Another Chance - Book Three

by Zarek Dragon

 

That night, Joe and Buster looked after Jake and had him get ready for his sleeping bag while Jim and Zac took Patrick out for a walk. They shared with him what to expect as his body prepares him for adulthood, and explained how hormones and excessive oil will make his hair look and feel greasy as well as the possible outbreak of acne. Patrick had questions, he was embarrassed to ask, but remembered what Zac told him.

In the morning, Joe asked Buster if he wanted to stay at the lake while Joe worked and then he would come back out, or if he wanted to come keep him company. "That depends, if the boys want to stay out here while Jim and Zac work, I can stay here to watch them, otherwise, I'll keep you company," Buster replied.

Zac looked at Patrick, "This is the last weekend before school starts, do you want to stay out here and have fun, or go sit in the office and play with toys?"

Patrick looked at Jim, "Dad said that I could help him with the horses, today."

"I did say that," Jim admitted, "but if you want to stay here by the lake, I understand. Either way, when we are done, Papa, Jake, you and I can go to your house to pick up some things."

"I want to help with the horses," Patrick declared. Jim was a little surprised, but also happy.

Zac didn't give Jake an option since Patrick wasn't staying out, so Buster went to keep Joe company. As they rode into the corral, Jackson was there to greet them. He called out, "Buster, can I see you in the office for a minute?" Buster thought he was in trouble for something, or maybe he got Joe in trouble, but he headed for the office.

"If you three can handle the horses, Jake and I'll drive around to collect the gear," Zac said.

Joe was quick to respond, "Leave Buster's and mine. It's our last night before a school night, so we want to stay at the lake."

"Will do," Zac answered.

Jim, Patrick and Joe started grooming the horses before putting them in their stalls. Zac snatched up Jake and took him to his truck. Jackson sat in his seat, watching Buster fidget for a few seconds. Then he asked, "Are you currently working anywhere?"

"Not since I quit my job when we were supposed to move," Buster answered.

Jackson sat for a few more seconds, watching Buster get nervous. "Are you looking for work?"

Buster wasn't sure where Jackson was going with his questions, "To be honest, I don't know what I want to do right now. I mean, once I graduate, I plan to get my teaching degree, but I don't know of any jobs that I can do towards it. I really don't want to go back to my old job, and I had an offer to work at McDonald's since the manager is a friend of the family, but I don't really want to work fast food."

"You ever consider ranch work?" Jackson asked.

"Not really," Buster stated, "I barely know how to ride a horse."

Jackson watched Buster for a few more seconds as this time the boy looked like he was thinking more than being nervous. "Well, you looked pretty good in the saddle to me. Yes, you still need to get some practice, but Joe did a good job teaching you."

"Once I get an income, I'd like to resume my lessons," Buster declared.

"What about earning an income but getting free riding lessons, you ever consider that?" Jackson inquired.

"That would be aweso… Wait, are you offering me a job?" it just hit Buster.

"You're here most weekends watching Joe, so why not let you get paid to help? For now, it'll only be the weekends, but I can ask Joe to teach you what you need to know and you can finish your riding lessons for free," Jackson offered, "And kissing Joe is optional." Buster blushed at the last part.

"When can I start?" Buster asked.

"Kissing Joe? I don't know," Jackson teased, then he assured Buster, "As long as you can get one of your parents to sign the hire packet this week, you can start today."

"I know either one will," Buster was ecstatic.

Jackson walked to the door and yelled for Joe. When Joe got to the office, he was curious what Jackson talked with Buster about and hoped that neither of them were in trouble. "Joe, I would like for you to take our newest employee and show him what you do on the weekends."

"Sure," Joe replied, "Where is he?"

Jackson walked towards Buster, "Joe, this is Cornelius Jones, but he prefers to go by Buster. Buster, this is the person I said would train you. You have to ask him about the optional kissing I told you about."

Joe's face lit up, "I get to train you? First order of business is, yes to the optional kissing, whenever the mood strikes you."

"Then I won't get anything done except kissing because I'm always in the mood to kiss you," Buster chuckled.

Jackson laughed, "Maybe I should have Cindy train you."

Joe looked at Jackson with a funny look, "I don't recall anyone named Cindy."

"She's working at the rodeo right now," Jackson explained, "She's a riding trainer, dealing mainly with pre-teens. Since the Rodeo will be doing their end of summer event next weekend, she'll work here during the week as a trainer for families around Patrick's age."

