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 6
School Days II

Mrs. Galuchi called on Friday and said she definitely wanted to be part of Colin's family. Colin liked how she phased it and asked what kind of schedule she would like.

"Oh, I don't know Colin I guess 5 days a week, but if you need me on the weekend just ask. Typically I'm not busy. Let's say a more flexible schedule. Colin, I'm not taking this job for the money or benefits but to help you provide a good home for those two boys. Financially, if I make a weekly salary of $500.00 to $600.00 a week that will suit me well. I have Medicare for my health insurance and social security from my late husband's work as well as the retirement account. But my life needs meaning and I think I would really enjoy helping you."

"Fine, Mrs. Galuchi, $600.00 a week it is and you will be a welcome part of our little family. I'm sure the boys will not want to call you Mrs. Galuchi but I think it best to let them decide when and how to address you. When do you want to start? Maybe after church Sunday if I could make dinner and get to know you all a little more then."

"Will you need me to get anything for dinner?"

"No I haven't thought of what to make yet. Suppose I get the fixin's and you reimburse me."

"Excellent, see you Sunday."

"It'll be a pleasure Colin."

Saturday morning, Colin took the boys to meet up with Joe Elsberry with Tommy and John. They were super excited that they would get to play in the gym. Colin explained that this would be the first clinic session and he would announce it to the teams at the next practice. He had Josh, Jimmy and John shoot around at one end of the gym and took Tommy at the other.

"Ok buddy let's see what you can do ... shoot your foul shots."

While Tommy was shooting Colin watched his form. He relaxed before shooting, his form was very good, the ball rolled off his pointer finger, his elbow was tight to his body. He was doing everything right except putting the ball in the basket.

"Only two out of 10 coach."

"Ok, that's what we are here to figure out. Take two giant steps in toward the basket."

Tommy did and shot 10 out of 10.

"Go back to the foul line and do it again"

Tommy did. As he was shooting this time Colin watched his eyes. He squinted very, very hard. Colin thought, 'Gosh Jimmy was right, he can't see. He shooting like his eyes are closed.'

"Ok, Tommy, what did Jimmy say about your shooting"

Tommy hung his head, "He said I was shooting like my eyes were closed. Honest coach I got them open."

"I know Tommy, but you are squinting like you can't see. I'm pretty sure you need glasses or contacts whichever. That's what I'm gonna tell your dad. So Jimmy was basically right, you can't see."

"That's it, I need glasses, wow. Thanks coach."

"Well lets see what the eye doctor says. Your form, how you shoot is very good, you have plenty of arm strength. I could be wrong but I think it's your eyes. I'm gonna call your dad now.....

Hello Joe, Colin here."

"Yes, Colin"

"Well I think I know Tommy's problem. Jimmy was right."

"Colin, I know what Jimmy said about his eyes closed. Come on he doesn't do that."

"No, but he can't see the basket clear beyond 10 feet. He squints like crazy, trying so very, very hard. Jimmy was right he can't see. Please get his eyes checked and then tell me what the doc says."

"Ok, Colin, It certainly won't hurt. What do you think glasses or contacts?"

"I like safety glasses with a strap. He might want contacts but not for sports. Too much danger of him getting hit and the contact goes where it shouldn't or falls out. Just my opinion."

"I'll take him after practice. Thanks"

Colin continued his clinic with the small group. He checked John's form and asked, "you sure you are Tommy's brother. You elbow is flaring out; the ball doesn't roll off your pointer finger. Tommy come here and show John how to shoot a basketball. "

Tommy was what me??? "You want me coach???"

"You got ears, don't you? I told you what your problem was, if you could see the dang basket you would be a 90% shooter. Now show your brother."

Tommy all smiles showed John. John changed from a 50% shooter to a 90% shooter. Josh practiced the same. It was all old school for Jimmy. He paid attention when his dad taught him. Colin taught them some defense, 1 hand down and 1 hand up; the hand down always to the side that the dribbler was dribbling; up on balls of the feet to be able to move any direction. Then he let them scrimmage. John and Josh against Jimmy and Tommy. He told Tommy get close and get away from who is guarding you. Jimmy they are gonna rush you, to stop the outside shot, when they do pass to Tommy.

The game see sawed back and forth the smaller boys stole the ball a couple times the bigger guys always got rebounds. Jimmy made tons of long shots. Pops called next basket wins. John and Josh both rushed Jimmy just like Pops had said. Jimmy got it to Tommy. He dribbled close and made the winning basket.

