The Doctor Gets a Visitor
by: E Walk

(Copyright 2007 by the Author)
Editor: Radio Rancher
 

The author retains all rights. No reproductions are allowed without the author's consent. Comments are appreciated at...

 

Chapter 45
Seeds Are Planted

We entered the Linens and Things store and Jeff said, “Dad, you and Bobby take Spencer; Uncle Josh and Uncle Ben, you go with Tyler and you four with attitudes go with Kevin. Everyone is to pick out bed things for a double bed and make sure you get everything to make the rooms look the way they want them. Drew and Kenny you see if you can find something to make the Punk’s room so it fits him. Now scatter and meet me at the check out counter in 30 minutes.”

Jeff was standing in front of the checkout area with a cart full of things when we started to come back. Drew and Kenny were the next to arrive. Drew said, “Jeff, I can pay for these things myself. Remember I got paid yesterday.”

“Fine.” said Jeff.

The rest of us started to arrive with Bobby, Spencer and me being the last to arrive. Bobby said, “I can’t imagine what it would be like to take Spencer to the dentist.”

“What do you mean?” asked Jeff.

“He kept insisting he didn’t want any of these things, since he didn’t think he was going to even have a bed. Finally your Dad said, ‘I’ll just go get a nice Barbie Doll set then.’ Boy, did he get with the program.”

“We had to threaten to pick out Lion King bedding, before we could get Tyler to make his choices.” said Josh.

“When Lash started to pick up The Wizard of Oz things, I decided I better get my bottom moving.” said Kevin.

Jeff started to hand the things to the young lady, and when Spencer saw what they cost, he said, “I decided I’m sleeping on the floor. Take these things back.”

Josh and Ben guided him outside and were sitting with him in the van. When we got there, he had settled down, but still didn’t look very happy. Jeff whispered something in his ear and Spencer started to smile. Jeff asked, “Does anyone want to go anywhere else?”

Drew asked, “Could we go to Barnes and Noble; it's right over there? I want to get a biography on Andrew Jackson.”

Everyone got in their assigned vehicles and moved across the street. As we were entering, Ben said, “We’re going to the coffee shop and get a cup of cappuccino. Everyone meet us there when they’re ready to go.”

The three teachers, Lash and I joined them. When we sat down, Paul said, “I feel like I have been in some sort of weird dream this weekend. I think I saw some more of that nonverbal, between the Doctor and Jeff when the guys were talking about their birthdays. I’m betting the guys are going to have one big party.”

“I think your right.” said Josh. “I’m just amazed at how intelligent and mature Spencer is, especially for someone who has had such a tough life. I can almost visualize him being a very good student who takes care of his friends.”

Mark interjected, “He is probably the most intelligent student I have, but you’d never know, the way he acts in class, and he is always taking care of everyone else in the class.”

We were interrupted when the others started to join us. Jeff had a book on music appreciation, Drew had his biography, and Tyler had a book on interior designs. Spencer and Bobby came zipping up to us and Spencer asked, “May I get this? I want to see if it as sad as the book. When Mr. Bressler finished the book, the class started to cry.”

Jeff looked at it and said, “Excellent choice young friend, but be prepared to cry.”

Ben said, “Guys, take my card, and you can save another 10%. We’ll meet you at the front of the store. Everyone met up and Jeff said, “Uncle Ben, your card is going to expire the end of the month.”

Ben went and renewed his card for another year. When he came back, he handed his keys to Tyler and said, “Stud, you drive the van with Mark and Matt and Paul and Lash. Mark and Matt are sure that the guys are ready to pass there driving tests. Spencer and Bobby will ride with Kenny and Jeff. Josh and I will ride with the Doctor and Drew.”

“Don’t worry Kenny, Bobby and I will ride shotgun and pee on anyone who gets too close.” Everyone was standing there in front of Barnes and Noble nearly bent over.

We climbed into our assigned vehicle and Kenny led us back to the house. When we got to the house, Jeff said, “Okay, everyone inside.”

When we got in the house, Jeff said, “I want to thank you all for helping today, and going with us. We certainly had some interesting lessons.”

Just then Sammy and the guys came piling in with Toby. “Doctor Dad, may I call Chris and ask him to come over?” asked Mickey.

“Sure.” I answered.

“Can I go to Dana and David's house, they have asked Candy and me to have dinner there?” asked Sammy.

Jeff said, “Is your homework done? Are Aunt Nancy and Uncle Norm going to be there? If the answer to both questions is yes, then you may go, but be home by 8:45.” Jeff said.