"That would be why I don't know her," Joe responded. He took Buster with him out to the barns. "You've seen what I do, so you should have an idea of what is needed. But I will gladly explain anything to you. As for what each horse's dietary needs are, there is a clipboard at each stall. First thing you will want to do is make sure someone didn't accidentally mix the clipboards up. The horse's name is at the top of the paper." Joe picked up the clipboard hanging on the post beside the stall gate. He showed Buster where it said "Bootsie" and the horse's name on the other side of the gate. "Once you've worked here long enough, you'll know the horses without having to check their names, but always check this chart because their diets may change for whatever reason. Like Aurixi is having a special diet while she is with foal."

"I thought she had her foals in June," Buster stated.

Joe giggled, "She did, but then she was bred again with Gold's sire."

"Already, is that safe?" Buster was surprised to say the least.

Joe nodded his head, "Jim checked with the vet and asked when he could."

Joe continued showing and explaining what was needed while he and Buster worked together completing their tasks before the hay truck arrived.

Patrick worked hard helping Jim, of course Jim did most of the work, but Patrick didn't slack off for one second or complain that it was too hard. He helped Jim muck the stalls, spread fresh hay and prepare each horse's feed.

When the hay truck came, Jim warned Patrick, "These bales of hay will weigh about twice the weight of the saddles. Once you're old enough to actually be on the payroll, you should have the muscles to lift them, but today, can you do me a favor and help by keeping Jake occupied and out of the way?"

"I sure can, Dad," Patrick answered.

As they were unloading the hay, Jim chuckled when Buster commented about the weight. "I was the same way when I started. You'll sleep well when you get back to the lake."

"I can imagine, but I don't want to go to sleep until Joe is ready," Buster stated.

"You'll fall asleep involuntarily, we all did," Joe explained, "but when you do, I'll snuggle beside you and take a nap, too."

"You would, wouldn't you," Buster sneaked a quick kiss causing Jim to smile.

After the hay was put away, Zac asked if everyone was ready to head home. "I thought we were going to Patrick's house," Jim questioned.

Zac responded, "We will be, but you two need showers. You worked Patrick hard, I can tell."

Jim shook his head, "I didn't work Patrick hard, he worked hard on his own. I'm very proud of the work he did." Patrick smiled.

They showered and Zac drove to Patrick's old house. Patrick unlocked the door and led them to his room. Jim was surprised with all the different Lego sets Patrick had. "I always liked building them and then just put them on my display shelf. I have all of the directions in that drawer," Patrick explained as he pointed to the top drawer of his desk. "Most of the clothes here, I just recently outgrew. Most are still in good condition, and Jake will grow into them eventually."

Jim stated, "That would save us having to buy some clothes later."

Jake looked happy, "I'm going to get to wear Patrick's clothes?"

"Yeah, Buddy, eventually," Jim answered.

"Yay!!!" Jake cheered. Patrick laughed. It surprised Jim, he was expecting Patrick to be sad, but he guessed that seeing Jake so happy outweighed the sadness.

"I have two bikes in the garage, one is too small for me, but it was my first bike so Mom didn't want to get rid of it. I was six and we still have the training wheels. Can I give it to Jake?" Patrick questioned.

Jim gave Patrick a light squeeze on the shoulder, "That's up to you, Bud, but he can only ride in the back yard if you do, or at the ranch."

As they were carrying stuff Patrick wanted to either keep or give to Jake, Jim noticed that he kept looking at the neighbor's house. "You want to go visit her, don't you? Tell you what, we'll just take everything except the furniture from your room, and we'll grab the bikes from the garage. You can go spend some time visiting while we do. And maybe, we can arrange for you to visit on Sundays after we're done at the ranch."

"Seriously?" Patrick almost shouted, "OH MY GOSH! I bet she would love that and she makes the best chocolate chip cookies and chocolate milk. Can I introduce Jake to her? That way, you and Papa won't have to worry about where he's at and I know she would love him."

Zac smiled, "I think that's an awesome idea."

"C'mon Jake, let me introduce you to the nicest lady that's not family," Patrick sounded so happy.

Patrick knocked on Miss Columbus' door and she was surprised when she saw him, "Patrick, what are you doing here and who's the cutie with you?"

Patrick explained what they were doing, introduced her to Jake and told her that Jim said they could plan for him to visit on Sundays. She invited the boys in and apologized, "I wasn't expecting you so I have no cookies today, but I can make you both some chocolate milk and you can tell me about your new family. Or would you like some hot tea? I noticed your voice is cracking."

