Colin and his Hitchhikers
By: Jon Stewart
(© 2019 by the author)

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

jstewart@tickiestories.us

Chapter 4
Custody

Colin returned after the dog's pee. Josh patted the bed between himself and Jimmy. Shep jumped up on the bed licked Josh and then Jimmy and put his head down on the pillow. The boys had their skimpy undies on for bed; they turned on their side to pet Shep who was loving the attention. Pops went and petted Shep's head and kissed each boy on his head.

"Pops thanks for getting us Shep." Jimmy said.

"Yeah, thanks Pops, he is a great dog." Josh added.

Shep, seemed not to not want to be left out and barked, WOOF. Everyone laughed.

Pops turned off the light but took a picture of the boys with their cute butts and all, them petting Shep.

He sent it off to Mrs. Galuchi with the caption," I hope you are not offended by the boys sleeping in their underwear. I just wanted to show you how Shep has moved right in to our little family." Being used to the scarring on Josh's back Colin didn't think to give any explanation.

He immediately got back, "OMG, a beautiful picture but what happened to Josh's back."

Colin reply.. "I saw but didn't think about his back being exposed. How stupid of me; a senior moment... late... and the brain not working. I am not at liberty to go into details, there are legal technicalities involved. I will tell you when the issues are resolved."

Mrs. Galuchi, "No wonder Shep treated him so gently, I'm so sorry for Josh."

Colin, "Hopefully retribution will start very soon"

"Thank you, for the picture, they are just lovely together. I am so happy you got Shep."

Colin cleaned up a bit. Picked up the pop corn dishes and put them the dishwasher, picked up the bathroom, the boys left their towels on the floor. Closed up the house and headed to bed.

Colin got up for his middle of the night pee. He checked on the boys. Two humans and one canine all sleeping soundly; he smiled. Back to bed for you old man, he thought.

Morning came around kind of cloudy. Colin got up; he needed to get busy cleaning his little house for Robbie and Chris. A fast shower, he thought maybe by myself. As he was finishing, he kind of missed the boys. Two days in a row taking their shower with him kind of opened up the day. Oh well he quickly dressed, got a cup of coffee and went to work dusting and vacuuming. He put out clean towels in the bath and got out clean sheets to change the sheets on the boys bed which Robbie and Chris always used. They were actually sleeping in this morning. Colin took that as a good sign.

About 9:30 Jimmy was peeing in the bathroom. "Hey what cha doing?"

"Cleaning up for Robbie and Chris. We've been so busy I didn't even think about it. Do you want me to make something for you or just the cereal that you picked out at the market?"

"Just cereal will be great; you're busy and cooking will just add to the work."

"Thank you for thinking like that. It shows you care; very good Jimmy."

"Hey Pops you been the best thing that happened in mine and Josh's life, since our daddy died. It'd be stupid and mean not to care about you."

Colin went over and gave Jimmy a little hug. "Even Shep's sleeping in with Josh."

"Nah, he's awake, he is just licking Josh and making those little crying noises. Josh is sucking up all his attention. Me I don't count. I understand why but it don't make it feel better."

"Why don't you beat Josh and take Shep out to do his pee. I bet he'll like that; must have to go a lot since last night."

"Thanks Pops, I'll do that." He was off.

"Maybe put something on your feet and a jacket and some pants or jeans."

Jimmy was back with his warm winter jacket and flip flops.

"No pants!!! BOY what am I gonna do with you."

"Love me Pops, it gets better. Come on Shep lets pee."

Colin got an upsetting image in his mind. He yelled after Jimmy, " "Jimmy you do your pee in the house...hear me...no need for you peeing outside.....Jeeze!"

Josh paddled around the corner. "What wrong, Pops? You were yelling."

Pops smiled at Josh, "Hey good morning, just your brother, outside with no pants, I guess I should be happy he has underwear on and he said to Shep come on lets go pee. So I'm betting he's peeing where Shep is." Pops had to laugh. "Thank God this is a very private property."

Josh laughed too, "Yup you'll have your hands full with him, Pops. I'm glad you took him off my hands."

"You sound just like a grown up, Josh." Josh hugged Pops, "Not yet Pops, I got a lot of baseball to play."

Pops was 100% right. Jimmy was pissing everywhere Shep did. Shep was kind of marking his territory and went back and pissed on top of Jimmy's piss. Josh and Pops watched from the window. They had to laugh.

A car pulled down the long drive. Robbie and Chis had made it.

Josh saw. "Do I need to get dressed, Pops. I just don't feel like it and I gotta shower."

"Jeeze, you must be catching your brother's nature boy, sickness. Not if you don't wanna. Whatever happened with modesty?" Pops answered scratching his head.

Colin went and opened the door. Robbie and Chris were walking up to the front door. "Hi, hey how you doing. How was the ride?" Colin asked.

Robbie responded. "Good, traffic was light, so a great ride."

They exchanged hugs all around. Colin said, "We got a little late start this morning. The boys haven't got to their showers yet. Hence the bed time attire."

"Fine by us," Chris said. "So who's who?"

Colin put his hand on Josh's shoulder, "This is Josh and Jimmy has Shep over there."

"Say Jimmy do you know why Shep peed on your pee?"

"Ohh, ahh you saw that. Sorry, I wan't expecting anyone, yet." Jimmy said quietly.

"Doesn't bother me. I thought, it was cute but Shep he's kind of serious about marking his territory. So that's why every time you peed, he peed on top of it. Of course in the winter if you can bear it; he'll pee faster if you pee first."