Spencer asked, “Doctor Dad, can we watch my new DVD on your television?”

“Yep.” I answered

Josh and Ben said, “We need to get going back to Norfolk.”

“Could you take me to Grams’ house? I have home work for this week. Speaking of homework, what are we doing for driver’s education tomorrow?” asked Drew.

Jeff answered, “I thought each of us should find two websites that talk about driving safety issues. And then we can share them and discuss them. How does that sound?”

“That sounds like a good lesson.” Matt answered.

“I think that on Tuesday, everyone should be prepared to take a written test on the driver’s manual, and we’ll see how everyone does.”

Josh and Ben left with Kenny and Drew, after they had given their email address to Jeff. Tyler asked, “Kevin, can we go to your house, so I can do my homework on your computer?” Kevin nodded and they left.

Lash said, “This has been a very fun and interesting afternoon and weekend. I’m not sure I really believe everything that has happened.”

Paul said, “We need to go home and get the cows milked.”

“Yeah, like either of you would know how.” I laughed.

“Well we do have two dogs.” pouted Lash.

“I thought you said they were house trained and besides, you have them in a heated kennel.” I answered.

Lash said, “We’re leaving, since everyone is picking on us. Thanks for the wonderful time.” Everyone had gone except Mark and Matt when Mick came in with Chris.

Chris said, “Mark, Mom and Dad want you to bring your friend home. They want to see who you are spending so much time with. I think Mr. Baldwin is really cute, and I can understand why you might like him. Mom and Dad aren’t blind with what’s going on.”

The four 10 year olds came roaring down the stairs and Teddy asked, “Doctor Dad, can we have a 7Up and some popcorn and eat it and drink while we watch the movie?”

“Yes, and this is Chris, Mr. Bressler’s brother. Maybe he and Mickey would like to join you.” Jeff answered.

“What are you guys watching?” asked Chris.

“Old Yeller.” Bobby answered.

Mickey and Chris looked at each other and Mickey answered, “If you don’t mind too older men, we would like to.”

“When you start to shave, you can say that and not before. Now let’s get our sodas and popcorn.”

Jeff turned to Mark and then me and said, “Dad, you know Marks’s parents right?”

I nodded yes.

“Then why don’t you call them and ask them over for a visit. That way Matt can meet them on neutral ground, and we will see how to go from there.” Jeff said.

I called and talked to Amy and asked them over. I told them the two guys were here with their friends and they want you to meet their friends.

They arrived shortly and Mark introduced everyone. He introduced Jeff by saying, “This is Doctor Wilson’s son, Jeff who is known as the Boss.” Jeff hugged them both and then Mark said, “This is Matt Baldwin. He is a teacher at the high school, and also coaches the swim team. I met him when we both started teaching. We have been working with Tyler and Kevin while they were remodeling Mrs. Baxter’s house.”

“Okay, but why haven’t you been home for meals lately?” asked Amy.

“Jeff has been feeding us with the rest of his family and friends. Last night we ate at Mrs. Tillison’s for dinner, and today we went to Omaha to the Red Lobster.” Mark answered and added. “Matt and I even made over a hundred dollars, by helping Tyler.”

Rich asked, “When did you start singing at church? You always keep saying you don’t like to sing. You guys must have spent a lot of time practicing.”

Matt started to laugh, “I’m sorry to be laughing, sir. But none of the six of us knew we were going to be singing until we were directed by the Boss to get your you know whats to the basement yesterday. The entire group of us that sang this morning spent an hour maximum practicing, and you saw the result this morning since you must have been in church.”

Rich looked at me and said, “Jack, these guys aren’t telling us the truth are they?”

“Yes, everything they have said is absolutely true. I was there, and I know for sure that Lash and Paul had no idea what hit them. Jeff didn’t even know until Friday that he would be playing the organ or providing the special music.” I assured him.

“I think Jeff had better make an appointment with me.” Rich said.

Before anyone could answer, six young guys came down the stairs in tears.

Spencer hopped on Jeff’s lap, Teddy crawled unto mine, Toby crawled onto Mark’s, and Matt picked Bobby up and held him. Chris went to his mother and Mr. Rich Bressler pulled Mickey close.

“Okay, someone spill, why are you all crying?” asked Jeff.

“The movie ended and it was so sad.” sobbed Spencer. “It was even worse than the book.” All of a sudden Spencer stopped, when he realized that there were strangers. He hopped down and said, “I’m Spencer Knight, right now my brother and I are living here with Doctor Wilson. When Mr. Bressler and Mr. Baldwin help us finish the work on Mrs. Baxter's house, we will be moving there.”