"Dad and Papa said that it's a sign that I'm growing up," Patrick boasted.

Miss Columbus commented, "As good-looking of a boy you are, I bet you'll be a handsome young man."

"I haven't seen Jay or Miles yet, where are they?" Patrick asked.

"Heavens, I forgot that I shut them in my room before I knew it was you at the door. Let me go let them out, I bet they miss you, too," Miss Columbus apologized. She went to open her door and no sooner was it opened, the cats ran to Patrick.

"Kitty cats," Jake squealed.

Miss Columbus returned carrying two glasses of chocolate milk. "So how long will you be visiting, today?"

"Not too long today, but next Sunday, maybe I can read your newspaper for you," Patrick replied.

Miss Columbus gave Patrick a smile, "That would be nice, but I'll need to restart my subscription. When you moved, I cancelled it since I didn't have anyone else to read it for me."

Patrick felt bad for her being alone with no one else visiting. He had a tear run down his cheek, which didn't go unnoticed. The boys visited until there was a knock on the door. Miss Columbus went to see who it was.

"Hi, I'm Zac Bolt, one of Patrick's foster dads. You must be Miss Columbus." Zac wanted to just say papa, but didn't know what Miss Columbus would think if he did.

Miss Columbus offered, "Would you like to come in, where's the other one?"

Zac answered, "He's looking for the training wheels Patrick said he had for the bicycle the boy gave to Jake." He walked in the house and waited to follow Miss Columbus.

"Patrick said that he may be able to visit every Sunday, he's such a sweet boy," Miss Columbus declared.

Zac smiled, "That he is, and he thinks the world of you. He told Jake that you are the nicest lady that's not family. As for coming every Sunday, Jim suggested it and Patrick seemed very eager to accept."

"Papa," Patrick greeted Zac as he walked into the kitchen, "is it time to go already?"

Zac gave Patrick a weak smile, "No, you can finish your chocolate milk, you did say that she makes the best. Do you know where the training wheels are? Dad and I can't find them. If not, we can just get new ones."

Patrick smiled. "She uses Nesquik powder AND Hershey's syrup to make it. Sometimes, she lets me stir it, but I think she stirs it better. As for the training wheels," Patrick looked deep in thought, "I think Mom put them in a box on the top shelf beside the window, but I'm not sure."

"OK," Zac stated, "Finish your chocolate milk and spend a few more minutes visiting. We'll wait on you." Patrick gave Zac a hug before he went to look where Patrick suggested.

"You call him Papa?" Miss Columbus asked. "I'm sure your parents would be happy that you found a family that you love and they seem to love you. I wish that I could have taken you in myself, but I only have one bedroom."

Patrick got excited, "I would have loved staying with you, but I am glad that I have my new family. Dad and Papa really care about me and Mom and Daddy visited me in my dreams to let me know that they approve."

"I'm happy for you," Miss Columbus stated. "So what are you doing with the house? Will you move in when you're old enough?"

Patrick looked down, "No, it hurts being there, but I'm trying to be a man about it. Once I get what I want to keep, the lawyer will try to sell it for me."

"I know a family looking for a home, I'm sure they would buy it. They have a boy your age, I believe. Their name is Kennedy and you'll probably meet the boy at school. His name is Gabriel." Miss Columbus informed Patrick.

Patrick smiled, thinking Miss Columbus could have a new family next door, who she seems to like. "My dad can give you the lawyer's name and number. If you like them, they are to whom I want to sell."

"I'm glad you feel that way," Miss Columbus commented, she pinched his cheek and added, "I like you too, Patrick." Patrick started rubbing his cheek.

Jim knocked on the door and Miss Columbus went to answer it. Patrick and Jake followed her, suspecting it was time to go. "Dad, can you give Miss Columbus the name of the lawyer? She knows a family looking to buy a house and I'd like for them to buy this one since Miss Columbus already knows them." Jim pulled Harvey's card out of his wallet and handed it to Miss Columbus.

"Do you need the card back?" Miss Columbus asked. "I can write everything down."

Jim shook his head, "You can keep it. My mom is a paralegal at the law firm, so I know the number."

Everyone got in the truck to head home and Patrick asked, "Did you find the training wheels?"

Zac answered, "Right where you told me to look. They looked a little rusty so I want to get new ones, though. Thanks for trying."

