Holding Eric part 30 it’s here

Holding Eric part 30

Penny unable to sleep under the circumstances tossing and turning before sitting on the edge looking to the window pulling her robe over while slipping into her slippers, Tying her robe as she walked down the hallway stopping at Jakes room looking in at his empty bed, only a second before checking his night stand with his small cars and game he wasn’t allowed to take, Penny smiled closing the door halfway heading to the living room, hesitating looking at the front window like she did every morning seeing if Jacob had come home during the night sacking out on the couch not waking everyone.

Only the Welcome Home banner they rush to put up last night had fallen halfway down behind the couch, with a rise in her shoulders turning to the kitchen, at the sink pulling her Best Mom cup from the drainer placing it next to the coffee maker, pulling the filler cup outward making sure she set it up before turning it on, placing it back pushing on the light button while checking to see it was lit, glancing out the kitchen window to the rear yard watching the rain diminishing into small puddles before the first grouping of coffee water was sent to the filter.

Sitting down in Jacobs chair at the end of the table, able to watch the rain dew dripping down in streams on the front window glass while the sun started breaking outward among the trees branches, morning dew steaming upward as the birds played in the small puddles while finding a few worms at the end of the driveway near the edges, after a few minutes the perking stopped, Penny turn looking at the pot “Wow that was quick” getting up pouring herself a cup, blowing on it feeling the heat on the handle setting it on the table checking above the refrigerator at the clock, six thirty four; deciding on breakfast before the girl’s got up only knowing them too well grabbing themselves an English or pop tart and off they go.

Pulling the pans out trying not to make too much noise setting them on the burners, opening the refrigerator door casting the light into the livingroom brighten the walls, leaning on the door looking trying to decide ham steaks or beacon taking both out, retrieving a sharp knife opening the packages letting them slide outward into the pans, turning the flames up looking at the three pans full “Jee’s you need eggs and butter what was I thinking” reaching inside pulling out the egg package and stick butter, with only a glance before closing the door, reaching down pulling out the large griddle, flipping the beacon curling separating what she could letting it slowly sizzle, checking her mug drinking it slowly while it was still cooling off, a few strips at a time placing the bacon on a paper towel letting it drain, placing the griddle on the front two burners able to start the eggs, sure enough it worked alright Colleen walked in sitting down just barely keeping her eyes open looking to the stove “Morning Mom”

“Morning where having breakfast eggs this morning” Penny said taking down a stack of plates setting them down as she gatherer the silverware placing it on top, with a quick check to the griddle taking the plates to the table setting them around skipping her own seat, stopping at Jakes looking at the empty chair hesitant stare before setting them down returning to the stove.

“Mom I’ll do that” Colleen said watching her stopping, reaching for the napkins placing them around the table, while Penny removed the Hams setting them on a platter along with the Bacon, shifting the eggs to one side of the griddle some got crisp on the edges, cracking a few more eggs on watching them, “Juice Mom?” Colleen asking while reaching inside the refrigerator pulling out the glass jug holding it, Penny stood shifting the eggs around on the griddle absorbed to it.

“Mom Juice?” Colleen asking again’ standing at the cabinet looking over a few times with her not responding, gathering smaller glasses placing them on the table.

“Sure honey’ it’s in the refrigerator”

Carefully holding the jug so it didn’t slip from the moisture around the glass pouring it slowly, just moving the last glasses over spotting lights casting on the wall looking right up to the window seeing car lights coming in the driveway “Mom they’re here! Mom”

“Already it can’t be them? It’s too early” Penny surprised leaning back looking to the window unable to see anything, turning off the stove, Colleen already headed for the front window.

Colleen her knees on cushion, pushing the fallen banner to one side pulling it towards the front before it dropped behind the couch checking outside. “It’s Grandma’ Mom it’s not them Grandma’s Here” getting off the couch hurrying to open the door, waiting for her walking up, seeing it cleared up outside waiting.

“You’re up early’ expecting someone maybe?” with a simple kiss on Colleens forehead hugging her “Grandma you know there all coming home today”

“Yes I know’ around Noon you ready to meet him, Eric?” Colleen nodded smiling walking together to the kitchen, setting her purse down on the floor seeing the empty place setting, which Penny always sat at sitting down, looking over to Penny fixing her a cup of coffee already

“Morning Grandma’ she’s all excided all right” setting her cup down with two blue packets

“Becky is too’ maybe more so” sitting down looking over the bacon, then spotted the jug getting back up “Grandma Juice?”

“No Thanks’ Coffees fine”

“Breakfast is ready, better get your sister up! Grandma plenty of Eggs? Ham Steak also”

Colleen placing the jug back before rushing off to get Becky up, Penny cracking three more eggs on the griddle, “Over easy and some warm ham steak?”

“That sounds good, you need any help with the toast, English?” spotting the plates stacked

“No English today’ regular breakfast for a change” Penny smiled lifting the platter

“See you have Extra plates someone coming by this morning?”

“No’ just habit normal five plates” Scooping the eggs onto the plates, topping off her coffee before sitting down, only to get back up for the salt and pepper.

Colleen coming in sitting down, reaching over for the bacon “She’ll be right along she said”

“So did Jake get that pony he wanted?” Grandma asking Penny

Colleen surprised lips tighten “Grandma what pony he just got one for his birthday?”

“Dearie he was looking for one to pull the old wagon”

“Wagon’ Mom did Jake get one’ he better not have I’ll end up taking care of it also” Colleen snapping down on a slice of bacon glaring at Jakes chair.

“Colleen your Brother can take care of his own horses”

“Right so he did get one’ well he can clean his own stalls then” stabbing her eggs letting the yoke run outward among her toast, moving her beacon aside.

“Thing’s will soon be different you’ll see” Grandma said as she smiled holding her cup.

Colleen looking at both of them smirking not even looking at her. “Grandma you know something you’re not telling me? What are you hiding a secret?”

“Why dearie what would I ever keep from you” Smiling at her “Pass the toast dearie”

Becky walking in looking among them, leaning forward gritting her teeth “Egg’s we out of muffins?” sitting down next to Colleen dipping her toast in the yoke “Gross”

“Good Morning to you too’ Eggs, toast with jelly and Good Morning!” Penny said looking over

“Right Morning’ Hi Grandma’ they here yet?’

“Do you see them’ and Jakes getting another pony” Colleen busted out waving her toast

“What’ Mom’ ….  Dad didn’t buy him a pony did he?” eyes wide waiting

“Not that I know of’ beside if he did he has his reasons now eat up chores to be done still”

“Boys seem to need a lot of little things, Morning Becky don’t we look nice”

“Morning Grandma’ Jake always gets what he wants”

“Sure Just buy him whatever he wants’ he” Stopping looking over her mother looking at her tighten face “Mom’ Dad buys him everything” Colleen scooping the last bacon over stopping

“That’s plenty from you two’ be grateful you even have him after what just happen”

“Mom?” Becky and Colleen stopped surprised looking over waiting to find out what happen

“He’s fine now’ and just so you know Eric’s the same age as your brother”

Grandma sat finishing off her coffee holding the cup upward to Penny already getting the pot “Well Looks like we got our hands full this morning with everyone coming home”

“Yea he’s probably still sleeping, I can’t wait to meet Eric!” Becky smiling raising her head posing like a photo star on her finial photo shot

“Becky he’s not’ what a dork he going to be our brother”

“Mom” Becky said frowning over “Its looks dry out can we set our banner by the driveway?”

“After your breakfast and I sure hope you’re not going out in your nightgowns?”

Colleen finished first taking her plate to the sink asking “Grandma you making cupcake’s?”

“Well see’ Grandpa and Jake like the strawberry type’ I didn’t pick-up any up from the store”

“Why Grandma you forgot?” Colleen saying taking her mothers and Grandmothers plate

“I was going to get some beforehand”

“We’re done can we go?” Becky not finishing her toast

“That’s ok’ I got three boxes” Penny butted right in watching Beck leaning on the chair becoming irritating “Don’t forget you have to check the new colt stalls today”

“We will after we get Eric’s banner up” quickly smiling to the hallway with Colleen following behind her shaking her head back and forth.

David watching both mirrors pulling into the rest area getting close to the building as possible, Jake followed him around the trailer checking on the colts making sure they were holding up ok before heading up to the building together. “Pepsi Jake” asking watching Jake heading to the side. “Yes be right out”

David pressed the button waiting looking around before the bottle fell to the bottom, Another dollar and another Pepsi, taking both over to the road sign setting Jakes on the trash can while opening his, Jake came right out taking his “Thanks’ Grandpa” Twisting the cap with his shirt cleaning the top off before drinking it.

“Looks like we won’t be much longer now”

Jake taking a big drink asking “before dark?’

“Should be home just after one” twisting his lid back on ready to walk looking down, Jake quickly turn his closed walking back to the truck getting in looking for his chips, Grandpa was checking the trailer once more before getting in, seeing that Jake was already into his corn chips “Jake chips’ you’re going to get thirsty and look you almost finished your soda?”

Jake tilted the bottle frowning, setting it down in the holder folding the bag up.

“Here go get another one” David handed him a dollar, Jake hurried to the vending machine, David watching him returning trying not to shake it.

“Now were good Right Grandpa?”

“Yes we are let’s make tracks maybe will see your dad along the way”

“Didn’t he leave early?”

“Your Dad’s not a morning person”

“He’s always the last to get up at home”

“Even when he was your age’ just like you” smiling over pulling back on the highway.

Grandma Meggie frosting the last batch of cupcakes with happy faces, spotting a van pulling in “Penny dear Mail truck here” looking to the side not hearing her she got up walking to the door, opening it standing with a box.  “Just about to ring” holding the box outward for her and his small pad for her to sign “Just sign here and it’s all yours” Meggie looked up at him still wiping frosting off  asking “That’s for Mazzionie?”  Holding the box signing her name “Yep that’s what it says here Jacob and Penny Mazzionie” handing the pen back holding the box “You have a good day now” Maggie said watching him walking away, closing the door as he back out the driveway.

Taking the box to the kitchen setting it on the counter seeing who it was from, hurry around to the bedroom. “Penny dear you got a box you need to see, Penny”

Penny raised her head “Ok be right in”

Meggie went back to the kitchen cleaning up what she could, setting up the coffee pot with two cups waiting next two it. Penny came in “Sorry Grandma was just so tired”

“I know dear the box is on the counter I sign for it” Moving the plates to the side sitting down

Penny pick the box up looking opening the draw for a knife to open it stopping short, looking at the box pulling the strip open looking inside with a note on top of a brown book pulling it out looking at it.

“Look what she sent’ I don’t believe it” Penny started reading the note, sitting down smiling reading the note.

“What’s the note dearie?”

“It’s from the Ms. Waterford the social worker in Rhode Island, she said’ hesitation looking at the book handing it to Grandma, “She wanted us to have it for Eric, It’s his Album with his first photos with his parents, some extras also included a few years ago that she found. She also goes on about the paperwork has all been signed for his adaption to us and so glade she could help out, then said that Mr. Santino was very professional Lawyer inevitably swaying the judge to sign everything in such a short time than she had ever seen anything like it before, and he was willing to work with our state in relocating other youth here, oh Grandma she’s Asking if when the time came to tell Eric she was only doing what she felt was best for his wellbeing having only his best interest in mind always, and again thanking us for opening our doors to him and so glade he has a family that will care for him that he always wanted, with just her name and phone number” Meggie turning the photo album pages smiling with Penny looking at each page.

All of a sudden the front door flung open Colleen running in “There here Dad’s home’ Mom Grandma come on there here” Rushing back outside watching the car pulling in horn beeping.

Penny and Grandma stood on the porch watching them pulling up, Colleen rushing to the passenger side looking in, Becky pulling right up getting off her gator, Eric sat looking over “This is my Family now?” Jacob smiled “Yes this is your home also ready?” Eric smiled over opening the door.

Note: Computer Malfunction on 6/29/2015 just when it was going to be uploaded, it made a bang and sizzle sound, yep it lit up upright and two weeks later Tec Rodger found the rest from hard drive, thankfully we were able to place most of it back together and posted it. Remember to back up on a flash drive or a disc not just the computer. Well a new Computer helps run things faster now.

Hope you enjoy the story, we wanted to thank you for following, were so glade by the response’s you’ve sent. Only wish we could have gone on. It’s up to you to fill in what happen in your own way now. Looking forward to the next story in the works &Thanks again Will.

Holding Eric Part 28

Holding Eric part 28.

Dora pulling in just as Jacob and Jake had just started walking from the car after they dropped David off at another arena, Dora smiling over to them while parking, the two went over to the car Jake right over to Mike checking his game level, Tora spoke out fifteen I’m still on ten, before Mike could even show him, walking together towards the buildings Jacob looked over at the three only looking up a few times while walking “Jake behave I’ll see you in a few” Jake only nodded back stepping up on the bleachers together.