"Jeeze, Chris what are you tellin the kid; his dick "It'll get froze and Colin will come looking for you,"

They all laughed. It was a good ice breaker

Jimmy scratched his head, "Guess, I'll pee inside like you said, Pops."

"Better than having a froze dick and everyone thinking you got a boner." Chis added.

That got the group falling down, laughing.

"Well, I think the boys were just about to take showers, aren't you guys."

"Nope, I wanna stay and talk about dicks." Jimmy said.

Robbie shot Chris a look that said... look at what you started.

"Talking about dicks usually gives me a boner" Josh added not wanting to be left out.

Colin looked at Chris with a quizzical ... what ya going to do now Mr. Psychologist.

Chris growled, "GGGRRR maybe we'll eat you cause you only got skimpy undies on unless you get showered and dressed."

Shep barked and showed his fangs. Chris blinked and backed up. Josh hugged Shep. "It's ok Shep his was just playing, its ok fella."

"Wow, that's some protective dog you got there, Josh." Robbie said.

"Yep Shep's the best we just got him yesterday and he is our best friend after Pops"

"I'm glad; I got into the conversation, thanks Josh."

"Come on Jimmy, I think we should go shower before Shep eats someone. I'm only teasing Chris, you guys are kool."

"Josh, please, please tell the dog that."

"Maybe, we'll think about it." Jimmy said.

"Come on Jimmy don't be start 'in anymore trouble."

The boys went to shower. Of course they fit together in the shower, easily. Two minutes later the water was heard splashing and boys giggling.

"How about coffee?" Colin offered. As he went to the coffee machine.

Chris and Robbie nodded and sat down at the table. "Maybe I went overboard with the frozen dick." Chris offered.

"MAYBE!! MAYBE??? Robbie asked.

"Come on boys love talking about their dicks what better way to get acquainted. He did say he would pee inside didn't he. So there, one point for my side."

"They aren't really shy, at least not that I noticed." Colin said. "Especially Jimmy jumped right into the shower with me the next morning."

"HMM, "Chris said blinking his eyes. "I did tell you my area of expertise is with adults, didn't I?"

"Stop trying to cop out, "Robbie said.

"Well, I know one thing I'm not going to growl any more with Shep around. He is a beautiful animal Colin. "

"Yeah, he took to the boys right away. Especially Josh, he senses that he is hurting. He'll jump on Jimmy and play a little rough with him but not Josh. He is amazing. The breeder said he is very smart. She wants me to bring him back to breed when he is older. Last night he slept with them and there were no bad dreams or any other issues. I told you Josh had regressed yesterday morning but not this morning he sounded so grown up saying in essence Jimmy was my problem now."

"Well want to know what I know?"

"Please, Robbie."

The ploy the sheriff used to get a sample of Brown's DNA worked. They got it and it will be analyzed Monday first thing and compared to the sperm sample. Derik is hoping in time to have Brown arrested at the hearing. And yes it is Monday. Going over the boys files. They have an uncle, a half brother of Tim's out in Colorado as well as his mom, the boy's grandmother is there. The mother is at a sanatorium outside of Rochester. The mom obviously can't take them and the uncle caring for the grandmother as well as his own kids said he couldn't. Do you want to tell them about the family in Colorado?"

"Yes of course, we can't hide that from them. They need to know they have blood relatives and where they are. Once, I have custody maybe I'll take them to visit."

"You're talking pretty confident there buddy."

"Hey you are the best, Doc Elsberry is the best and the way you talk of Derik Pulaski he is excellent. Why shouldn't I be confident? Besides I don't want to think any other way."

The boys done with their showers and dressed came into the room. "Confident about what?" Josh asked.

"About getting custody and keeping you, my soon to be foster son."

"Kool.... can I have breakfast now?" Josh asked.

"Say we passed a pancake house as we came in. I am just dying for blueberry pancakes with whipped cream on them, how about it guys, my treat, please?" Robbie asked.

"Do we have to go to make him happy?" Jimmy asked while licking his lips. "Do they got waffles too with ice cream on them Robbie?"

"I think so."

"Ok just to keep you happy I'll go."

"Josh?"

"Oh, I can't say no. Robbie asked so nice. If I gotta eat all that sweet stuff; I'll bear it."

"Boy you got yourself a couple of con men here, Colin." Chris added.

"Don't I know it."

So they piled into the Tesla. The pancake house was to be invaded. "You know Robbie, I try to feed these guys healthy food. Tonight I planned to grill some salmon."

"OK they can only go to the pancake house when I come up. Deal guys?"

Josh and Jimmy said "Ya gotta come up a lot then."

"We plan to," Chris said.

"We are gonna be here tomorrow to... we might have to sneak out if old health nut is watching."

"Hey, don't talk bad about our Pops." Jimmy said.

"I was just teasing Jimmy, but I'll say I'm sorry right now. Sorry Colin, you are a health nut in only the best way, so we don't get sick, and stay strong and live a good long life. Thank you for being the way you are. It's just that I do like my pancakes. And I like the way you stick up for your Pops, Jimmy."

"Whatcha ya think Jimmy is that apology good enough."

"Yeah, I think he is just a little pancake crazy."

Jimmy did have waffles with ice cream and pineapple sauce - two orders. "Ya know Robbie, if we have to sneak out tomorrow; Josh is pretty good at it. He snuck us away from that mean Brown farm."

"So I heard, I want to talk to you guys about that but let's wait till we get back ok?"