"I was just looking out for my brother," Patrick stated and gave Jake a smile.

Jim had a serious look on his face, he looked at Patrick and asked, "What are your plans for your mom and dad's clothes? If you want, you can save your dad's until you grew into them."

"I was thinking maybe one of the shelters could use them," Patrick suggested. "I would like to keep maybe his gray t-shirts and the pair of Levi's that he wore whenever we played catch or worked on the car."

"Car? You mean the Tahoe?" Zac questioned.

Patrick answered, "No, the car behind the garage. Daddy said that it would be mine when I turned sixteen. It was his first car."

Zac was glad that he hadn't started the truck yet. He got out and walked behind the garage to find the car Patrick was talking about. It was a 1965 Ford Mustang. Her interior wasn't quite in mint condition, but definitely well taken care of. There were no dents but she did need a new paint job. The majority of the car was primer gray with some red splotches. The right front fender was green. Zac asked, "Does she run?"

Patrick climbed in the car and started it. She ran but she was rough. "Daddy said that once we got her purring, she would be a chick magnet, whatever that means," Patrick commented.

"It's not one of the first Mustangs," Zac explained, "but when we get this car purring and painted, you'll have girls and guys wanting to go for rides in it. I'm sure Grandpa Vince would love the opportunity to help us work on it for you."

"That would be cool," Patrick stated.

Jim asked, "Do you know where the title is? We should ask Mr. Cox what we need to put it in your name, or one of our names until you are able to put it in your name."

Patrick took Jim back into the house to find the title while Zac called Vince. Vince said that he would be happy to help and asked if it was drivable. Zac responded, "She starts up, but she is rough, very rough. The tags are current, so maybe."

Vince suggested, "If she's that rough, don't take any chances. I'll grab my tow-bar and come get her. Might I suggest that I take her to the ranch and park her by my race car? That way we can teach Patrick to drive without needing to use streets, and my tools are there."

"I think Patrick would like that idea," Zac agreed.

"OK, give me the address and I will get the car today. I love you, Son," Vince said and paused before hanging up.

"I love you too, Dad," Zac said as they ended the call together. Jim and Patrick came back with the title and they headed home. Zac told Patrick what Vince said as he drove and Patrick was elated.

Monday morning, Joshua was there as scheduled and the boys climbed into the limo. Jake went on and on about going to milk a cow on Labor Day and Joshua chuckled, "I may have to come out to the ranch to see that."

Patrick told Joshua about the Mustang and Jim commented about it being in Paul Roberts' name but they were wanting to put it in Patrick's. "Him being a minor, that may be difficult, especially since he doesn't have a license. And unless you adopt him, they may not allow you to put it in either yours or Zac's name."

"Zac and I want to adopt him, but Children's Protective Services wants us to prove we can provide for him before they allow it," Jim explained.

Joshua kidded, "It's a shame that you don't know any judges who can expedite that." Then the judge told his driver to take them to the courthouse. He told Jim to call Zac and ask him to go there immediately. Jim had tears and a smile as he called Zac.

At the courthouse, they ran into Ryan, "Judge Sprayberry, I believe you know this family," Joshua stated more than asked.

Ryan smiled, "I do, Your Honor."

"Would you like to do the honors or should I?" Joshua asked. "They wish to adopt Patrick but CPS wants them to prove they can provide for him. There is no doubt in my mind that they can, and I'm sure you agree."

Ryan nodded his head, "I'm sure Jackson would make sure of that. I would love the honor of completing the adoption; that is, if Patrick wants me to do so."

"Yes please," Patrick said, a tear running down his face. "I doubt anyone on this planet loves me as much as Dad and Papa." Jim and Zac had tears running down their faces when Patrick said that.

Ryan asked, "Would you like your last name to be Bolt, or do you wish to retain the last name of Roberts?"

Patrick looked at Jim and Zac for an answer. Jim spoke first, "It's your call, Bud. If you want to retain your last name to honor your dad, we totally understand."

Patrick turned back to Ryan, "I want my name to be Bolt. I think Daddy would understand, too." Zac turned to Jim and buried his head into his husband's shoulder. How could anyone not love this boy.

Jim and Zac thanked Joshua and Ryan for making this happen sooner than expected. Joshua looked at Patrick, "We need to go someplace and celebrate, do you want to go to McDonald's or someplace else?"

Patrick got the "Mc" out when Jake yelled, "McDonald's."