Tommy played the part of a TV announcer, "Little bros beat big bros on great shooting by Jimmy O'Shea and clutch basket by Tommy Elsberry." They ran around the gym arms raised.

Josh said, "Not fair coach you helped them."

"Yes you're right, but Tommy needed a confidence boost." Putting his arm on Josh's shoulders and then John's, "Isn't it great to see. Maybe next time I'll help you big guys. Be happy for them, it's not easy being the little bro just like it's not easy being the big bro. Don't you almost always win at everything."

John said, "Yeah"

"I hate losing though, Pops."

"I know, that's, that champion's heart you got beating in you. GET YOUR STUFF GUYS WE GOTTA LOCK UP"

Mr. Elsberry was at the door. He had an appointment for Tommy right after lunch. Tommy got tested and sure enough he needed glassed for far vision. They made the glasses right there at the Eye Doctor shop. Tommy left wearing his kool sports glasses with the strap to hold them on. He was amazed at all he could see that he had been missing. "Tommy, I don't understand how did you see the board in school?" his dad asked.

"I saw enough and just guessed at the rest. Now I'll see the board without having to figure out what's up there." Thanks Dad.

At home, Tommy ran to get his basketball then he and John went out to their basketball hoop. They practice foul shooting. Both now got 9 out of 10. Joe and his wife watched from the window. Joe turned to June, 'that Colin and even little Jimmy know their stuff." She hugged him, "They sure are happy."

Tommy came running in. "Did ya see mom, both of us got 9 out of 10. I bet I can get 10 out of ten. Come on John." As time went on, Tommy got to be tied with Jimmy as the best foul shooter on the 5th & 6th grade team.

Sunday at church Pops, again shared the kiss of peace with Josh and Jimmy. Josh thought he noticed Mickey there; it sent shivers up his spine. He was a little afraid, Mickey was pretty big but he wanted to slug him, one time. Then, the most amazing thing; at the kiss of peace, what looked like his father grabbed his head and kissed his forehead. Mickey kissed his dad on his cheek. They both kissed his mom. When done his dad gave him a little hug around Mickey's shoulders. Josh scratched his head about what he saw but kept quiet about it.

Mrs. Galuchi showed up about 12:00. The boys had just gotten back from walking Shep and Pops, was enjoying a second cup of coffee.

"Jimmy, Josh that has to be Mrs. Galuchi. I think she may have packages go lend a hand."

"Hi Mrs. Galuchi, do you have packages we can help with." Josh said.

"Why thank so much, yes, I was worried about how my old bones would get them into the house...Now you must be Josh. I heard about that mister Brown; if there wasn't laws against it I was gonna get my umbrella and swat him until he cried uncle."

Josh had to smile and grabbed a bag of groceries.

"And you must be Jimmy, I heard about you too. Now Jimmy there is nothing wrong with your nature boy body, but when I come into the house I'd like you to keep your private parts private. I'll yell are you decent Jimmy and I expect you to be decent. OK?"

Josh was now giggling.

Jimmy said," Yes mam" through a smiling face, and grabbed a bag.

"We'll come back for the rest," Josh said.

"Ok, lead the way boys."

"Pops, it is Mrs. Galuchi. There are more packages." Putting down what he had on the counter.

Shep started barking hello. In his mind Mrs. Galuchi was an intruder. Jimmy of all people said, Shh Shh Shep, behave don't upset Mrs. Galuchi before she even gets here. Quiet, Quiet Shep."

The dog stopped his barking. "Thank you Jimmy, he was making a racket but just wanted everyone to know there was a different smell in the house. But very thoughtful of you Jimmy; I think we are going to get along splendidly."

Jimmy ran to catch up with Josh. "She's like a grandma, Josh. Do you remember our real ones?"

"Nope, here you take this bigger, bag, I'll get all the smaller ones."

"She seems nice but pretty smart."

"Yeah, she got you right away with that nature boy stuff." Josh said smiling.

"I guess I gotta be a little careful but I don't think she would be mean."

"Me neither."

All the packages inside on the counter, Mrs. Galuchi started sorting. Josh had been doing homework and was back at it. "Jimmy, will you help me figure out where this stuff goes."

"Yes, mam, we keep canned stuff over here. Does that big red thing have to go in the refrigerator?
Boxes of stuff we keep here."