"Ok," Josh said.

"I do have some news, is it ok if I tell them about Colorado, Colin."

"Yes, of course."

"Going through your records I found out about some relatives you have in Colorado. Do you know about them?"

Josh said, "No, nobody told us about them."

"Well, you have an uncle and his wife, which would be your aunt and two cousins out there. Your grandmother on your dad's side is also there. They were very sad that they didn't have room for you in their house."

"That's ok, you are gonna fix it that we stay with Pops, aren't ya Robbie?" Josh said.

"That is the plan, Colin is not a foster parent so the state, Division of Child Services, they might have an argument but it's happened several times in the past."

"I was telling Robbie, I am confident about getting custody so lets not worry. After, I thought, it would be good, if your Uncle agrees to a visit by us. It'll be a nice trip in the summer and always good to know where you have family. Besides that I hope you'll be able to visit your mother in Rochester, too. She is in a hospital up there."

With tears in his eyes Josh said, "I would like to visit, my mama. I know she can't take care of us but to see her every once in a while would be nice, thanks Pops, you are the best."

"Well, I think we would have to call first to see if it was alright to visit, but sure I would take you."

"Robbie, I don't think we'll have to sneak out to come here again. This is a good place to come. Pops will eat his pancakes and complain but smile on the inside."

"Josh, you are a most amazing and perceptive young man."

"Hey, what about me?" Jimmy said.

Pops sad, "Jimmy, you amaze me every day about 10 times a day."

"Is that always in a good way Pops?"

"MMM, probably about 9 times out of 10 which is very good."

"As good as Josh"

"Ohh, right now you are amazing me in a good way, because you already know I love you and Josh the 100% the same. What do ya say; we pay the bill and head home."

They got up and Jimmy hugged Pops.

Josh went by Robbie and gave him a hug, "Thanks for helping Pops to keep us. I don't like calling adults by their first names and I sure don't want to call you mister. Can I call you my uncle, both you and Chris?"

"I would be most honored, Josh thank you so much it means a lot to me."

Chris said, "Colin got hugged, you got hugged, Robbie, guess I'm gonna have to wait for Shep to hug me."

With that both Josh and Jimmy gave Chris a hug. "Happy now UNCLE Chris?"

Smiling one of those Laurel smiles from Laurel and Hardy, Chris said, "YES I AM"

The drive back to the house was uneventful. When they opened the door Shep jumped and ran around so excited to see them home. He jumped up on Jimmy and knocked him down and kissed him over and over again. Again he only licked Josh's hand and when Josh went down on one knee kissed his face. He was so happy they were home. They were only gone for two hours but it was like an eternity to Shep who didn't understand, they would be back. Eventually Shep calmed down after Josh and Jimmy took him out for a walk. The sun was peeking through the clouds and it was turning out to be a pretty nice day. Shep peed a bunch of times, Josh told Jimmy he would have his thing cut off if he did it too. "You wouldn't do that. You're not mean like that."

"Just keep it in your pants or I'll tell Pops."

Jimmy did but he liked teasing his big brother.

Once inside Robbie asked, "Would now be a good time to go over the hearing on Monday."

Both boys said, "I guess so."

"I'm going to ask the judge to hear your testimony in chambers. That means you'll tell what happened in the judge's office without a whole lot of other people listening and watching; especially Mr. Brown and Mrs. Silver. They will have to stay out in the courtroom."

"That's good Mr. Brown gives me the creeps and scares me."

"That's what I figured. The clerk will put a bible in front of you and you'll have to swear on it to tell the truth. He'll ask you the question and all you have to say is I do. Then I'm gonna ask you to tell the judge what happened to you after your dad died. So lets do that. Josh do you remember when your dad died?"

"Yeah"

"Do you know how long ago that was?"

"I think bout 3 years maybe a little less."

"What happened after he died? How was your mom.?"

"She was sad all the time, all the time crying at anything. Me and Jimmy we tried different stuff to cheer her up but nothing helped. I made supper lots of times, stuff my dad showed me, mostly sandwiches. Our neighbor, Mrs. Jordan, came around a lot and she tried to help. But mom was awful sad. I missed dad too but he told me when he was away I was the man of the house and I had to take care of mom and Jimmy. Then a social worker lady came and said she had a family that wanted to take care of us until my mama got well. We went to live with the Hendersons. They were nice. We had one bedroom, their little girl had her bedroom and Mom and Dad Henderson had their room. We were there about a year, more I think. Mom & Dad Henderson told us they were having babies, twins and they were very sorry but we had to go. They cried about it and tried to give us whatever they could. A different social worker lady, Silver came and got us and took us to Brown's farm."

"Very good Josh, very good. What happened there?"

"He showed Mrs. Silver a room that he said would be ours but that never happened. I tried telling her but she always said "children are to be seen and not heard...sit down and be quiet and don't interrupt adults." After she left that first day Brown took us to a dirty room in the barn. It had two mattresses on the floor and some shelves. He said to stay in the room. There wasn't any lights or nothing. It was dark and cold Jimmy was crying and I cried too. All I could do was hold him to try to keep both of us warm. We fell asleep that way. He didn't come back until morning; we was awful hungry. He gave us some bitter coffee and said "you get food after you work." We learned to milk cows, sometimes we could get a bit of it when he wasn't looking. We had to carry heavy bags of feed for the chickens and other animals. He laughed at Jimmy cause he couldn't carry the bags. He wouldn't let them be dragged neither cause they might open and spill out. I helped Jimmy carry them. We had to feed the animals and stole a little of their food. All he gave us was one peanut butter sandwich at lunch and another at dinner. If he was feeling extra mean he took away the one at lunch."