Joshua smiled at Jake and said, "I was asking Patrick since he's the one who was just adopted, but I think that is where he was about to say."

"Sorry," Jake apologized.

"You were just excited at the prospect of going there, I understand that," Joshua answered.

"Yes, I would like to go to McDonald's. And if you get Jake a Happy Meal, can you ask them to add bacon?" Patrick requested.

"I sure can," Joshua stated and he mussed Patrick's hair.

Zac was getting ready to head back to the ranch, but Joshua insisted that he have lunch with them to celebrate the adoption. Zac didn't argue, he knew that Jackson would totally understand.

Jake pulled the sandwich from his happy meal and was surprised, he had more bacon than burger. Joshua told him that he asked for triple bacon added to it and Patrick grinned. Jake said that it was the best Happy Meal ever, except the time when Patrick gave him some of his bacon.

After they ate, Zac went to the ranch and Joshua had his driver take them to the park so they could play. He watched as Patrick pushed Jake on the swing, then he and Jim pushed both boys on swings, switching between whom was pushing who. Jake wanted for him and Patrick to push Joshua and Jim on the swing, but Jim was afraid Jake would get hurt. The boys got on the merry-go-round and Jim started pushing it to make it spin as fast as he could. The boys had a blast.

As it approached one, Joshua said that he needed to take them to the house so Jim could get to the ranch. Patrick gave Joshua a hug, "Thank you Grandpa Joshua, you made me very happy and I'm sorry I didn't trust you enough to come without Dad. I love you."

"Kiddo," Joshua stated, "you have nothing to be sorry about. You were just being smart. I love you as well."

Patrick seemed the happiest he had been since Jim met him. Jim teased, "Should I just start calling you Smiley?"

Patrick replied, "I like when you call me Bud, but I am so happy, knowing that I am officially Papa's and your son. No one can ever change that."

"No, Bud," Jim said, returning Patrick's smile, "no one can ever change that." Jim gave Patrick a hug before they climbed into Jim's car.

"We're not taking the truck to the ranch?" Patrick asked.

Jim explained, "I keep my gear for the dojo in the trunk of my car. Since we'll be heading there from the ranch, it's easier."

As they were nearing the entrance to the ranch, Patrick saw Vince taping paper to the windows of the Mustang. He asked, "What's Grandpa Vince doing?"

"I would guess, he's preparing to have the car painted," Jim responded. "Hopefully, he knows what color you want it. But then, he's just preparing it now, he may ask you before he paints it."

Patrick commented, "I hope he paints it red; that would look so hot."

Jackson greeted Patrick as he got out of the car, "I hear it's official. Your papa told me, then Ryan called. I'm happy for you, Partner."

"Thank you, Jackson. I'm happy for me, too," Patrick laughed.

"We have several people calling to see if we're open today. You should make lots of tips today. Matt said that he and Gina will be here at two. Dusty and Cheyenne will be here at four. And we have several other families. Joe and Buster are out somewhere with a family named Kennedy. Their son seems shy, maybe autistic until he gets near the horses. He seems to love them and they all love him. He even gave Gold a kiss."

"Was the son's first name Gabriel? That's the family that Miss Columbus suggested to buy my house," Patrick was curious.

"It could be. If I see them again, I will try to find out," Jackson offered.

Jim asked Patrick, "You want to get our horses and I'll grab the saddles?"

"Gold and Toranado? Or is there a different horse I should grab for me?" Patrick inquired.

Jim replied, "No, Toranado is a good horse for you to practice on."

Ryan came home early, Jackson was surprised. "Hon, what's up?"

"Washington called, I didn't get the position as the Federal Judge in Wyoming," Ryan stated.

Jackson felt bad for him, "I'm sorry to hear that, so you decided to call it a day and come home?"

"Not exactly, they want me to come to Washington for another interview," Ryan crowed. "I don't know what this interview will be for, though."

"Wait, what?" Jackson was confused. "They passed you over for Federal Judge in Wyoming, but are calling you back for an interview?"

"Like I said, they didn't really explain it, but they said that if I get this other position, I would have more prestige and a bigger salary."

"I don't care what kind of salary you make, or even if you worked for free, so long as you're happy," Jackson stated. "You know, I have enough for us, so just make sure you are happy."

Ryan avowed, "I promise; I would never consider accepting anything unless we both are happy with it. No amount of money matters unless your family is happy first."