"Yes that is the pot roast, without the pot of course." Mrs. Galuchi smiled. Jimmy did too. "Have you ever had pot roast with creamy mashed potatoes and beef gravy?"

"I don't think so but maybe ask Josh, he knows more stuff than me."

Josh had heard and yelled out,"Don't think so Mrs. Galuchi but it sounds good."

Mrs. Galuchi with Jimmy's help found the pots and pans she would need as well as any utensils. Soon she was hard at her cooking. Jimmy went to watch the basketball game Pops had on. Josh homework done, did the same. Mrs. Galuchi browned the meat and it sizzled and the aroma went through the house. As it slowly cooked the smell made everyone hungry. Jimmy went to Mrs. Galuchi, "That cooking sure does smell good, mam. When we gonna eat?"

"Ohh about 5:00 dear."

"It's only 3:30, wow more than another hour."

"It'll be ready when it's ready Jimmy, you don't want to eat it raw and get sick do you?"

"I guess not mam, but the smell sure is good and makes me hungry."

"Me too" said Josh.

"Me three," said Pops. "Say guys we still have those leaves to get off the solar panels. Let's do that while we are waiting."

"Ok Pops." And they went for their jackets. Shep was whining and pacing, he was hungry too. Pops said "Come on Shep you can supervise. We'll be just outside Edna."

"OK"

The boys & Pops climbed the ladder up to the single story roof. He took his leaf blower and blew off the roof. Josh and Jimmy washed down the panels. "Ya know what we don't have and we have lots of land, a basketball court."

"Yeah Pops that would so kool to have. Tommy said they have a hoop to practice on." Jimmy said.

"Pops"

"Yes Josh"

With his head down and a quiet voice asked, "I guess there wouldn't be room for a batting cage and a machine; would it be too expensive? Sorry, I shouldn't have said anything I was just dreamin."

"Now that is an excellent dream. If we can dream a basketball court; we can dream a batting cage. If we have one we should have both that seems only fair."

"Really Pops, you sure, Jimmy's littler; just do the basketball court. I can play that."

Pops looked at Josh and realized he felt Jimmy was loved more and he didn't need anything cause he had to be big and take care of Jimmy. "Ok be honest now who do you think is my favorite between you two guys."

"Oh that's easy Pops, Jimmy cause he is smaller. The little kids are always way more cute than bigger kids."

"That makes sense and could be true Josh. What do you think Jimmy?"

"I know who it should be. It should be Josh cause he always took care of me. He taught me to tie my shoes, wash my hair never mind the stuff at the farm, only taking one bite of the sandwich and making believe he was full. I should of taken my share and give it back. If you got a favorite it better be Josh."

"Well you both gave real good answers. They were very different and the truth is I have two favorites; kind of like ...liking ice cream and pop corn; very different but both very good. So Josh don't ever think you are less deserving or Jimmy that Josh is more deserving of anything that is in my power to provide. Got me?" Pops gave both boys a kiss.

"Do ya think we can have our own little sports place, Pops?"

"Well we'll have to figure it out. One good thing you guys are gonna get financial support from the state so maybe we can use that."

"That's for you to feed us, Pops"

"Hey did we kind of adopt each other."

"Yeah,"

"So I have money, more money than I thought I would spend in my life time. Not super rich but enough not to worry about checking how much I got when I go to the food store. Now I don't know what a basketball court or a batting cage will cost but I can find out. That won't cost anything. We can have the dream can't we?"

"Yeah sure"

"Hey look the sun is just about down. Looks great over the lake, don't you think?"

"Sure does but it's getting chilly. I'm starving I hope Mrs. Galuchi has supper done." Josh said.

"Me too" said Jimmy.

"Come on Pops, give us a, me three." Josh yelled

"ME THREE"

They called Shep. He had a thing with one of the squirrels around the woods. He wanted to catch him so bad but that squirrel was so quick to a tree that Shep was always out of luck. They went inside their cheeks were red from the weather and their stomachs growling now from the hunger. The warmth of the little house was so welcome to their bodies.

"Well, I was wondering what had become of you boys. I was thinking if ya didn't show soon, to send out the search party. dinner will be ready in 5 minutes, go wash up."

Pops cut the pot roast, Mrs. Galuchi served each boy a big helping of mashed potatoes saying, "Jeez we gotta put some muscle on those bones of yours." Each boy took an ear of corn on the cob as well as spinach with baby onions and mushrooms in butter and garlic sauce. Before they began Mrs. Galuchi said, "In my house growing up we always said grace and held hands. Can we do the same here?"