"Was that one for each of you, Josh?"

"Nope one to share."

"It got hot in the summer so it was better and we planted corn and mucked out the barn every day. You know clean up what the cows did. We had to do our stuff there too. We could wash up after work by where the cows drank there was a hose there and we would take off our clothes and hose each other off. Then have our sandwich and water. Getting naked like that got my uhh uhh."

"Penis hard is the right words Josh, but if you can't remember use any that you know, ok?"

"Yes sir, well I played with it and this different stuff came out and I showed Jimmy but nothing came out of him. Mr. Brown caught us and said something like, "ya like to play with dicks huh, well play with this"

He took out his thing and went over to Jimmy and said for him to open his mouth and suck it. Jimmy didn't and he started hitting him till I pushed him out of the way. He said like, "Oh you want it, ask nice, say please and I'll let you taste it." I just stood there and shook my head, he was in a rage and took off his belt and started whipping me and whipping me. I didn't want to do it, but he kept hitting me I thought I was gonna die. Finally, I said it, I said "can I taste your dick."

Josh was crying now and he stopped.

Chris went over to him and hugged him, "Finish it Josh, keep telling us, you are so brave go on now."

"I hated it but I had to do it to live. It got bigger in my mouth and harder. He turned me over and put it inside of me and he kept moving it back and forth, back and forth it hurt so bad he slammed it into me then I guess he spermed. He said "he had friends that would like my ass." We ran away that night. I tried stealing food, our clothes stunk so bad and then we did too. We was kicked out before I could get anything. We dug in garbage cans until Pops found us."

"Very good Josh, how did it go with Pops."

"That night it was raining real hard, we was awful cold. I couldn't think of anything except I heard in the city they paid ya money for what Brown did to me. I sure didn't want to go; but there was nothing else. I thought if we could get to the interstate and hitch a ride. But Pops saved me and Jimmy. I had a dream from my daddy and he said to stay with Pops. In the dream he was talking to Pops and Pops said he would take care of us. And he has. Later we found out Pops knew our dad when he was a boy. He was a friend to him. I know the dream sounds weird and crazy but in it dad said stay with coach, Colin. I didn't know that Colin was a coach or that he coached my dad when he was a boy."

"So do you want another family like the Henderson's to take care of you?"

"No way, I want Pops, he loves us. I know it. He hugged me and Jimmy and said nobody was gonna hurt us ever again. I believe he would die to protect us just like our daddy would have. He tried to make my back better with ointment and it helped. He feeds us real good and cares about us. He took me to Doc Elsberry. He got us new clothes. We got a dog that when I sleep with him near, he takes away my bad dreams of Brown's farm. He got you to help us stay with him. I want him for my Pops, like he was my grandpa. My dad said to stay with him and I'm gonna do what he said. You may not believe he came back from the dead to tell me, that but I do."

"You tell it just that way Josh, exactly that way as much as you can remember."

"and Jimmy what will you say."

"I say what Josh said. I saw what Brown did to Josh and if I was bigger I woulda killed him the sick.... ; I'm not gonna use bad words. He never got us clothes like the Henderson's. He stole our money. He should be in jail and if comes around here with Shep; he'll be real sorry."

"So is it true what Josh said about how you lived there."

"He forgot the rats that came out at night and tried to eat my toes; except Josh took his shoe and killed them. Jimmy started to cry it was real bad, real bad, so bad I sometimes wished I was dead with my daddy."

"Ok very good Jimmy, real good that's all you have to say except answer any questions the judge might ask.... Josh I'm gonna ask you to show your back to the judge, will that be all right?"

"Yeah I guess so will he need to see my butt too?"

"We'll ask him that but I don't think so, almost positively."

The mood in Colin's house had changed to very somber. There was no way for it not to. Reliving the experience for Josh and Jimmy was terrifying; as well it would be for any human person. Pops said "let's take Shep for a nice long walk. Come on boys get your jackets."

They all went Josh, Jimmy, Colin, Robbie and Chris and Shep. Shep loved the outdoors and ran and played fetch with Josh and Jimmy. Pops told them all about his plans for the dock. Chris and Robbie challenged Josh and Jimmy to a relay race and lost badly. Colin tried to get Shep as his partner but that was figured to be against the rules so, they sat out. They had walked off all of the pancake house lbs as well as gotten famished. There was a bit of a chill so Pops had the boys gather wood for his outdoor warming pit. Chris went along to help out.

"How about we eat out and watch the sunset over the lake old friend? I don't think you ever seen it. It is spectacular!!"

"I'm game as long as that warming pit works."

"It does. Come help me bring out the stuff. Colin had 5 pounds of salmon filets, vegetable shish kabobs, a big box of merlot wine, a couple bottles of bubbly non alcoholic grape for the boys. The only thing to be done inside was the baked potatoes, which went into the micro wave for 6 minutes. Chris got a fantastic fire going in the pit with a good supply of additional wood. The sun started going down and beautiful shades of orange, yellow and purple shimmered over the lake. Colin had the salmon grilled to perfection with just the hint of oregano, the shish kabobs with peppers mushrooms and onions went perfect with the fish when combined with the baked potatoes slathered with sour cream and chives. The men enjoyed their wine and the boys their bubbly grape. A fine, fine dinner was enjoyed. Somber was turned back to happy. Stories were told of past camp outs with Jason. The boys were most confused when they learned that Jason was Chris and Robbie's son.