Zac offered to drive Ryan to the airport so Jackson could be around when Joe's party returned. Jackson and Ryan said that they appreciated the offer.

Jim had the opportunity of taking Matt and Gina out. He commented to missing Gina on Saturday and was glad to see her. Matt introduced Gina to Patrick. "Patrick is a noble name," Gina commented. "It actually means Noble."

"It does?" Patrick asked.

She explained, "Yes, and since it's your dad's middle name, I am thinking of using it as part of my baby's name. James is a derivative of Jacob, so to honor him and Jake, I am thinking Jacob Patrick for the name. I guess that would include you, too."

Patrick started laughing, "I guess Dad was destined to get Jake and me, then."

"Perhaps," Gina replied, "Or just darn lucky. You both are such handsome boys and seem so well behaved."

"We try to be," Patrick confessed, "But we aren't always. You should have seen what we did to the kitchen on Friday."

Jim spoke up, "Let's just say they were trying to help prepare the batter to make pancakes. You boys didn't misbehave, you just made a mess." Jim showed Gina the pic that he took.

"Oh my," she laughed, "I think a mess is an understatement. How long did it take to clean up?"

Jim lowered and shook his head, then he chuckled, "Hours, but we had fun with the water."

Patrick added, "Dad made sure all of us were soaked."

After the ride, Matt walked over to Patrick, "Did your dad get you that bank?"

Patrick smiled, "He sure did, he said that I was born year of the monkey so he found a monkey bank. It's eating a banana and Dad used a Sharpie marker to carefully write my name on its belly. You should stop by the house sometime to see it."

Matt nodded his head, "I should. You want me to give this to you or just hand it to your dad?"

"You can give it to Dad," Patrick replied, "and thank you, Uncle Matt."

When Dusty and Cheyenne showed up, Jim teased Dusty, claiming that he only came to make sure Jim was still going to class. "It's not the only reason," Dusty declared. "Today is the last day before school starts and Chey wanted to meet Patrick."

"But you did come to see if I was still going," Jim chuckled.

Dusty responded, "Nah, you said you'd be there, so I know you will. Besides, Patrick wants to start going and I know you'll do everything you can to make it happen."

They rode over by where Vince has Patrick's Mustang. Vince was done papering the windows and had the hood up. Patrick rode up to him, "What's up with the car, Grandpa?"

Vince showed Patrick the carburetor, "I was going to run a diagnostic on it, but as soon as I spotted the carburetor, I knew it needed a good cleaning. It was badly fouled, so I'm in the process of rebuilding it. I thought about replacing the spark plugs and wires, but want to get the diagnostic done first. And your dad must have recently bought the battery; it looks brand new."

"I see you papered the windows, are you planning to paint soon?" Jim asked.

Vince explained, "Not until I know if I need to pull the engine or not. I do have fender protectors to keep from scratching the paintwork, but I don't want to take any chances. The paper also helps protect the interior from the sun."

Jim inquired, "What color are you thinking?"

Vince looked at Patrick and teased, "I was thinking maybe pink."

"NO WAY!!!" Patrick looked embarrassed, "I don't want a pink car. Pink is for girls."

Vince chuckled, "No, Zac tells me that your favorite color is red, so I'm thinking either cherry or ruby red would look good. They are close enough in color, I could do it as a two-tone and most people would have to look closely to notice the difference."

"I like both colors, but if I had to choose one," Patrick stopped to think, "I think I like ruby red maybe a little better."

They left Vince to work on the car and Jim took Dusty and Cheyenne to the lake. Dusty liked the dock and everything else. "We need to talk to Coach Jenkins and set something up early enough to enjoy this dock, unlike last year, coming in November."

Jim was ecstatic, "I know, right? That's what I told Zac on Friday, when we saw it. When I was told you were coming, I was happy because I wanted you to see this."

Dusty suggested, "Tomorrow, we have Study Hall; but Wednesday, we can suggest it. Not this weekend as it'll be Labor Day weekend, but maybe the next weekend, or one after that."

Jim suggested that they ride back so they could groom the horses and get to the dojo. Dusty didn't argue but wished he could have spent more time at the lake. He really liked the changes.

As they were riding back, Jim spotted Gerry on his horse, Midnight Rider. "How long have you been riding, Gerry? You look good in that saddle."

"Thanks," Gerry responded. "I started riding about seventeen years ago. Dad bought my first horse for my eighth birthday, June 22, 1998."

Jim was surprised, "Wow, I was little more than a month old when you got your first horse. Do you still have him?"