Jacob followed her inside with only a nod walking past the elderly lady still filling out little pink call back slips looking over her chain glasses then back to what she was doing, Jacob sitting at Dora’s her desk waiting for her to get things setup, Dora, Brought over two coffees sitting down “So The boys in Texas now and you have to go?” holding her cup waiting

“Well yea’ it’s important to him that I was there when he arrived” felling the hot Styrofoam cup

“You just drove to the hospital thinking it was him’ now you’re heading home to see this boy?”

“He’s needs someone’ Penny been home doing everything already that she can”

“I understand that Jacob’ but what do you know about this boy anything”

“Eric’ well he’s just looking for a family I guess” another slow sip setting it down.

“Hell Jacob we all want a family even me with the two kids, sometimes you can’t have it all”

“Your so right Dora’ the boy is different alright he’s doing whatever it takes to have a family”

“So why did he pick you?”

“Must have been something giving him a ride’ showing him I cared, I don’t know”

“Wow Jacob where were you all my life when I needed someone?”

“Texas” With a big smile sipping on his hot coffee

Dora smiled back reaching over tapping Jacobs hand, stopping short hearing ahem from the desk, looking over seeing the elderly lady holding the phone with a frown at them “We’re good here you got something for me?” waiting she just return to the pink papers, Jacob looking over also before turning back to Dora “Look I should go’ I’ll check on the kids before heading to the stalls” Standing up looking around for the trash can, Dora pointed behind him, Jacob tossing it inside, “Talk to you later” walking towards the door. “Ok but make sure you see me before you leave” with a nod back and one to the elderly Lady looking over her specked glasses sideways.

Jacob found the three watching the show from the higher seats looking down Mike nudged Jake pointing down “Hi Dad” Jake said setting on seats making his way down the bleachers. “Dad see the mare over there Grandpa just bought her see he’s looking at another right there” pointing over to David checking over an all-black Morgan lifting each hoof.

“You ok here! Minding your Grandpa” looking outward also watching David

Jake Smirking back “You leaving already’ can’t you stay just a little more?” waiting for him to look down

“Jake we need to talk about something have a seat” the two seating down watching David checking over the horse with the owner.

Jake sat looking over a few times with his eyes sideways asking “Dad what I do?” knowing something was up by that expression on Jacob.

“Nothing Jake you’ve been good” reaching around Jake holding him inward.

Jake looked up “What is it Dad … Mom said I could stay or do I have to come home?” fearing the worst time possible leaving without seeing the big show.

“You’re staying with grandpa but remember the boy we talked about” surprised looking back over

“Yea some of it did he do something?”

“Well yes in a way”

“What he do” getting his full attention

“He wants to live with us” Waiting looking down.

Jake snapped back puzzled looking “But he’s real not a ghost …why did he scare me then I don’t like him dad he’s real scary boy”

Jacob took a deep breath more stun at his remarks “His name is Eric and he needs are help Jake”

“Why us’ he has his own family let him stay with them” Jake sitting upward checking the bench

Jacob looked to the horses and back to Jake “Jake he has no family”

“Well he’s not staying with us!” huffy starting to get up all upsetting

“Sit back down!” Jacob quickly said pointing his finger at the bench, Jacob had seen this before but always tried to avoid it, from his own passed growing up, trying not to let him explode.

“I don’t want him around” he snapped sitting back down looking downward at the lower benches

“Jake this is not like you’ Eric needs us and he needs you also”

“Me … no he scared me that’s what he wants to scare me” banging his feet on the bench.

“Stop’ Jake’ Eric is coming and not to scare you’ that’s why I had to leave before”

Trying not to look over studying more on his feet moving up and down like small hoofs in the sand stopping looking over hesitating  “What … But I thought you had a business thing?”

“I was at the hospital in St. Louis looking for Eric” bring it up making the situation worse than it was before then seeing Jakes eyes squinting with his puckered lips with a quick look over only asking

“So that’s where he’s at?”

“No he’s in Texas, and will be at our house later today”

“Texas how he get there … what’s he want with us anyway?” getting more snappy in his voice

“He’s just looking for a family Jake”

“Why he pick me to scare then let him find another family to go scare” glared back waiting for the conflict between them to start again getting angrily in his voice ready to dish it out again

“Jake sit down and listen to me Eric will be staying at our house’ is that clear?” firm voice right back pointing to Jake to sit down.

Jake turned away, Jacob reach over taking his shoulder arm turning him around “Listen Jake I’ve gone easy with you to a point, this attitude has got to stop your older now” releasing his arm watching him sitting upright holding his arm looking at him definitely. “Jake it will be like having a twin brother”

“Twin brother’ I’m me not a twin” snipping back

“Ok then’ I’ll go home and send him on his way back in the streets to live ok?”

“But way’s he got to stay with us?”

“He needs a home”

“Why can’t he go back to his own home?”

“He doesn’t have one’ He lost his parents and his home”

“The streets no home and no Mom or Dad?”

“No One Jake he’s all by himself, that’s way he’s hoping will take him in”

Jake sat looking around the bench then back up waving to Mike and Tora, checking out what Grandpa was doing, then over to Jacob “Dad what about Dana won’t she get mad with another boy in the house?”

“No she’ll be fine with it, beside now she’ll have two of you to pick on that’s if he can stay with us”

“If’ thought he was going to stay?”

“No not if you don’t want him to’ your still number one son”

“Why do I need to say whether he can stay or not, that’s up to you and Mom not me!”

“You have the final say yes or no, maybe you could meet him first before you make up your mind”

“What about the show Grandpa was looking forward to showing me stuff?”

“You can stay with Grandpa’ but I need to go home and see him”

“Ok let him stay if he needs a home ours is good’ where’s he going to sleep?”

“Well find room don’t worry”

“He can stay in my room as long as he doesn’t scare me, maybe he could ride my go-cart”

Jacob reach over pulling him inward holding him, the two watching Grandpa looking over horses.

Jacob called Penny and found out Eric would be staying the night playing a few games with Bert’s two boys and get letting him rest before they came down in the morning around Tenish, Jacob could drive over and Pick Eric up, Penny suggested he might call Bert ahead knowing it would be late before he got to the house, Jacob said he would call him right after talking to her, Jake was ok about Eric they had a little talk and he wanted to share his room as long as he didn’t scare him anymore, Penny smiling informing him that Mr. Santino was meeting them on Monday in Town and wanted to meet Eric, seems he has to sign legal papers as well, along with giggly girls waiting to meet Eric as there New Brother.

Jacob said he would call her and let her know when he arrived at Bert’s, Not even out of the lot talking on the phone while it charge on the cord, talking to Bert finding out about Eric helping with the meals and even help with feeding the horse’s, Bert said that would be fine not to worry about what time he arrived, being morning he might even make it for dinner, Eric wanted to have a cookout, Jacob said he’d see what he could do if traffic wasn’t too heavy. Next thing they were talking about runs back and forth seemed Bert was also a driver transporting Horses to Shows, he would have made the show this year only he had to make several runs to Henderson Nevada for highlight show otherwise he would have made the trip to Kentucky. After twenty minuets’ talking Jacob was on his way stopping for gas and coffee to go.

Arriving at the local grocery store picking up fresh hamburger, rolls, cold cuts and large bag of potato chips with Eric, before picking up the boys from practice Bert pointed them out on the field arriving just before the end, Casey rushing over eager to meet Eric of course Herb the oldest just shook his head pointing to the rear, Bert only said his dad was picking him up and might show up for dinner, Casey and Eric sat in the back seat while Eric was telling him all about his adventure getting here, seems it was more like embellishing a few times with the drivers, funny Eric leaving out the Bear and armadillo of course, Casey shown him around the farm even helping with his chore’s letting Herb and Casey take care of the horses while he watched Bert setting up the Barbeque, Eric watching every move he was making, remarking he had only seen it done on Television never in person, Bert was surprised then explain about Barbeque cooking from cooking on a stove, letting him roll the Hot dogs a few times even trying to turn a burger or two. Eric even tossed around a Frisbee till the dogs decided to run off with it.

Sitting on the round wooden table having Hamburgers when the dogs stopped short what they were doing rushing around the house, All of them also went to see who was coming in the driveway, They didn’t recognize the car, Bert just Smile with his hand on Eric shoulder “Eric your new Dad has arrived” Eric face drop from his cheerfulness looking up at him and back at the car slowing down stopping, Eric’s eyes started watering seeing him getting out, Bert stayed with him walking over, Jacob held out his hand to Bert while looking down at Eric wiping his chin

“You must be Jacob?”

“Bert right?”

“You know this little guy?” Eric slowly looking up tears running down his chin

“What’s this don’t you know me?” lower down on one knee in front of him.

Eric wiped his tear with his hand reach outward, Jacob reach right over embracing him, letting him hold him as tight as he wanted to, Bert waved the boy to the rear with a thumb pointing to the rear walking back with his boys. Jacob rub his back a few times letting him get it out of his system.

Holding Eric part 23

Holding Eric part 23

Waiting on the Ringing with David’s phone going right to voice mail, “Hi dad just to let you know it wasn’t Eric so spending the night, I’ll call you first thing in the morning, Hope Jake’s not giving you a hard time, Dad I’ve got to go now’ I’ll call you in the morning give Jake a kiss for me and I’ll see you soon”.

“Who’s Jake your?” Sean asking with both hands holding his cup, Jacob looked over ready to push another button “My Son” Pushing the call button waiting turning away looking out the front window.
Becky having the phone next to her quickly responded “Hello Brian I knew it was you calling?”
“Becky its Dad put your mom on” Before he could even finish Becky hollered out “Mom its dad” “Becky?” Jacob only hearing the Television in the back ground waiting.
“Hi Hun’ everything going ok?” Penny holding the phone talking while walking towards the kitchen.
“No it wasn’t Eric’ it was another boy they thought was Eric, and I have another problem while I been here” Penny checking the coffee pot feeling how warm it was waiting hasting “What type?”

“A lawyer was at the hospital when I arrived and his name is Sean all the way from Connecticut, and looks like I’ll be taking him to the Airport before heading back” Looking over sideways at Sean wiping his pants leg off trying to dry a large wet coffee spot.
“Sounds like they were trying to find him pretty quickly?”
“Yea wonder what my Dad told them?” Checking around the parking lot watching a few cars going by
“Knowing your Dad he probably sent the army and air force out looking for him also”
“Could be at that, any way spending the night here’ did Jake call you?”
“Yes he did and all excited about getting a Black horse” Looking over to Becky walking in motioning she was waiting on a call, “Guess he likes horse’s alright said they bought four” With a nod to Becky waving her back to the livingroom.
“He’s a real horse finder’ Dad love’s all the attention he been getting”
“Will you just take care of business and get back before they buy the whole place”
“Ok give the kids a kiss and I’ll see you soon, I’ll call you tomorrow when I get back”
“Becareful and drive safe’ Love you too”

Jacob heard the sound of a click seeing the lights flicker closing the lid checking over at Sean just smiling over after hearing the conversation “Everything ok at home?”
“Yes everything’s fine you got a motel near here?”
“No just came right here from the park”
“Is that all you brought with you?”
“Well not much time to pack anything had to get a plane fast”
“Ok we can find a motel for the night and I’ll drop you off in the morning at the airport”
“Can we have breakfast first it’s a long ride on an empty stomach”
“Sure, need to use my phone?”
“No I’ll call the office in the morning before we go”
Jacob started driving down the road looking at motels one after the other before finding one for the night.

David talking with an older rancher at the end of the barn when they heard a scream, which was loud enough to shatter one’s heart being so deep, looking down seeing Jake moving his hands on the latch of the open stall door, David just reach him pulling him backwards covering his eyes getting him out of the stall.
“Easy son it’s going to be fine’ take him away from here” the rancher said grabbing the blanket coving the horse by this time other ranchers also heard the scream of a child rushing over.
“Get the Police hurry”
Everyone asking what happen trying to look inside only seeing the horse laying covered with the stall blanket, the hay around was all bloody, asking over and over what happen who did this, some asking if the boy got hurt did he see who did it, The rancher stood firm not letting anyone inside, looking down seeing that was Jake retching over bring up his breakfast, Dave dropped to his knees and wrapped his arms around the shattered boy, his cries of hurt and pain shattering his little body while he held him close looking back at the crowd gathering around the stalls, everyone asking same question what happen, Police arrived within minutes disbursing most of them trying to find out themselves what was going on.

One of the ranchers hurry to the office informing them what happen, Rico filing papers turn quickly checking the window seeing the crowd, Rico was in charge of the event rushing with the Rancher towards the barn, making way around the others talking outside the stall, stopping looking over the half wall seeing the horse covered when the older rancher explained that the boy – Jake found him, his grandfather had taken him to First aid.