"Ok I can't stay quiet any longer. You two are gay guys. You don't like to do stuff with girls, you don't have baby making eggs do you? Can you get them somehow? Where did the baby come out? There is no way a baby, no matter how small is gonna come out of my pecker and it would be pretty poopy to come out the other hole."

All the men laughed, Josh kind of went along but it was twirling around in his head as well.

Chris said, "Good question, Jimmy, I been wondering about that myself. Robbie you wanna take that one."

Robbie finished his half full glass of wine. Scratched his head and said "it was Pop's idea; let him tell it."

He gave his Laurel, of Laurel and Hardy, head nod and smile.

"You guys tell Jason about the facts of life, yet? Wow what chicken shits. It's like this Jimmy and Josh I know you're interested too. It was truly amazing. A wondrous event, beautiful in every way. There understand, now? "

"POPS," They yelled and it echoed back across the lake... "POPS.... Pops....Pops."

"Ok boys it was artificial insemination with a surrogate mother. What is that, well Chris and Robbie did rock paper scissors for whose sperm to use and went to a doctor who took Robbie's sperm and froze it so the baby makers would stay fresh. Robbie and Chris went and found a girl to be the mother. She went to the doctor, the baby makers were unfroze and put in a needle kind of thing and pushed into the girl to find one of her eggs. The sperms did their job found an egg so your cousin Jason was created. Nine months later he came out as cute as cute could be and Chris and Robbie had the baby they wanted so badly and love to this day. Does that make sense?"

"Yeah, Pops a little weird but nice that they wanted a kid bad enough to do all that," Josh said.

"Ok so how do you guys do it, you know, make love? Ya must wanna." Jimmy asked.

Chris said, "Jimmy, you are amazing, you can ask one sensitive question after another. You have such an inquiring mind, just fantastic."

"Soooo?" Jimmy said.

Pops came to the rescue again, "Jimmy, I know you don't mean anything bad and are just curious. But it's not nice to ask about private stuff and how people make love is a private issue. Let me answer you this way there are a lot of different ways for a man to achieve release of his sperm and give pleasure to another man. When you are 15, if you still need, a how to, I'll explain it to you. Ok."

"Yes sir, I'm sorry Uncle Chris; I'm sorry Uncle Robbie. You could of just said I was too young."

"Its fine Jimmy and I love you for asking, your search for knowledge and understanding is a thing of beauty. The most important thing is and I'm sure your Pops has told you this; is you have to really care about the one you are sharing your body and love with and so too, the same goes for the other girl or boy. Don't ever forget that. Hey you wanna catch fire flies? "Chris asked.

So off Chris, Josh and Jimmy went to catch fire flies. "I didn't really realize what a big beautiful kid, Chris can be."

"Yup and ya gotta love him."

"So what do you guys do between the sheets at night?" Colin laughed.

"Ohh, you are sooo bad, Colin O'Brian."

Robbie helped Colin clean up the plates and left over food. They brought in the wine and had another glass. Chris, Shep and the boys came in rubbing their hands for heat.

"Not too many fire flies, Pops." Jimmy said.

"I didn't think there would be this late in the fall."

"I caught three" Josh said. "Then let them go they weren't hurting nothing."

Colin went and got his trivia pursuit game. "Anyone wanna play."

The game wore away the rest of the night with a lot of jokes about this and that. Bed time was upon them all too quick for the boys. It was decided that Josh, Jimmy and Shep would sleep on the pull out couch in the living room and Robbie and Chris could have their room. Colin said church would be at 10:00 tomorrow morning and all were expected. The house was locked and lights turned out after a busy and mostly enjoyable day they all slept soundly.

Colin was up with the sun and took his shower alone again. Dressed, he went out to the kitchen to start preparing breakfast. He decided on scrambled eggs, bacon, toast and coffee. His puttering aroused Josh and Jimmy.

"Can we help, "Josh asked rubbing the sleep from his eyes."

"Sure but go do your pee first. Your gonna need to go. Then who's taking Shep out. "

"Can me and Shep pee together like yesterday. Nobody is gonna see, Pops."

Colin thinking it was a cute thing rolled his eyes as Jimmy got his jacket and flip flops.

"Aren't your legs cold without pants?" Pops asked.

"Nah, not really."

Josh laughing said, "See what I've been living with for 11 YEARS!!"

"You poor, poor boy go do your stuff with the inside bathroom."

"Right Pops."

Josh back in a flash asked, "Should I start the toast now?"

"Well, go knock on Robbie and Chris's door. Tell them breakfast in 5."

"Ok"

"Robbie said "Kool, I can smell the bacon. Be there in a sec."

Josh started the toast; Jimmy was in with Shep and started the coffee. Robbie and Chris wandered out to the dining room table. A healthy breakfast was had by all.

Chris said, "A good meal makes everyone love all the more; proven psychological fact. Thanks Colin."

"Nothing to it buddy; OK, I had my shower so I am out of the equation but you four gotta get moving. Somehow I don't think those robes and skimpy undies will be acceptable attire for church."

"Could we shower with you and you wash my hair, Uncle Chris? There is enough room in Pops, shower."

Chris looked at Robbie, then Colin and finally Josh.

"When Pops washed my back it felt much better." Josh added.

Robbie looked at Colin who nodded yes. "Well, we are all boys here, so a group shower lets go." Robbie said.