Gerry laughed, "SHE's still at my dad's farm. She's also Midnight Rider's Dame. I ride her when I go to visit my dad, but Midnight is my boy." He patted his horse on the side of the neck.

Jim felt embarrassed assuming Gerry's first horse was a stallion, "That's cool, enjoy your ride and thank you for the fine craftsmanship at the lake."

They made it to the dojo with just a few minutes to spare. Sensei was heading to his office as they came through the door. He asked, "And who is this fine looking gentleman?"

Jim introduced Patrick, "Sensei, this is my new son Patrick. Patrick would like to start taking classes."

"Since he's your son and you are taking classes, I can give a twenty-five percent discount for him, but I'll be foregoing the usual first four weeks free," Sensei informed Jim.

"After sixteen weeks, it'll be a savings above that anyway, so…" Jim chuckled.

Sensei went into his office, "Here's a new gi for him. We can worry about the paperwork after class. Hurry and get changed so we may begin."

Patrick took the gi and followed Jim into the locker room.  Jim and Jake started stripping at Jim's locker and Patrick asked, "Do I just use your locker or will I need my own?"

Jim answered, "If you want your own, you can use any without a lock on it and I'll buy you a lock before next week. If you just want to use mine, you can. Since you don't have a lock, I suggest you just use mine for tonight." After Jim was changed, he noticed Patrick was having trouble figuring out the gi bottoms. He showed Patrick that the longer straps go in front as they wrap completely around him whereas the shorter straps only come around and both sets tie in front.

Once Patrick was ready, they went to join the rest. Sensei stood at the front of the class. "We have several new students today, so if those that are here for the first time would like to stand over where Jake is, he's the little boy with the oversized gi, Dusty will begin teaching you the basics. Jake, even though you are too young for the class, you have been watching and learning. If you would like to help Dusty, I would appreciate it."

The entire room laughed when Jake yelled, "Yay!!!"

Sensei continued, "Jim, you have two sons over there counting Jake. Would you like to assist Dusty or would you prefer to get closer to your black belt?"

"I trust Dusty a hundred percent and I can work with them at home. I would prefer to improve myself here," Jim replied. Sensei was a bit surprised by Jim's answer but also pleased.

After class, all Patrick could talk about was what Dusty had taught him and how good Jake was. Jim acknowledged that he knew Jake was learning very quickly. Dusty had worked Jake so hard that the boy was worn out and slept on the way home. He missed Patrick and Jim talking about him.

After they got home and had supper, Jim reminded Patrick and Jake that they had school in the morning. Patrick and Jake took a shower together and went to bed. Jake didn't feel like playing in the tub. He just wanted to get clean and get to sleep.

In the morning, Zac had breakfast ready early. He woke Jim up before heading downstairs so Jim could shower. Jim walked into the kitchen commenting, "Morning, I had the most amazing dream. I was sleeping beside the most handsome man in the world and then I woke up to discover him in my kitchen fixing breakfast."

"I don't know about most handsome in the world, especially since the guy I was sleeping beside makes me look like dog chow," Zac quipped.

"You, my love," Jim stated, "are definitely not dog chow. And if you are, arf, arf."

Patrick walked into the kitchen, "I can't go to school today, I just got nauseated from watching two lovebirds in the kitchen."

"You know that you love seeing us so much in love," Zac responded.

Patrick gave them a smile and said, "I'm not sure who's worse, you or the way my parents were. Are you sure, they didn't take over your bodies? And yes, you do make me happy knowing that you love each other." Jim mussed Patrick's hair. "Please, it took me an hour to get it perfect and you messed it up in 2 seconds."

Jim mused, "Zac, remind me to get some lipstick so I can draw lips on this boy's cheek and really embarrass him."

"I love you, Dad, but if you do, I'll tell everyone that you're straight," Patrick kidded.

Jim laughed, thinking, what a threat. Then he informed Patrick, "Not that that is much of a threat, but I wouldn't purposely embarrass you, anyway."

Zac averred, "Your classes start at seven thirty, Patrick's start at seven thirty and Jake needs to be in his kindergarten class at seven forty-five. I can run both boys to school on my way to the ranch. Jackson knows I won't be in until eight. He has someone coming to inspect the house at eight and may actually get in it a week earlier than expected."

Jim remarked, "That's cool. Have you seen the inside of that house? It looks better than I imagined it would, and I imagined it awesome to begin with."