Rico radio into the office having them page the Vet right away to the barn, luckily he was already on his way after hearing about it from other ranchers checking their own stalls and horses, Two policemen stayed by the door waiting themselves for orders to keep the area clear, The Vet walked inside the stall looking down and quickly looked back at the older rancher and Rico standing waiting.

“This is Jakes Black he just bought it yesterday’ I checked it out” setting his small bag on the ground lifting the blanket.
“What happen doc?”
“Somebody didn’t want Jake to have her that for sure” Looking right to Rico
“Deliberate doc?”
“It sure was’ Rico you better see if the old owner still around”
“You think he could have done that?”
“It’s very possible”
“One of you officer’s better come with me’ just might need you”
“Rico how’s Jake doing?” Doc asking looking upward
“Don’t know but well take care of him’ just find out what you can”

David with Jake in a small room after the Doctor gave him something to rest, watching him slowly fall back in the pillow David wiped his face off with the wet cloth watching him drifted into comfortable rest
“He’s a tuff kid doc this was very hard for him to see”
“Anybody would be upset seeing there horse the way you said”
“It was a good horse Jake fell for it all smile too”
“Well it’s going to be hard when he wakes up where’s his mother?”
“Texas”
“Is there’ Anyway she can come up here?”
“No’ His father will be here this morning”
“Someone needs to stay with him, I can have a nurse watch him for a while if you like”
“Thanks Doc I need to check what going on back at the barn”
“Ok he’ll be out for a few hours’ go ahead if he wakes will page you, better yet take this radio I’ll call you” Doc pulling the radio from the slot handing it to David.
“He’ll be ok doc?”
“Sure it might take a little time you understand that after this”
“I understand” David said walking outward with the doctor after watching him pull a sheet over his chest, brushing his hair back from his eyes.

Stepping off the steps David upset slowly looked around the area, checking every Rancher cowboy walking knowing one of them did this to his grandson, Reaching in his pocket flipping his phone calling Jacob, ringing twice before going to no call zone please leave a message or call back, David held the phone for a second “Jacob call me as soon as you get this important Family” tighten his lip looking at the phone again not wanting to make the other call but knowing he had too “ Penny’ David’” Heisting
“David what’s up’ so early you’re calling?”
“It Jake the boy’s ok he has ….. a little upset belly this morning”
“Probably you feed him all kinds of junk food” David’s eye wondered around “Maybe so but something else happen’ he’s ok just very emotionally upset at the moment”

“What the hell happen?” Penny asking sitting straight up in her bed looking at the door waiting.
“It’s a long story I’m waiting on Jacob to call back”
“David what happen to my son?”
“He’s fine they gave him something to relax for a little while”
“Who’s They? Where is he?”
“He’s in the First Aid building here, he’s not hurt nothing broken”
“David’ my son?”
“He found a dead horse”
“David he seen dead horse’s before what happen”
“It was his Black”
“God David what happen”
“Someone killed it, there looking into it to find out who did it”
“Jacob in St. Louis still when you expecting him back?”
“Anytime’ he must be at the airport no single just left him a message”
“David’ keep me informed’ David watch over my son”
“You know I will’ I won’t leave his side’ don’t worry”
“Call me as soon as Jacob arrives”
“Yes I’ll call.. I’ve got to get back inside so I’ll call you later”
“Ok David’ David Thank You for calling me about Jake”
“Yes Penny I’ll call you bye” closing the lid leaning over the rail before going back inside to Jake.

Rico returned after they arrested the former owner saying he got even with the old man, taken to jail in an unmarked car before the ranchers found out he was the one, Rico back and forth to the office letting them know what was going on while the Police in less than two hours taking pictures, collecting anything they felt important and finally Rico could have the horse removed and stall disinfected, one officer waited while she was being lifted into the back-loader removing her from the stall finding the knife that was used. Rico spotted it right off pointing it out to the officer, the vet stood by watching also seen it taking a large bag out of his pouch handing it to the officer, “We got him now” Rico and the vet headed over to the First Aid station checking on Jake condition.

Dave sat in the chair looking over Jake as they came in waving him outward, David checking Jake walking out to the front to meet them, while the nurse step in to watch Jake.
“Mr. Mazzionie we got him!”
“Who do you have?” David asking unsure
“The past owner did it’ said it was pay back”
“Pay back where is he now?” David getting mad ready to tangle with this guy one more time
“In jail’ were taking care of this whatever you need just ask” Rico told him
“I have other horse’s here also they ok?” being concerned about the others now
“Already check there find and good health someone’s with them also” Rico saying with a halfway smile back to David just as David’s phone starts ringing David looks down seeing its Jacob calling “Great Jacob’s calling that would be Jakes Father”
“Tell him everything under control and the boy will be fine” Rico insisted
“Sure I’ll tell him just that’ excuse me a second” Staying near the door looking down the hallway able to see Jake still lying in the bed “Jacob how’s it going?”
“Fine Dad what’s up you said Family anything wrong?”
“Yes and No”
“What now dad?”
“The black that Jake wanted”
“Yea his special black he liked”
“Well it’s dead”
“What’ thought the vet said it was in good condition?”
“It was till the owner killed her during the night”
“What killed her’ Jake must be devastated” wide eye looking forward in the airport parking lot watching a plane slowing lifting upward.
“He found her first thing this morning” David checking again on Jake seeing he moved a little
“Is he alright Dad?”
“No he took it real hard’ worst thing he ever had to see”
“Dad I’m on my way back right now let me speak to him” Jacob’s face shifted from intrigued to terrified, in a matter of seconds waiting holding the phone turning away looking down at the flyer on the seat.

“The doctor gave him something to relax awhile” watching him slowly waking up with the nurse over him, looking down calling the doctor over as he was waking up, David moving aside watching.
“Dad he’s in shock then?”
“Yes”
“Dad stay with him I’ll be about an hour or more’ whatever you do don’t call Penny”
“Jacob she already knows!”
“Shit’ I’m on my way dam it Dad’… I’m not sure I’m ready for another emotional rollercoaster just yet what a mess this is going to be” Jacob sat in the car looking to the sky holding back his tears.
“Jacob everything will be find just becareful and get back as soon as you can for Jake”
“Ok dad’ see you soon … watch him dad make sure nothing happens to him” Nervously waiting
“I know son hurry back” reluctantly watching the phone flicker call ended folding it up walking to Jake.

Holding Eric part 22

Holding Eric part 22

Watching past the Buick parked by the front door, heavy traffic for six thirty at night, looking upward spotting the shopping center at the light, two lanes you think they would have put a turning lane by now slowly sipping past the steaming coffee, Jacob watching the gray suited guy holding that cup so still trying to get warm asking “You want a Donut or something Hot’ they have egg sandwiches if you like?”
“No Thank You I’m good here” trying not to spill his coffee sip after sip
“Ok I’m getting a donut you sure?” Standing waiting as he looked over at the donut rack for second lifting his hand with a small wave not far from the cup, Jacob frowned walking over, looking back seeing he was still looking at the fresh jelly’s she just put up, getting two cinnamon sugar donuts and one powdered jelly returning setting them down, Sean looked up checking them out mostly the jelly.
“It’s Fresh help yourself” Pushing the jelly over, Sean wasted no time taking it with the napkin, slowly a smile from him lifting it up taking a bite, watching him as if he never had a donut before licking the jelly off his lips with closed eyes, That was strange sight Jacob smiled back eating his two while watching him slowly enjoy each bite forgetting he was cold for now anyway.
“Thank You Mr. Mazzionie I wanted one for weeks”
“You can call me Jacob’…Weeks?” Frowning at Sean
“Needed to lose a few pounds, the wife said”
“Really you don’t look like you should be dieting?”
“Sugar cut back thing”
“Really Sugar?” Looking away from him giggled under his breath checking around the room and back to this Poor guy sitting holding that cup again so tightly, hope it doesn’t pop the lid he’ll get more than he bargained for, where they get guys like this anyway what lawyers working for lawyers, “ok” sitting upward looking at him. Sean looking up slowly at Jacob.
“The boy how bad was he?” Sean asking looking over his cup still a little unsure of himself
“Bad’ he had this pale powder white skin, his eyes seemed sunken inward just scary, then topping it off it wasn’t even Eric I was looking at it was some other poor kid around Twelve in that bed’ on the other hand that means he’s out there somewhere ..Wait a second” looking right at him “You said you were working on it before?” Jacob said watching him waiting.
“At the park I had talk to a few skater’s, before an officer scared them off’ asking me why I was even asking them questions” Sean taking another sip checking his cup
“What they say the skaters I mean?” Trying not to push leaning inward waiting as he took a bite of donut
“Eric stayed with them and left with Jon’ another skater” looking over seeing Jacobs reaction “Sorry”

Confuse a little watching Sean wiping his mouth off from powdered sugar “No, it’s okay you did good, we need to find theses skaters do you know where they are still?”
“They were in the park …. Till they were run off like I said”
“Maybe there still hanging around?” Jacob said raising his eyes with hope peering outside wanting to go check it out and find this Park

Sean taking a long breath of fresh donut air checking around the café, looking back at Jacob standing up gathering his cup and napkins, only nodding to go before walk away, hurried taking his coffee not to get left behind following him outside walking around getting in checking for his briefcase still seating on the floor, Jacob started the engine looking over at Sean sitting carefree looking at the donut shop
“Ok so where is this park?”
“Do you know how to get to the arch?”
“No’ hell I don’t even know where I am right now” pulling to the exit
“Take a left here and the fourth block take a right that will take us to the archway”

Jacob checking along streets counting each street wishing he brought his GPS this time, turning right spotting as big a day the archway standing tall among the street lights, following it to the end of the street intersection looking over spotting the park area just as Sean said “Take a right and that’s the park” more like a little kid excided Sean burst out “We’re here?” before realizing Jacob wasn’t happy looking over at him before pulling into the parking lot, Sean wanting to kicked himself for saying something so dimwitted sat quietly looking over the park. Parking in a space overseeing the dim light area, sidewalk with a few trees blocking most of the lights only casting on the sidewalk and bench area, older couples walking together without even one skater anywhere to be found, looking back and forth hoping to see at least one they could ask Jacob tapped the steering wheel glancing over.

“Don’t see even one skater do you?” Sean lifting his head still looking forward
“No’ any idea where they might be?”
“No, maybe we could call the Officer from the hospital O’Rourke wasn’t it?”
“We should check around first maybe will see them”

Backing out looking at the road next to the sidewalk fooling along while keeping an eye on the park area, even Sean lifting himself a few times checking as they went by a large tree blocking the view, Jacob not sure what to do besides drive around the area might turn up something, one block after another more circling and backtracking till the hairs razed spotting a young skater on the sidewalk, Jacob beeped the horn a few times, the boy only looking back footing himself faster along the sidewalk.

“Stop sign” Sean hollered bracing himself to the dashboard. Jacob hit the break checking quick not letting the young skater out of his sight, moving forward spotting him turning at a driveway without a second thought Jacob pulled right in stopping, quickly opening his door leaning outward “Stop I need to ask you a question that’s all’ wait please were looking for my boy’ Wait come back please” Jacob watching the boy rushing towards the house only looking back once at him before disappearing.

Jacob leaning down on the open door looking to the ground “Dam it one chance and he’s gone’ where is that boy anyway he’s got to know were looking for him”
Sean stayed still looking to the house when the porch light came on “Hey Look”

Jacob looked up over the roof top seeing a man coming out the front door with the boy right behind him walking over towards them stopping at the edge of the sidewalk, he didn’t look angry more concern what he wanted with his son Jacob moved around the car towards them “I didn’t mean to scare you son or anything like that’ I just wanted to ask you a few question” Jacob looking at the shaking boy staying close to his father, the father looked over at the boy and back over the car seeing Sean sitting inside.

“What type of question’ he do something wrong?”
“No’ nothing wrong’ I just wanted to ask if he seen this boy”
“What boy?”
Sean held the paper outward from the window “Here” staying in the car feeling safer
“The man thumb over to the son to get the paper, no one said anything while he looked it over flipping the paper over checking the notes on the back side Sean wrote as to the Hospital, Showing his son the flyer

“Well did you see this kid or not?” asking looking back and forth at the two waiting on his son.
“Maybe I did I’m not sure Dad” Holding the paper outward to his father.
“Please its very important we find him, look at again would you please” watching him again look at it seeing that nod yes was a good sign
“You did see him when and where is he close by here?” feeling that shiver crawling up his back side knowing they were close now smiling back waiting.
“He was’ he was over at Rodney’s” Handing the paper to Jacob stepping back next to his father
“Rodney’ what house?” Looking around at the house’s hoping it was within sight
“No he’s one block over’ it’s more a hangout for kids now, yea his parents left him the house”
That broke the tension between them with the father moving towards Jacob with his hand outward
“Rodney’s a strange boy around here some sort of skateboard wiz kid, this is Harold my son and I’m Tomas Collen, sorry you just can’t be too careful around here lately the way things have gone”
“Jacob Mazzionie, and that’s Sean Bradley in the car” Jacob shook his hand with only a nod back to Sean staying in the car holding his briefcase.