Chris said, "Jimmy you are such an instigator, in a nice way." And ruffled his hair. "Ouu dirty, don't you ever wash it."

They got out of their clothes and into the shower. Robbie and Chris could not help but do a little tickling and Colin listened to the squeals from Josh and Jimmy.

Shep barked and ran to the door. "Shep says there is too much fooling around in there. Cut it out before someone slips and cracks their head."

"Yes Pops" came the reply from all four. Two bright shinny clean boys emerged with the two old timers all smiling, with towels wrapped around their middles.

"How did ya get a towel around jimmy and keep it on him."

Robbie said, "Jimmy is very, very, very ticklish on the bottom of his feet."

"Ahh gotcha.... Jimmy I know your weak spot now, better be good, nature boy. I was surprised your pecker didn't freeze up when you were peeing with Shep this morning."

"Was he doing that again, Pops?" Chris asked.

"Yup"

Chris grabbed Jimmy by his middle and flipped him upside down. Robbie grabbed one foot and Colin the other and tickling began. "You gonna pee inside or outside James O'Shea?"

Jimmy always the teaser said, "OUTSIDE... IF IT'S GOOD ENOUGH FOR SHEP IT'S GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME."

The tickling continued Jimmy was laughing and squealing uncontrollably. Finally he said, "I gotta pee, please stop."

"Where are you gonna pee?"

Chris was getting nervous fearing he was in for a golden shower.

"Where?" Pops asked again.

"Inside Pops, Inside, please no more"

Chris put Jimmy down. His towel fell off and his little butt was seen running to the toilet while holding his pecker to stop the pee. Everyone was bent over laughing, even Josh who was just an observer. They were not so much laughing at Jimmy but with him in a celebration of his beautiful youthful exuberance.

They quickly dressed and got to church on time. Nothing occurred out of the ordinary; except for the kiss of peace when Robbie kissed Chris full on the mouth. The boys kissed their uncles and of course Pops, who all kissed them back. Jimmy looked to Josh and puckered up and a shocked Josh was kissed by his little brother.

Jimmy whispered, "I know I am mostly a pain in your ass but I do love you and I know you love me."

Josh hugged Jimmy tight and kissed him back on his cheek.

Some of the older members of the congregation were visibly shaken by the display of male on male affection. The younger ones, teenager and college years almost broke out clapping.

After church, Robbie got his way and they had an early lunch at the pancake house. Chris asked. "If there was a reason why girls could show affection by kissing other girls but not so much boys. Why can't boys kiss other boys and not have it mean they have to release sperm with them."

"No reason, it's just what everyone, well almost everyone does." Josh answered.

"Oh, so because everyone else does it?"

"It's weird Uncle Chris, I agree with you we should be able to show affection for other boys and not have it mean we are, no offense, gay or even if there is a gay couple."

"Good, I wanted to clear that up in my mind."

"I think you wanted to clear things up in other's minds more; you are pretty sly, Uncle Chris."

"My, my Colin seems you have a deep thinker here, a real philosopher."

"What am I Uncle Chris?" Jimmy piped up.

"You James O'Shea are the most loveable instigator I have ever met. Plus you like to tease to see what will happen."

At home Shep welcomed them with jumps of joy and tons of kisses. He was so pleased and excited that they had returned. He also needed a walk outside. Fearing Jimmy would get himself in trouble Josh volunteered to take Shep.

Another game of trivia pursuit was had and another great dinner by Colin. The boys were as relaxed as they could be for Monday's hearing. Robbie told Colin he was going to ask him on the stand why he wanted custody of the boys. Another question he was going to ask was some people think it is strange that a single man would have the boys live with him without sexual motives.

"Really, you really want to ask me that."

"Yes, I ..Because I know you will answer it in an honest and forthright way. You will show why you are an excellent choice to be their guardian. Think about what you want to say." Robbie hugged his friend.

Night and bed time came. So as to avoid confusion or fooling around showers were taken at night, clothes laid out for the important day to come. The boys had their dress clothes with button down shirts and dressed slacks and shoes, not sneakers. Colin tossed and turned, tomorrow would be a great win or a terrible loss. He got up to pee. He found Josh and Shep pacing in the living room. He sat down in his overstuffed recliner and silently motioned Josh to join him; Shep, at their feet.

Colin held Josh tight on his lap and rocked him. "It's gonna be alright; say a pray to your dad and God to help us tomorrow." Josh fell asleep in his arms.

The sun came up and Colin gently laid Josh down on the pull out bed. Shep jumped up to be with him. The dog only understood that something was troubling his young master and his old master. He choose to do his best to give comfort to his young master.

Colin, like so many other days got his shower alone and in doing, he feared he would have to be alone the rest of his life. He made breakfast, oatmeal with blue berries; he thought it was Timmy's favorite.

The group left for the hearing in a somber mood. Chris did his best to liven things up but nothing worked. Finally Robbie said, "Ok so we are all nervous, we can let it scare us or strengthen our resolve and determination to have the courage to say the right things. I think we are gonna walk out of this hearing all smiles. Colin you said you were confident, don't doubt us now. We have an excellent team working for us. In a few short hours you will have custody and boys you will have your Pops."

Everyone's face changed, their jaws squared, their eyes were more focused; you could see the determination mostly in Jimmy, seemly scared of nothing , and Josh the scars on his back aching, his resolve to not let that man do anything to another like he did to him; and Colin whose whole life was going to be kind of on trial.