"Yes," Zac replied, "If we don't get that house, when we are ready to build our own, I want to use Gerry to build it. He did an amazing job."

After eating, Jim placed his dishes in the dishwasher and headed for class. Zac took Patrick to school and went into the office to let them know Patrick's last name changed. He showed them the adoption certificate as proof. The secretary made a copy and thanked Zac for keeping them updated. Before Zac left, she asked, "How is Patrick doing? I would hate to think what I would be like if I were in his shoes."

"He's a typical eleven-year-old who lost his parents and in a week's time found another set of parents who he knows loves him. He has his good days and bad days, but overall, I think he's handling it. I know he's still hurting, but he puts on a front. I do appreciate your concern."

"I shouldn't be here if I didn't care about the students and their families," the secretary declared.

Zac concurred, "I couldn't agree more; I wish more schools had secretaries like you." And Zac headed out so he could get Jake to kindergarten.

They found Jake's classroom and Jake was nervous about going in. Zac advised him that he had nothing to worry about and either he or Daddy would be here to pick him up when his class was over. "You promise? You're not just leaving me here, are you?"

"Buddy, you, Daddy and I talked about this. When you started living with us, you were looking forward to being in school just like Daddy, remember?" Jake nodded his head. "This is school and I promise, one of us will be here, or maybe both of us, when school is over for you. Look, over there is a boy playing with Lego's. Maybe you can help him build something."

"OK," Jake sadly agreed. It almost broke Zac's heart leaving the boy, but he knew it had to happen. He heard Jake introduce himself, "Hi, I'm Jake Bolt, can I help you build something?"

"My name is Chase, Chase LeDoux Dubois. We just moved here from Cheyenne a few months ago. What should we build?"

At Cody Middle School, Patrick's teacher called attendance, "Patrick, I just received a memo and understand that your last name changed to Bolt. Is that correct?"

"Yes, Ma'am," Patrick answered without giving any details.

The teacher spoke gently, "I'm sorry to hear about your parents, if you ever need to excuse yourself, let me know."

"Thank you, Ma'am, but I know my parents would want me to just do the best I can and…" Patrick couldn't finish his sentence. He didn't cry, but he was obviously still hurting.

"I understand," the teacher simply said.

One boy sitting at the back of the room said, "I heard his parents ran into that drunk because they didn't want to be around him anymore."

Patrick snapped a pencil in half and ran out of the room. As he went through the door, he overheard the teacher, "Tobias Maelstrom, you know that is not true and I will not have you bullying a student in this classroom. Grab your things and we will go to the principal's office immediately."

"I prefer Toby and it is true, my dad told me so himself, and he's a deacon at the church," the boy claimed.

"Tobias, I said to grab your things." Patrick heard what sounded like desks being pushed and then the teacher came out of the class room with a hand on the boy's shoulder. "I'm sorry, Patrick, his actions were uncalled for and I'm sure you know your parents loved you very much. Would you like for me to call someone to come get you?" Patrick just shook his head and started back for the classroom.

Toby looked at Patrick and started to talk, "I'm sorry too. I'm sorry that your parents d… Owwwww, that hurt. Wait until my father hears about this and you get fired."

The teacher looked at Toby, "I'll be sure to tell him just as soon as he comes to pick you up."

Patrick thought Toby looked scared and that made him feel sorry for the boy. Toby looked at the teacher, "You're going to call my dad? Please don't, he'll kill me. I only said what I did because my parents tell me all the time that they wish they could get away from me." Now Patrick really felt bad for him.

"Dude, I was lucky, I had parents who wanted to be with me all the time. My dad was teaching me how to repair the first car he ever owned and said it would be mine on my sixteenth birthday," Patrick stated. "Now, I have new parents who have shown me in a week that they love me just as much."

"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said what I did. Just this morning, my mom said that she was glad school was starting so she didn't have to look at me for a few hours," Toby started crying.

The teacher looked at Toby, "If Patrick can forgive you, I won't take you to the principal's office, but I do want to call CPS to investigate these allegations. If what you say is true, they are abusing you in the worst possible way."

"Is there any way that they can investigate without my parents finding out? I'm scared what might happen," Toby was starting to shake.

I hope you enjoy the story and that it draws you in, wanting more. If you have any suggestions or concerns, don’t hesitate to email me.  Thoughts and suggestions are always welcomed and may or may not be implemented. Concerns will be considered and addressed as much as possible.

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