“One block over you said do you know the hose number off hand?”
“Dad it might be better us then them going to the door”
“What the boy do anyway that you’re looking for him?”
“Please’ I’ve got to get to him as soon as possible just tell me the number”
“I think it be better if we went’ you go knocking on that door and no one will open it”

“Look Mr. Collen’s I’m Sorry we just need to find him before the state picks him up”
“You a cop or something?”
“No just a rancher, Sean an Attorney sent to find him also”
“Attorney’ for you or the boy in the flyer?”
“Both’ Eric trying to find me, he wants to be part of my family”
“But why the state want him then?”
“I can tell him as we’re going if were going at all” Sean said opening the door holding his briefcase stepping back opening the back door waiting.

Mr. Collen’s smiled “Looks like we should go” Sean scooted over behind still holding his briefcase while Harold sat next to him. Jacob and Mr. Collen’s looked at each other then got in, Mr. Collen’s motions Jacob to the end of the road, with a right thumb next, while Sean explained some of Eric’s brief encounter with no family left being a ward of the State of Rhode island, and on the run trying to get to Texas.
“Texas’ so how he end up here with you two looking for him?” Sean said now more carefree “someone called it in saying they seen him here and my boos sent me here to find him, then Mr. Mazzionie here showed up also, we just” before he could finish Mr. Collen’s pop upward looking at the house’s “That’s it the fifth one on your side” lowering his head looking around the parked cars, Jacob pulled into the driveway stopping “OK they know us’ so sit tight” The two got out walking up the side driveway to the rear door.

Sean leaning forward watching for them “Hope this isn’t a trap or something that they will all come out of that house and be after us?” being nerviest trying not to move waiting, Jacob only looked at him in the mirror then back, Sure enough four others following right along with them towards the car, Jacob open the door standing up waiting on them, Sean stayed inside. Rodney right out in front holding the paper stopping at the car looking at Jacob, before lowering his view to the inside seeing Sean sitting

“Eric was here’ he’s not anymore he left with John”
Jacob swallowed hard asking “When he leave?”
Rodney handing the paper to Jacob “Sorry man we didn’t know”
“This John why would he take him and where?”
“John’s friend Toneckia took his brothers car and from what we know he was headed to some reservation’ cheap cigarettes and all”
“Reservation Around here?”
“Wait I heard him saying he wanted to go to Muskogee” One of the other boy spoke up
“Yea your Probably right John‘s been wanting to leave for some time, guess this was his chance’ he left without telling anybody he was even going”
“But I don’t understand why he would take Eric with him?”
“Maybe he wanted to go man’ anything Else?” Rodney Said raising both his elbows

“Mr. Mazzionie’ we should be going, thanks Rodney you helped do a good thing” Mr. Collen’s holding his hand outward not to shake it but more his fist butting together getting Rodney to do the same, Jacob followed along “Cool man hope you find them” Harold already heading to the back seat, Sean reaching over having to unlock the door for him, Jacob getting in watching them standing in the driveway watching them pulling out heading back to the house.

Dropping off Mr. Collen’s and his Son Harold, Back at the house declining to go inside wanting to get back as soon as possible thanking them for their help, Jacob had no idea where to look only knowing he was heading towards Muskogee, pulling over in the local quick store turning the inside light on, handing Sean ten dollars asking him to get them some coffee while he checked over the map, Without hesitation Sean was eager to get it.
Finding Muskogee in Oklahoma, seeing now it just below Tulsa checking the main highway roads from St. Louis to Tulsa on Route 44,Placing the map on the dashboard helping Sean at the door taking the coffees from him waiting for him to seat down with a few snacks also.

“Well Eric’s heading in the right direction alright if hes in Oklahoma he’ll be there before we are” Jacob said handing Sean coffee with cream offering him a snack cake.
“You said he’s going to Texas then?”
“Yes that’s the place and were going back to Kentucky”
“Kentucky what’s there I thought you said Oklahoma?”
“That’s where he’s go not us”
“Maybe I better call my boss?” Sean Said while frowning brushing the crumbs off the seat

Jacob unplugged his phone flipping it open, lighting up eight-forty three and then Jacob push contacts showing DAD’ holding his finger over the button not sure if he should call him or give Penny a call first, pushing the button hearing it ring, reaching over for his coffee tilting the lid back waiting.

Holding Eric Part 20

Holding Eric part 20

Texas bound leaning on the door watching the roadway once again, glancing around the cab spotting his CB setting not even bolted down with only a green bungee cord holding it just below the switches, even the antenna wire draped over the steering wheel to the window, trying hard not to look over at him knowing John might have been right not to go with him, Sign after sign along the highway he was trying to stay in the center lane passing passenger cars like they were standing still with a bang on the wheel getting Eric’s attention over to him seeing he was upset slapping his turn single on, with a quick look upward Eric spotted an Exit sign, knowing they hadn’t been that long on the road.

“You stopping already everything ok?” Eric Asked hearing him gearing down hard on the engine

“You got to get out sorry kid your just too big a risk for me”

“Why I didn’t do anything?”

“You’re a runaway someone’s looking for you’ sorry you’ll have to find another way”

Eric stayed quite waiting for him to slow down on the ramp exit, slowly stopping at the stop sign “Wait till the cars pass then you can get out sorry kid Toneckia told me they were looking for you it’s just too risky you’ll get a ride here just go down to the plaza and ask around”

“Sir I do thank you for helping anyway and I understand” Eric said climbing down stepping back from the cab in the soft dirt just watching him pulling back across the street on the highway, after he was out of sight standing not sure about this area tilling down around the brush spotting the small plaza area and started walking towards it slowly on the shoulder.

“John was right about him even if Toneckia said it was ok’ sure it was ok just missed my bus what a line he tried to tell him before he told him I was a runaway, sure he just wanted me out of the way so it was just him and John, well I’ll find a ride and show him I can get to Texas on my own” Eric talking to himself as he walked along. Eric made his way passing a few cars to the buildings checking out the vending units before heading for the restroom, washing his face and hands with a wet towel feeling refresh finger comb hair placing his cap on “Ok Trucker Eric let’s get something to eat and find a ride” with a nod to the mirror before heading out, stopping at the map area near the service area looking where he was to Logan, Texas.

Checking the Letters with numbers using his fingers finding he still had a ways to go more at the bottom of the pages lower right side, looking over his shoulder wondering where the driver area was then it was clear Eric snapped around looking at one guy looking at him almost on top of him, slowly moving to his side “Sorry just looking” telling him hurry down the aisle to the café area.

Intercom blared out “Mr. Mazzionie’ Come to the Office”, Jake head rose high to the stall opening away from the Black then to Grandpa “They calling you Grandpa?” Eric asking staying with the vet checking what he was doing looking in the ears.

“Sure your dad will get it if it’s for us” holding the horse still

“Grandpa where not in any evens why would they be calling us?” Watching where he was stepping

“Jake’ let’s just take care of the Black ok?” David was concerned but not showing it

“Ok” Jake quickly said walking around with the vet watching him lifting her legs upward feeling down to the hoof.

Standing at the end looking her over twitching his noise a few times, with a pat on her side “She’ll be ok maybe some good food and care she’ll fill out real well, you got yourself a good mare here Mr. Mazzionie”

“It’s Jake’s Black he found her” smiling over watching Eric smile back standing straight up with pride.

Headed outside the stall “So the Palomino mare and colt and even the trotter Morgen were a good buy all in real well shape, you plan on getting a few more?”

“Might fine one or two still looking around”

“Ok well call me anytime” gathering his small bag checking around the stalls

“Will let you know if we find another good one”

“Thanks’ Doc for checking my horse” Eric raising his head saying before he walked away.

Jacob had finish with paperwork heading back to the barn, hearing the speaker from the stands calling his name just as he reach the stalls, turning around heading back to the office while checking over the papers before he got there making sure he sign everything, walking up the stairs heading inside stopping at the front desk “Someone just page me?” asking the Elderly lady holding the phone to one side while checking over paperwork, sitting behind her small desk only looking up over her long looped chain hanging holding her white and gold specked glasses hanging around her puffy cheeks “Name?” “Mazzionie” “That’s Mazzola?” “No Mazzionie someone just page me to the office” how many pages do they call lady? Jacob wanted to say but held back waiting on her as she started looking around her little notes.

Jacob looking over to the other section he was just at seeing Dora a bright middle age Lady waving to him to come over, looking down as the older lady fumbling with small note’s she had from phone calls, walking over to Dora

“Did you need to see me’ someone just paged for me?”

“No everything was in order, maybe dinner later?” sitting back in her chair cheerfully batting her eyes

“Sorry’ here with my Father and son” folding his papers placing them in his back pocket looking back watching her still thumbing paper’s.

“They have a dance Friday night maybe if you’re not doing anything?”

“Maybe another time you understand” Jacob said showing his wedding ring giving her a cheerful grin as she nodded back with a smile.

“I’ll look forward to it” Sitting back in her chair pointing to the other desk

“Hey Mazzola here it is’ you still want it?” Waving a pink paper back and forth watching them.

Jacob smile with a wink from Dora returning, she’ll held the paper like it meant something to her frowning as he took it reading it.

Jacob Call home emergency very important call as soon as possible Penny, Jacob reaching in his pocket dropping the paper pulling out his phone flipping it open seeing no calls with no single receiving, Reaching down for the paper tapping the phone quickly

“Dam thing of all times”

“You ok” Dora asking from her desk watching Jacob “Fine’ how long ago this come in?” harsh tone back

“The time on it” not even looking up going back to her paperwork

Looking again still trying the phone “Dam it’s an hour ago why didn’t you call when it came in?”

“Look I’ve got plenty other things to do around here than page people”

Turning his head away from her before he said something he would most likely regret later

“Jacob everything ok?” Dora asking heading over being concerned watching him

“No it’s my wife with an Emergency and dam phone not working” pushing the side of the phone again trying to get it to come on squashing it in his hand with the pink paper also.

“Here use mine” Dora handing him her phone

“Thank You”

“Better take it outside better reception” Dora saying looking at the desk seeing the elderly lady looking at the two standing together.

Barely able to control himself fumbling with the door knob, hurrying outside not even closing the door trying to push the small buttons, spotting error connecting’ seeing he forgot to put in the area code, retrying letting it ring, “just as it stopped’ before she could answer “Penny what happen everything ok’ the girls fine’ you ok?” leaning on the railing with his eyes closed waiting for the bad news, hearing the door closing looking around seeing the Dora behind him watching trying to hear what happen.

“Everything’s ok here where all fine relax Jacob” Penny trying to reassure him they were fine

“What’s the emergency’ why didn’t you call?” Holding the phone tightly to his ear

“Did try’ your phones off or dead as normal”

“Dead’ I’m sorry”

Reassured him she was there for him giving him a small pat on his back leaning to the rail, Jacob turn to Dora looking down hearted while he held the phone to his shoulder “It’s ok’ I’ll be right in”

“Sure Hon’ just take your time” Slowly brushing his shoulder before going back inside

“Jacob you still there?” Penny asking not hearing him clear

“Yea sure just having a major breakdown here so what happen?”

“Jacob’ you did everything you could”

“What’ I don’t know what you’re trying to tell me?”

“It’s what you did on your last run” Penny sitting at the table looking at the papers again seeing Eric photo trying to control herself from crying again after she got the call.

“You talking about my cousin he didn’t wreck the truck did he?”

“No” In a broken voice looking away from the table to the window

“What happen’ should we come home?”

Penny hold her breath before telling him “Jacob where find here’ it’s the boy”

“Jake he’s fine stop you’re worrying”

“The other boy you came in-contact with Eric…. I received some bad new a little while ago”

“What kind of news”

“Eric’s’ in the hospital in (St. Louis)”

“Hospital what?”

“Jacob he was found in an alley last night…. it’s not good Jacob” Trying to control herself

“That poor kid’ who called you?” Looking around leaning over the railing just as he spotted Jake waving with his Dad walking towards him, Jacob waved his hand back and forth looking over seeing the stand pointing to it, Dave quickly seen what he was trying to say reaching down for Jake tilling his hat forward.

“Come-on Jake let’s get a hot dog how’s that sound?” Jake looking up to his dad waving to go ahead, Jake smiling back making like he’s eating pointing to Jacob they were going for hot dogs, Jacob just smiled back trying to get back on the phone, leaning sideways on the step watching them walking away

“Jacob you still there Jacob?”

“Yea’ right here so what happen?”

“Vinny Santino’ a friend of David been looking into Eric case, he had track him down to St. Louis where he was last seen by a truck driver passing thru and later found out he was dropped off at a plaza nearby, that’s when someone found him, he was beaten and left in and alleyway”

“Is he going to be ok?”