Jimmy and Josh said "Yes mam"

As they all joined hands, Mrs. Galuchi said, "Well, who will do the honors."

The boys sheepishly looked at Pops.

Pops began, "Bless us ohh Lord for the food we are about to eat, we thank you, for providing the bounty at this table, we thank you. Watch over all here present oh Lord, keep us safe from harm and thank you Lord for bringing Mrs. Galuchi to our little family, Amen."

Mrs. Galuchi, dabbed her eye with her napkin and said, "thank you, Colin."

"Well let's eat this fine meal, Edna. Everything looks so delicious. I know we'll have to force the boys to eat, their little stomach can't be very hungry."

The boys with mashed potatoes falling out of their mouths said "POPS!!!"

The food was delicious and sounds from Oliver were heard as Josh then Jimmy said "Can I have some more please."

When Edna saw everyone was pretty much done she started to get up to clear and clean up. Pops put his hand on her arm and looked at the boys. Josh asked, "Shall we clear now Pops?"

"That would be great, thank you Josh.....Edna in this house we all want to contribute. The boys always like to clean up after meals. Our job will be to help supervise should they not know how to do something or where to put something. You made a wonderful meal; I know they enjoyed it. Relax!!"

Josh remembering his manners, "Mrs. Galuchi, thanks so much that was great. Pops is a good cook but he can't do this. Pot roast is now my favorite."

"Why thank you Josh, it is so nice to hear that your effort is appreciated."

Josh nudged Jimmy who was licking the spoon that dished the mashed potatoes.

"Humm yeah thanks Mrs. Galuchi it was real good."

"Thank you Jimmy, come here please dear." Mrs. Galuchi took her napkin and wiped some potatoes off Jimmy's cheek.

Jimmy looked at Mrs. Galuchi, his wheels were turning real hard, "Say, Pops is our adopted grandpa; could we adopt you as our grandma and you could make roast pot a lot."

Pops and Edna burst out laughing, "It's pot roast Jimmy and yes I would love to be your adopted grandma."

Josh came over and hung on her side, "Can we call you nana? I always used to hear about someone's nana at my old school. I think calling you Mrs. Galuchi is kinda like a teachers name...." He thought a bit, "Not that you can't teach us stuff, you can. Do you know what I mean?"

"I would love for you to call me nana." Josh hugged her as did Jimmy from the other side.

"OK enough hugging on Nana; back to your chores now." The boys went back to their clean up.

After their clean up, they all went into the living room, to let the meal settle. Jimmy sat at Edna's feet with Josh close by. They talked about basketball and school. Jimmy told about how Pops and me figured out what was wrong with Tommy's shooting. Josh wanted to ask about what girl's like as he thought about Maggie. Too soon for the boys, Nana said,

"Well, I gotta get home to my cat, the poor thing hasn't eaten."

She got up to get her coat. Jimmy and Josh stood up and were looking at her, with so much anticipation, so wanting to get a kiss good night. Not knowing what to say. Edna was a bit unnerved by it. Finally Jimmy said, "Say ain't grandmas suppose to give grand kids sloppy kisses good night."

"Oh of course,".... Jimmy stood up on the couch. Nana put a big sloppy smooch on Jimmy's cheek. Edna looked over at Josh. "Come on over here Joshua O'Shea, I got one for you too." Josh scampered over and Nana planted one on him.

Colin asked if she was ok getting home in the dark. "I know these roads like the back of my hand, Colin O'Brian but thank you for asking."

"Can I walk you to your car?" Josh asked.

"Me too" Jimmy added.

"Why thank you, I am thrilled to be escorted by two such gentlemen."

One on one side, one on the other Nana was lead to her car. Josh held the door as she got in. The boys without jackets shivered a bit but waited until she started up and then waved good night. Then, ran inside to get warm.

"So you like Nana."

"Oh yes Pops, she is like you. Sometimes you just know how someone feels. Whether they care or not. Thank you for finding her for us." Josh said.

Jimmy said, "She sure does make great roast pot."

Pops said, "JIMMY"

"Ok I know pot roast, but roast pot is so much funnier."

"Exercises, showers and bed for you guys."

"What about Shep, Pops?" Jimmy asked.

"Ok go take him for a walk. But don't be peeing with him Jimmy."

"OK Pops it's too cold, I don't know how he does it cept he's got hair on his pecker. When I get hair will my pecker stay warm in the cold, Pops?" Jimmy asked as he got his jacket. ....Josh gave him a shove.

