the doorknob.
"Wait." Sean said. "I was watching you through the windows. Please hold me and let me see what you see as you look inside."
They embraced and stood in the doorway cheek-to-cheek, both looking through the doorway at the tangled history which had passed through that portal into their young lives. They reached out as one and placed their hands on the doorknob; then with one last look, they closed and locked the door on their old memories, then turned to go start a new life and build new ones.
An
open door I look through now;
a chance to view the past.
I look
through all my memories,
I look upon the cast.
Of characters
who've touched my life,
of friends who've touched my heart;
of
people who've helped form my life,
time can not tear us apart.
The
things we've done,
the things we've seen,
are etched now in my
mind.
Of families and friends in need,
and love we've shared in
kind.
This room once full
is empty now,
it causes me to
sigh.
And think of all experiences
I've picked up by and
by.
This open door it gives to me
a chance to search the
seas;
for you my friends are always there,
etched in my
memories
© 2005 GunRunner. Used with permission
It has taken two years and five months almost to the day to reach this point. I wish to thank Gunrunner and Dakota for their input into this final chapter of Part One. I have immensely enjoyed writing this, and wish to thank all of the readers out there who have stuck with it through the long waits. I could not have made it this far without reader input. Thanks to the Pups (Ghost and Dakota) and TSL for their ideas and critiques in the last few chapters. Thanks to Slash, Moonwolf, and Art for their help and support in the beginning. I must publicly thank Comicality for getting me started in his little corner of the web; I had no idea at the time it would get this big! Thanks to August for setting it up so that us writers have a place to be, and thanks to Jeff and Gary for getting me involved in what is fast becoming a large group of authors with similar quality standards. And last but never least, thanks to all of the friends I've made throughout this entire first part of the project.