They went in to the court room. Doc Elsberry was there with Derik Pulaski; Robbie stopped to say hello and inquire about the DNA sample. Derik and Doc said hello to the boys who they had done so much to help. Derik told Robbie the county prosecutor was standing by and as soon as the DNA findings were confirmed intended to take Brown into custody. He also had four extra sheriff's deputies assigned to the court. They took their places at the plaintiff table, Colin, Josh, Jimmy and Robbie. Behind them was Doc, Derik and Chris.

Robbie asked Derik who was at the state's table.

"That's Brown, Silver, and a Miss Moran who was assigned by the director of child services. I think Miss Moran is here so Silver doesn't pull some crap."

The clerk called the chamber to order and Judge Goodman took his place. He conferred with the clerk and he called the case.

Colin O'Brian seeking custody for Joshua O'Shea and James O'Shea.

Robert Smyth for Mr. O'Brian your honor.

Miss Moran for the Division of Child Services your honor.

Let's get to it counselor, you are the plaintiff.

"Judge, given the delicate nature of the testimony the boys will present as well as their ages I respectfully ask they be allowed to give their testimony in your chambers. By all means Miss Moran should accompany."

"Ok I will allow it, Josh, Jimmy, Miss Moran, Mr. Smyth please into my chambers."

Mrs. Silver got up as well.

Judge Goodman asked, "Where are you going madam?"

"Well into your chambers, I am the case worker."

"I know very well who you are Mrs. Silver and I did not call your name. Bailiff please escort Mrs. Silver back to the states table."

In chambers.. "Precede Mr. Smyth."

Robbie called Josh to give his testimony. The clerk put the bible in front of him and asked him to swear what he was to say was the truth and the whole truth so help him God.

Josh stammered a bit,"I I II do."

Robbie began, "Josh, are you nervous."

Josh nodded his head up and down

"Josh I want to only look at me, only me now and tell me what happened to you and Jimmy after your dad died. Just tell me the truth as you remember it. What happened when your dad died? It's ok there are only people here who want to help you. How old were you when he died?"

"TTTen"

"And how old was Jimmy?"

"Eight"

"I bet you guys were sad."

"Yup"

"Go on now and tell it like you told me at Colin's on Saturday. The Judge, his name is Goodman, he only wants to do good things for you, don't be scared. You have to tell or no one will know what happened and you'll have to go back to the farm."

"No NO I can't Uncle Robbie, Jimmy can't."

"I know, tell the Judge why."

Josh told the same sad, sad tale about how his life changed after his father died. The abuse he endured, the way he had to live like an animal. How Mrs. Silver never listened to him. How he couldn't go to school but had to work the farm. And the terrible day that Brown beat him and then raped him.

Robbie said," the Judge has pictures but I think it better if he sees your back. Can you take your shirt off and show him."

"Do I have to show my butt too, I really don't wanna ."

"Judge?"

"Only your shirt son, just so I can say I saw for the record."

Josh dropped his shirt. Miss Moran gasped. "Ohh, ohh my God, what kind of a monster would do this to a child." She could not hold the tears back, she turned away and cried."

"Thank you Josh, Josh if you could live anywhere today where would you want to live," Judge Goodman asked.

"Ohh with Pops, Judge" putting on his shirt and feeling the worst was over.

"Why is that Josh?"

"I guess I know he loves us and I love him. Last night he held me till I went to sleep. I was so scared about going back to Brown's farm. I know, he would die to keep me and Jimmy safe. You just feel it. My dad in a dream said me and Jimmy should be with him. Spooky, weird right, but it happened. And I didn't know it but Pops, knew my dad when he was a boy, and he got letters from him when he was in Afghanistan. He was good to my dad when his mom and dad had fights. Maybe the biggest thing is I want him to be proud of me. You don't feel that unless someone loves you, right."

"Yes you are right Josh."

Robbie asked, "Shall I call Jimmy now your honor. He'll be a little shorter."

The clerk said, "Jimmy O'Shea put your right hand on the bible." Jimmy did. "Do you swear to tell the truth so help you God."

Jimmy spoke up, "I DO"

"Jimmy did you listen to what Josh said."

"Yup"

"Jimmy you have to say yes or no"

"Yes Uncle Robbie."

"Was any of it a lie?"

"NO SIR my brother won't lie about stuff like this. This is serious where we live and whether the people will love us. Mr. Brown was mean, mean, mean. Pops has been the best thing since daddy died."

"Is there anything Josh forgot?"

"Well where we stayed rats and mice were there one time one of the rats tried to eat my toes and Josh killed it dead with his shoe. Josh always takes care of me. Lots of times he gave me his share of the sandwich at Browns. I don't know if I would be here except for him. He helped me carry those heavy bags and he pushed me out of the way when Mr. Brown went crazy. He is the best big brother ever."

Miss Moran gasped.

"He forgot when we saw Mr. Brown give Mrs. Silver a roll of money. Why did he do that? She was supposed to give him money for clothes like what happened at the Henderson's."

"Where do you want to live?"

"With Pops of course"

"Why is that?"

"Well sometimes I like to tease; I do it a lot I guess. Josh says it's a lot. So I was teasing Pops and he gets mad. I know he's mad cause he calls me James O'Shea. Adults only call me James when I upset them. He calls me to stand in front of him and then he tickles me and kisses my head and you know makes believe he's gonna eat me. My daddy used to do that." Jimmy started crying. He stopped. "My daddy loved me and Pops loves me the same way."