"What, what I wanna know."

"You got some head Jimmy, dad said I gotta love you and I do but you got some head."

"Yes it'll freeze, get frozen and fall off now KEEP IT IN YOUR PANTS, JAMES."

"Yup I'm gonna do that, way too cold to let my cute little pecker out."

Sheps' walk done, exercises before showers. 20 pushups for Josh, 15 for Jimmy, 50 sit ups of Josh, 40 for Jimmy, 5 pushups on their fingers for each boy, 100 jumping jacks for each and they were done. They shared the shower. Jimmy liked Josh to wash his hair and he always did it for him. Jimmy went nature boy to bed. They kissed Pops Good Night. Pops had to tickle and swat Jimmy's bare bottom. Then did a little of the same to his big bro.

Josh said "you better hope Nana doesn't come over early on the morning and sees your little buns staring up at her."

"I'll put underwear under my pillow, thanks big bro."

Shep jumped up on the bed between them. Both hugged the dog. Jimmy was asleep in two minutes. Josh wanted his dream to come to him. But it was not to be this night. Josh grabbed hold and did what teen age boys do. After he got a dirty sock and cleaned up with it. He left it under the bed like so many teen age boys. It had become the best place for the slippery, soggy, wet sock.

Monday morning, Mr. Elsberry, with kids in class, prepared for his meeting with the Marino's. They were right on time and were shown into his office at 9:30.

Joe said, "Good morning, thanks for coming, I think it is very important that you know exactly what I know as it occurred. Mickey's behavior on last Wednesday broke two of our zero tolerance rules. In situations like this the board of ed has given me the authority to expel the offending student. I asked you here so that you could give me the confidence to not take that action.

Mr. Marino said, "I thank you for giving Mickey this opportunity. If I may, I want you to know Mickey now understands that a man kissing his son, in no why has anything to do with their sexual orientation. We had an extensive conversation about it and we did exchange the kiss of peace at church yesterday. A second thing, I have done, is schedule Mickey with a child psychologist for Wednesday afternoon. I also have a meeting with my people at work to be able to work at home. Mickey is no baby that he needs a sitter but neither is he an adult that can be left on his own all the time. My wife and I feel that at his age it is more advantageous that I be the parent at home.

"Wow, great, all very positive developments. I discussed some of what occurred with you on the phone but for your wife's benefit I want to detail it. I would rather use the language as it was reported to me but I can put it in more polite terms if need be."

Mrs. Marino said "that would be preferred, I don't need to hear gutter talk."

Mr. Marino rather sternly said, "When gutter talk comes out of your son's mouth you need to hear it. You are an adult whatever was said I doubt it will be new to you. Please in the words you know were spoken Mr. Elsberry."

Mr. Elsberry looked at Mrs. Marino who nodded in the affirmative. Well as you know, Mickey was confused by a boy kissing his foster father and his foster uncles and his brother. He told his two friends 'let's go get that gay fuck.' Am I right Mickey?"

"Yes sir"

"When you got to Josh you said "hey you are that gay fag boy who was kissing his daddies at church or pretty close to that." Correct?"

"Yes Sir"

"Then you grabbed tour privates and said, "You wanna suck on this or maybe you want it in your behind." When Josh didn't answer you said " You better ask nice for it fag boy or else I'll beat you till you do. Am I right Mickey? "

Mickey with his head bowed quietly said," Yes sir"

"You tell it Mickey what happened next."

"I don't wanna, I didn't know he was beat by some guy"

"He started crying all hysterical like yelling "NO MORE, DON'T BEAT ME NO MORE, I'LL DO IT DON'T HURT JIMMY. Is that kind of what he said?"

"Yes sir, I'm sorry I didn't know."

Mrs. Marino said, "how could he know about that ?"

Mr. Elsberry said, "He couldn't but does that excuse what he did. He threatened another student. He told him to ask to perform oral on him or he would beat him."

"It doesn't matter, mom, I was feeling mean cause no one was ever home. No one cared; all I am is a note and money for food for you. I'm hoping dad gets it but you don't. If you are honest you love that job more than me." Mickey said with tears streaming down his face.

"Mickey Marino don't you dare talk to me like that. I work too hard for you to say something like that. Why do I work but to get you nice things?"

"Yeah, I get Xbox, you get a big Cadillac car. BS mom. BS"

Mrs. Marino decided not to air any more family laundry in front of Mr. Elsberry.