“We don’t know at this point Jacob”

“Did you find out what Hospital?”

“I’ll call’ I’m sorry to call you with this but felt you should know”

“Its fine’ I hope he ok look I’ll call you later with a number you can get me at”

“Ok’ better tell David, better not say anything infront of Jake”

“Look I’ve got to go’ I’ll call you Love You”

“Jacob’ you just take care and come home soon” Penny held the phone till Jacob hung-up, looking down at the papers hearing the door open quickly gather the papers turning them over seeing the girls coming inside.

Jacob return Dora phone after a quick thank you telling her it was bad news and he might have to leave early than expected, but thank her for carrying, Dora reach over rubbing the top of his hand with one finger stopping at the ring “You have a great wife that cares that’s a rarity around here”

“She is a good Mother also I have Three great children”

“Well you can use my phone anytime you need to no strings”

“Thank You’ My son and Dad are waiting at the hot dog stand”

“Well better get going then cowboy” smiling back.

Jacob walked over to the hot dog stand seeing them sitting waiting for him, Jake moving over to let him sit down, sliding over two hot dogs over “We got you two dad” Jake remarked taking a drink from his soda before finishing off his watching Jacob unwrapping one looking up at

“Jacob everything ok with the mares?” David sitting back in the stool

“Yea Dad everything ok” placing mustard and ketchup slowly

“Dad the vet said she was a good one I found” excided

“That’s good Jake that you found her”

“Jake if you’re done you can go looking around for a while”

“Ok grandpa’ maybe I can go to the stands and watch the new colts?”

“Ok just watch them and becareful”

“I will’ gee you think I wanted to buy them or something”

“Jake just look at them will be right along”

“Ok’ I’ll save you a seat” Jake said scooting off taking the empties

Jacob watch him standing straight upward making sure his hat was tilted back just a little, unwrapping the second spreading mustard only , looking upward at his dad frowning back slowly squinting his eyes

“So what was with the phone?”

“Dad it was Penny calling she had some bad news… everything’s ok at home, seems the lawyer you called tracked down Eric, and found him a little too late…. he’s in the hospital”

“Sorry son what happen’ is he going to be ok?”

“He was found in and alleyway, he had been beaten Dad why would someone do that?”

“Son’ a lot of crazy’s out there they do anything for a few dollars”

Jacob crumbled the wrappers together placing them in the empty cup holding it tightly, glancing over to the colts by the stands seeing Jake standing at the bottom rail watching them slowly walking around the track, one foot on the rail like a small cowboy along with two older boys close by.

“Well he be ok?”

“Hard to say right now, Penny said they would call and let her know”

“Jacob maybe you want to take a ride to Rhode Island”

“He’s in St. Louis dad” swallowing hard looking back again at Jake

“We’re not that far from there you could rent a car” David reached over placing his hand on Jacobs arm getting his attention.

“What about Jake what would I tell him?”

“Will be fine’ I think you should go Son!” David nodding his head yes

“Dad’ I don’t know if I should’ the horses and all”

“Never mind the horse’s, let’s get you a rental” waving for Jake to come back

Jake rushed right back hoping to get another hot dog, Jacob explained that he had to take a small trip to St. Louis something just came up, it would only be a day or two, Jake frowned lowing his head, Jacob said he could stay with Grandpa so not miss any events, Jake said ok but hurry back soon before the weekend events started, the three took a ride to the local car rental not far from the fairgrounds, only to find out they had three large autos to choose from, Jake spotted right off the Black Buick being it was the same color as the mare it was agreed, Jake rode back to the motel with Jacob enjoying the full seat.

Jacob and Jake gathered things inside, sitting on the bed Jacob called Penny telling her he was heading up to St. Louis, Dad and Jake would stay at the fair, Penny told him about the paperwork that she received the day before in brief but detailed, Jake wanted to talk to her interrupting him, Jacob cut it short letting Jake talk for a few before asking him to take his bag to the car.

Waiting by the car Jake lean waiting while Grandpa talked on his phone till Jacob came out closing the door, David pointed to the power core laying on the seat for his phone, handing it to Jake to plug in the charger, while the two looked over a map on the hood, folding the map setting it on the seat giving Jake a big lift upward hugging him “Mind your Grandpa and behave” before setting him back down, David raised cheek grin and his slight nod everything will work out way while he shook his hand saying take it slow and call him when he finds out anything. Jacob agreed getting in waving bye slowly back outward into the driveway and down the street, Jake and Grandpa Return to the fairgrounds.

Holding Eric Part 14

Holding Eric part 14

Eric rushing to the other side checking out the chrome plated steps with lights running across each step, one step up taking the handle not to make the same mistake again with the exhaust, opening the door with a quick boost upward inside while holding the door, feeling the cold seat scooting upward avoiding the empty coffee cups on the floor and small fast food wrappers while checking around the cab, finding it a small area with no bed setup area behind the seats for overnight bags or storage.

Gene got in looking over “Little cold but she’ll warm up quick by the way names Gene and you are?” Pushing the heater button on high, reaching over a pushing buttons watching the screen change on the dash board, Eric sitting back relaxing “Eric” as they started pulling out form the docking area to the roadway, Erick spotting a photo on the center dash just like Jacob had showing his family “Your Family looks like you made out well” with his sad grin knowing he had no photos grafts of his own Mother or Father to show anyone let alone why would he want to show what type of family he had it only brought back bad memory’s.

“What’s the box do?” Eric asking leaning over looking at it more

“It’s set up the route plan” Gene pointed to the screen showing the street map with numbers

“You don’t use Road Atlas?” Eric said puzzled

“My company like us to use these, telling us we’re where supposed to go”

“Isn’t a log book for that?” frowning at the screen changing

“No that just records our hours driving and down time” Gene pointing to his in the slot next to them

“Oh’ every time we stop we’d always marking it do you?”

Gene shifting into gear pulling ahead into traffic” Your dad teach you about logs”

“Sure and Someday I’m going to be a driver like he is”

“We always need trucker’s … sounds like your dads been around awhile what’s his name?”

Eric hesitated a second avoiding a rolling cup “Jacob he has a Peterbuilt big one with the sleeper bunks and its long with painted green with white strips down the side with lights also like your lights”

“Big Peterbuilt and green too” Gene said smiling over watching the traffic on the side

“White Star what kind is that? Who makes it?”

“Good question never even gave it a thought who made it I just drive them”

“White Star maybe GM? What about the engine does it have a cat?”

“No just regular old diesel’ so Eric you going to school now?”

“Next week I’m starting my freshman year” only looking out the window at traffic not over to Gene

“Junior high so you like school, what your favorite subject?”

“It’s ok, mostly history of the western civilization like the Oregon Trail stuff like that”

“Good to know some things about the past never know what happen till you read about them or watch it on the Old western television shows” Pulling into the center lane watching the traffic getting congested slowly shifting holding the knob more resting his hand vibrating while holding the wheel steady.

Eric sat back watching the roadway checking the gages spotting the CB channel

“You’re not on sixteen why nine?”

“Right it’s not hooked up right it starts on that channel you can change it if you like”

“No that’s ok just asking my dad … has he’s always on”

“Some like nineteen but I like twenty-one late at night”

“But aren’t the drivers on sixteen at truck stops?”

“Sometimes if it’s too busy they switch over”

“See any bears on the side?” Eric said looking to the side of the road seeing a few cars on the side.

“No but we will soon they like hiding on us a lot”

Eric looked to the back hearing a hissing sound or something like it was dripping through a pipe, when a light on the dash started blinking “What’s that flickering?” eyes wide pointing at it, Gene reach over flipping the switch “That’s for the reefer unit in the back telling me its recharging nothing to worry about”

Eric leaning over feeling dimwitted checking the gauges stopping at the photograph

“My two girls and wife”

“My dad has one of us also”

“You have brothers and sisters?”

“Yea two and a brother” Eric remembering quick from the Jacobs photo smiling

“So where’s home Eric?”

“Texas”

“Texas big state, what in the world you doing out here?”

“Visiting a Uncle for the summer glade that trips was over to”

“You said you were taking the Bus to New haven?”

“Then it was going to New London or something but I was only going to Branford with my dad”

“Maybe we can hook you up in Harford all the way to Branford were about two miles from the truck stop so will see what we can do for you”

“Really Thank You’ then I won’t have to ride in that smelly bus” Smiling watching them pulling to the exit ramp.

Parking the Tractor the two went inside to the truckers lounge, Gene asking a few who were heading that way finding one driver going to the Litchfield area and he could give him a ride but not for another hour, Gene and Eric went to the service area for coffee, Eric excused himself and went to the Convenient area looking over thermoses, pulling down a med size one taking it to the cashier returning handing it to Gene.

“Got something for you that I thought you could use” Handing him the sack.

Gene pulled it out looking at it smiling over “Thank You but I really shouldn’t accept it”

“Why not you helped me it’s the least I can do for a True Friend”

“Thank You Eric it’ll come in handy”

“Got to be better than those cups to go”

Gene Smiled setting it on the counter calling the waitress over, She walk right over taking the thermos “Fill it?” It’s new could you regular and Eric you hungry or something my treat?”

“Coffee and cherry roll sounds good”

“Your dad must be so proud of you I should tell him”

“Well maybe someday you can, if we meet up again”

“Texas is a long ways from here, I’ll give you my card so you can give it to him next time you two are in the area we can go for coffee how’s that sound?”

“Great to me Dad would like to meet you to I’m sure beside you took care of me for him right”

“So right I’d be proud to have you ride with me anytime”

Eric said good bye to Gene watching him leave the lot returning to Mr. Klaus waiting at the pumps.

Klaus was an older man driving for many years, you could see it in his face all tired and sore from the sun beating on his weathered clothes, his ball cap worn with the name barely readable anymore, he still had a lot of get up and go left making sure he looked groomed and clean shaven, how much can you comb a flat top hair anyway pressing a ball cap on it, Wearing a light jacket just to keep from getting chilled on windy days, Klaus walked around the truck tapping each tire with his large black stick only glancing at the lights making sure they were all working.

Opening the driver’s door getting inside looking back down at Eric standing watching him holding his jacket and small books.

“Well you going or what?” in a harsh voice closing the door

Eric hurried around getting in  sitting trying not to make any wrong moves that might upset him, sitting holding everything in his lap looking over the dash out the window.

“Belt son” Klaus harshly said pulling out into traffic

Eric very uncomfortable about Klaus looking over a few times at him moving his lower jaw up and down chewing on something then spitting it in a paper cup wiping his mouth on his sleeve, with a frown Eric sat back glancing down at the door knob not wanting to even talk just an overall uncomforted feeling along with the smell inside.

“Maybe I should” Eric started to say be interrupted by Klaus “What you want to walk?”

“Well no …. but I don’t”

“Relax I’ll get you there in one piece”

“You must drive a lot?”

“All my life’ so meeting Your Father are you’ you’re not a runaway now are you?” spitting in his cup

“No I’m meeting my Dad in the Truck Stop”

“That an odd place to be meeting someone?”

“He’ll be there”

“Gene said you missed your bus is that right?” holding his cup shifting almost spilling it on the floor

“Yes it was heading to New London for the bike expo”

“Charter bus fancy pants riders taking our roads making us slow down more so they can peddle their little bottoms down the road think they would be better off getting a car and driving not riding some bike”

Eric sat back more trying not to say anything only hoping it wasn’t too long a ride, feeling more sick mostly from the smell inside even thou the windows were cracked open it still becoming more overpowering.

“Hey a’m I supposed to take you to your Father or just drop you off?”

“You can just drop me off less you’d like to meet him?”

“No Gene forgot to tell me that’s all ok where almost to the TA Stop so I’ll drive in the lot and if you see the truck give a holler”

“Thanks’ I really appreciate the ride”

“Don’t have many riders if any’ just an old trucker you might say”

“Maybe I could get you a coffee or something?”

“No need to be getting on my stop”

Down shifting hearing the roaring of the engine holding it back before coming to the end of the exit stop signal, watching traffic passing waiting on the light looking to the truck stop, one big lean over spit in the cup shifting while holding a knob on the wheel turning the corner, slowing turning into the parking lot passing the trucks parked, Eric sat upward looking back and forth at all the trucks, hoping to see only one the green Peterbuilt, passing all the truck stopping by the building looking over.

“Didn’t see him’ you can wait inside he’ll find you”

“Sure he’s running late or I’m just early Thank You for the ride”

“Ok kid you take care nice chatting with ya”

Eric quickly made it down closing the door standing back watching him pulling back out to the main roadway, one more glance down at the trucks lined up, before going inside, Looking at the ground same wrappers on the ground when he was there the last time, Eric smiled walking in with a wave to the cashier walking thru to the counter stool sitting down, reaching up to adjust his cap eyes opened wide surprised he left it in the truck, turning looking out the window it was too late no way could he retrieve now, lowering his head as the waitress just came up holding a glass of water.