Mr. Rich Bressler said, “We are Mark and Chris’s parents.”

Spencer blew them away and said, “Now I understand why you have two great looking sons. This is Jeff’s half brother, Teddy, and these are our special friends Toby Thompson, and Bobby Knight. I guess you already know Chris and Mickey.”

Spencer turned to Jeff and me and asked, “Would it be okay if we take these two older men downstairs and kick their bottoms on the video games and then we’ll come up and fix a meal. I think we should just have tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches with some fruit, since we had such a big lunch. Mr. Monster Dog and Mr. Mighty Mouse are staying, so Mr. and Mrs. Bressler, why don’t you join us too, since we have six young dudes to take care of you six feeble older people.”

“If it okay with Doctor Wilson, it might be fun.” Mrs. Bressler answered.

“Please stay.” I said.

The young guys disappeared and about 15 minutes later, Spencer came and said, ”Mrs. Bressler, I feel the need for a hug and kiss. Will you hold me and kiss me, like you would Chris?”

“Of course, come here young man.” She pulled him close and hugged him tight and gave him a light kiss on the cheek.

“Wow. You’re almost as good as Doctor Dad. Would you give Monster Dog and Mighty Mouse lessons? They have no idea how to make people feel loved. They’re afraid to put any emotion into a hug. Now I have some questions.” Spencer said.

“First Mr. Bressler, Chris says you have a house like Doctor Dad, with four bedrooms and three bathrooms upstairs, and that you and Mrs. Bressler sleep in the suite downstairs. Am I correct?” asked Spencer.

“Yes.” answered Rich.

“Mrs. Bressler, Chris says he has a sister in college who will be graduated in May and will be getting married this summer and moving to St. Louis; is that correct?” asked Spencer.

“Yes.” answered Amy.

“Now Mr. Baldwin, how much do you pay for rent each month?” Spencer asked.

“$750 a month for a one room efficiency.” Matt answered.

“How much are your utility bills each month?” Spencer asked.

“I budget $150 but they usually go over.” Matt answered.

“How much do you budget for food each month?” asked Spencer.

“I eat cereal and a banana for breakfast and have a sandwich for lunch and then pick up some fast take out food for dinner, because I’m a terrible cook and can’t do any grilling in the apartment, so I guess I spend $300.00 plus a month.”

“Then you have car insurance and repairs, right?” Spencer said. “So how much does that leave you for fun and savings?

“Maybe a $100.00 if I’m lucky.” Matt answered.

“Okay, Jeff boss, you go get ready for your classes tomorrow, since you are being too quiet. Doctor Dad, you fix these nice people a cocktail, and I’ll start dinner.” Spencer directed.

Jeff went to the music room and started to play the piano and almost immediately Chris went in and sat down beside him. He didn’t say a word but just watched every move that Jeff made. I got the drink orders and when I was delivering them with the crackers and cheese that Spencer had fixed, Mrs. Bressler said, “I take it Spencer is a handful in class.”

Mark started to laugh and said, “Mom, of all the children in my class, he is the one least likely to get in trouble. He is a natural leader, and many times steps in and prevents things from becoming a major problem.”

“He sure doesn’t mince any words. He gets right to the point and makes you think the ideas are your own.” said Rich. He turned to me and said, “I didn’t know you had a family.”

“Neither did I until Christmas Eve Day. I’ll explain it sometime, when we have an hour or more.” I answered.

The older Bressler’s were talking primarily about his background when Spencer came in and said, “Monster Dog, go tell the clowns downstairs to go to the bathroom and wash their hands. Mighty Mouse, you get the Boss and Chris in shape, and Doctor Dad, you show Mr. and Mrs. Bressler where the bathroom is, and I want everyone ready in five minutes.”

We all assembled in the dining room and Spencer said, “You old timers sit down please. Chris and Mick, take the drink orders and you other three put the soup on the table.”

Everyone went to work and when everyone had finished the soup, Spencer and the other three ten year olds went to work and cleared the dishes and served the sandwiches with a dill pickle slice and a few chips and a big bowl of fresh and canned fruit.

Everyone started to eat, and Mark said, “I thought you said we were having grilled cheese sandwiches. This sandwich has bacon and tomato on it. You didn’t tell us we were going to be eating gourmet.”

“”I’m sorry you don’t like it sir. I can make you a boring grilled cheese sandwich.” Spencer said, as he got up.

Chris spoke up and said, “Spen, man, the dude is being his usual nasty self. He can’t stand anything new, or any surprises. Now Mark, be quiet and eat. Mom, put this in your recipe bank.”