Mr. Marino asked, "How, do we proceed going forward Mr. Elsberry?"

"I think Mickey has to apologize to Josh and I think it has to be public, at a school assembly. Due to what was said I'll limit it to the 5th through the 8th grade. Can you do that, Mickey?"

"If I wanna come back to school I guess I gotta. I really owe him at least that. I shouldn't done what I did. Even if he is gay; it is not right that I discriminate against them like they aren't people. My dad helped me understand. I gotta at least try to make this right. He probably won't forgive me; I wouldn't but I gotta try."

"Well said Mickey. I have a picture here I want you to see." Mr. Elsberry showed the picture of Josh's back. Mr. Marino looked at it too and tried to pass it his wife". You know what. He could have stopped the beating way sooner but he didn't want to do what Brown wanted. He took it instead of his little brother. So that's why he went hysterical."

Mickey had tears in his eyes, "I wouldn't, couldn't do it. I brought it all back to him. I am so ashamed."

Mr. Marino, hugged his son, "We go forward not back, we make better, we can't go back; all we can do is make it better.... Mr. Elsberry let us know when the assembly is we will be there."

"Mickey, one other thing, I doubt Josh is gay. John told me he is putting moves on one of the girls in the class."

"Just makes me all the more an A hole, but thanks for the info."

Mr. Elsberry checked his calendar then got with Mrs. Jonas to put out notices of an assembly on Friday at 10AM. Due to the somewhat sensitive nature of the subject matter, boys and men showing affection in the United States, the parents were invited.

Monday after school when Josh got home Nana grabbed him to the side. "Now Josh I know teen age boys do sometimes as a matter of fact quite often need to play, umm with their umm privates."

Josh turned red. He could do in front of Pops but Nana talking about was so different.

Nana continued, "Now there is nothing wrong with that, all boys do it."

"Yes mam." Josh was thinking when is this gonna end.

"However using dirty socks for cleanup is quite unsanitary. I put tissues and a trash can by your bed. Please use them."

"Yes mam"

"Would you do me a favor and collect the dirty socks under your bed and take them to the wash. You probably only have to nudge the ones with all your baby makers they walk by themselves." Nana gave him a big smile.

"Yes Nana." Was all Josh could muster. But he smiled a little bit. Nana knew his deepest secret and understood. She was so kool he thought.

Every day when Josh saw Maggie he told her how many days till they could have lunch together. On Tuesday he said, "One more day, till I can hit on you Maggie O'Malley."

Maggie loved it. She could never remember when she had gotten so much attention from any man or boy even her father who adored her. She always answered him, "Calm down Josh O'Shea, it's just lunch." The 7th grade girls were all a buzz about the situation. Maggie and the cute new boy, the boys feigned no interest but they too were curious.

Wednesday morning Josh got up early and showered, he had to wash off the residue from last night and certainly didn't want to smell when he had lunch with Maggie. Done with the shower, he applied copious amounts of deodorant. He went to get dressed.

Jimmy took one whiff and said. "If she doesn't love ya for your looks, she'll love ya for your deodorant. Sure ya got enough on there Josh."

Josh picked up Jimmy's underwear and threw them at him. "Put some clothes on nature boy before Nana comes in and inspects your pecker."

"Did you call me Josh? I'm right here son."

"See Nana came early.... No Nana I was just dreamin about your roast pot.....uuggg Pot roast."

Jimmy scampered into his undies. Josh got out his dress clothes, button shirt, sweater, dress pants and shoes not sneakers. "Ya going to a wedding Josh; awful fancy for lunch in the school cafeteria?" Jimmy asked.

"Enough Jimmy, enough, I want Maggie to know I like her and getting dressed up is one way I'm gonna show her."

"If she don't know after you been whispering sweet nothing to her all week, she's not the brightest bulb in the school."

Josh picked up a shoe and was about to throw it at Jimmy as he scampered through the door. Nana said, "why James where are your clothes?"

Jimmy made a B line for the bath room and feigned holding himself."Gotta go bad, Sorry Nana."
Pops hearing Edna in the house got dressed with his pants and tee shirt and made for the bathroom. When he got there, he had Jimmy sitting on the toilet. "What are you doing in here, boy."

"Hiding from Josh, he's having lunch with Maggie O'Malley and I was teasing him."