“Hi Coffee and a Cherry Roll Warm ok?”

“No’ out of Cherry”

“What ya got then?”

“Apple or Prune”

“Apple’ Ok if I go get something I’ll be right back”

“Sure”

Eric scooted around the seat hurrying to the convince store looking in the isles, stopping at the hat rack with his finger up and down before spotting the one he wanted reach up pulling it off taking it to the cashier setting it down looking up smiling at her excided on getting a new cap.

“That it” skinny girl chewing gum said in more a cold tone

“Left mine in the truck”

“Sure eighteen sixty-four cash or charge” placing it in a bag

“Cash” Eric holding the twenty towards her, reaching over taken the twenty and looked at it, then marked a pen acrossed it looking again at it then to the light and made a sour face hitting the register keys.

“What’s wrong with it’ it’s good” Eric said getting upset at her taking all day

“Just making sure it’s good here” Handing him his change and receipt together.

Eric looked at the receipt and change in his hand setting them on the counter looking at it, Not knowing someone was behind him “Hey you shorted me ten cent’s”

“You must have dropped it, would you mind moving” not even looking at him

Eric turn around seeing the large man in a plaid shirt standing holding a few things waiting, moving over looking at the cashier waiting on his dime, she just started ringing the stuff he had placed on the counter.

“How much she short you?” The man asked looking down at Eric

“Just a dime’” frowning “maybe she needs it more” Eric said taking his bag going back to the counter stool, shifting his sweater over to the next stool before sitting down seeing the coffee steaming, pulling out his hat adjusting it a few times before it was set to his headband, feeling like he belonged now taken two sugar pack shaking them into his coffee looking up with a smile as the waitress headed down with his Warm Danish with melted butter on top.

“Nice Hat you need anything just holler”

“Thanks” looking over seeing the same guy from the counter sitting next to him looking over.

“You like Pete’s I can tell, maybe you should take the tag off” Smiling over

Eric pulled it off looking at the tag pulling on it a few times not budging afraid it might rip.

“Here let me do it for you’ names Patrick” Reaching over taking the hat, pulling out a little knife cutting the plastic off handing it back watching him adjust it again placing it on.

“Eric and Thank you I was sure I was going to rip it”

“I’ve ripped a few myself” Folding his knife placing it back on his side case looking up with the waitress bringing him coffee and Water setting them down glancing over at Eric eating

“I’ll have one of those also”

“Sure thing Buffet open”

“Just the Apple roll thanks”

“Wait a second” the waitress said looking at Eric “Denver’ Two weeks ago Right?”

Eric shocked looking over smiling at her, finding she remembered him “Yep that’s me”

“So how was it Denver I mean?”

“Cold and Wet”

“Bet you glade to be back here (Looking over) Apple’… be right back” she said heading to the back

Eric enjoying the company of his new friends talking how hot and humid Denver was, having to spend a week at his Uncles house in Rhode Island and missing the Bus, Jacob was picking him up as soon as possible or would call to let him know how long he was out before arriving. Patrick was taken in by Eric liking him right off offered to stay with him till Jacob showed, Eric said he had to check the desk again see if he called in yet and would let him know when he was showing up. Finishing off his coffee the two headed to the Receiving area, Eric asked the Guy if any Call’s came in for Him another big one he asked for Jacobs last name, Eric reach in his Pocket remembering the card handing it to the Guy at the counter.

“Texas … Mazzionie no he hasn’t called want me to call you when he does?” Eric nodded yes taking the card back placing in in his pocket turning looking at Patrick.

“Well looks like he’s a way’s out yet I’ll wait for him in the lounge”

Patrick walked with Eric sitting down watching part of a movie that was on and some News, before going checking again

“No call’s yet” the Guy said seeing the two walking up.

“Thanks’ I’ll be around you can page me right?”

“Sure Mazzionie”

“Patrick want some coffee or something to eat?”

“No’ maybe you should give him a call?”

“Maybe I should”

“You have a card?”

“Card?”

“For the phone”

“No”

“Come on I’ll use mind”

Eric followed Patrick back to the lounge area phones, Patrick sliding his card in”

“Go ahead you can dial out now”

Eric checking the card taping the area code and number waiting as it rang”

Penny standing in the kitchen reaching the phone “Hello”

“Hi is dad home?”

“I’m sorry do you have the right number?” Penny looking down at the phone return caller id

“Yes this is Eric”

“O’h … Eric’ Jacob is out with his father want me to give him a message for you?” smiling now remembering who Eric was from Jacob

“No that’s ok tell him I’m here and see him soon”

“I’m not sure how long he’s going to be but I’ll tell him you called” glancing out the window

“Ok Thanks” Eric quickly hung up the phone. Lowing his head

Patrick standing a few feet away waiting “Everything ok?”

“Sure he’s just delayed he’ll be here soon”

“Ok well I should be going you going to be ok here till he gets here?”

“Sure done it lots of times before you know loads sometimes they take longer”

“Well say hi to your dad for me and take care Eric, maybe will meet again someday”

Shaking his hand “You take care too’ it’s been nice meeting you”

Patrick headed for the exit, Eric watch him from the window walking down pass all the truck till he was out of sight, returning to the restaurant getting hungry finding it was very crowded inside, he felt it was better if he returned to the lounge area for a little while and plan what to do next.

Holding Eric Part 13

Holding Eric part 13

Hurry inside excided to show him his new pants spotting his sisters already cascading over him, without even a pep that he was there, Jake walk to his room tossing the bag on the bed returning to the livingroom sitting on the couch while they showed off more what they had gotten, Jake taking the pillow leaning into it on the edge watching golf already on, Jacob looked past Becky spotting Jake was upset ignoring them.

“Jake’ what’s up’ didn’t you find anything you needed?” Only nodding his head yes sitting upward still to the television set. “You two go put your stuff away ok’ you both look real nice, Jake come here” Jacob said lowering his eyes watching Jake slowly moving over, standing at the edge of the chair with his head down.

“Everything go ok at the store with grandpa?”

“Yes”

“Something on your mind? That you want to tell me”

“No”

“Jake” Jacob reach out pulling him over on his lap “Ok I said I would take you’ were still going ok”

“That’s not it dad it’s just they have to have everything and the other they said’ I should see a Doctor because my seeing things in the mirror”

“The boy again?”

“Yes Grandpa said it’s a good spirt reaching out to me’ is there such a thing?”

“Spirts can reach out’ but only to some people not everyone”

“Why me?”

“Something made it reach out just to you, maybe because you’re special”

“Special pain in the butt mom said”

Smiling looking to the door as they came in “Did you find the right jeans you wanted?”

“Yea two pairs all blue not green or black’ we had frosty’s too”

David stood by backside of the chair looking over at the two of them, While Penny headed for the kitchen. “Jacob when you have a few!”

Jacob looked back at him “Sure Dad” Bouncing Jake off his nee “Maybe you’ll show me later ok?”

Jake smiled at him standing making his cheeks raise while smiling waiting

“What’s up come on what you want Jake?”

“Ok if I ride some?” Smiling nodding his head yes

“Go’ and always careful right?”

“Yes I’m not nuts like Collen going over stumps”

“No’ tattling remember” Jacob looking upward seeing his face drop sadden

“Sorry dad Can I still go then?”

“Yes ask your mom for the key”

Another big smile two them before rushing to the kitchen “Mom’ dad said I can ride for awhile”

David sat down on the couch while Jacob turn the golf off waiting to find out what happen, at the store with the girls or Jake, Instead David asked him about Eric wondering why he even gave him a ride to Denver in the first place telling him it was the wrong thing to do, Jacob defended himself, as a father telling David that Eric was in trouble beaten and just lost his Mother, doing what he felt was helping by taking him to his aunts, better him than someone else, David informed him it was against the law to take the boy out of the state in the first place, Jacob defending himself again before David eased up, agreeing  to help and would check into the boys wellbeing.

Jacob agreed telling him about the letter having his name and address on it that he found in the truck, Becky ran out retrieving it for him, David looked at the letter inside showing it to Jacob as he didn’t even look inside the envelope, finding a letter from his Aunt, telling him about the big farm they lived on and how everything was great in Denver, she was looking forward to seeing him on his eleventh birthday, stopping at the date, two day after Jake’s own birthday turning Ten, looking at the date on the envelope one year ago.

What a shock he knew it was somewhere around Jakes age but he didn’t seem to feel they were the same age showing Penny the letter inside, all three felt it best to do what they could to find out more and see what they could do to help him, David said he would make a few calls and find out what he could but no promise’s, David said he would even take a ride up after next weekend’s Kentucky trip.

Meanwhile at the halfway house Jon found out they were sending him to another place, Jon asked how long before they would be sending him to another halfway house, then the bad news was reviled as the other possible places could not accommodate him, therefore he would have to go to the juvenile detention center till he reached eighteen, Jon was upset knowing this was the end for him, ending up in a place where all kinds of things could happen to him at his age, Mr. Blanton was sorry it was required by the state’s related stay time in any halfway house, Jon had already expired that time, Mr. Blanton said he still had one more chance that he hoped it would work before Monday and would let him know.

Jon informed Eric that he would not be around after Monday, knowing they already made plans on Eric heading to Canada next weekend, Eric hesitated a few before asking Jon to come with him to Canada it would have to be first thing in the morning after breakfast saying that no one would think anything other than they were going to the park as they had been doing every Saturday now.

Jon agreed to go with him it had to be better than being in the detention center, Jon did say he never before wondered off by himself, Eric quickly cheering him said it would be an adventure cross country and in Canada they could even work on ranches and become real cowboys on farms or even ranches they had plenty of them with young boys called something like dude ranch in that line sort of, more trying to convince him it would be ok along with himself dreaming of ranches.

Playing in the game-room along with everyone following everything they did before so no one would think any different, Eric asked Jon not to tell the others about Monday till the time was right, while he plan ahead the routes they would take, mingling with the others in games before dinner, washing before dinner making sure his hair was comb just so waiting at the table to be seated. Mr. Blanton stood at the end looking down the chairs looking at hands slowly walking around the table stopping at Eric, Looking back at him with his hands upward showing the were clean.

“Eric you comb your hair about time” saying with a slight grin walking to the other side stopping at Derek with a thumb Derek quickly took off for the bathroom “Sit” Everyone sat down waiting on Mrs. Darvan to server the dishes before anyone could start eating, Derek return showing clean hands and sat down then we could eat, Frank made a few comments to him before quickly told to stop.

Eric started feeling funny rubbing his noise a few times sniffing also after dinner while sitting on the bed with Jon checking out the atlas map, Frank walked in as usual quickly hiding the atlas grabbing the magazine they already had handy looking at it together laying back on the atlas watching Frank, getting his bathroom comic book giving them his sneer look over before heading out without saying anything, Jon jumped up checking the hallway making sure he wasn’t heading back for another comic book, gathering what was needed bundling everything in sweaters taking small twine rope tying them together lowering them out the window just getting dark outside, returning getting ready for ben everything layed out for morning, Frank came back in only checking what they were doing hitting the light off plopping on his bed not giving them any light left, with a half moon was plenty Eric had a hard time sniffing most of the night hoping he wasn’t coming down with a cold or something.

Saturday Morning Eric first to wake after a hard night mostly waking from a runny nose, standing on the lower bunk seeing Jon sound asleep still, slowly waking him before Frank woke up, hurry to get dressed and made sure their hair was combed just right before breakfast, just as they headed down the hall Mr. Blanton stopped them in the hallway wanting to see Jon after Breakfast then telling Eric he needed to see Mrs. Darvan before his sneezes get any worst, having Breakfast Eric didn’t seem like he needed to see her but felt he better while Jon was with Mr. Blanton.

Mrs. Darvan check his temperature finding it was a little high asking if he had any allergies, Eric stated he didn’t, telling him he could be coming down with a cold and it would be best if he stayed indoors today just to make sure, handing him a package of honey cough drops along with a small tissue package sending him to his room till later when she would check on him around lunch time.

Eric sat on the bed waiting for Jon to return having to tell him somehow they had to wait till after lunch before they could leave, Sniffles right and left while lying on the bed mostly near the pillow pulling it up stopped black spots around the sheet and bottom of the pillow case smelling it Sneezing right off a few more times tossing the pillow down it was Frank playing one of his mean trick again., wiping off what he could when Jon came in all sadden sitting down on the bed looking over.

“Gee’s man you ok?”

“Yea guess so but I’ve got some bad news”

“So do I and Frank … I’m not done with him yet look what he did Pepper” Showing Jon the sheet

“The trips off Eric I can’t go”

Stopping looking over sitting down with him “What’ What happen?”