Everyone was busy eating and visiting, when out of the blue, Spenser asked, “Mr. Baldwin, may I ask you some questions?”

“Of course Tiger, I may not know the answers, but I’ll try my best.” Matt answered.

“Number one, Mr. Murphy is the assistant baseball coach, and he gets paid, right? “Spencer asked. Matt nodded yes.

“Okay, there are approximately how many on a baseball team?” Spencer asked.

“I would guess between 20 and 25.” Matt answered.

“And how many people do you have on the swim and diving teams?” Spencer pushed.

“I think there are 47 or 48 since I might be getting a new member tomorrow.” Matt answered.

“So you have two activities to monitor at the same time, by yourself. Now here’s what I think you should do.

1. Find out if you are authorized an assistant.
2. If you are, find out how much the position pays.
3. Check to see if the position has to be filled by a high school teacher, or any qualified teacher.”

“Now Mr. Bressler, I noticed yesterday that you were a good swimmer and had good form when you dove into the pool. I gather you had some training.” Spencer said.

“I swam and dove in high school, but was never really competitive because of my asthma.” Mark answered.

Mrs. Bressler said, “Mark was born with chronic asthma, and has to have an inhaler with him at all times.”

“Wait a minute.” said Bobby. “How come we have never seen you use an inhaler?”

“He tries very hard to not let people know he uses one, and goes somewhere so people don’t see him use it.” said Chris. “He is so vain and stubborn sometimes.”

Everyone stopped talking and Spencer looked around and asked, “Why is everyone so quiet? I really didn’t mean for everyone to stop talking.”

“Spencer sir, we were so busy paying attention to the lesson on manipulation, that we didn’t want to interrupt.” Mr. Bressler said.

“What does manipulation mean?”

Toby said, “I think it is a big word for getting people to do what you want, and making them think it was their idea.”

Spencer thought about that, then said, “I have one more question. Mr. Bressler, what is your profession?”

“Mr. Knight, I am a neurosurgeon. “Rich answered.

“Let’s see, if neuro means refers to the nervous system, and a surgeon is person who operates on people, so you must be a doctor.” Spencer said.

“Guilty.” said Rich.

“Guys, that’s going to make it so much easier for us. When we want to talk to Chris’s father, we can call him Doctor Bressler or Doctor B. When we want to talk to Chris’s brother, we can call him either Mr. Bressler or Mr. Monster Dog and no one should be confused.”

“Mrs. Bressler I think you still might have a problem when people call and ask for the M. D. Bressler. I guess you just have to ask if the want to talk to the doctor or the dog.” Mickey laughed.

Amy started to laugh and said, “You have a good point there, and to make matters worse, Mark’s middle name is David.”

Bobby said, “So, if we call him Mr. M. D. Bressler no one would know whether we were talking about Mark David or Monster Dog, right?”

Spencer got a very serious look on his face and said, “Mr. Baldwin would I be correct to assume that maybe your full name is something like Matthew Morton Baldwin?”

“You know that you are actually very close. You just have the wrong vowels. It is really Matthew Martin Baldwin.” Matt answered.

Spencer turned to Jeff and asked. “Jeff, you haven’t heard a word that was said. I could almost see and feel the neurons or water racing around your eyes and head. Relax, and everything will get done and it all doesn’t happen before tomorrow.”

“I guess I should apologize. Spencer is right. I have been sitting here trying to figure out how to get everything done. Speaking of that, Matt, I really don’t think I’ll have time to review the tapes before practice tomorrow. Now Spencer, I think you need to apologize to Mr. Mark Bressler for the severe roasting you gave him.” Jeff said.

Spencer got up and put his arms around Mark and said, “Sir, please don’t be mad at me. I really don’t want you to be upset with me.”

Mark turned so he could hug Spencer. He pulled him close and said, “Spencer, I know I've been roasted. I think it is a good thing Tyler wasn’t here, or you probably wouldn’t be in school for a week.”

“Yeah, and when I got back I would probably still have to stand at the back of the classroom, because I was unable to sit down.” Spencer laughed.

The two hugged each other and Spencer started to clear the table.

To be continued...
 

Feedback always welcome:     

 

Editor's Note:

That Spencer is one smart cool amazing kid, and I can't help loving him to pieces. When the story first started, I am sure Jeff was my favorite, but in the last several chapters I have just fallen head over heels for Spencer. Right now Spencer is my favorite, hands down. I am ready to read the next chapter and find out what happens next.

Darryl
AKA The Radio Rancher

Posted: 05/18/07