"Oh, get up off the toilet seat; jeez a man gets no privacy around here." Pops did his morning pee. It came out slow as molasses. Jimmy looked and wondered how come it took so long and so little came out at one time. "Hey Pops, can I have a pissing contest with you, I'll beat ya easy."

Pops grabbed Jimmy around the neck and gave him nuggies on top of his head. "Ya know what James O'Shea, your gonna tease Josh again and he's gonna see red and I am gonna enjoy him getting you. You got any sense; you are going to shut that mouth and go get ready for school."

Jimmy rubbed the top of his head, "Yes sir Pops, no more teasing Josh, I'M GONNA GET READY FOR SCHOOL. Yes Sir, that is what I am gonna do, no more talking too."

Jimmy opened the door and peaked out. "Now what?" Pops asked.

"Nana don't like me without clothes,"

Colin was about to burst. Ya had to love Jimmy but sometimes... sometimes...

"Ok let me go first."

Jimmy jumped in behind Pops and grabbed hold of his belt, which was pulling down his pants. "James O'Shea cause you got no pant is reason to pull mine off". He reached around grabbed, Jimmy by the neck and gently shoved him into his room.

"Trouble with James this morning, Mr. O'Brian?"

"Coffee, please Edna...did I tell he is a rascal and ya gotta love him"

"That you did, Mr. O'Brian"

"Well forget the second part this morning" Colin laughed. Edna joined him.

Josh came in all duded up.

"Well, well, what a handsome young man, what is the occasion, Josh." Nana asked.

"What!! Can't a guy get dressed up once in a while?"

"Yes, I guess he can especially when he is having lunch with Maggie O'Malley."

Josh's face became one step below mad, "That Jimmy" he said.

"Well, I sure would go to lunch with a handsome guy like you." Nana said.
"Jimmy said it was silly and I'm too dressed up."

"No, I don't think so, all girls want a handsome young man to come and sweep them off their feet. What do you think, Pops?"

"Hmm the way kids dress today, shirt and sweater great, pants pretty good, shoes nah I don't see it. Shoes I think are nerdy, ya only wear them when parents make you; I would change to sneaks."

"Hey, you are right Pops. Shoes are nerdy. I'll change now. Thanks Pops."

"When did you get so smart, Colin?"

"You think these grey hairs aren't hard earned, Edna."

Jimmy came in rubbing his head still. His bottom lip sticking out, all sad faced. "Why, what's wrong Jimmy?" Nana asked.

"Pops gave me a nuggie cause I was teasing too much."

"Oh dear, can I kiss it for you."

Jimmy smiled right away, "Yes Please, Nana."

"Shall I help you comb your hair, dear?"

"Would you Nana?"

"Sure go get your brush and comb."

Nana fussed over Jimmy's hair getting it just right; Jimmy just loving the attention. "There now, you'll be the best looking boy in 5th grade.....Mr. O'Brian, I'm sure Jimmy deserved his nuggie for teasing but I would appreciate it if we can keep his hair nicely combed just as it is."

Colin near fell off his chair and bit his tongue so hard it hurt. However, he did appreciate how Edna loved Jimmy and smiled inside.

Jimmy perked up considerably, sticking his chest out proud as a peacock. "Thank you Nana."

"You're welcome dear now go put your comb and brush away."

Josh had been quietly eating at the table after changing into his sneakers. "Say Nana, you're a girl right."

"Yes Josh last time I checked."

"Darn that just shows it, what a stupid question. I'm sorry Nana. Could you tell me stuff to talk about with Maggie?"

"Well, Josh the best way to make conversation is to ask questions. "

Jimmy was back and said, "A good joke helps."

Pops said, "You can ask about her family, how long she has been in Pine Hill."

"Fine out what she likes dear, sports or dancing. You are a very poised young man you'll do fine."

"Music most girls like music" Jimmy said.

"Thanks Jimmy, I'm sorry I was gonna clobber you."

"Hey little bros are supposed to tease big bros when they go out with girls. Pretty soon you'll be wanting to go all smooching with Maggie and you'll never wanna play with me. But it's ok, you gotta do it; it's the growing up part. I know you; you'll probably marry her and have lots of kids and no time for me at all. And I'll do the same thing, to be just like my big bro."

Josh went over to Jimmy, "I'll always have time for you."

"I don't think so after you get those baby makers flowing; nah, you ain't gonna want me there."

Jimmy gobbled down the rest of his cereal. It was time to get to school. They patted Shep's head, kissed Nana and were off with Pops. On the way, Jimmy helped Josh find jokes on the internet with their phones.