"Thank you Jimmy, you are a very good boy."

"Judge I have Doc Elsberry here. He will testify that Josh had semen in his anal cavity when he examined him. The sheriff's department was able to obtain a sample of Mr. Browns DNA and that and the semen is being check to see if it is a match. Doc Elsberry will also testify as to the malnourished condition of both boys. There is also Mr. O'Brian who will testify about how he found the boys and why he feels he would be a good guardian for them. The prosecutor is also standing by awaiting word on the DNA test to take Brown into custody. Miss Moran you may not be aware but all the cases of Mrs. Silver are also being investigated at this time to find out if there is any substance to suspicion of wrong doing on the part of Mrs. Silver. A review of her finances and her parents tell us she is living way beyond what her child services salary would indicate. Do you want to hear the testimony in open court or in chambers?

The prosecutor would prefer to not arouse the suspicion of Brown and Silver."

"Let's stay in chambers, counselor. Clerk please call in Doc Elsberry and Mr. O'Brian."

Robbie called Doc next. He gave his testimony exactly as Robbie said he would.

Colin was last but before he could say anything the proceedings were interrupted by a knock at the Judge's door. The bailiff had an urgent message for Mr. Smyth.

Robbie looked at it and then asked if he could read the message aloud.

"Go on counselor"

"DNA testing authority of Orange County New York.
Request to test DNA for compatibility match of semen sample and saliva sample of one Jake Brown.
Results - 100% match"

"Let's more to open court counselor, I want a piece of those two lowlifes before the prosecutor gets them. Miss Moran, I think the state owes Mr. O'Brian a debt of gratitude and unless you have evidence that he too is a child molester. I will award him temporary custody pending the state's review. What say you?"

"You'll have no argument from me Judge. As a matter of fact I will request that I am able to handle the review personally. I am so ashamed for the division. We have failed these two boys miserably and possible many, many others. I am so ashamed."

"You are a good person Miss Moran. Don't put on your shoulders the evil of others. Just move forward with your review. We can only do the best we can for these unfortunate, sons of an American hero and soldier."

Judge Goodman, took his seat at the bench, he did not slow his walk for the traditional all rise. He banged his gavel three times as hard as he could. Clearly he was upset.

"This hearing is about the custody of Joshua O'Shea and James O'Shea and I'm not mad at you Jimmy. I have to use your 100% legal names. I have found in the course of this hearing disturbing, criminal evidence."

Brown and Silver were squirming in their seats looking for an escape route.

"Bailiff please direct sheriff's deputies to the states table and hold and detain Mr. Jake Brown and Mrs. Sylvia Silver. As I was saying criminal evidence was uncovered and more is to come. But first things first I want to thank Mr. Colin O'Brian, his counselor and his entire team for bringing this to the attention of the court and I herby grant emergency temporary custody of minor children Joshua and James O'Shea to Mr. O'Brian. Mr. O'Brian is to be reviewed and expedited for permanent custody by Children's Services. I additionally hereby request the director of Children's Service to allow Miss Moran to conduct the review."

The Judge continued, "Now then, to Mr. Brown. Mr. Brown I charge you with felony child endangerment, and child molestation and rape sir. It is with severe regret that I cannot try this case in my court; for even though in the state of New York the death penalty has been abolished. You sir, would be lucky to escape with your life. You are the lowest of lowlifes. Mr. Prosecutor read him his rights and take him away. Maybe the inmates will hear of his crimes and do the state a favor."

"Mrs. Silver you are to be held as a material witness pending an investigation now on going where every one of your cases are being reviewed for your material gain for the exploitation of the children entrusted to your care. Mr. Prosecutor if you should need more time to prepare your case come see me I shall detain Mrs. Silver for contempt of court; for certainly her presence here as advocate for children's services is most contemptible."

Judge Goodman got up from his bench and went over to Josh, "I'm so sorry son that this happened to you and Jimmy. I know your dad is looking down and is so proud of you, so very proud of you as I am."

The judge went on to thank Colin and Robbie and Derik and Doc and even Chris who he didn't know and finally little Jimmy. "You happy now son. I know your Pops will take the best care of you."

Jimmy didn't know what to do except to give the Judge a hug. "Thank you, Judge"

The prosecutor came up to the group a, Mr. Daniel Collins. "I hope I can count on the boy's testimony for the trials of Brown and Silver."

Colin answered, "probably with protection, like a closed circuit TV witness room."

"I think that can be arranged. I'll contact you as we get ready."

Robbie brought over Derik Pulaski, "Josh, Jimmy I want you to meet the man you really took care of Brown and Silver."

Derik was a very big man, with a big stomach. He got down on one knee looked at Josh, and cried. He remembered his own boy who was not so lucky. He reached out; Josh felt his pain and hugged him. "I lost my boy; he died at the hands of another man like Brown."

"I know how bad it hurts; I lost my dad too. Thank you for helping us. Uncle Robbie said you got Brown; you and Doc Elsberry. Thank You I'll never forget you, I'll ask Pops if we can visit; would you."

"Sure I'd like that."

Pulaski said, "Let's go Pop, you got patients and I got clients."

"Wait," Colin said.

Doc turned, "I didn't tell you Derik is my son-in-law."

Chris picked Jimmy up and put him on his shoulders. Josh was in front of Robbie who did the same. Colin got in the middle and with his arms on the shoulder of his two friends. They more marched rather than walked out of the court house. Score, good guys one... bad guys none.

To be continued...

Posted: 07/09/2021