“I’m being taken today”

“Look we can leave right now come on we can do this” Getting up looking back at Jon sitting only looking at him, closing the door returning to the bed “Ok so what they tell you then?’

“A family came thru last night to take me” lowering his head leaning next to him tear slowly dropped down on his leg looking over.

“So that’s good news then so why you crying you got a home”

“But we were going to be ranchers and do all the cowboy stuff together”

“That’s ok Cowboy stuff is hard work anyway and besides you’ll be happy now with a family that wants you that’s more important than being a cowboy riding ranges with no water or food right”

“But we were…going”

“No I was going’ till things with you change ok?”

“Will you stay here till they come for me?”

Eric looked around then in a low tone “I’ll see you off when the time comes, then I’ll be going”

“Thank you we had fun while you were here … will you write me”

“Sure you know I will’ just need your address before they take you”

“I’ll find out don’t worry … you will write?”

“Yes I need to know you’re ok’ right and if not I’ll come rescue you ok?” Smiling at him

“I better get the stuff outside before someone finds it you watch the door” Jon said hurry outside to the window tossing the sweaters back inside, Eric quickly placed them under the bed hurrying back inside before anybody spotted him, Jon placing what he could in a copy paper box Mr. Blanton gave him.

Derek came running in saying they wanted him in the office and bring his stuff with him saying it was going to be his room now with Eric and Frank. Surprised it had happen sooner than either expected

“Looks like this is it”

“Well better get going don’t want your new folks waiting now”

“Eric I’m sorry you’re not coming with me”

“Don’t worry I’ll find my friend and be happy again”

Walking down the hallway together to the office, Jon set the box down giving Eric a hug before going into the office, Eric sat down looking at the box of stuff not very much stuff for the time he was here, slowly the voices stopped and the door was opening Eric looked up to Mr. Blanton “Eric would you like to carry Jon’s box out for him?”

“Sure thing” Watching them together walking to the door following behind with a smile Eric could see they wanted him holding his hand together to the car, a younger boy slid out shaking Jon’s hand smiling it was his new friend he would be happy now, Eric holding back his own tears of joy handing Jon his box giving him a hug shaking his hand with a nod “Later Jon take care of yourself” Was all Eric could say heading back to the door watching the car pulling away Jon waving out the back window,

“You feeling better Mrs. Darvan give you something to help”

“Yes much better Thanks”

“Frank giving you any problems?”

“None that I can’t handle but Derek might have a problem with him”

“I’ll talk with him everything working out for you here”

“Sure just wonderful”

“Well if you need anything just come see me”

“Ok can I go to the game-room need to see what my new roomy doing?”

“Sure have a good time”

Jon never gave him that address to write maybe it was best thing not knowing, Eric slowly looked in the game room seeing Derek playing a board game with two others no one came out to say goodbye to Jon, was that what it was one day here next your gone without even a goodbye to everyone. Eric went to the bedroom sitting on the bed only glancing to the window reaching down pulling his bundle out, quickly pushing it back under spotting the atlas on the table, taking it opening it to Canada route rending the page out folding it placing it in his back pocket before setting the book right in view smiling tossing his bundle out the window before heading to the back door.

Heading into town stopping at the locale store seeing a charter bus in the parking lot with a bunch of kids coming from the store lining up around the bus, slowly walking over seeing what they were doing asking a few finding they were touring on bikes once they were dropped off at the cape, one asked if he was riding with them “sure right away” hoping to get a ride hurry inside the store gathering a few things along with the other kids, candy bars and extra cough drops just in case along with a large soda returning standing with them in line to the bus. Eric followed right along spotting a grownup asking for a paper, not sure watching moving ahead till it was his turn looking at the guy holding his hand outward.

“Well got your pass?” He stood looking down

“Not sure where I put it?” looking thru his pockets making sure the guy could smell the drops

“Hurry up your holding up the line”

“I’m looking hang on” Looking pulling out the map from his pocket “Nope this ant it where I put it”

“Look just get in we got to get moving” Keeping his head away from him pointing to get in

“What about the paper?”

“Get in already find it later” Avoiding hi

Eric quickly boarded the bus walking near the back sitting down watching the front as the others got in one boy scooting in next to him. “So ready to tour’ you got everything?”

“Sure want a candy bar?” Handing him one opening his looking out the window as the door shut

Pulling out into traffic watching the town slowly go by his window with a smile he was on his way.

“Names Gene ever been to the cape before?”

“Eric’ no you?” asking back biting into the last part crumbling the wrapper

“Once or twice but not touring just visiting the beach”

“Heard it’s nice … how long before we get there?”

“A few hours the coach said, then will have Fifty miles of coast line to ride”

“Cape Cod right”

“Yep well I’ll rest some you better to it’s a long ride”

“Sure rest ok” Eric said leaning back watching out the window

Next thing Eric knew the bus was stopping everyone was getting off, Following along with the other walking around the back side as they started unloading bikes from the rear, Eric looked to the stores

Gene by his side looking over “Yours should be out anytime now right”

“Good I’ll be right back nature calling”

“Ok hurry back I’ll wait for you with the rest of them

Eric hurry across the street to the gas station walking down the side and watching them from the back fence, Gene keep looking over before finely heading out with the others to a meeting area, Eric slowly walked around checking the stores and down the roadway to the beach, stopping in a café away from the road not to be seen ordering a cup of coffee sitting by the rear still able to see the roadway checking over the lunch special seeing the prices surprised ordering a tuna sandwich with fries

Giving them amble time to disburse on their touring, Eric walked around sightseeing before spotting a Truck unloading at the grocery store side door, walking up looking over the truck. Checking the tires walking around stopping at the cab looking to the doors inspection sticker, Hearing someone walk up behind him turning around looking at him holding a pad.

“You check your tires lately they look low” Eric said watching him

“Low what my tires low?”

“The inside left rear over here see” Eric pointing at it.

“Your right you know a few things about truck your dad a driver?”

“Yea he’s on his route to New Haven I was supposed to meet him in Bradford something”

“How come you’re here then?”

“I just missed the charter bus now I’ve got to get the next one”

“Hell I’m heading most of the way Hartford anyway you can still get the bus there right”

“Sure Hartford that’s near a truck stop too”

“Look that’s not it is it” Pointing to a charter bus going by them

“No that was for the Road bikes tours”

“Right so want a lift’ maybe we can get you to your dad quicker than the bus can”

“If it’s no problem wouldn’t want to put you out or anything”

“No always helping a trucker or trucker’s son in need climb in”

“Ok thanks”

Holding Eric Part 12

Holding Eric part 12

Jacob irritated with Aunt Ginger remarks as he held the phone ringing, going direct to voice Mail hanging it up placing the phone in his shirt pocket pausing, looking out over the parking lot before getting down hooking everything up returning sitting looking over at the bag, pushing the Air valve in with a jerk moving forward to the interstate.

Grandfather David and the kids arrived after there long trail ride, Becky and Colleen riding in the back seat hurry to get out waiting for Jake, all smiles he had them trapped till he open the door letting them out this time, they like keeping him waiting for the most times they rode in the front now it was his turn.

“Jake let your sisters out” Grandfather said smiling looking over at Jake standing holding the knob looking up at them waiting.

“Ok it not fair they always keep me back there” Jake said letting them out

“Dwe’bb” Colleen said getting out only to look upward seeing her Mother waiting “Mom he wouldn’t let us out” Sarcastically with her head in the air snicker over at Jake.

“Maybe he wants his imaginary friend to get out first” Becky said getting out smirking

“He’s not real” Jake said moving away over to his mother

“Well if you didn’t hold him’ he wouldn’t do it to you” Mother (Penny) said smiling down to Jake raising his head back up knowing she was telling them to stop.

“Hi David’ how where the kids behaved?”

“Like fly in shit”

“Grandpa!” Becky remarked waiting on Colleen to get her stuff she forgot from the truck

“Hear from Jacob?”

“Yes he called’ you kids go inside will be right along”

Becky turn to Jake “Well you bringing your friend with you Jake”

“MOM” Jake said aggravated

“Becky stop antagonizing your brother”

Becky walking with Colleen while Jake rush past them inside.

“So he coming home for the weekend?”

“Be home tomorrow night”

“You sound different everything ok with you two?”

“Yes its fine you got a few maybe have some coffee?”

“Of course maybe you can tell me what’s been going on with Jacob the past few weeks”

Jake already taken Jacobs chair holding the remote, Colleen laying on the floor with a small pillow watching cartoons while Becky sat reading her small book story not wanting to be interrupted.

David sitting at the table waiting for Penny to finish the coffee before sitting down with him only looking in at the kids slowly stirring her coffee.

“So Jacob doing ok?” David asking watching her

“Yes fine’ he’s been busy lately that’s all”

“That’s not all I know it’s more so tell me” Raising his head taking the sugar bowl over to his cup, slowly taking two spoons stirring it as she sat looking at her cup.

“He pick this kid up and it’s been bothering him ever scene”

“Kid’ the one that he said was hurt”

“Yes seems Jacob took a liken to him’ why I don’t know” confused looking again at her cup

“Maybe it’s something about the boy’ he just needs to understand”

“Understand’ he has plenty around here already losing his driver making him do all the runs”

“Well I’m sure it will be alright” sipping from the edge blowing into the cup

“No he stopped in Denver to see him”

“Denver that’s where the boys from?”

“No Jacob took him to Denver from Rhode Island”

“This boy he drove to Denver”

“To his Aunt’s house, he’s a runaway”

“I’ll talk to him it’ll be alright stop your worrying now”

“Maybe you can make some scents why he had to stop to see him”

“Maybe just to check make sure he was ok”

“I think it was something more I really do”

“Like what?”

“I’m not sure Jacob was upset about him he didn’t want to talk about it”

“You don’t think anything happen between them’ Jacob loves you and the kids”

“I know just something’s been going on he’s not sleeping also”

“Not sleeping? This all started with the boy?”

“Yes the same week he lost the driver”

“I’ll talk to him will square things ok now just stop your worrying leave it to me ok”

“Ok’ Thanks David”

David saying goodbye to the kids, and again telling her not to worry, heading home.

Jacob pushing thru the night after stopping in Utah getting the last load off before stopping for gas, knowing his log book was over due on time, setting it next to the seat pulling up the spare just in case he was stopped, unable to rest pushing for home before dawn, down the back roads by the farms slowing down passing David’s farm seeing the barn and new horse trailer he bought for their Kentucky trip, stopping looking at the house with just the porch light on slowly backing in the driveway.

Penny had awoken with sounds from the Truck backing in the driveway shutting it down, putting on her robe heading to the kitchen turning on lights, Taking the coffee pot over rinsing it as Jacob walked in the front door holding his carryon bag seating it down by the door looking up seeing Penny.

“Good morning”

“Your home early I’m putting some coffee on”

“That sounds good … how’s Dad doing see he got his horse trailer” seating at the table watching her at the counter setting up the coffee pot getting two mugs down before sitting with him

“Your Dad took Jake with him to pick it out”

“I told him I would go with him” lowering his head taking a deep breath

“He understands you’re busy as usual”

“Not that busy’ we still had time before Kentucky trip”

“He knows you’ve been pushing again I told him about the last driver leaving”

“Great’ but Neil taking the runs for a while”

“Neil’ your cousin getting back on the road? …You want something to eat?”

“No I’m good just coffee”

“Thought you be in tonight so what happen?”

“Drove straight thru couldn’t sleep”

“You must be tired you look beat … tell me while I get us the coffee”

“Worried that’s all …. How Jake do on the colt?”

“Your Dad showed him a few things with his colt and he’s excited to show you”

“Good and the girls doing better roping the barrels”

“Yes’ the kids are just fine, drink your coffee and tell me what happen”

Jacob face all tighten looking at the steaming coffee slowly stirring the sugar around

“Jacob something happen let’s hear what happen” Penny asking taking the spoon from him, he sat looking at her for a second with a quick shake of his head, Penny reach over placing her hand on his looking up at him slowly raising his head

“Denver the bitch closed the door on me” Holding her hand telling her

“What she wouldn’t let you see the boy?” sitting back upright

Jacob taking a sip of hot coffee blowing at the rim to cool it down

“Eric was sent back to Rhode Island given to the state”

“Jess Jacob what he do?”

“I don’t know he seemed like he was going to be alright at his Aunts”

Sitting pondering drinking while penny sat watching him stew

“But you’re taking it hard’ so this is what’s been upsetting you?”

“Yes something about him’ he’s different … age and birthdays only a few days apart”

“So maybe we should check into it and find out about him them yes?”

“What check into him’ we have enough here already to worry about?”