Over at the O'Malley house Maggie was having her own problems. She went through every piece of clothing she had and said this makes me look fat (Which was impossible), this is so nerdy, ugg this sucks why do I have this. Her mom called her for breakfast. She got nothing in response. Mrs. O'Malley went upstairs to find out what was keeping her. Maggie was sitting on her bed in bra and panties; clothes spewed all over her room.

"What going on Maggie why aren't you dressed?"

Through her tears Maggie said, "I'm gonna have lunch the sweetest, kindest, cutest, smartest boy in whole world and I got nothing to wear."

"Ohh, really, well what is this boy's name?"

"Josh O'Shea, even his name sounds sexy, doesn't it mom"

Mrs. O'Malley blinked; she hoped she would have conversations about boys with her daughter just not this morning but what will be will be. "Yes it is very sexy, Maggie. Is he a nice boy?"

"Ohh yes mom, I told you that already, weren't you listening. I want him to like me so bad, mom."

"Do you want him to like you more or your clothes more?"

"Silly, of course me." Maggie thought someday he should like me without clothes but didn't say it.
"Well if he is as nice as you say, almost anything nice you wear will be good. I love this little green blouse with your tan skirt on you. I think you look very pretty in it. Try it on and let's see."

As she did as her mom asked, she thought of Josh touching her without clothes, she got all goose bumps and her girl parts got wet. Dressed she showed her mom. "That is just perfect on you, you have to be the prettiest girl in all of Pine Hill, Josh will go ga ga over you."

"You think I should wear makeup, mom?"

"Now I'm gonna tell you a woman's secret, you wear make up to hide imperfections, you remember seeing grandma with tons of make up hiding wrinkles?"

"Yes"

"Maggie, dear your face is so young and beautiful, there are no imperfections to hide. I would not cover it with a batch of paste."

"You're right mom and thanks mom."

"I'll pick up your room while you are at school, go grab a quick bite of breakfast take it in the car, your dad must getting frantic by now."

They went down stairs, Mrs. O'Malley behind Maggie. She mouthed BOY BE NICE. Mr. O'Malley looked at his daughter. "You look extra pretty this morning, Maggie but we have to hurry to not be late."

"One second, daddy, let me bring a breakfast bar and juice in the car. Thank you, daddy." Maggie smiled to herself, daddy thinks I am extra pretty, maybe Josh will too.

At lunch Josh told Maggie she looked extra pretty. She said, "You clean up pretty good too." They both smiled shy smiles. Josh took out his phone and did the jokes Jimmy had found for him. Maggie genuinely laughed. He found out she had two brothers away in college and she with her mom and dad lived in Pine Hill all her life. Maggie tried to ask Josh about his family, but he hung his head and said, "Your family sounds great mine not so much, lets not talk about that." Maggie did as Josh asked and put on a brave front but her heart hurt for him. Josh asked more questions about what she liked and found out she played softball. Josh said he like baseball more than anything. He said he would love to go to her games in the spring. He didn't brag about baseball when asked was he any good. "I'm ok" he said. She also danced and was going to have a dance concert for Christmas. "Wow can I go to it?" She responded, "of course anyone can silly." Josh ran out of questions and just looked at her kind of ga ga; like a boy in love which he was. She put her hands on the table, they touched Josh's hand. He held her hand. He still had the ga ga look and Maggie said, "What!!"

Just about all the kids were out on the play ground, now. Josh said, "I was just thinking about how lucky I am but don't know why you would want to be with a jerk like me."

Maggie got upset, "Josh O'Shea, don't you ever put yourself down like that. You hear me. You are not a jerk. I wouldn't go to lunch with a jerk. Don't do that. I don't know much about you; only you had a lot of bad trouble. And that don't make you a jerk, Say you're sorry and won't talk like that again."

"I'm sorry, Maggie."

"Someday when you feel like it, you can tell me about your troubles. But I don't want anyone hurting you anymore and you can't talk like that." She got up and hugged Josh. She hugged him tight, her perky young breast pushed into him. He hugged back, auto sexual mode kicked in, her girl parts got wet, his boy part got hard. The bell rang back to class. They held hands going back to class.

He whispered "You got my boys part all hard."

She punched him and said "Yeah, well you got my girl parts all wet and I'm gonna have to stay this way for the rest of school."

They both laughed.

To be continued...

Posted: 07/23/2021