“Jacob like you said something about him so will check what happen”

“What if he’s …”

“Jacob relax I’ll get your dad to help he won’t mind”

“My Dad hell Penny he’s already got his hands full with the new colts and Kentucky”

Finishing off his coffee ready to get up

“More coffee the kids will be up shortly”

“I need to shower before they get up or there won’t be any hot water”

“Ok’ you got about twenty minutes before Jake and Collen get up”

“Dad coming over this morning?” standing looking back at Penny taking the cups to the counter

“Said he would make breakfast for the kids”

“Great hope he’s in a good mood”

“Better hurry an take that shower sounds like he just pulled in” Penny looking out the window

“Ok’ I’ll be right out” hurrying to the bedroom

Penny reach up taking another cup for David before he came in setting it on the table as he walked in, David walked by looking down at the bag checking down the hallway hearing the shower.

“See he made it back” David said sitting down

“Just a short time ago, you wants some toast?”

“No how’s he doing any better?”

“He got Neil taking the runs for him”

“Neil thought he stopped driving?”

“Jacob didn’t say just he back driving”

“Maybe take some of the load off Jacob”

“I hope so”

Sitting with David over coffee Penny told him about Eric being placed in the state, saying Jacob was concerned about what happen to him and wanted to check into it, David said he could check into the matter for them, after all David did study for his Law degree, only using it sometimes when someone needed a quick Lawyer to help bail them out of jail.

Jake came in all tired sitting on David’s lap waking up.

“Your Dads home Jake” Penny said getting him an orange juice.

“He is” Getting down rushing to the bedroom stopping at the door seeing him spread out sleeping, returning back to the kitchen sitting in the chair.

“He’s sleeping right now”

“He’ll be up later and we can do the chores together before he wakes ok” David said smiling

“Ok Grandpa maybe we can go riding later I want to show Dad what new trick Bancho can do”

“Collen said you still seeing the image in the mirror?”

“Sometime’ he wants help”

“He wants you to help him?’

“Yes something about bars holding him”

“Maybe you could ask your Dad about the boy?”

“Dad ask Dad about an imaginary boy in a mirror” Frowning licking his lips from juice

“Maye he seen him also won’t hurt to ask’ I better start some Breakfast scrambled ok”

“With Bacon? And Hash brown squares” Jake asking smiling drinking orange juice.

Becky and Collen having breakfast together before heading out for their daily chores with Grandfather David watering, feeding and brushing the horses before letting them run in the field, David wanted to help out with school clothes heading into town, getting some nice outfits for the girls and pants for Jake, stopping on the way back at the video store buying a few new DVD’s while David and Jake looked among the outdated VHS Tapes, David found and older movie for all of them to watch later, Harvey. Becky thought it was foolish for an older man to have imaginary rabbit, sticking her noise in the air sort of making like she didn’t care looking out the window in the back seat, David stopped her a few times on the way back making jokes about Jakes imaginary friend saying he was too old to believing in such thing like the Easter bunny still, It wasn’t the first time she told him there was no Easter bunny that’s what lead David to find the movie.

Pulling into the driveway next to the blazer, Jake quickly got out holding his bag opening the door for the girls standing looking over at the truck while they hurried out, slowly Jake walked towards the truck, David almost to the door stopped looking over at Jake standing by the door looking to the window, David walked over next to him looking inside.

“Everything ok?”

“Grandpa’ do you see anything inside?”

“Will just open the door and look for you ok”

“No Grandpa its fine we don’t have to look really.

David already started opening the door with Jake backing up scared.

“Jake there’s nothing inside look come here look” David said holding the door open checking the bunk area then spotted the notebooks and paper packs, Jake slowly looking up then quickly at the mirror  letting out a deep breath of relieved.

“Come on Jake what is it this where you see the boy?”

“The mirror was first time but now he’s in the bathroom and hallway”

“So that explains why you put towels over the mirrors your mom told me about”

“Yes I … I don’t like seeing him he’s hurting” with water started in his eye’s rushing holding David “Now’ Now’ will find out together why he wants you to help him, think he’ll talk to me” David asking rubbing his back side walking back to the house.

“You thing I’m seeing things too I know he’s not real but it’s something right?”

“You’re not seeing things, something trying to reach for your help that’s all, say how old was this boy?”

Sitting on the front step together looking over to the truck again “Grandpa maybe my age but very sad”

“Your mind is open sometimes and it allows others to reach out to you like the Indian spirts”

“I’ve seen movies of Indian spirts way cool Grandpa … I’m just a kid”

“Sometimes spirts can reach out, maybe that’s all it is”

“This one had brown hair like mine, and a jacket on”

Behind them the door open turning back looking “Hi Mom Grandpa got me some nice pants want to see” Holding the bag upward.

“You to coming inside’ Jake your Fathers up go show him what you got”

“Ok coming in Grandpa?”

“Be right along go now”

“So what was that all about?”

“Just his mirror friend’ Jacob watching TV?”

“No having a late lunch you want a sandwich?”

“No let’s go in’ I need to ask Jacob a few questions”

Between me you and God 10 Last

Between Me You and God 10

BMYG  Part Ten.

Today is been just another day at the beach for me and Lucky, watching the waves come in shore, it’s so peaceful here late at night no one around just the sound of the waves, what a lonesome sound with the moon casing off the waves, Went thru the six pack now back home seeing someone called, Becky checking on us again every other day she calling making sure I still pick up the phone now and then, Becky came by about two mounts ago and found me sleeping on the floor must have scared her she didn’t even try to wake me just called for help, she was relived I was ok more scared that I went without saying goodbye.

It’s been a ride for me for sure the big wave is coming in soon, time has its limited now dam liver problems,  my own fault too much drinking, it happens old friend yea we got old somehow, Guess you made it this far in the tapes or maybe you just grabbed the last one, I said a lot of things that maybe should have brought out long ago, hey you live with things and try to put them behind you and move on with your life, Well my friend I truly wanted to thank you for being my friend over the years, You may not know your letters over the years I’ve cherished wondering how you could just get up and travel around without a care, Did you know how much you made me dream of all those place’s, Post cards and photo’s what a adventure you had.

Keeping myself busy also married once and three kids, that was a long time ago we don’t talk and last time I even seen the kids the oldest was five, some other guy raised them with his name  and never heard from them, that’s been some twenty some years, not even a card or Christmas card from them guess I was written off, hey anytime I wanted company working at the shack was never a dull night, that brings me back to when we were young growing up around Cody before his work became involved then he found the love of his life moving away, do you still remember him the hippie sixties dude we called him, Some weekends he took you and me to Friendly’s for burgers mostly just an Ice Cream, what a chap escape he was now that I think of it a few times we went to the arcade, and you yes you were the one that got me on that roller coaster, holy crap was I scared but you took control just held me till it stopped, you sat wiping the tears away telling me we were down almost having to pry me from the seat, but I got even then again I had to force you into surfing the waves come on you got to admit the only waves we got where from the ships, just think if we were in that big state California you always talked about, hey I still got that old Ron Jon’s shirt you sent me.

It’s morning here bright sunny day the kids will be flocking in the arcade, never thought as kids I’d be working here during the summer, it’s my job to keep them games running, helping out in other activities of the environment protection, beach volleyball or even taking youth groups on fishing trips, of course a lot of kids have skateboards no matter how many times you tell them they still want to try the new stuff, besides becoming an EMT came in handy, Lifeguard during the busy weekends, you could always pickup plenty of girls being a lifeguard.

As much as I’d like to rattle on tape is running out so let me get right to it and again wish we had more time together, thanks for coming by it meant a great deal to me. This is my last tape so let me get down to what I wanted to tell you before it runs out; Going back before we moved here from what I’ve told you I do hope you now understand some of what happen to me as a child, still sometimes feeling the hurt knowing it wasn’t my fault it happen why things happen when you’re a small boy or even a girl that sometimes we don’t understand till later in life, no one said anything back in the sixties about bad men or women, today it’s all over and every kid now knows about them from their parents or schools, what to look out for not to ride in cars don’t talk to strangers, the fear is always with you no matter how old you get I don’t care what they say it’s like a haunting memory, more and more wondering if we moved because what happen in our town, Cody coming to live with us when he did, Mom said he needed a place to stay for awhile, I don’t remember him working back then either strange thing, comes to mind he went to the church a few times sure only when I went not my sister’s, when we lost our first Lucky he was the one that found another one just like her, do you know that I’ve had four Lucky’s now, hope this one sticks around a little longer with me, this one like beer half for her and half for me, so if a kid gets hurt by one of these persons what happen to them, all the talk today they become just like the person that betrayed them as a kid! That’s so wrong it only makes you more aware of what goes on in the minds of people.

Twelve going on Thirteen the man years of adolescence talking about girls didn’t bother me at all, hell going to the beach you could always see more young girls in bikinis most reviling thin print pattern less than Panties or bra’s letting your mind wonder, watching them run around how could you help not laying belly down in the sand afraid to turn over, how many times did both of us stay on the beach watching them play ball, even today the boys still do it. joining them a few times till nature called, even in gym class we had shorts most of the time not wearing our shirts and how they would tease us, the only time I even felt it again was at thirteen from a gym teacher trying to help me up a rope placing his hand on my rear, he didn’t mean anything by it, but I still had that fear even at thirteen, again that vulnerability that I felt was more a fear of what could happen again, perpetrators of the abuse come in many forms sometimes we fall into individuals that don’t care about the outcome only what they want and how they get it.

Parents conveniently let kids go thinking everything’s fine they know them’ it’s not like they were strangers. Mothers care for Cuts with Band-Aids they hurt when you hurt, try to confide your fears and worries making them easy to live with, having no father it was hard you just can’t go to Mom and tell her what going on sometimes you need a male image that you could confide your worst fears and worries to more a role model you could follow hoping to become like them, understanding why you feel the way you do, Mom never like my boyish paraphernalia of girls hanging on the wall, a few did had to go Mom telling me they exposed to much really Mom they had swim suits’ they were taken down but not thrown away, Cody even had a few magazines around he knew we looked at them but never asked what we thought about, more just telling us to make sure we put them back out of sight., getting back to what I was saying before retelling this is not an attempt to bring up bad times as a victim more ensuring that justice was done, more how do we prevent this abuse in the future, the media and publicity are all victims by attracting too much publicity not having any heart for the victims at all more heartless for a story in print, if they go to court to testify that could be devastating to any young person boy or girl, making spectacles of the accused person forgetting the child, who’s eyes fill with tears reliving the event over and over the fear and disgust they had to go thru, who failed to protect them when they needed someone to love and respect them as a child not a trophy for someone.

Life goes on closure in what they call criminal court cases takes a long time dragging on sometimes for a decade or more, mostly the accused will die before any justice is done leaving the victim to repeat their statement over and over, some try to drop the whole thing getting on with life like I did and so many more had to, who would believe a ten year old going to court back in the day or even today our society is deaf to the pleas for far too long more taking a back seat to it these kids are never taken seriously they don’t believe it more than not they just allowed us to tell our story of the horrible things which happen to us, without any recognition or judgment about our plight. They have turned a blind eye to the victims. Some day they will understand the child and what he or she has to deal with all thru life, having no control as a child, thankfully I never said anything before what a mess my life would have been I’m just thankful Mom was there to see things as they were not asking, just there if I needed her she must have known but never let on just more aware of what we did and were we went.

Thank you friend for just being my friend in life  Joe.

Joe sorry we couldn’t talk about this beforehand I understand can understand you, it’s a hard thing to deal with for any child at any age, you did what you felt was right and maybe Cody help in so many ways you just over looked he was there for you during the peak years you needed someone to talk to just being yourself, life is so precious we should never let it go to waste.

Readers this was Joe’s last tape before he left us hope you read some of it, it wasn’t easy listening to his voice breaking so many times before he finished telling his life past granted Becky and Trisha have also read them before I let any go to print here,, Thank you both for allowing me the chance to share Joe’s story.

Sent your comments if you like Thanks’ for reading it Will

Last Part of Joe Called.

The Paper work ending it

Yellow jacket Chapter 59 the boys holding back, this is next to the last Chapter, Thank you all for reading it, Last night was a big hit looking forward to Next Book  soon to follow. Here’s some of Chapter 59 Thank You All again Will.

“It’s one of their requirements for the law here boys got to be legal”

 

 Tears still streamed down Brains’ face waiting, Brian loved working the farm asking all the questions helping Pa this was his home he knew it right away, he was told about it and here he was ready to give it up on our say so, Lisa was happy doing old fashion cooking from scratch, Chris was enjoying being a little girl now for the most part even if she had to wear pants under her dress beside she fell in love with all the farm animals.

 

 Mike said ok handing the paperback to the Judge, everyone was silent except the Judge dipping his roll swishing it around, I looked down at Jeff hoping in one way he’d ask to stay somehow I think he knew I was waiting shaking his head no, I nodding down to him padding his back holding him in looking up at Brian, wiping his tears hoping to stay but willing to leave it all on our say so, that would only kill him in the end if he went with us, Mike looked over at me confused waiting along with everyone “Shawn problem?”